1985 | Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Built and delivered in March 1985, optioned with manual 5 speed transmission, finished in Windsor Red with Magnolia Connolly VM 3997 hide interior and fitted with burr walnut interior trims and beige Wilton carpeting.

Hailed in period as ‘Britain’s first supercar’, the V8 Vantage is capable of a 170-mph top speed, with a 0-60mph time, of 5.2 seconds, whilst offering spacious 2+2 seating, a luxurious interior and generous boot capacity, for touring. Before production ceased in 1989, after a 12-year production period, a total of some 350 examples had been manufactured, split between two thirds right hand drive, one third left hand drive.

Delivered to its first owner, by Nicholas Mee via Aston Martin Sales in Sloane Street, London, this exceptional V8 Vantage last changed hands in 1998, having been previously maintained by a combination of Aston Martin Works Service at Newport Pagnell and AM service agents in the UK and Germany, before being purchased by the last owner after an extensive search and with 79k miles recorded.

Setting out on a long-term preservation programme this exceptional Vantage has been expertly kept and maintained during the last 27 years of single ownership. A comprehensively populated history file, including all invoices for restorative works over the last 27 years and the vehicles original stamped service book, clearly demonstrate the care, attention to detail, expenditure and commitment, shown by the last owner, in improving and maintaining this top draw example and in bringing the car to its current and highest condition.

Major works carried out within the last ownership have included complete rebuilds to nearly all aspects of the car, including a full rebuild of the original engine (dyno tested), gearbox rebuild with new balanced clutch fitted, rear axle and differential unit rebuilt, front and rear suspension rebuilds, new brake servos and calliper’s rebuilt, as well as overhauls to the fuel and cooling systems. Subsequently, regular manufacturer scheduled services have been carried out at Aston Martin Works.

With the above restorative works having been carried out by the combined skills of Aston Martin Works in Newport Pagnell and highly respected Aston Martin Heritage specialist engineers, the last qualified engineer owner, has covered some 15,000 enjoyable miles, since completion of the works.

Exterior works carried out since the mechanical works completion have included the body being restored and repainted in 2014. All bumpers, window frames and brightwork removed, were concurrently re-plated wherever necessary and the body re-assembled after painting, bringing this expertly preserved, well-travelled and beautifully presented example of the rare mid 1980’s V8 Vantage, to the superb condition in which it is presented today.

Fitted with original factory Ronal 16’’ road wheels and a sports exhaust, the condition of this V8 Vantage, built some 40 years ago, is a credit to the last and previous owners, care and devotion in preserving and maintaining, one of the most desirable models from Aston Martins back catalogue of greats. It’s next owner and custodian will surely enjoy the benefits of the preservation programme carried out, when on motoring tours or when being displayed in concours events.

Offered with the vehicles comprehensive leather-bound history file containing all invoices and receipts covering the last 28 years of ownership, the original stamped service voucher book, original build data sheet, a BMHIT certificate of authentication and the original owners handbook, tool roll, vehicle Jack and spare keys. A set of fitted interior over mats and an additional pair of Aston Martin wing logoed headrest cushions, come with the car.

Supplied to our usual high standards and inclusive of, a manufacturer scheduled service, vehicle health check, detailed preparation, 12 months UK warranty and a fresh Mot test certificate.

Available for viewing and demonstration now at our Hertfordshire showrooms.