1978 ASTON MARTIN V8 OSCAR INDIA - MANUAL

This Aston Martin V8 is an original, numbers-matching example of the rare Series 4 ‘Oscar India’ coupe. Under the bonnet lurks a 5.3-litre naturally-aspirated V8 producing around 310bhp, enabling a brisk 0-60mph time of just 6.1 seconds. This example was ordered from the factory with the exceptionally rare ZF five-speed manual transmission, understood to be one of only 13 created for the UK market in this configuration. The car has been driven and enjoyed as intended, and the odometer now shows 111,721 miles.

First registered on 9 October 1978, this original UK car has just five previous registered keepers on the log book, the last of which was billionaire car dealer Arnold Clark. The car left the factory in Madagascar Brown, but is now finished in the handsome Brewster Green hue. It has been owned by the vendor for the last five years, and benefits from a mechanical and cosmetic restoration carried out prior to his ownership.

The ‘Oscar India’ was officially revealed at the Birmingham International Motor Show in 1978. This example is one of the very earliest to reach the market, with its factory options including Cibie grille headlights, two rear fog lamps, and Pioneer stereo. While the majority were specified from new with the TorqueFlite three-speed automatic, this example retains its factory-fitted ZF five-speed manual gearbox.

Now resplendent in Brewster Green, the squat stance of the V8 oozes purpose. The gloss finish is even throughout, with no signs of discolouration or lacquer damage. There are a few stone chips visible on the front end, but the brightwork including the chrome front and rear bumpers, sill plates and window frames are all in great shape. Period-specific badges still adorn the car, including the ‘Aston Martin V8’ wing script on the side vents. The Aston retains the correct 15-inch GKN alloy wheels, which have a few minor blemishes in the finish, but which generally present very well.

Inside, the Oscar India is outfitted with sumptuous leather and genuine wood fittings. The car retains all of the correct dashboard fixtures and switchgear, with the controls all in functional order. It has benefited from a re-trimmed dashboard top panel, as well as the fabrication of new floor mats to original specifications. Light signs of use are visible on the front seats, but there are no rips or tears present, and the door cards are also in good condition. This luxury grand tourer features the period-correct Pioneer stereo and Coolaire air-conditioning system – the latter has recently been serviced and is working perfectly.

The most recent service was carried out in September 2019 by Dawson Engineering. This entailed an engine oil change, as well as a general check-over of the car. The vendor states that two prior services have been carried out during his ownership by Classic Connection, with the car receiving regular attention during this time. New oil coolers and pipes have been fitted, along with a replacement brake master cylinder. In addition, the carburettor, alternator and regulator have all been rebuilt, along with the aforementioned air-conditioning service.

The most recent MOT test was on 28 August 2019 at 111,617 miles, resulting in a first-time pass with no advisories. The vendor states that a new 12-month certificate will be included in the sale. Riding on Avon tyres at the front and Michelin items at the rear, these are all said to be in good condition with ample tread remaining.

This British bruiser is presented for sale with its original handbook and stamped service log with warranty card. In addition, there is raft of historic invoices and MOT test certificates dating back to the 1980s, as shown in the photo gallery, as well as the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate confirming the car’s numbers-matching originality.

This Aston Martin V8 Series 4 is a very well-presented example of a coveted classic. In ‘Oscar India’ specification, it is already a very rare model from the marque’s history, but the presence of the factory-fitted manual transmission makes this an exceptionally rare breed – not to mention one that provides a good deal more involvement for the keen driver. Further benefitting from a restoration while in the previous owner’s care; this would be a fine addition to any collection, and is ready for spirited intercontinental travel or weekend jaunts alike.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.