1978 ASTON MARTIN V8 'S'

KEY FACTS

• A very well-presented example of the classic British coupe, which has been comprehensively restored.
• Under the bonnet is the 5.4-litre V8, coupled with a smooth automatic transmission.
• Known informally as the ‘S’ specification, this V8 has the later ‘Stage 1’ tune, featuring revised camshafts and an exhaust system developed for the V8 Vantage, which raised power to 304bhp.
• Alongside an extensive refurbishment, it has recently undergone a major service at a cost of over £3,000.
• Its current owner is an AMOC member, and has enjoyed this glorious classic on many road trips and events in the UK and on the continent.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• It features the handsome non-Vantage body styling with an open mesh grille, subtle chin spoiler, open bonnet scoop, and chrome door mirrors.
• This example features resprayed Pewter paintwork and re-trimmed seats, door cards and carpets, though the dashboard and centre console are original.
• Its original owner’s handbook, workshop manual and service book will accompany the vehicle, alongside various pieces of owner’s club literature. There is also a thick history file of restoration invoices and other maintenance paperwork.
• The car will also come with a Carcoon air chamber, in which it is currently stored whenever not in use.

CONDITION

• In 2003, this V8 was recorded as a Category C insurance loss after some of the body panels were damaged; though it has evidently been well repaired.
• Having been kept in storage for some time in Kent, it was purchased by a Lord Walton, and during his tenure the car was subject to a comprehensive refurbishment at a cost of more than £40,000. It was acquired by the vendor from this gentleman around seven years ago, who has commissioned further restoration works.
• Most noticeably, it has recently undergone a full bare-metal respray and its Pewter paintwork is now in excellent condition. The owner also reports that the shut lines and panel gaps are now better than new.
• The plastic front bumper trim has some surface marks, and a few small scratches can be seen on the chrome bumper, wing mirrors and window surrounds.
• Its re-trimmed black leather upholstery is in great shape, with a light patina from use but no damage.
• No electrical faults have been detected.
• The most recent MOT test was on 12 November 2020 at 78,625 miles, which was a pass with one advisory to monitor a damaged windscreen, which the vendor reports should be replaced in due course as it is a hairline crack in the corner.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Its last scheduled maintenance was in November 2020 at 78,625 miles, where technicians at Aston Engineering performed a 20,000-mile service, changing the engine oil, filters, fluids and spark plugs, before tuning the vehicle and draining the axle oil.
• Prior to this, similar routine maintenance was undertaken by Powells of Ripon in August 2019 and September 2018.
• Major restoration work was carried out by a previous owner and included new shock absorbers, bearings, sills, a new water pump and a replacement alloy radiator, along with a gearbox overhaul and a red oxide underseal throughout, plus renewed chrome elements, at a cost of around £44,000.
• Since then, the vendor has rebuilt the carburettors, restored the air filter case and refurbished the boot with a new carpet, and made a separate battery compartment.
• A replacement fuel tank, chrome spoiler, mesh grille and driving lights have also been fitted, along with improved wiring.

SUMMARY

This Aston Martin V8 ‘S’ is a stylish classic coupe, which has undergone a comprehensive restoration and presents in excellent mechanical order. Combining sophisticated 1970s styling with an addictive V8 burble, this Aston would make an exciting classic for weekends or road trips, as well as very smart example for displaying at shows.

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. 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. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for theft, and has no finance owing. The car was recorded as a Category C insurance loss in 2003, but has evidently been repaired since then to a good standard.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the vehicle is not included in the sale. It will be switched back to an age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.