The replacement for Aston Martin’s long-running V-8 models, and the Vantage V-8 in particular, was introduced in 1988 at the Birmingham Motor Show. Named Virage; its hand-formed aluminum body was more graceful and less angular than its predecessors and remarkably modern, low and clean in its execution. The car was more than a powerful gentleman’s express, however. The 330-horsepower 5.3-liter engine was now equipped with Weber-Marelli fuel injection and a new head featuring four valves per cylinder engineered by performance specialists Callaway in Connecticut, well-known for their tire-shredding, twin-turbocharged Corvettes.

The first Virages arrived in the United States in the summer of 1990, joined by the cabriolet Volante version two years later and a Vantage edition shortly thereafter. Its quarter-million dollar price tag and low production numbers, however, placed it solidly out of reach of the average sports car buyer and more firmly as a solid alternative to the contemporary Bentley Turbo R.

The most luxurious Aston Martin produced to date; the Virage features what appears to be acres of high-quality, hand-stitched leather cosseting its inhabitants. In addition, the stylish interior leather doesn't stop with the upholstery, with a pleated suede headliner and suede sunvisors, as well as mirrored walnut veneers. The extensive list of luxury amenities includes an onboard computer, power memory seats and passive restraint, to name but a few features.

This particular Virage is finished in light blue over dark blue leather and has a mere 7,500 miles registered on the odometer. It has been in an Aston Martin collection for many years and has been cared for by Aston experts during this stewardship.