Est. 400 bhp, 5,340 cc light alloy naturally aspirated DOHC V-8, five-speed manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 102.8"

Launched in 1972 to update the mechanically identical DBS V-8, the Aston Martin V-8 was the final model developed during the David Brown era and became the longest-running model in the company’s history. A true four-seater, with the potential for 160 mile-an-hour speeds, this hand-built British grand tourer was without a doubt one of the fastest and most elegant cars of its generation. The Vantage variant was introduced in 1977 and had a number of stylish features that set it apart from the standard V-8 model. Of note is the closed hood bulge, rather than the standard open-scoop style. The grille was also closed off with driving lights added, and a spoiler was added to the trunk lid.

Penned by talented designer William Towns and based on his design for the original DBS coupe, the V-8 continued the coachbuilding traditions of its predecessors while simultaneously upping the ante on power and performance. Engineered by Aston’s legendary Tadek Marek, the powerplant featured an all-new alloy block with a quad-cam head and also incorporated high-performance camshafts, larger inlet valves, and bigger carburetors with modified manifolds, which resulted in an increased compression ratio and higher horsepower output. Weber Marelli fuel injection was offered for the first time in 1986. Powerful disc brakes and four-wheel, fully independent suspension served to round out the sophisticated enhancements that defined the exceptional ride of this gentleman’s express.

This hand-built British grand tourer was one of the fastest and most elegant cars of its generation and was gifted with styling that appears modern even two decades after it was constructed. Of the 571 Vantages built between 1977 and the end of the model run in 1989, 194 were the Volante or convertible model. Purchased new by Mr. Dingman in 1989, this triple black example has covered only 4,183 miles since delivery and has always been well looked after. The interior is clean and crisp, with only the slightest sign of use evident on the driver’s seat. The same can be said of the carpeting, grained top, dash, and top boot. The underside and engine bay have been well-kept and barely hint at the miles that have been covered by this car, with particular attention given to maintaining cleanliness in the bay. As would be expected of an extremely low mileage example of any vehicle, the glass is in excellent condition, as well as the stainless steel window moldings. The Dunlop tires appear as new, with excellent tread, and the polished alloy wheels are in excellent condition as well.

Mr. Dingman ordered this Vantage with desirable five-speed manual transmission, which is a must-have for the collector or driving enthusiast. Making this example even more special is the fact that while most U.S.-spec Vantages were imported with fuel injection so they would meet federal emissions requirements, this example has been converted to the more potent carbureted specification, resulting in increased performance, as well as an enhancement to the note made by the engine and exhaust. In the process of the conversion, braided fuel lines were added, the cam covers were polished, and the air intake was chrome plated, just to give a moderate hint of what lay beneath. Other desirable options include air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, and power windows.

This car is accompanied by a copy of the certificate of origin from Aston Martin Lagonda USA, as well as an invoice documenting the $4,600 expenditure for the installation of a custom stereo system, which includes equipment by Carver, Polk, and A.D.S. More recently, the stereo head was replaced with a more modern unit and now includes a remote controller. With its triple black livery, coupled with a manual transmission and engine upgraded to European specification, this example has much to offer to its next owner. As a collectible, the Aston Martin Vantage Volante benefits from exclusive production, supercar performance, and luxurious appointments. As a driving enthusiast’s car, this Volante guarantees fine handling and superb road manners; driving this car at speed will be nothing less than pure pleasure.