At the time of its introduction in 1977, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage represented an impressive return to form for the British manufacturer, combining true supercar performance with all of the finest appointments of a luxury GT in the best of British tradition.

In 1986, Aston Martin unveiled the V8 Vantage Volante – a macho restyling of the V8 Volante. William Towns, designer of the DBS, added flared wheel arches, similar to those seen on the Brunei Vantage Volante. In keeping with the times, the front air dam was enlarged – making the new model a full 63 mm wider than a standard Volante. Capable of attaining cruising speeds well in excess of 150 mph, a third latch was also added to stop the hood from being torn off at maximum velocity.

Most importantly, this latest incarnation of the model was fitted with the 580X Vantage engine – leading to the moniker ‘X-Pack’. First seen on the V8 Vantage Zagato, this engine was fitted with special Weber carburettors, Cosworth pistons and Nimrod racing-type heads. Enlarged inlet and exhaust ports in the cylinder heads, alongside enlarged exhaust manifolds to feed the Webers. Whilst Aston Martin would never be so vulgar as to boast about the output of its new engine, the reality was a peak output of 432 bhp. Speeding along the British countryside at well over 100 mph, a driver never felt like he had left the lap of luxury, as the interior remained all Aston Martin – plush leather seats, deep pile carpets and burr walnut.

First purchased by J Hopkins, chassis 15681 was owned by two further owners before being purchased by English footballer David Beckham in 2003. Previously registered under Beckham’s personal plate ‘DB1001’, the V8 Vantage Volante was often spotted by paparazzi. Immediately recognisable by its gleaming metallic paint, the V8 could be seen cruising along the London streets – using just a fraction of the massive 435 bhp available.

A machine of effortless power and style, previously owned by a star athlete, this Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante is a prime example of the ultimate incarnation ‘Britain’s First Supercar’ and the pinnacle of the handmade production at Aston Martin’s hallowed Newport Pagnell factory.