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 the finest appointments of a luxury GT in the best of British tradition. Though subsequent models went through mechanical performance upgrades, it took nearly a decade before the V8 Vantage truly achieved supercar status. First introduced at the 1986 British International Motor Show, the ultimate iteration of the muscular V8 Vantage—the model that would become known to enthusiasts as the ‘X-Pack’—would go on to be produced through the end of the decade.

The V8 Vantage ‘Oscar India’, as introduced in 1978, featured a closed-bonnet scoop, large front air dam, and blanked-off front grille which gave the car a macho look befitting its status. The interior was outfitted in leather and wood to suit more discerning tastes. As recognizable as the handsome Oscar India in appearance, the final V8 Vantage was fitted with the uprated V580X engine previously found in the V8 Zagato. Equipped with four dual-barrel Weber carburettors, high-compression Cosworth pistons, and larger valves and intake manifold, this high-performance engine produced an impressive 432 bhp from its 5.3 litres. Described by one journalist as ‘a Hemi Road Runner built by Bentley’, the new and improved V8 Vantage was a genuine 200 mph supercar.

According to V8 specialist Kean Rogers, chassis 12579 was one of the first ‘X-Packs’ to be fitted with Ronal wheels, which were specified with polished rims. The Ronal wheels would become synonymous with the ‘X-Pack’ and have been subsequently fitted to many Vantage tributes. Presented in the original colours of Suffolk Red with Magnolia leather and red carpets, chassis 12579 is tasteful and well in keeping with Aston Martin’s subtle elegance.

A perfect addition to any stable of early supercars, this Aston Martin V8 Vantage ‘X-Pack’ is a fantastic example of the ultimate Aston Martin V8.