Chassis # V8COL15120
Engine # V5805210LFM
1 Of Just 192 Examples Produced
Retains Its Original Engine & Finished In Factory Correct Colors
Benefiting From A Recent Thorough Cosmetic Restoration
Mechanically Strong And Ready For Immediate Use And Enjoyment
Aston Martin’s “V8” line of grand tourers is one of the longest-lasting nameplates in the marque’s repertoire, manufactured in numerous variations from 1969 to 1989. The first iteration existed from 1969 to 1972 as the “DBS V8” to set it apart from the six-cylinder DBS. That engine was dropped starting with the 1972 model year, and the model was consequently simply known as the Aston Martin V8.
The Series 4 was introduced in October 1978 with a few cosmetic changes to set it apart from the previous Series 2 and 3. Known as the “Oscar India” specification, or “October Introduction” in the phonetic alphabet, it featured a hood bulge in place of the former scoop, an integrated spoiler, and wood trim throughout the interior for a more luxurious feel. The 5.3 L V8’s power dropped to 245 hp in US-market cars, and larger bumpers were added to meet safety standards. The engine could be paired to either a Chrysler “Torqueflite” three-speed automatic transmission or a ZF 5-speed manual all-synchromesh transmission. The tested 0-60 mph time of around 5.2 seconds made the Series 4 V8 one of the fastest-accelerating cars of its era.
The convertible version, known as the “Volante,” was introduced in June of 1978 and overtook the coupé in terms of popularity by 1981. Only 352 “Oscar India” models were built from 1978 through 1985, while only 192 were Volantes.
Over the years, the V8 series Aston Martins have enjoyed strong and steady popularity amongst collectors and enthusiasts alike. Their elegant but muscular appearance combined with the glorious sounding V8 engine provides ample thrills for the eyes and ears alike. Many of these V8s fall prey to being “rough around the edges,” with numerous expensive problems lurking beneath the beautiful exterior. Because of this, it is very important to find a properly cared-for or well-restored example. Pricing trends continue to remain strong for later models as well as limited or special production versions such as the Volante, X-Pack cars, and Prince of Wales Editions.
This particular 1980 Aston Martin V8 is a US-market Series 4 Volante. While some of the history of this example has been lost to time, the details we do have give this Volante quite the storied background. It was originally sold in Midland, TX, before being purchased by the producer of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom in California sometime later. The current owner purchased it from Park Place LTD in Bellevue, WA, in 2005. It was in original condition at the time of purchase, with around 37,000 miles on the odometer. They have owned it for the past 19 years and frequently maintained it at Treasured Motorcar Services, Ltd. in Reisterstown, MD. It retains its original engine and original color combination as per the original build sheet.
The engine and drivetrain were rebuilt starting in December of 2010 and ending around March of 2011 at Treasured Motor Cars. During the process, the car was also modified with Euro throttle linkage, base plate, airbox, and Weber 45mm carburetors. The entire process totaled north of $20,000.
In June of 2019, this Volante was sent off to Automobile Tricolor in Italy to perform a bare metal repaint, reupholstering, new convertible top, new mechanical and cosmetic fittings, chrome, as well as a Euro-spec rear valence and bumper. The exterior was finished in its factory-correct Jubilee silver with blue pinstripes and a gray convertible top. During the restoration process, the owner sold the car to the shop before realizing he missed this slice of “La Dolce Vita” and buying back the now-restored Volante from them.
As it sits, this freshly restored Aston Martin V8 Volante with just over 61,500 miles on the odometer serves as the chance to own one of the rarer examples in the British marque’s lineup of sports cars. With only 352 examples ever produced, one can rest assured knowing that this car will stand out among its fellow British brethren at any event it attends. The rebuilt engine, its accompanying drivetrain, and freshly reupholstered interior also ensure that the future owner of this automobile is able to experience its power in the same luxurious fashion that Aston intended back in the 1980s. If the V8 under the hood was not enough of a thrill, then surely the open-top driving experience that the Volante is known for will satisfy your desires.
Upon purchase, the new owner will receive its original toolkit and jack, additional keys for the car’s various locks, and all of the service records on file.
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