Lot 63: Aston Martin V8

Referred to by the Aston Martin Owners Club as the Series 5, the final version of Newport Pagnell's iconic V8 line broke cover at the 1986 New York Motor Show. Riding on attractive cross-spoke BBS alloy wheels, the newcomer was further distinguished by its flat bonnet line. Denied the need for a carburettor-clearing 'power bulge' thanks to the adoption of Weber / Marelli fuel injection, its electronically controlled sequential system was light years ahead of the Bosch mechanical set-up found on the 1970 DBS V8 etc. Smoother, cleaner and more fuel-efficient than its predecessors, the revised engine bore a 'V/585' prefix. Credited with developing some 305bhp and 320lbft of torque, it was typically allied to automatic transmission and promised 150mph performance. Arguably, the easiest to live with and most refined version of the V8, the Series 5 remained in production until 1989 by which time just 61 are thought to have been made. H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "The recorded history of the car includes a list of all previous keepers. I acquired the V8 in October 2007 but have had little time to drive it due to a growing family. The fully stamped service book shows maintenance by the likes of AM Works Service, HWM Ltd, Aston Engineering and Stratton Motor Company. While, there is also a note of non-serviceable items covering the past thirteen years such as replacement inner / outer sills, winterizing and more. Benefiting from a suspension overhaul and upgrade to a 'sports set up' as well as a Vantage type steering wheel, 'C231 RRR' handles precisely with reduced body roll but a compliant ride. The stainless steel sports exhaust only adds to the sense of occasion when driving. The engine feels sound and strong. The brightwork is rust free if a little over-polished in places. The paintwork shines and the electrics work all round (aerial, factory fitted sunroof, filler caps etc) as does the air conditioning. The gearbox is smooth with a responsive kickdown. In 1999 the car achieved a fourth place finish at the 50th St John Horsfall meeting concours competition. It has been well maintained and taking age and mileage into consideration, I would give it 90/100".