Lot 156: 1977 Aston Martin V8 Series 3 Saloon

The acquisition of Aston Martin by Company Developments in 1972 brought with it a change of name for the V8-engined cars: out went ‘DBS V8’, in came ‘AM V8’. This new Series 2 was readily distinguishable by its re-styled front which now featured two instead of four headlamps and recalled the looks of the earlier DB six-cylinder cars. Electronic ignition and air conditioning were now standard. Introduced in 1973, the Series 3 employed a quartet of Weber 42 DCNF carburettors instead of the previous Bosch mechanical fuel injection, the change, which necessitated a larger bonnet bulge, bringing with it increased torque and smoother running at low speeds. Power output of the standard car was now in excess of 300bhp, and even in automatic transmission form the V8 could reach 100mph in around 15 seconds and better 145mph flat-out. Summarising its 1973 road test of a V8 automatic, Autocar magazine revealed that the new version of the V8 Aston Martin equipped with four Weber carburettors and automatic transmission had proved nearly as quick as its manual-transmission, fuel-injected predecessor and fractionally more economical before concluding that it was: “A well-quipped car with magnificent stride for long journeys.” Records show that this automatic example was manufactured in 1977, but not first registered until November 1978. In the current and only second ownership since the late 1970s the car has been maintained by marque specialist Chapman Spooner and in more recent years by Four Ashes Garage. In about 1980 the body colour was changed from brown to Dubonnet whilst the original cream leather interior would appear to be in good condition. We understand that the original milometer stuck at 50,000 miles and a new replacement unit was fitted. Offered with Swansea V5 and current MoT certificate.