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Guide to the Aston Martin V8
In production from April 1972 until October 1989, the Aston Martin V8 was a modified version of the DBSV8.
The basic concept and layout of the car was still based around the DBS but in all other areas the car was significantly modified. Even the cars made in 1972 differed significantly to the later vehicles made in the late 1980’s.
To help identify the differences in the cars, five series were devised by the Aston Martin Owners Club register:
Series 1: with all of the features of the DBSV8 but with a distinctive four headlight body, low bonnet air intake and fuel injected engine.
To help identify the differences in the cars, five series were devised by the Aston Martin Owners Club register:
Series 1: with all of the features of the DBSV8 but with a distinctive four headlight body, low bonnet air intake and fuel injected engine.
Series 2: launched as the AM V8 in 1972 as the factory at Newport Pagnell had been taken over from the David Brown Corporation by Company Developments Limited, so the DB had been dropped. The David Brown Aston Martin badges were, however, still used until chassis 10519. Externally the car was different at the front and was fitted with two 7” quartz iodine headlights. The boot was modified so the spare wheel was stored flat allowing for extra luggage space. Technically, modifications were made and included better heat and sound proofing, revised air boxes and transistorised ignition.
Series 3: Another “New Aston Martin V8” was unveiled in August 1973. This was the first Aston Martin to have the Bosch fuel injection replaced with four twin-choke downdraught Weber carburettors. Other modifications were made including improvements to water, oil and automatic transmission cooling and the car ran much more smoothly at low speeds. Internally there were also improvements to items such as front seats, door locks and there was a redesigned fuel tank to allow for extra luggage space in the boot. Production of the Aston Martin V8 stopped in December 1974 due to the financial difficulties of the company and did not commence again until 1976.
Series 4: the prototype of the newly modified V8 was tested at the St John Horsfall meeting in 1978. It was a much quicker car with further modifications to its physical appearance. This version was known as the Oscar India and was unveiled to the public in October 1978. A spoiler was fitted to the boot of the car and the bonnet was also of a revised design. Internally, the fascia had a wooden trim, leather headlining and a redesigned centre console. The engine modifications included barrel shaped pistons, polynomial cam profiles and improvements to the carburettors and distributors.
Series 5: the final version of the Aston Martin V8 to be produced was unveiled at the New York Show in January 1986. This version of the iconic car had reverted back to fuel injection but by Weber instead of the original Bosch systems and was identifiable by its flatter bonnet shape with no air intake or bulge.
When purchased new, a V8 cost £8,949 in 1972 and £69,500 in 1987.
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