1978 Aston Martin V8 Series 3

Hand-built at Aston Martin’s Newport Pagnell factory, each Aston Martin V8 took in the region of 1,200 man-hours to complete, with each car inspected rigorously to ensure the continued upkeep of AM’s legendary build quality and reputation.

The Aston Martin V8 (later known as the AMV8) was introduced in 1969 to replace the ageing DB6, with the brief being to create a handsome, powerful GT car, powered by Tadek Marek’s V8 engine, and remained atop the company’s model range until its retirement in 1989. Initially, the V8 was equipped with a Bosch fuel injection system for the first two models (known as the V8 and AMV8, respectively) though the Series 3 models - such as the one we have here - switched back to a carburettor setup, with four twin-choke Weber carburettors necessitating a substantial bulge in the bonnet to accommodate the additional height of the carbs.

Offered here is a 1978 Aston Martin V8 Series 3 automatic supplied new in the UK through County Motor Garages of Johnstone to a Mr D. Smith of Wishaw, North Lanarkshire. First registered in September 1978 and currently displaying just under 79,000 miles, this handsome V8 presents in showroom condition having been subject to a recent professional glass-out respray in its correct Jubilee Silver (a lovely colour with a hint of green). The interior has also benefitted from some professional attention and the overall result is truly spectacular.

It's supported by a history file including the original service book stamped up to 1986, a workshop manual, original warranty,  the AM Certificate of Ownership and a wealth of old invoices and MOTs from over the years. Its current V5C registration document also accompanies the car ready for export or transfer and the recent overhaul is supported by stage-by-stage photographic evidence along with the relevant invoices.

In summary, this is a superb opportunity to take possession of a ‘70s British muscle car which presents beautifully, is described as absolutely on-the-button and performing well. The V8 creates a fabulous soundtrack whilst the automatic transmission seamlessly shifts up through the box, ample performance for British country roads with purposeful yet comfortable road holding. These old V8s attract just the right attention, especially in well considered colour options such as this and, undoubtedly, this is a classic car that will continue to turn heads for many more years to come.