**Amended** 1980 Aston Martin V8 Saloon

As Adam Trowler of Classic Cars magazine recounts in the February issue of the same magazine, "The early Seventies were halcyon days for those faced with the decision of which grand tourer to buy'. The Aston Martin V8 is undoubtedly the top of the list. As Adam recognises, it's the car your Father wants you to buy, it screams "I've arrived' it looks beautiful, it's fast and just maybe your wife might like it'. It's the easy choice...

Chassis #12264 has formed part of a significant private collection since 1994 and has always retained UK Registration, the desirable plate 'OPW 20' being offered with this lot. It is the 5340cc V8 engine variant with Weber carburettors and three-speed automatic gearbox. Having been only lightly used in the past number of years, the current mileage is showing just 70,000, believed genuine, miles in the hands of only seven owners, the last since 1994.

The blue metallic paint which is in all round good patinated condition could benefit from some light attention to the areas around the bonnet shuts and on the front lower grille. The chrome work is very good and the saddle leather interior offers a pleasing contrast to the blue paint. The leather has aged very well, though the driver's seat bolster does need repadding. Prior to auction the car is being freshly MoT'd. The exhaust is being refastened as one of the brackets has come lose and the engine will be thoroughly checked and given a full bill of health. When we drove the car, albeit very briefly, the engine started and sounded healthy, the gears engaged smoothly and the car pulled away without hesitation and stopped accurately. In our opinion, because it has had relatively little use in the past years, the car would benefit from being driven some distance to blow some air through and let the engine stretch its legs. After the engine has received the all clear, this will be done.

The original wheels, which have some slight surface corrosion, are being removed and refurbished ahead of the sale and the whole car will be fully detailed at a cost of over £1,000 before the viewing begins.

With appreciation for Aston Martin at an all-time high, if you want to share in the Centenary celebrations with a more modest budget than that of any DB4, 5 or 6, these V8's are the unsung heroes which are worthy of your attention.

**Please note, this vehicle was presented for MoT, but failed the test owing to some works required to the rear axle. It is believed that the brakes and exhaust may also require some attention. Accordingly, the guide price for this vehicle has been drastically reduced from £36,000 - £42,000, to just £22,000 - £25,000**