1990 Aston Martin Virage

Launched at the International Motor Show, Birmingham in October 1988, the sensational newcomer re-stated its Aston Martin V8 forerunner's muscular good looks in the modern idiom, contriving to be slightly narrower yet providing increased interior space. The car was still no lightweight, but with 330bhp on tap courtesy of the trusty V8 engine's new 32-valve top end, was good enough for a top speed approaching 160mph and a 0-60mph time of under seven seconds. Running on unleaded fuel and designed to meet the requirements of a more emission-sensitive world, the fuel-injected, catalytic converter-equipped V8 was suitable for all Aston Martin markets. The Virage continued Aston Martin's tradition of fine craftsmanship with its hand-beaten aluminium body and fine leather upholstery, complimenting the highest standards of modern technology applied to the design of chassis and engine.

On offer here is a UK-supplied right-hand drive Virage showing only 4,961 miles on the odometer and just three former keepers on the V5C. Finished in Salisbury Blue with a blue leather interior, the Virage is excitingly offered with No Reserve and the appropriate registration number, E9 AMV, is pleasingly included in the sale.

The story of the car in recent times is that it was privately owned, along with the gold Virage that is also in the sale, and the owner kept them both in an underground car park in Paris where he was living at the time. At around the time of the pandemic, the underground car park became partially flooded and both cars were sat in shallow water for a short time. Subsequently, both cars were sent to Aston Martin Works to be assessed and returned to top form. A report was produced listing the remedial work that was required but, unfortunately, whilst the cars were still at Aston Martin, the owner sadly passed away and the work was never started. Over the past couple of years the cars have remained stored at Aston Works whilst the probate process following the sad death of the owner was resolved.

As a result, the time has now come for both cars to come to market on behalf of Aston Martin Works and excitingly, without reserve. Importantly, the cars have not been subject to an insurance claim and consequently are not on any relevant register. Both cars start, run and drive and there is an internal PDF report showing more pictures and information on the cars when they were dropped off at Works for interested parties to look at by enquiring directly and there is some early history in the history file.

This is a rare opportunity to purchase an interesting example of the Virage and after some recommissioning, return this glorious, late 1980s Aston to the road. Offered without reserve, your inspection at Sywell Aerodrome is welcome and encouraged.