The Aston Martin V8 Volante and Closed Vantage are hailed as ‘Britain’s First Supercars’ in their day. These versions are the extra powerful versions of the ‘normal’ V8. Sharper camshafts, higher compression ratio, larger intake valves and larger carburettors mounted on new manifolds mean that they are even comparable to cars like the Ferrari Daytona in straight-line performance. This Volante is registered in 1981, with the integrated rear spoiler and the raised hood. Under the hood is a 320 hp V8 coupled to an automatic transmission, the three-speed Chrysler Torque-flite. The sporty but also very luxurious ‘convertible’ is an exclusive appearance because just over 650 units of the fast Volante were built. The Aston Martin left for the first American owner in this beautiful color scheme to return to Europe later. The car is in a very original condition, with the correct engine and correct colour. The paint has already been renewed once, in a professional manner. The car also received the much-loved update of the European bumpers, a modification that was carried out by a specialist who is very familiar with this car and who also maintained the convertible and provided, among other things, a complete gearbox overhaul a few years ago. Really the entire car is in an optimal condition. The body can therefore be called very neat, with perfect chrome parts and the original alloy wheels, which are in excellent condition, completing the appearance. The Volante is an imposing appearance in its dark paint color and long, low appearance. The biscuit-colored leather interior is all about luxury, even with air conditioning from new. The condition can be described as excellent, with the leather of the driver’s seat showing a slight patina. It does not detract at all from the overall impression of the pleasant place to stay, moreover, the luxurious seats are excellent. The typical 1980s dashboard with all instruments and meters is also beautiful and fully functional. Where most interiors in cars at that time mainly consisted of black plastic, leather in different shades, stylish glossy wood and chic carpeting were chosen here. Needless to say, but we’ll do it anyway: on the bridge you can see that the car is just as beautiful from below as from above. When opening the hood, we cannot ignore a reaction like ‘wow’. The colossal, imposing engine block is huge. It also leaves no doubt that the big bump in the bonnet is necessary, there is no way a smooth bonnet would be possible here. The great 5,304 cc measuring DOHC engine delivers 320 hp and is the original. The powerhouse does its job formidably and the potent character of this large V8 is more than clearly present. Matters such as the chassis and brakes are also in a condition that cannot be faulted. The steering feels direct and accurate. The car comes with an original board folder, a stack of invoices up to fairly recent and the necessary documentation. In short: a perfect car if you are in the market for one of the first English supercars with lots of character, power and both the properties to function as a luxury convertible but also a fast sports car. Gallery Aaldering is Europe’s leading Classic Cars specialist since 1975! Always 400 Classic and Sportscars in stock, please visit www.gallery-aaldering.com for the current stock list (all offered cars are available in our showroom) and further information. We are located near the German border, 95 km from Düsseldorf and 90 km from Amsterdam. So easy traveling by plane, train, taxi and car. Transport and worldwide shipping can be arranged. No duties/import costs within Europe. We buy, sell and provide consignment sales (selling on behalf of the owner). We can arrange/provide registration/papers for our German (H-Kennzeichen, TÜV, Fahrzeugbrief, Wertgutachten usw.) and Benelux customers. Gallery Aaldering, Arnhemsestraat 47, 6971 AP Brummen, The Netherlands. Tel: 0031-575-564055. Quality, experience and transparency is what sets us apart. We look forward to welcoming you in our showroom