Aston Martin V8

Introduction

In its 21 year career, this model was built in many forms. The original style by William Towns, was fashioned in alloy and first seen in 1967. With the new DeDion rear suspension this wide, wedge-shaped four-seater handled well but seen a little heavy for its engine especially in the automatic version. In 1969 the quad-cam all-alloy 375 bhp V8 catapulted the Aston to a top speed of 257 km/h.

In 1973 its shape had altered with a new grille and single lamps on either side. The standard transmission was a 5-speed manual, although many cars were made with an automatic Chrysler gearbox. The dramatic Lagonda four-door of 1976 was pure Aston and seen as appealing to Arab oil sheiks.

The last V8 was made in 1990 and by then its engine had become injection. It was large, thirsty and expensive and viewed as a dinosaur despite its enormous appeal as a traditionally-built high-speed express.