Series I
(1978 - 1985)
5.3 L V8 16V
315 cv
Introduction and Technical Genesis
To understand the importance of the Aston Martin V8 Volante, it is fundamental to situate it in the turbulent context of the British automotive industry of the 1970s. The introduction of the V8 Volante in 1978 was not just the launch of a new model; it was a declaration of survival and a commitment to the craftsmanship of Newport Pagnell. The model represented the brand's return to prestigious convertibles, filling a gap left since the end of DB6 Volante production in 1970.
The "Volante" nomenclature is an exclusive Aston Martin signature for its convertible models. The term evokes the idea of "flying" or moving with lightness and agility. The V8 Volante was designed to be more than a sports car; it was conceived as a supreme Grand Tourer (GT), maintaining the classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Tadek Marek's Legacy: The V8 Engine
The heart of the V8 Volante is its engine, designed by Polish engineer Tadek Marek. This 5,340 cc (5.3 liter) V8 powerplant is a legendary piece of engineering that served Aston Martin for over three decades.
- Architecture: Built entirely in aluminum alloy, with double overhead camshafts (DOHC) for each cylinder bank, totaling four camshafts.
- The Carburetor Era (1978–1985): The V8 Volante inherited the configuration of four twin-choke Weber carburetors, delivering over 300 horsepower and a guttural soundtrack.
- The Transition to Electronic Fuel Injection (1986–1989): In 1986, the Weber-Marelli electronic fuel injection system was introduced, improving fuel economy, cold starting, and smoothness.
Chassis, Suspension, and Transmission
The V8 Volante was built on a reinforced steel platform, with the bodywork hand-formed in aluminum. To compensate for the loss of the roof, engineers carried out extensive reinforcement work on the chassis, resulting in a weight of around 1,990 kg.
The suspension combined sports car geometry with comfort-oriented solutions. The rear utilized the sophisticated De Dion tube axle, which keeps the wheels parallel and reduces unsprung weight.
Transmissions: 3-speed Chrysler Torqueflite automatic (predominant) or 5-speed ZF manual (rare and highly desired by purists).
First Generation: "Series 1" (1978–1985)
Launch and the "Oscar India" Specification
The V8 Volante was revealed in June 1978, incorporating the updates of the "Oscar India" ("October Introduction") specification.
- Aesthetics: The hood received a closed "power bulge" at the rear, replacing the open air scoop of earlier models. The rear incorporated a spoiler integrated into the trunk lid ("flip-tail").
- Luxury Interior: For the first time since the 1950s, the dashboard received burr walnut wood trim, elevating the standard of luxury.
- Wheels: Initially equipped with 15-inch GKN wheels, replaced in 1983 by the iconic BBS wire wheels.
Performance and Production: The V580 engine delivered between 300 and 305 horsepower. 439 units of this series were manufactured (standard Oscar India specification).
Second Generation: "Series 2" EFI (1986–1989)
The Need for Modernization
In 1986, Aston Martin introduced the V8 Volante with electronic fuel injection (EFI) to meet emissions regulations.
- V585 Engine: The Weber-Marelli injection allowed for a nearly flat hood design, eliminating the famous bulge. Power was maintained around the 305 horsepower mark, but with a more linear torque delivery.
- Production and Rarity: Between 216 and 245 units were manufactured. The vast majority were exported to the US (LHD). Only about 44 examples were built in right-hand drive (RHD), making them extremely rare.
V8 Vantage Volante: The "Beast in a Suit"
In 1986, Aston Martin catered to the desire for more power by creating the V8 Vantage Volante.
The Vantage Concept
The car received the high-performance version of the V8 ("X-Pack" specification in Europe), with high-compression pistons, optimized cylinder heads, and Weber 48 IDF carburetors. Power jumped to over 400 horsepower, allowing 0-60 mph in about 5.2 seconds and a top speed exceeding 160 mph.
Aggressive Aesthetics
The Vantage Volante received an aggressive aerodynamic kit: a deep front spoiler, flared wheel arches to cover 16-inch Ronal wheels, and extended side skirts.
The "Cosmetic Vantage" (US Spec)
Due to US emissions laws, the high-compression Vantage engine could not be sold there. Aston Martin created the "Cosmetic Vantage": an aggressive look, but with the standard V585 electronic fuel injection engine (~300 hp) and bulky 5 mph bumpers.
The Pinnacle of Exclusivity: "Prince of Wales" (PoW)
In 1987, Prince Charles commissioned a V8 Vantage Volante, but considered the aggressive styling of the production car "vulgar". He requested a car with the Vantage mechanics, but with the aesthetic discretion of the standard Volante.
- Exterior: Looks like a standard Volante, with no side skirts or large spoilers. Features slightly flared wheel arches, a mesh grille, and a hood with a discreet bulge.
- Exclusive Interior: Ashtray removed, wooden Nardi steering wheel, raised armrest with storage, and recessed switches.
- Production: Only 27 cars were built to the authentic factory PoW specification (22 RHD, 5 LHD).
Consolidated Production Numbers
| Model / Variant | Period | Quantity (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| V8 Volante "Series 1" | 1978 – 1985 | 439 - 656* |
| V8 Volante "Series 2" | 1986 – 1989 | 216 - 245 |
| V8 Vantage Volante | 1986 – 1989 | 166 (Base total) |
| Vantage Volante (US Spec) | 1986 – 1989 | ~58 (Part of the total above) |
| Vantage Volante "PoW" | 1986 – 1989 | 27 (22 RHD, 5 LHD) |
| V8 Zagato Volante | 1987 – 1989 | 37 |
*Note: The number 656 refers to the total of first-generation Volantes in some broader counts, while 439 refers specifically to the Oscar India Weber specification models.
Market Analysis and Collector's Guide
Value Hierarchy
In today's market, the value hierarchy is clear:
- Vantage Volante "Prince of Wales" (PoW): The "Holy Grail", extremely rare and valuable.
- Vantage Volante "X-Pack" (Manual, Euro Spec): Valued for its pure performance and iconic look.
- V8 Volante EFI (RHD): Highly sought after in the UK due to low production numbers.
- V8 Volante "Series 1" (Carbureted): Appreciated for its classic sound and Oscar India aesthetics.
- US Spec "Cosmetic" Vantage: Generally commands lower prices, but conversions to European specifications can increase its value.
Maintenance and Points of Attention
Maintenance requires dedication. Electrolytic corrosion is a risk due to the combination of aluminum and steel. The V8 engine is robust, but tuning the Weber carburetors requires specialists. The EFI models are more reliable for daily use, but electronic parts can be scarce.
Conclusion
The Aston Martin V8 Volante is a landmark in British automotive history. It carried Aston Martin through difficult decades, defining the "Muscle Car in a Suit" genre. For the modern enthusiast, it offers an analog and visceral driving experience that is impossible to replicate in modern cars.
