V8 Coupe & LWB Volante

Initially produced in Coupe format and then developed into its sister format, the Volante, the V8 Coupe was a clear styling and design development from its predecessor the Virage. Representing one of the final cars before the launch of the DB7, a car which redefined Aston Martin for the modern era, the V8 Coupe remains an enduring and collectable member of the Aston Martin heritage line-up.

V8 Coupe
LWB Volante

V8 Coupe

Introduced in 1996 as a development of the original Virage, and powered by a revised version of the 32-valve 5.3 litre V8, the V8 coupe was, like the more powerful Vantage, a much improved car due to the investment of Ford Motor Co resources.

Styling followed that of the Vantage but without bonnet vents and with narrower wheels, the overall look was one of elegance rather than brute power. The V8 Coupe sported new six spoke alloy wheels, a mesh radiator grille and air intakes and auxiliary lamps in the front spoiler presenting a distinguished but purposeful aerodynamic stance.

Specifications

Engine:: V8, 5340 cc, 350 bhp @ 6000 rpm
369 lbs-ft @ 4300 rpm
Transmission:: 4-speed automatic drive with sport and touring mode
Suspension:: Front: Co-axial spring damper units with anti-roll bar
Rear: Co-axial spring damper units
Brakes:: Front and rear ventilated discs
Dimensions (LxWxH):: 4745 x 1944 x 1330 mm
Weight:: 1950 kg

Long Wheel Base (LWB) Volante

True to Aston Martin tradition, a year later the Long Wheelbase Volante was introduced at the London Motor Show, replacing the Virage Volante.

Copying the style and mechanics of the V8 Coupe, this elegant convertible benefited from 200mm extra leg room making it a proper 2+2. The LWB version can be identified by an air vent style indent in the panel in front of the rear wheels.

Specifications

Engine:: V8, 5340 cc, 349 bhp @ 6000 rpm
369 lbs-ft @ 4300 rpm
Transmission:: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Suspension:: Front: Co-axial spring damper units with anti-roll bar
Rear: Co-axial spring damper units
Brakes:: Front ventilated discs and rear solid discs
Dimensions (LxWxH):: 4745 x 1856 x 1360 mm
Weight:: 1960 kg
Top Speed:: 155 mph
0 – 60 mph:: 6.5 sec