V8 Coupe and LWB Volante

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

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, V8 coupe was, like the more powerful Vantage, a much improved car due to the investment of Ford Motor Company resources.

Styling followed that of Vantage but without bonnet vents and with narrower wheels, the overall look was one of elegance rather than brute power. 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.

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 Virage Volante. Copying the style and mechanics of 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.

Engine:

V8, 5340 cc, 350 bhp @ 6000 rpm 369 lbs-ft @ 4300 rpm

Suspension:

Front: Co-axial spring damper units with anti-roll bar Rear: Co-axial spring damper units

Dimensions (LxWxH):

4745 x 1856 x 1330 mm

Transmission:

4-speed automatic drive with sport and touring mode

Brakes:

Front and rear ventilated discs

Weight:

1950 kg

Engine:

V8, 5340 cc, 349 bhp @ 6000 rpm 369 lbs-ft @ 4300 rpm

Suspension:

Front: Co-axial spring damper units with anti-roll bar Rear: Co-axial spring damper units

Dimensions (LxWxH):

4745 x 1944 x 1360 mm

Top Speed:

155 mph

Transmission:

5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs and rear solid discs

Weight:

1960 kg

0 – 60 mph:

6.5 sec