Aston Martin V8
Strictly speaking, the Aston Martin V8 nameplate is reserved for a phenomenal 2 door performance coupe from the 1960s, and purists wouldn’t have it any other way. Generally however, any car from the legendary British automaker that features a beastly engine of that size could proudly sport the badge. Taking the latter mindset, a myriad of magnificent autos has been produced over the years, and all have the wow factor in abundance!
Yes the ‘real’ Aston V8 was produced between 1969 and 1989, and featured a 5.3 litre powerhouse under the bonnet; offshoots of this included the V8 Vantage and Volante models which were both classic and undoubtedly beautiful. Other cars bear the name include the 1976 Lagonda, 1988 Virage and 2005 Vantage. The common theme between all of them is high performance, mind boggling designs and utter excellence.
Each car is completely different to the next in terms of visuals, but all of them have that ability to turn heads and fixate eyes. Whether it’s the muscular angles of the original or the sultry curves and sexy appearance of the most modern, there’s no doubt that the designers at Aston had a field day. Head inside and you’ll be greeted with absolute luxury and lavishness that can’t be found on other cars. Going fast doesn’t mean you have to be uncomfortable, so whether you’re cruising around the French Riviera or blasting through the Alps, staying cool and relaxed is what it’s all about.
The hallmark of these cars is obviously what’s under the hood, and the V8 engines are just amazing. Getting bigger, more powerful and seemingly louder with each new model, it’s got to a stage where the symphony is enough to turn your ears to mush. The 2005 V8 Vantage had a 0 to 60 time of 4.7 seconds, a top speed of 175 miles per hour and 400 horsepower, which is awesome by any stretch of the imagination. Combine that with absolute drivability and you’ve got bone fide 4 wheel fun.
To be honest, these cars don’t grow on trees like others seem to these days, and as a result it might be a bit difficult to find the earlier versions especially. Having said that, if you check out the supreme used cars for sale at Motors.co.uk, there’s every chance of finding a bargain. Not only are prices discounted but quality is uncompromisingly high, so a second hand Aston Martin V8 will always be a good deal.
The legacy of the Aston nameplate is undeniable, and since its inception has been associated with magnificence of the highest order. What you get with the V8 cars is incredible performance and precision, in addition to almightily good designs, but at less of a cost when compared to a V12. It’s not like you’ll be compromising anyway!