1989 Aston Martin V8 Series 5 Saloon
Registration no. Not UK Registered
Chassis no. SCFCV8154KTR12663
Engine no. V/585/2663

Shortly after reorganisation under new ownership as AML (1975) Ltd, Aston Martin resumed development of its highly successful V8. A host of improvements was to be incorporated in the forthcoming 'Series 4', scheduled for introduction in October 1978. Built from then until 1986, these cars are generally known by the factory's 'Oscar India' sobriquet, standing for 'October Introduction'. The most obvious differences were a restyled bonnet and boot-mounted spoiler, while the interior became even more opulent, gaining the Volante's wood-embellished fascia together with leather headlining, a restyled centre console and improved air conditioning. The latter was by now standard equipment, as was power-assisted steering, a limited-slip differential, electric window lifts and a heated rear window. Automatic was the standard transmission offering, five-speed manual the option.

Autocar magazine found much to commend in the 'Oscar India' tested in October 1978, reckoning that this latest example from the Newport Pagnell factory stood out as the best-built and most competently finished car it have ever known Aston Martin produce. "It sets new standards of excellence for the company. In the past there has always been a slightly niggly feeling that one was paying an awful lot of money for a car of rather indifferent trim standards, in which the fabulous performance was not matched by the way the car was put together. Not so any more - the car is a delight, whether to drive, to travel in, or simply to look at."

Launched in January 1986, the Aston Martin V8 'Series 5' adopted the latest Vantage specification (engine excepted) the following year and thus boasted the Vantage's revised bodywork and 16" wheels. Fuel injection was reintroduced on the Series 5, on this occasion a Weber system rather than the earlier Bosch. Power output of the standard car was now quoted as 305bhp. Automatic was still the standard transmission offering, five-speed manual an option, and even when equipped with the former the V8 could reach 100mph in around 15 seconds and better 145mph flat-out.

The copy of its record card shows that this 'Series 5' V8 was supplied new via Marshalls, Cambridge Ltd on 9th February 1989. The car was delivered finished in Chichester Blue with blue-piped Parchment leather upholstery, and its owner was one J M Topham of East Sussex. The original registration was 'F777 DAV'. The current vendor purchased the Aston from marque specialist Desmond Smail in May 2010 at 58,000 miles recorded. A copy of the bill of sale is on file together with an old V5C document, warranty document, the original warranty card, and service voucher book. Stored since acquisition, the car will require re-commissioning before returning to the road.

Please note that if this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. It will also require a NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrival) and an additional fee of £350 (plus VAT) will be charged on the Invoice to prepare the NOVA. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.