1985 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys Milan event, 22 May 2025.
165,000 - 200,000 EUR

• Desirable Vantage-spec model with five-speed manual gearbox
• Delivered new to Kuwait in December 1984
• Retains its matching-numbers 5.3-litre V-8 engine
• Accompanied by copy of its factory build sheet

In 1978, Aston Martin thoroughly updated its V8 grand tourer model and gave it the curious Oscar India moniker, a pronunciation of the internal designation OI for October introduction using the phonetic alphabet. Numerous revisions brought significant improvements in luxury, refinement, and performance across the range.

Higher-spec V8 Vantage models featured a blanked front grille with supplementary lights, a deep air dam under the front bumper, a closed bonnet bulge, a subtle rear spoiler, and Vantage badging. Leather replaced the vinyl dash covering and cloth headlining on the interior. Koni dampers and a larger anti-roll bar enhanced the suspension. Aston Martin claimed that changes to the 5,340-cc quad-cam V-8 engine increased power by 40 per cent and torque by 10 per cent. A ZF five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential were standard.

This striking V8 Vantage Oscar India, delivered new to Kuwait in December of 1984, came finished from the factory in Telford Gold with Magnolia hides piped in Dark Brown, according to a copy of its original build sheet (available to view on file). Notably, the car retains its matching-numbers engine and rides on handsome BBS cross-lace alloy wheels characteristic of V8 Vantage models produced from 1983 to 1985. It also features the mesh front grille of the standard V8 saloon in place of the blanked unit, lending a more elegant appearance.

Now finished in grey over brown leather with black piping, the car presents in good condition and offers an excellent opportunity for its next caretaker to fully recommission for showing and touring.


Please note this lot has entered the EU on a temporary import bond, which must be cancelled either by exporting the lot outside of the EU on an approved Bill of Lading with supporting customs documentation or by paying the applicable VAT and import duties to have the lot remain in the EU.

To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/ml25/.