1989 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Among the most formidable open grand tourers of its era, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante combined hand-built craftsmanship with performance that rivaled contemporary supercars. Introduced in Vantage specification for the Volante in 1986, the model featured significantly uprated power, factory figures coyly described as adequate, though widely understood to approach or exceed 400 horsepower, alongside aggressive aerodynamic enhancements. Flared wheel arches, a deep front air dam, integrated rear spoiler, and signature bonnet bulge gave the car a muscular, purposeful stance, while its limited production fewer than 200 examples completed by December 1989 ensured exclusivity befitting the marques flagship open model.
This 1989 example was originally delivered new via British Motors in Monaco, specified with the highly desirable X-Pack engine and finished in Suffolk Red over Magnolia trim. Built in left-hand-drive configuration, it returned to Aston Martin Works at Newport Pagnell later that same year, where it was converted to right-hand drive and fitted with a five-speed dog-leg manual transmission under the direction of noted marque specialist Desmond Smail. Retaining its full European specification, the car features slimmer bumpers, wide-body coachwork, and correct 16-inch Ronal wheels, along with the distinctive quad-carburetor bonnet bulge. Its early history includes long-term ownership by businessman Touker Suleyman, who acquired the car in 1991 and retained it for approximately 15 years.
A comprehensive restoration carried out between 2007 and 2008 by renowned Aston Martin specialists R.S. Williams brought the car to an exceptional standard. At that time, the V8 engine was enlarged to 7.0 liters and equipped with four carburetors, significantly enhancing performance. The restoration also included structural attention to the chassis, a bare-metal repaint in elegant Cumberland Grey, and a complete retrim of the interior in tan leather. Additional upgrades included a new black mohair soft top, refinished wood veneers, heated front seats, and modernized audio equipment with Bluetooth connectivity, all executed with careful attention to preserving the cars character while improving usability.
Since completion, the car has been sparingly driven and consistently maintained, with recent servicing in 2024 addressing items such as air conditioning, ignition components, and routine mechanical care. Imported to the United States in 2022 and subsequently acquired by its current owner, the car is offered with its owners manual, service records, and supporting documentation, including its factory Car Record Card. A well-known example within Aston Martin circles, this V8 Vantage Volante presents as a highly developed, thoroughly documented, and exceptionally charismatic expression of one of the marques most exclusive open-top grand tourers.