The 1989 Aston Martin V8 Volante stands as a monument to the bespoke, hand-assembled era of Newport Pagnell, where aluminum bodywork was meticulously hammered into form over a steel chassis. This specific US-spec example has been thoughtfully enhanced with European-specification chrome bumpers, bridging the gap between North American safety requirements and the original designer’s intent. With a well-documented history traversing Canada and the United States, this Volante has received significant mechanical and cosmetic attention since 2021, ensuring its place as a reliable and prestigious entrant into any world-class collection of British grand tourers.
Jaguar Antelope Finish and European Styling Cues
Hand-built aluminum panels define the muscular silhouette of this Volante, featuring the signature “power bulge” hood and a refurbished black convertible soft top. Originally finished in the sophisticated shade of Jaguar Antelope, the car’s aesthetic was sharpened in recent years through the installation of slim Euro-spec bumpers and the repair of minor body imperfections. It rides on 15-inch basketweave BBS wheels mounted with Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires, offering a stance that is both aggressive and classic. Despite small signs of use on the front valance, the exterior preserves the imposing presence that made the V8 series the definitive British muscle car of its generation.
Refined Wood Inlays and Reupholstered Beige Leather
The cabin offers a sanctuary of traditional materials, recently refreshed to maintain its status as a premier luxury environment. Beige leather upholstery covers the power-adjustable seats, while the wood inlays were expertly refinished and the dashboard pad refurbished in 2022. Modern convenience is integrated via a Sony CD stereo and a recharged air conditioning system, complemented by power windows, door locks, and cruise control. A color-keyed steering wheel fronts a repaired 200-mph speedometer, providing the driver with a tactile connection to a cockpit that remains as elegant today as it was at the close of the eighties.
Fuel-Injected V8 Might and Stainless Exhaust Clarity
Under the vented hood resides the 5.3-liter V8 engine, which utilizes fuel injection to deliver smooth, high-torque performance through a three-speed automatic transmission. This powerplant was factory rated at 305 hp/309 PS and 320 lb-ft/434 Nm of torque, providing effortless acceleration for the heavy grand tourer. A stainless-steel exhaust system with a crossover muffler was installed in 2022, providing a clearer, more resonant acoustic signature to the V8’s burble. Stopping duty is handled by four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with inboard rear rotors, a sophisticated setup that helped the Volante maintain its reputation for engineering depth.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.3L Fuel-Injected V8 |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Automatic |
| Chassis/Platform | Newport Pagnell Steel/Aluminum |
Standing Tall Among the Newport Pagnell Elite
In the late eighties, the 1989 Aston Martin V8 Volante occupied a market segment shared with the Ferrari 412 and the Rolls-Royce Corniche, yet it offered a unique blend of “gentleman’s express” performance and hand-crafted exclusivity. Its unique selling point remains its hand-rolled aluminum body, which required hundreds of hours to complete compared to mass-produced rivals. With a production run that was extremely limited by Newport Pagnell’s capacity, low-mileage examples like this 26,000-mile car have become primary targets for collectors. The recent addition of Euro-spec bumpers significantly increases its desirability among enthusiasts who prefer the cleaner, original lines of the European model.
Mechanical Pedigree and Maintenance Sorting
Ownership of a late-model V8 Volante is made more accessible by the extensive sorting this example has received, including a water pump overhaul and the replacement of critical steering components like ball joints and rack boots. The undercarriage was cleaned and painted in 2025, reflecting a level of care that goes beyond simple oil changes. Because the timing belt and fuel injection systems on these hand-built cars require specialized knowledge, a vehicle with recent, documented service at 26,000 miles represents a more stable investment than a neglected survivor. This Volante offers a turn-key opportunity to enjoy the final chapter of a legendary Aston Martin era with a clean Carfax report for added peace of mind.
The Final Statement of an Automotive Era
This 1989 Aston Martin V8 Volante is a masterful fusion of classic British brawn and bespoke luxury. With its rare Jaguar Antelope finish, European styling upgrades, and freshly sorted mechanicals, it stands ready to serve its next steward as a definitive example of one of the world’s most prestigious convertibles.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
