21st Nov, 2007 0:00

The Pavilion Gardens

 
  Lot 85
 

1984 Aston Martin V8

Sold for £33,750

(including buyers premium)


Lot details
Registration No: B81 GGR
Chassis No: SCFV8151FTR12447
Mot Expiry: July 2008

Launched at the October 1978 Birmingham Motor Show, the Fourth Series or Oscar India V8 (Oscar India being AM factory 'shorthand' for October Introduction) sported a re-profiled 'power bulge' bonnet, subtly integrated rear lip spoiler and GKN alloy wheels. Little changed beneath its aluminium skin, the newcomer utilised the same independent coil-sprung front suspension, De Dion rear axle, four-wheel disc brakes and power assisted rack and pinion steering as its predecessors. Helping to cement its luxurious Grand Tourer credentials, the model boasted a revised interior complete with leather headlining and burr walnut dashboard / door cappings. Predominantly allied to three-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission, the Tadek Marek designed 5340cc DOHC V8 engine was fed via quad Weber carburettors. Thus equipped, Autocar magazine found the Oscar India to be capable of 146mph and 0-60mph in 7.2 seconds. Though, the 1980 introduction of the V/580 powerplant with its larger valves, polynomial camshafts, reduced cylinder head porting, barrel-shaped pistons and raised compression ratio brought notable gains in smoothness, mid-range torque and fuel economy. While, the adoption of 8-inch BBS cross-spoke alloy wheels three years later gave the model a more contemporary look. An occasional four-seater, the Oscar India V8 remained in production for seven and half years during which time just 291 are thought to have been made.

Finished in Windsor Red with grey leather upholstery (piped in red), this particular example was specially built for the October 1984 British International Motor Show (as evidenced by a centre console-mounted plaque). First registered in the name of Stephen Boler Esq - a well-known Cheshire businessman and owner of the Mere Golf and Country Club - 'B81 GGR' was then briefly owned by F. Boon Esq. before Richard Southern Esq. paid some £86,000 to acquire it in April 1985. Entering the current custodianship thereafter, a transfer from husband to wife means that the Aston has had just five registered keepers from new. Covering a warranted 22,000 miles during the course of the last twenty-three years, the Oscar India V8 Saloon started readily upon inspection. Sparingly used in recent years save for a trip to Le Mans, 'B81 GGR' has nevertheless been submitted for regular MOT testing. Fitted with the desirable V/580 specification engine, automatic transmission and BBS wheels, it appears to be in really lovely genuine condition. There are some paint imperfections around the front / rear windscreens and the underside of the bonnet could do with a thorough clean but overall the car presents well. The interior is particularly pleasing what with its motor show plaque, air-conditioning and overmats etc.

Ex-Motor Show Cars are particularly prized among collectors because of the extra time and effort that went into their build, Aston Martin understandably wanting to present its wares in the best possible light. A special car, 'B81 GGR' is made doubly so by its unusually low mileage. A measure of the vendor's confidence, we are informed that the V8 Saloon will be driven to the sale. Worthy of close inspection, it is accompanied by an extensive history file which includes the Owner's Manual, Workshop Manual, 'Wiring Diagram' booklet, numerous receipts, old MOT certificates, expired tax discs, various articles and current MOT certificate valid until July 2008.

PLEASE NOTE: Since the catalogue went to press we have learnt that this car is not a 'Vantage' model as previously stated. Although, the car is listed with the AMOC as a 'Vantage' and was purchased by the vendor as being such, recent investigations have shown it to be a V8 Saloon. We apologise for any confusion.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle is fitted with automatic transmission and not a manual gearbox as incorrectly suggested by one of the catalogue insert photographs.

PLEASE NOTE: We have just been informed that the factory have no record of 'B81 GGR' being a Motor Show car (though, this information runs contrary to that stated in the AMOC listing). However, we are further led to believe that the factory have confirmed that this V8 Saloon was fitted with a Vantage tune engine from new at the special order of its first owner.
 

All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.

You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:

               

Auction: The Pavilion Gardens, 21st Nov, 2007

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