Produced to satisfy demands of the U.S. market, Aston's V8 Volante convertible debuted in 1978, but it was not until 1986 that it became available to Vantage specification, which by this time meant around 400bhp. The Vantage Volante was released at the October, 1986 Motor Show, held at the NEC. The modified coachwork that distinguished the Vantage was inspired by a car built for the Brunei Royal Family. Along with the Vantage engine and bonnet bulge came flared wheel arches, a trunk spoiler (a feature the Volante had previously lacked) and extended front spoiler, while glassfiber extensions replaced the model's hitherto characteristic chromed sill covers. The result was a muscular, aggressive-looking car that could justifiably claim to be the world's fastest convertible. A total of 167 Vantage Volantes had been completed by the end of production in December 1989, 78 with Right Hand Drive. Of the remaining 89 Left Hand Drive vehicles, 58 (including this car) were made for and imported i