1988 Aston Martin V8 'Series 5' Sports Saloon
Registration no. E36 OVF
Chassis no. SCFCV8159JTR12592
Engine no. V/585/2592

After Aston Martin's acquisition by Company Developments in 1972, production resumed with the Series 2, now known as the Aston Martin V8 and distinguishable by a restyled front end recalling the looks of earlier Astons. Progressively developed through Series 3 and 4, the Aston Martin V8 was built in Series 5 specification from January 1986. The Series 5 adopted the latest Vantage specification (engine excepted) the following year and thus boasted the Vantage's revised bodywork and 16" wheels. Fuel injection was reintroduced on the Series 5, this time a Weber system rather than the earlier Bosch. Power output of the standard car was now quoted as 305bhp, and even in automatic transmission form the V8 could reach 100mph in around 15 seconds and better 145mph flat-out. The most successful Aston Martin ever, the V8 survived the changes of ownership and financial upheavals of the 1970s, enjoying a record-breaking production run lasting from 1969 to 1988, with 2,919 cars sold.

One of the last Aston Martin V8 saloons built (the highest chassis number was '12701'), this automatic transmission model was originally supplied by Stratton Motor Company to Eric Goodwin of Tiphook Plc. Bought by the current owner in 2014, this fine example has benefited from £32,500 of works sympathetically undertaken over the last few years. Significant works include new windscreen and clips; new exhaust system; replacement sills; and a re-spray. Notable features include period Blaupunkt stereo with Bluetooth connection, and a programmable electronic fuel injection system, which is said to have improved fuel efficiency and engine performance.

Extensively worked on and maintained by Aston Martin specialists Chicane Classics, the car comes with a comprehensive file of documents dating back to its original sale in 1988. It has been garaged since purchase and has covered circa 4000 miles in the last eight years. Finished in Jubilee Silver with original blue-piped parchment leather upholstery, the car is described by the private vendor as in excellent running order and an outstanding example.