Aston Martin's long-awaited V8 finally appeared in 1969. It was initially known as the DBS V8, but later re-dubbed simply, 'V8'. Retrospectively known as the Series 3, the redesigned model phased-in during July 1973 was a response to concerns over forthcoming US emission regulations. Marking a switch from Bosch fuel-injection to quad twin-choke 42mm Webers, the newcomer was visually distinguished by an enlarged air intake, elongated bonnet scoop and new rear window panel. Utilising the same steel platform chassis complete with independent double-wishbone front suspension, Watts linkage-located de Dion rear axle, power assisted rack-and-pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes as its predecessor, the luxury GT now benefited from improved engine and transmission cooling and a revised petrol tank design. Other improvements included a revamped 2+2 interior with revised seats and reorganised switchgear. Developing some 310bhp, its cleaner-running 5340cc DOHC V8 engine still made for a prodigiously fast motorcar. Indeed, the September 1973 issue of Autocar magazine recorded 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds and 146mph flat out aboard a Series 3 with automatic transmission. With production running from July 1973 to December 1974 and then Spring 1976 to October 1978, just 967 Series 3 cars were made all told.

This elegant-looking, 'meticulously maintained' 1974 manual transmission Series 3 V8 comes with Metallic Green paintwork and a Cream-coloured leather interior and has been in its current ownership since 2000. It has had only 5 former keepers to date, currently displays a total of 96,500 miles, and has benefited from new stainless steel exhaust manifolds (2001) and battery (2016). The vendor presently grades the bodywork, paintwork, engine and transmission as 'very good' and the interior trim as 'good', and is offering the Aston complete with service book containing 22 stamps from Kensington-based independent marque specialist Ian Mason, original instruction book, workshop manual, large collection of invoices, 32 old MOTs and one valid to February 7, 2018. Presently disconnected the V8 nonetheless still retains its original factory fitted A/C.