With the introduction of the Vantage in 1977, Aston Martin’s V8 was thrust back into the supercar league.

The name had previously been applied to high-power versions of the DB six-cylinder cars, and in the V8’s case the Vantage tune raised maximum output to around 375bhp - in Rolls-Royce fashion the factory chose not to disclose the actual figure, merely claiming that power was ‘adequate’.

Chassis changes were minimal apart from the adoption of bigger ventilated discs all round and low-profile Pirelli tyres.

The Vantage was, nevertheless, readily distinguishable from the standard product by virtue of its blocked-off bonnet scoop, blanked air intake, front chin spoiler and lip on the boot lid.

Produced to satisfy demands from the USA for such a car, the Volante convertible debuted in 1978, but did not become available to Vantage specification until 1986.

Along with the powerful Vantage engine and distinctive bonnet came flared wheelarches, boot spoiler (a feature the Volante had pr...