5,340cc DOHC V8 Engine Electronic Fuel Injection 390bhp at 6,250rpm (approx, see text) 5-Speed Manual Transmission (see text) 4-Wheel Independent Suspension 4-Wheel Disc Brakes *Factory left-hand drive, cosmetic-Vantage spec example *Single family ownership, delivered new to Florida *Tastefully uprated and with only 10,000 miles from new *Subject of a nearly $190,000 mechanical and cosmetic restoration THE ASTON MARTIN V8 With the resurrection of the 'Vantage' name in 1977, Aston Martin enthusiasts everywhere breathed a sigh of relief; previously applied to high-power versions of the DB six-cylinder cars, it had been dormant since the V8's arrival back in 1969.

A heavier car than its six-cylinder predecessor, the V8 had suffered as emissions legislation became ever more strangulating, leading to concern that Aston Martin's traditional performance image might be lost.

The arrival of the Vantage dispelled any such worries.

Propelling Aston's V8 back into the supercar league was a tune...