Super Classics
Aston Martin V8
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Newport Pagnell's 340 bhp V8 muscle car with a dogleg manual gearbox.
The broad shoulder Aston Martin V8, originates from the similarly bodied 1967 6 cylinder DBS and clear parallels can be seen with its American contemporaries. Echoes of the Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang are clearly evident in the masculine lines, with its sloping back and raised rear haunches. It is clear that Aston had a strong eye on the American market, from their base in Newport Pagnell.
The DBS finally received the full bodied 5,340cc V8 power plant in 1969. Despite its size the engine only weighed 240kg, substantially less than comparable Detroit offerings. The engine produced a healthy 300bhp, which was often tamed by the somewhat lazy, but super smooth, Chrysler Torqueflite automatic gearbox. The clubs metallic burgundy car however, benefits from a five speed ZF manual gearbox which translates the bountiful power from the engine, far more efficiently to the road.
The Aston Martin V8 is a true GT car. There are few experiences to match, gazing out over the huge power bulge on the bonnet, pressing the accelerator and heading for the horizon.
