1980 Aston Martin V8 - Volante (ZF manual 5-speed)

Aston Martin V8 Volante (1980)

“Oscar India” Series · Heritage Certificate · Restored & Upgraded

The Aston Martin V8 Volante Experience

The Aston Martin V8 Volante represents one of the most charismatic and understated grand touring convertibles of its era. Combining hand-built craftsmanship with muscular V8 performance, it offers a uniquely British interpretation of open-top motoring—effortless, refined, yet unmistakably powerful.

As part of the “Oscar India” (Series 4) generation introduced in October 1978, the model evolved into a more elegant and mature design. Subtle yet significant changes—including the deletion of the bonnet scoop in favour of a smooth power bulge, the addition of an integrated rear spoiler, and a richer, wood-trimmed interior—marked a shift toward a more luxurious and cohesive grand tourer.

Model Context & Rarity

The V8 Volante occupies a particularly exclusive position within Aston Martin production of the period:

- Total V8 Volante & Vantage Volante production: 849 cars (chassis 15001–15849)

- “Oscar India” V8 saloons/coupés (non-Vantage): 352 produced (1978–1985)

- Estimated carburettor Volantes (Oscar India era): approx. 192 examples

Identity & Configuration

- Model: Aston Martin V8 Volante (Series 4 “Oscar India”)

- Chassis: V8COL15200

- Engine: 5.3-litre DOHC alloy V8

- Gearbox: ZF 5-speed manual (conversion)

- Specification: Left-hand drive, originally U.S.-delivery

- Exterior colour: Raven Black

- Interior trim: Natural leather with matching hood

The car is accompanied by its official Heritage Certificate, confirming:

- Matching numbers and original factory specification

- Build date: 27 June 1980

- Dispatch date: 10 July 1980

- Delivered via Aston Martin Lagonda Inc., USA

In addition, the certificate records important factory data including:

- Gearbox number: 6760/3201

- Rear axle number: GD80/25/3007

- Factory colour codes:

Exterior: 80 91 141 (Raven Black)

Trim: VM 846 (Natural)

Hood: code 5202

- Key numbers: FR.604, FT.164, FS.911, TC.521

Factory-fitted equipment as recorded includes:

- Automatic gearbox (as originally delivered)

- Weber carburettors

- Cruise control

- Dashboard top roll in Natural leather

- Miles-per-hour speedometer (U.S. specification)

- Avon Turbospeed tyres

- Natural headlining

- Brown Onslow carpets

History, Provenance & Documentation

This V8 Volante was:

- First registered: 15 September 1980

- Delivered new: December 1980

- First owner: A. Garcia, Atherton, California, USA

The car has been in Belgium since 2006, with a consistent and traceable inspection history, including:

- 29/09/2006 – 47,460 km

- 06/09/2007 – 48,226 km

- 10/11/2020 – 53,828 km

- 24/09/2021 – 54,058 km

- 13/05/2022 – 54,416 km

- Current mileage: 56,178 km

Additional documentation includes:

- Heritage Certificate (BMIHT)

- FIVA Identity Card (September 2015)

- Belgian registration and valid technical inspection

Restoration & Major Works

In 2013, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration and mechanical overhaul by Aston Martin Heritage in Derby, with invoices on file totalling approximately £50,000.

Importantly, the car was also converted from U.S. specification to European specification, significantly enhancing both its aesthetics and driving appeal.

Works carried out include:

Mechanical:

- Complete engine rebuild

- Transmission overhaul

- Brake system upgrade

- Front and rear suspension overhaul

Interior & Trim:

- New convertible hood with lining

- Refurbishment of interior wood trim

- New audio system (radio and speakers)

Systems & Ancillaries:

- Fuel pump replacement

- Windscreen wiper system service

- Brake warning system addressed

Finalisation:

- Compression testing

- Road testing and validation

This work ensures the car is mechanically sorted and ready for proper use, while preserving its character and originality.

Condition & Presentation

The car presents as a well-maintained and properly restored example, benefitting from both:

- Professional restoration by Aston Martin Heritage

- Continued care and regular inspection history in Belgium

The elegant Raven Black over Black leather specification is both timeless and highly appropriate to the model.

The interior reflects the hallmark Oscar India wood-rich cabin, offering a refined and traditional Aston Martin atmosphere, while the exterior retains the clean, cohesive styling introduced with the Series 4.

The ZF 5-speed manual gearbox conversion is a particularly desirable upgrade, transforming the driving experience into a far more engaging and collector-oriented configuration. (Note; A conversion done today would cost in excess of 30.000€).

Collectability & Market Position

The Aston Martin V8 Volante has become one of the most appreciated hand-built Aston Martins of the late 20th century, particularly:

- Early “Oscar India” cars

- Carburettor-era examples

- Manual gearbox configurations

This example offers a particularly compelling proposition:

- Matching numbers and colours (Heritage Certificate)

- Rare early-series Volante

- Desirable manual gearbox (ZF) conversion

- Extensive Aston Martin Heritage restoration

- European-specification conversion

- Documented mileage and long-term European presence

It represents a highly attractive opportunity to acquire a well-sorted, elegant, and increasingly collectible Aston Martin, suitable for both driving enjoyment and long-term collection.

Location & Viewing

The car is currently located in Belgium, with Belgian registration and valid MOT.Viewings are available by appointment, and assistance with international transport or export can be arranged.