🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aston Martin

Model:

V8 Saloon

Year:

1988

Generation Code:

VH450

Chassis Codes:

DB7 (precursor, but V8 Saloon is distinct)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

High-performance luxury grand tourer aimed at discerning clientele seeking refined motoring and bespoke craftsmanship.

Competitors:

Ferrari 412, Bentley Turbo R, Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit

Features:

Powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, bespoke coachwork, classic GT styling, rear-wheel drive, capable of high-speed cruising.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full service and repair instruction for Aston Martin V8 Saloon 1988

Page Count:

Not specified, but implied to be comprehensive

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Completeness:

Advertised as complete and intact, without missing or corrupt parts/pages.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Restraint System, Brake System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair, maintenance

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for the V8 engine.

Transmission Repair:

Detailed steps for servicing and repairing both the manual and automatic transmissions.

Suspension And Steering Rebuild:

Instructions for component replacement, alignment procedures, and steering system overhaul.

Depth:

Dealer-level specifications and procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and skilled owners

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes troubleshooting guides for common faults, circuit diagrams, and component testing procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF, compatible with PC and Mac, printable

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if generated from a good quality source, allowing quick access to specific information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams for printing individual pages

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF), no physical binding

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

5.3 Liters (5340 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1 (typical)

Valve Train:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

~300-330 bhp @ 5000-5500 rpm (variant dependent)

Torque:

~320-350 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (variant dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 12.5 liters (requires specific Aston Martin coolant mix)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (with filter change)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

10W-50 or 20W-50 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed Automatic Transmission (common)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent for automatic) / GL-4 or GL-5 for manual (refer to manual for precise specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,670 mm (183.9 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1,829 mm (72.0 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1,334 mm (52.5 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but inferred from chassis strength

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings comparable to modern standards exist for this era of vehicle.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), power-assisted steering

Passive Safety:

Seat belts, reinforced chassis, energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically an aftermarket or original manufacturer-branded radio/cassette player, with potential for upgraded systems.

Driver Aid Features:

ABS, power steering, power brakes. Limited to features available for the era.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, USB, etc.). External diagnostic tools would be used for troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Routine Service:

Every 6,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (includes oil and filter change, fluid checks, inspection of brakes, suspension, and exhaust).

Major Service:

As specified in the manual, typically involving spark plug replacement, transmission fluid service, coolant flush, and detailed system inspections at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification and replacement interval)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent

Differential Fluid Type:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 90 (API GL-5) or as specified by Aston Martin.

Common Wear Items:

Rubber hoses and seals (age-related degradation), suspension bushings, brake components (pads, rotors, lines), exhaust system components, fuel injection system maintenance.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common in older vehicles due to wiring harness aging, corrosion, and Lucas components; the manual provides diagnostic procedures.

Oil Filter:

Part numbers vary by supplier. Manual will specify correct fitment or OE part number.

Air Filter:

Part numbers vary by supplier. Manual will specify correct fitment or OE part number.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Aston Martin has a long-standing reputation for building elegant, high-performance luxury sports cars and grand tourers, synonymous with British craftsmanship and motorsport success.

Evolution:

The V8 Saloon evolved from earlier V8 models (like the DBS V8 and V8 Vantage), refining the chassis, powertrain, and styling over its production run. The 1988 model represents a mature iteration of the V8 platform before the transition to the Virage and later DB7.

Production Period:

V8 Saloon production spanned roughly from the late 1960s through the late 1980s, with significant updates and variants during this time.

Manufacturing Location:

Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Accolades:

Aston Martin vehicles are recognized for their timeless design, engineering excellence, and association with luxury and performance. Specific awards for the 1988 V8 Saloon are less documented than for later models, but it remains a highly respected classic.