Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking performance, luxury, and bespoke craftsmanship
Key Competitors:
Ferrari 400/412, Jaguar XJ-S, Bentley Continental, Rolls-Royce Corniche
Vehicle Philosophy:
Powerful V8 engine, hand-built quality, distinct British styling
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to maintain and repair their classic Aston Martin with factory-level accuracy, saving on specialized labor costs.
Engine:
V8 Engine (including carburetor systems, ignition, fuel, cooling, lubrication)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission Systems
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, rear axle
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system
Body:
Body construction, panels, doors, windows, interior trim
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, lines, pumps, carburetion (Weber, Zenith)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, pipes, mufflers
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Rebuild:
Engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, differential rebuild
Installation:
Installation of new or replacement parts
Adjustment:
Carburetor synchronization and adjustment, ignition timing
Depth:
Factory-level, detailed technical data and procedures
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic techniques and specifications
Diagrams:
Comprehensive diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.3 Liters (5340 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 82.0 mm (approximate, subject to minor variations)
Horsepower Range:
240-300 bhp (depending on series and specification)
Torque Range:
300-360 lb-ft (depending on series and specification)
Fuel Delivery:
Multiple Weber or Zenith carburetors (e.g., 4x Weber 42 DCNF, 2x Zenith Stromberg CDSE)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (required for later models, may be converted)
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based, coil ignition system
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (e.g., ZF) or 3-speed Automatic (e.g., Chrysler TorqueFlite A727)
Transmission Type:
Automatic transmission was a common option and became more prevalent in later models.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions are detailed within the manual.
Length:
Approx. 4,770 mm (187.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,700 - 1,800 kg (3,748 - 3,968 lbs)
Crash Safety Era:
Designed prior to modern stringent crash testing mandates; emphasis on structural integrity for its era.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (often ventilated front discs)
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts
Body Structure:
Robust body-on-frame construction with steel body panels
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually. Manual specifies exact interval based on usage.
Tune Up:
Recommended every 10,000-15,000 miles, including spark plug replacement and carburetor adjustments.
Major Service:
Comprehensive inspection and service recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended. Manual will specify precise grade and capacity (approx. 8.5 liters).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 specification.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent (for Chrysler TorqueFlite).
Differential Fluid:
Hypoid gear oil, SAE 90 API GL-5.
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires meticulous synchronization and adjustment of multiple carburetors.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related issues with wiring harnesses and components are common.
Cooling System:
Potential for radiator leaks, hose degradation, and thermostat issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and shock absorbers can wear over time, affecting handling.
Brand Legacy:
Aston Martin, a marque synonymous with British luxury sports cars and racing pedigree, established in 1913.
Predecessor:
Aston Martin V8 (original series)
Key Variants:
V8 Vantage, V8 Oscar India, V8 Series 2, 3, 4, 5, each with incremental updates and performance enhancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England
Production Numbers:
Total production across all V8 Saloon variants is approximately 2,000-2,500 units.
