Vehicle Class:
Luxury Grand Tourer
Brand Reputation:
Renowned for performance, luxury, and craftsmanship
Contemporary Competitors:
Ferrari 400i, Jaguar XJS, Maserati Quattroporte
Engine Configuration:
V8 engine, a hallmark of Aston Martin performance
Design Philosophy:
Classic Aston Martin styling with a powerful V8 heart
Target Audience:
Technicians, mechanics, and Aston Martin V8 Saloon owners
Benefits:
Cost-effective, instant access, high-quality information for repair and learning
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive factory service and repair
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (printable quality)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF, potentially requires unzipping for larger files)
Engine:
V8 engine (specific variant details may vary, but covers core V8 architecture)
Transmission:
Automatic and manual transmission systems
Brakes:
Brake system (hydraulic, discs, calipers, master cylinder, lines)
Cooling System:
Cooling system (radiator, fan, hoses, thermostat, water pump)
Electrical System:
Full electrical system, including wiring diagrams and component testing
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system components and routing
Steering And Suspension:
Steering and suspension components, alignment, and servicing
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery and management (carburettors typically)
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, chassis, trim, and interior components
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting
Wheels And Tires:
Tyre rotation, inspection, and wheel servicing
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of common and complex faults
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and major overhauls
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis and repair of electrical faults using diagrams
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detailed technical data, diagrams, and procedures
Diagnostic Charts:
Inclusion of diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for component clearances and wear tolerances
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for repairs
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Readability:
High quality, printable pages
Digital Binding:
N/A (digital download)
Digital Paper Type:
N/A (digital download)
File Compression:
May require unzipping software for larger files
Text Search:
Likely searchable text within PDF files
Engine Type:
Aston Martin V8 (various iterations throughout the production run)
Displacement:
Typically 5.3 liters (5340cc) for most V8 models of this era, with potential variations
Bore X Stroke:
Specific details vary by V8 engine variant, consult manual for precise figures
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 280-330 bhp (gross) depending on engine specification and emissions controls
Torque Range:
Approximate torque figures will be detailed in the manual, generally in the 350-400 lb-ft range
Fuel Delivery:
Typically Quad Weber 42 DCNF or similar carburettors (Euro spec) or fuel injection (US spec, potentially Bosch)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (as the era transitioned)
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based, likely electronic ignition later in the run
Oil Type:
As specified in the manual, likely a high-quality mineral or synthetic oil (e.g., SAE 20W-50)
Oil Capacity:
Detailed in the manual, typically around 9-10 liters
Standard Transmission:
Typically a 3-speed Chrysler Torqueflite automatic transmission
Optional Transmission:
Aston Martin 5-speed manual gearbox (e.g., ZF or GKN variants)
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron II for automatic) as per manual
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate clutch for manual transmission
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,743 mm (108 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4,700 mm (185 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,800 - 1,900 kg (3,968 - 4,189 lbs) depending on specification
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Specific GVWR will be in the manual
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Typically 5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 235/60VR15 or similar performance-oriented tires
Crash Test Information:
No formal crash test ratings from modern bodies exist for this era/vehicle; rely on structural integrity and onboard safety features of the time.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, often Girling or Dunlop
Antilock Braking System:
ABS was generally not standard on early models but may have been an option on later V8 variants.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point seatbelts
Structural Integrity:
Robust steel chassis and body construction
Audio System:
Period-appropriate radio and cassette player, often with optional upgraded systems
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating systems
Cruise Control:
May have been an option on later models
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense; focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually, consult manual for precise mileage
Major Service Interval:
Detailed in the manual, often involving tune-ups, brake checks, and fluid replacements at specific mileage or time intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-50 mineral or high-quality synthetic oil is common, but verify with manual
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Wear Items:
Carburettor tuning, suspension bushings, exhaust system components, ignition system components
Electrical Quirks:
Older Aston Martins can exhibit age-related electrical gremlins; the manual's wiring diagrams are crucial.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Will vary by manufacturer (e.g., Fram, Wix, AC Delco equivalent), refer to manual or reputable Aston Martin parts supplier.
Air Filter Part Number:
Specific to engine and carburettor setup, refer to manual.
Aston Martin Legacy:
Founded in 1913, Aston Martin has a storied history in motorsport and luxury car manufacturing.
V8 Saloon Development:
Evolved from the DBS V8, the V8 Saloon represented a more accessible and sportier Aston Martin, gaining significant power and presence.
Series Development:
The V8 Saloon underwent several series updates (Series 2, 3, 4, 5) introducing cosmetic and mechanical refinements, including fuel injection on later models.
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England
Production Numbers:
Total production for V8 Saloon models during this period (including variations like Vantage) numbered in the thousands, but specific figures are often proprietary.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Consistently praised for its V8 power, handling, and luxurious GT capabilities by automotive journalists of the era.
Classic Car Status:
Highly regarded as a desirable classic Aston Martin, appreciated for its blend of performance and style.
