🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aston Martin

Model:

V8 Saloon

Year:

1979

Chassis Code:

Not explicitly stated, but likely indicative of the V8 era chassis designations

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Aston Martin V8 Saloon owners (both those with basic mechanical skills and those who prefer to be informed) and independent auto service professionals.

Uniqueness:

Vehicle-specific information, not generic. Mirrors the content used by authorized dealer service departments.

Value Proposition:

Enables owners to perform basic maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs. Empowers owners to better communicate with technicians. Essential resource for maintaining and troubleshooting the vehicle.

Accuracy Clarity:

Accurate, clear, and concise text combined with helpful illustrations and diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full service and repair instructions for Aston Martin V8 Saloon (1979 model year)

Estimated Page Count:

Not specified in product information, but typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era (likely several hundred pages)

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes

Engine Electrical:

Yes

Emission Control:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Clutch System:

Yes

Manual Transmission:

Yes

Automatic Transmission:

Yes

Driveshaft Axle:

Yes

Suspension System:

Yes

Steering System:

Yes

Restraint System:

Yes

Brake System:

Yes

Body Interior Exterior:

Yes

Body Electrical System:

Yes

HVAC:

Yes

Maintenance:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Repair:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Depth:

Comprehensive, step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications suitable for both owners and professional mechanics

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows and Mac

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable

Binding:

Not applicable (digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital PDF format)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

Approximately 5.3 Liters (5340 cc) - standard for the V8 Saloon of this era.

Horsepower:

Around 300-325 bhp (estimated, depending on specific tuning and market) - typical for the V8 engine of the late 1970s.

Torque:

In the region of 330-350 lb-ft (estimated)

Carburetion:

Likely Weber carburetors (e.g., four Weber 42 DCNF or similar) for optimal performance, though fuel injection variants might exist in later models or specific markets.

Valve Train:

Overhead valve (OHV) pushrod design, a common configuration for Aston Martin V8s.

Ignition System:

Distributor-based ignition system, likely with coil and spark plug wiring specific to the V8 configuration.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Likely a 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., ZF) or a 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Chrysler Torqueflite) as options.

Transmission Type:

Automatic transmission (if not standard).

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for both manual and automatic transmissions will be detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Four-door saloon (sedan)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,769 mm (109 inches) - standard for the V8 Saloon.

Length:

Approximately 4,760 mm (187.4 inches)

Width:

Approximately 1,780 mm (70.1 inches)

Curb Weight:

Typically around 1,800 - 1,900 kg (3,968 - 4,189 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

No formal crash test ratings like modern vehicles, but built with robust construction for its era.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes, likely ventilated front discs.

Seatbelts:

Standard seatbelts for occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Period-appropriate AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Manual will cover its electrical system and basic operation.

Driver Aids:

Limited by era, primarily focused on mechanical systems. No electronic driver assistance features like ABS or traction control.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Connectivity is purely mechanical and electrical.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually, depending on usage. Specific intervals will be in the manual.

Engine Oil:

Likely a high-quality multi-viscosity oil, such as 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate. Manual will specify exact API service classification.

Coolant:

A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. Manual will specify approved coolant types.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the correct type and grade.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron II or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual will confirm.

Common Issues:

Potential issues can include carburetor tuning, ignition system maintenance, suspension wear (especially bushings and shock absorbers), and electrical system reliability. The manual will provide diagnostic and repair procedures for these.

Spark Plugs:

Specific spark plug part numbers and gap settings will be detailed. For a 1979 V8, likely Champion or NGK plugs.

Air Filter:

Specific part numbers for air filters are crucial for proper engine breathing.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Aston Martin, a marque renowned for luxury grand tourers and sports cars, with a rich history dating back to 1913.

V8 Saloon Evolution:

The V8 Saloon was introduced in 1977 as a successor to the DBS V8, evolving the Aston Martin grand touring formula with a more powerful V8 engine and updated styling. The 1979 model represents a refined iteration of this design.

Production Period:

The V8 Saloon was produced from 1977 to 1989, with various engine and styling updates throughout its lifespan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Reviews:

While specific awards for the 1979 model might be scarce, the Aston Martin V8 Saloon was generally acclaimed as a potent and luxurious grand tourer of its time, often reviewed favorably for its performance and craftsmanship.