Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and owners.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Software Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Print Quality
Printability:
Fully printable (entire manual or specific pages)
Resolution:
High resolution
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Configuration:
5.3 Litre V8 (Likely the standard engine for 1989 V8 Saloon variants)
Performance
Horsepower Estimated:
~300-330 bhp (Exact figures vary by specific tune and emissions equipment)
Torque Estimated:
~350-380 lb-ft (Exact figures vary by specific tune and emissions equipment)
Fuel System
Induction:
Likely Bosch KE-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Electronic control with mechanical fuel distribution)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating specifications in manual)
Cooling System
Description:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with fan assistance (details on radiator, pump, thermostat, and coolant type in manual)
Lubrication
Oil Capacity Estimated:
~8-10 litres (Specific grade and capacity will be detailed in the manual)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
Likely ZF 4-speed Automatic (Commonly fitted to V8 Saloon models)
Optional
Type:
Optional 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag) might have been available on certain variants.
Features
Transmission Fluid:
Specific type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent) and capacity detailed in manual.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Style:
4-door Saloon
Wheelbase Approximate:
2,700 - 2,720 mm (Varies slightly by Series)
Length Approximate:
4,700 - 4,800 mm
Width Approximate:
1,800 - 1,850 mm
Weights
Curb Weight Approximate:
1,800 - 2,000 kg (Depending on specification and transmission)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
No formal modern crash test ratings typically available for vehicles of this era from official bodies. Manual will cover restraint systems.
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (vented front, solid rear likely). ABS may have been optional.
Passive Features
Restraint System:
Seatbelts (3-point likely front and rear). Airbags not standard on this model year.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Likely an aftermarket or period-correct premium audio system. Manual focuses on wiring and diagnostics, not specific head unit models.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System may have been an optional feature. If equipped, diagnostic procedures will be in the manual.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB; manual will cover basic electrical systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-10,000 miles or 6-12 months, but specific factory recommendation is in the manual.
Major Service Interval:
Detailed in manual, likely involving spark plugs, filters, and inspections at significant mileage milestones.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Grade:
Likely a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil, e.g., 10W-40 or 15W-50, depending on climate. Manual will specify exact grade and API rating.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant. Specific mixture ratio and type detailed.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended. Manual will confirm the precise specification.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ignition system components (coil, distributor), fuel injection system (injectors, pumps), suspension bushings, exhaust system, cooling system hoses.
Bodywork Considerations:
Rust prevention and corrosion on steel panels and chassis are critical for longevity. Manual may offer guidance on inspection.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Legacy:
Aston Martin has a storied history of producing luxury grand tourers and sports cars, known for performance and handcrafted quality.
Model Evolution
V8 Saloon Lineage:
The V8 Saloon represented a more practical, yet still high-performance, iteration of Aston Martin's V8 lineage, evolving from earlier DBS and V8 models.
Production
Production Period V8 Saloon:
V8 Saloon production spanned from the late 1960s through the 1980s, with distinct series and updates.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Prestige:
Aston Martin models are consistently recognized for their blend of performance, luxury, and classic design. Specific awards for the 1989 V8 Saloon are less documented than for contemporary models.