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Originally
built by the Special Projects Team at Aston Martin’s
Works Service as a feasibility study to investigate the possibility of
the building the ultimate convertible Aston Martin. This was to become the
Supercharged V8 Long Wheelbase Vantage Volante.
Under the direction and guidance
of Works Service director Kingsley Riding-Felce, the Special Projects Team
had become synonymous with the development and building of many
significant coachbuilt Aston Martin and Lagonda models for discerning
owners around the world. A great deal of research was carried out and the
business decision made to manufacture one Long wheelbase Vantage Volante
and later eight Short Wheelbase V8 Vantage Volante’s.
Like many Aston Martins, the car is unique, and I would guess that
this particular car is perhaps the heaviest AM ever built. It is part of a
private collection and I was very fortunate to be able to photograph it
during the AMOC Windsor Event in April 2005. The 550bhp version of the
supercharged V8 engine is fitted, together with automatic transmission.
The coachwork is Islay Blue with interior in ivory piped blue and features the
not often seen burr maple facia. |
V8 Vantage Shooting Brake
