Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante X Pack​

​The 1989 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante X-Pack is an iconic model in the history of Aston Martin, combining luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Below is the story and history of this remarkable car:

The V8 Vantage Volante: Background

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage was introduced in the late 1970s as a high-performance version of the standard V8. Often referred to as "Britain's First Supercar" due to its 170 mph top speed, it was Aston Martin's answer to contemporaries like the Ferrari 512 BB and Lamborghini Countach.

The V8 Vantage Volante was the convertible (Volante) variant of the Vantage. Introduced in 1986, it offered open-top motoring combined with the power and style of the Vantage. By the late 1980s, Aston Martin introduced the X-Pack as the ultimate performance upgrade for the Vantage, including the Volante.

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The X-Pack: Performance and Features

The X-Pack was an optional high-performance package for the V8 Vantage models, including the Volante. It was introduced to push the already potent V8 to even greater heights.

1. Engine Upgrades:
   • The X-Pack featured an upgraded version of Aston Martin's 5.3-liter V8 engine with higher compression, larger carburetors, and modified cylinder heads.
   • In its most powerful configuration, the X-Pack engine produced up to 432 hp—a significant increase over the standard V8 Vantage.
   • This power boost enabled blistering acceleration and a top speed that rivaled other supercars of the era.
2. Chassis and Handling:
   • Suspension and braking systems were enhanced to cope with the increased power.
   • Wider tires and fender flares gave the X-Pack a more muscular stance.
3. Aesthetic and Luxury Enhancements:
   • The X-Pack models often came with aggressive body styling, including front air dams and rear spoilers.
   • As a Volante, it featured a hand-crafted soft-top roof and luxurious leather interiors.

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Exclusivity and Legacy

The V8 Vantage Volante X-Pack was produced in extremely limited numbers, making it one of the rarest and most desirable Aston Martins. These cars were built at Aston Martin's Newport Pagnell factory, where each car was hand-assembled to the highest standards.

1. Rarity:
   • Only a small number of X-Pack Volantes were built, as the X-Pack option itself was exclusive.
   • Each car was highly customizable, with owners specifying bespoke features and finishes.
2. Cultural Significance:
   • The car epitomized 1980s luxury and performance.
   • It was favored by wealthy enthusiasts who sought exclusivity and the thrill of driving an open-top supercar.
3. Collectors' Item:
   • Today, the V8 Vantage Volante X-Pack is a prized collector's car. Its rarity, historical importance, and raw performance make it a standout model in Aston Martin's history.

1989 Model Year Specifics

The 1989 models represent the final years of the first-generation V8 Vantage Volante production. By this time, Aston Martin was preparing for the launch of the next-generation Virage, making these late-production X-Pack cars particularly significant. They embody the culmination of decades of engineering and craftsmanship.​

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Why It Stands Out

The 1989 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante X-Pack combines classic British elegance with muscle car aggression. Its status as a hand-built, high-performance convertible makes it a unique blend of artistry and engineering. It remains a symbol of Aston Martin’s commitment to delivering timeless design and thrilling performance.

This Car

This perfect 1998 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante X Pack, Manual Right Hand Drive car was supplied new from Stratton Motor Company. The car was ordered in Suffolk Red with Magnolia Leather Trim Piped dark red, the hood covering was Off White. The car has since been repainted in December 2008 to Dark metallic Green with Tan leather Trim and Black Mohair Hood Covering.

The car has a great history file with all the right names looking after the car during the six previous owners, the last owner was in 2015.

This car is in outstanding condition and would find it difficult to find a better example, just right and ticks all the right boxes.