Launched at the International Motor Show, Birmingham in October 1988, the sensational newcomer re-stated its Aston Martin V8 forerunner’s muscular good looks in the modern idiom, contriving to be slightly narrower yet providing increased interior space. The car was still no lightweight, but with 330bhp on tap courtesy of the trusty V8 engine’s new 32-valve top end, was good enough for a top speed approaching 160mph and a 0-60mph time of under seven seconds. Running on unleaded fuel and designed to meet the requirements of a more emission-sensitive world, the fuel-injected, catalytic converter-equipped V8 was suitable for all Aston Martin markets. The Virage continued Aston Martin’s tradition of fine craftsmanship with its hand-beaten aluminium body and fine leather upholstery, complimenting the highest standards of modern technology applied to the design of chassis and engine.
First registered in October 1993 with just five owners from new. Contained within the history file is photographic history showing both side sills have been replaced and £3,700 spent on new 18” alloy wheels in 2017. Boasting an upgraded stainless steel sports exhaust system and uprated adjustable suspension which provides anti-dive/improved road handling, this car now drives and handles much better than a standard car. The interior was completely removed, including the seats, door cards and carpets and the leather was stripped and repaired. Also present in the comprehensive history file are invoices for over £40,000 spent on updating and careful maintenance coupled to an MOT test certificate valid until November 2024.
These British bulldog sports cars still have the performance many modern sports cars dream of and the looks many wish they had!