Lot details

Year: 1974
Make: Aston Martin
Model: V8 Series III Coupe
Registration: SUP 507M
Chassis No: V811118RCA
Engine No: V/540/1118
Mileage: 45,512
•: Extensive history file and good condition throughout
•: Currently owned for over 26 years
•: Rebuilt engine, brakes and partial exhaust

Completely hand-built and requiring over 1,200 man-hours to finish, these motorcars are every bit the gentleman's sporting tourer. Just 1,018 examples of the Series III AM V8 were built during 1973 and 1978, of which only 484 were automatic. The precursor model, the AM V8 Series 2 (also known as the DBS V8), used the William Towns body styling introduced for the DBS model and in 1972 replaced the six-cylinder engine used in earlier DB models with the 5.3 litre, V8 engine designed by Tadek Marek. This power unit was powerful enough to propel it to over 150mph, heady even by today's standards. In 1973, Aston Martin switched from fuel injection to carburettors, externally noticeable by the taller bonnet scoop to accommodate the four twin-choke (twin-barrel) Webers. In addition, the V8 benefited from ventilated disc-brakes, air-conditioning and larger tyres.

Presented in Smoked Silver and tan interior, which has recently been deep cleaned and looks good as do a smart new set of tyres. It has been in current ownership for nearly 27 years, an important detail to note as all potentially expensive issues will have been ironed out a long time ago but for a minor scratch under the front bumper. Used by the vendor for numerous trips over six years, to and from Geneva as well as almost daily commuting whilst abroad, it has proved its reliability many times over. Recent works by Turner Classics include the removal and re-work of manifolds, downpipes and assessment of exhaust system. Rebuilt brake servos, re-work & bleeding of front brakes and a full service to the tune of almost £4,000. Earlier, in 2020, Lenham Sports Cars in Kent replaced the rear discs and pads as well as various other ancillaries relating to a loose driveshaft, bearings and seals. The brakes now benefit from upgraded Excel six-pot callipers, substantially larger Mintex Virage pads and braded calliper hoses, a speciality of Fosseway Performance. Pugsley & Lewis serviced the car comprehensively in 2002 (or 8,500 miles ago) including renovating the air conditioning and including numerous ancillary items, a complete list of which of can be found in the history file. Prior to this, Fourways Engineering invoiced £8,000 for dropping the engine out and stripping it completely due to a broken valve and in 1990, a bare-metal respray took place from the original chocolate brown to its current shade and, prior to that, extensive invoices show complete coach trimming, rebuilt air-conditioning and suspension re-assembly by Hyde Vale Aston Martin. Good quality all round and still complete with its original 8-track stereo. Between 2009 and 2013 the car was regularly exhibited at the Swiss Classic British Car Meeting held annually in Morges, Switzerland, on the idyllic shores of Lac Leman.Consigned by Edward Bridger-Stille