Aston Martin Virage & Volante: (1970's & 1980's models)
The Aston Martin's of the 70's and 80's are classics compared to
today's models. They are more elegant, sophisticated and classy than
the Aston Martin's of today. They even look more expensive and more
powerful than the models of today. They have stood the test of time
extremely well, a timeless beauty. Anyone would be really proud to
own one of these Aston Martin classics.
The usually cash-strapped marque was falling behind its rivals by
continuing to keep the 1960's shape in production. The 1960's design
had been successful with some of the James Bond films. Obviously,
Aston Martin wanted to continue their success. Car manufacturer's
needed to change their styles with the times in order to survive. The
1960's design that Aston created had to end at some point in order
for them to survive.
When finances improved for Newport Pagnell, rather than updating the
old V8, Aston Martin totally transformed it in 1988. The result was
astounding. The Virage was a reworking of the V8 engine with a bold,
masculine new body. It drew a lot of praise for its timeless beauty
and bold appearance. The Virage is an extremely charismatic classic
sports car.
It has retained much of the V8's existing chassis. Adding extra power
to what had gone before. This reminded Aston Martin car owners that
this amazing classic sports car was still alive. Also it reminded us
that Aston Martin is still one of the world's greatest builders of
supercars. There is something exciting about an Aston Martin classic
sports car which makes everybody want one.
Aston Martin developed between 330 and 600bhp Virage's, in 5340cc and
6347cc sizes. Unfortunately, they are extremely high maintenance as
they need proper care and attention. A specialist service history is
essential.
A good engine should register oil pressure about 55-60psi when the
oil temperature has reached 90 degrees. Any figure less than that,
and the engine will need a rebuild, sooner rather than later. This
can be extremely expensive as your dealing with an Aston Martin.
Failed cylinder liner seals can be one factor that can destroy an
Aston Martin engine. There is one seal hole per cylinder and they can
be found on the side of the block in line with the drain tap. If
there is oil or water seeping from these, then it means the seals
have failed. Also the cylinder head and liners will need to come out.
Other leakages that can occur is oil can come from the cam covers.
Unfortunately, this isn't easy to put right. The covers use a sealant
of a gasket, and it takes eight hours for this job to be re-done.
Also look for signs of head gasket trouble down the block, with
leaking coolant from this area. These large engines run very hot and
head gasket failure is far from unknown. Check what the temperature
gauge does. Look on the dipstick and under the filler cap for oil and
water mixing together when it shouldn't be doing.
At around 80,000 miles, the hydraulic tappets and timing chains can
start to get noisy. Easing the noise will cost in the region of a few
thousand pounds to fix properly.
Listen for a blowing exhaust, if the exhaust system needs replacing,
it will cost in the region of £3000.
Manual transmissions are 5 & 6-speed units while the automatics
are Chrysler Torqueflite 3 & 4-speed. All are tough and
long-lived which won't cause any problems. A slipping clutch is the
biggest mechanical problem on an Aston Martin. It will cost in the
region of £1500 to replace.
Also check the fluid on an automatic Aston Martin. If it's dirty and
the gearbox's changes are jerky, then it's a sign of wear and tear.
Work is needed to resolve the mechanical problem.
These bodies are tough and well-protected, the aluminium shell sits
on a zinc-bathed chassis. Any rust that manifests itself will
probably be the result of poor repairs or accident damage. Areas to
check for rust on the Virage are the bulkhead panel, under the
windscreen, the A & B posts, inner/outer sills and the door step.
It's a sign that corrosion is setting in and will increase with time.
Underneath, look for ripples in the chassis, especially at the front.
This is a sign that the Virage has been in an accident at some time.
Check the hood on the Volantes, to see that it operates smoothly and
is free from creases, rips or marks.
It's essential to climb underneath and look at the de Dion tube's
outer mountings. The cast aluminium can develop cracks and make the
Aston Martin dangerous to drive. Also check if the Virage/Volantes
sits level all around. If rear springs are required, this will cost
in the region of £1000.
As with any car, bushes will eventually wear out, leading to sloppy
handling.
Check the brakes for knocking noises and does the Virage/Volantes
pull to the left or right. If this is the case, it would suggest that
the brake reactor shaft bushes have failed. Pads are extremely
expensive if needed.
Expensively-trimmed interiors come as standard with any Aston Martin
and these interiors boast sufficient enough wood and leather. A
retrim will cost a lot of money, so check that everything is still as
Newport Pagnell intended. One threat comes from perished rubber door
seals. These can let water in to gradually damage the cabins. Also
check the bonnet and boot seals as all of them can wear out.
Dashboards can sometimes be difficult to fix properly. The Volantes
ECU is vulnerable to water damage because it is floor-mounted and
leaks can cause chaos with them. If the ECU checklight comes on or
the engine runs roughly, you know what the problem is caused by.
These last of the V8 models may look more up-to-date than the Aston's
of the 70's and 80's. Everything is much as it had always been for
the last 20 years. What contributes to making an Aston Martin special
is that they are hand-made and not built by robots. There is
attention to detail throughout all the Aston Martin models.
Aston Martin is a charismatic, classic supercar that excites you
throughout its drive. The design is beautiful and elegant yet bold in
appearance. They are extremely fun to drive, and not one you are
likely to forget in a hurry. You would be extremely proud to own an
Aston Martin as they are a true classic sports car. Even James Bond
was proud to own an Aston Martin.
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