Open-top Aston Martin driving enthusiasts had to be patient for several years after the last DB6 Volante left Newport Pagnell in 1970. W‍ith the company’s financial situation often less than stable and increasingly strict US safety regulations, it seemed for a long time that Aston Martin would never offer a convertible – or “Volante” in Aston-speak – version of the V8 Saloon. However, in 1978, North American buyers finally got what they had been waiting for: the Series 1 V8 Volante. Demand across the pond was so strong that deliveries to the UK and Europe only began in 1979. These V8 Volantes came with a 300 bhp engine and shared their development path with the V8 Saloon. From 1986 onwards, Series 2 models featured fuel injection. At the same time, Aston Martin offered the V8 Vantage Volante in Europe – equipped with a carburetted engine producing over 400 bhp. With their “wide-boy” running boards, prominent rear spoilers, and flared wheel arches borrowed from the saloon, these were true statement cars – perfectly in tune with the Big Bang era in the City of London, while Wham!, Bananarama, and Robert Palmer topped the charts. This particular Vantage Volante has had a remarkable journey! It’s an original 1987 Vantage Volante that was driven in the US until 1992, after which it was brought to Europe by a German enthusiast. The car was then returned to Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. in the UK, where it was converted to full European specification. During this process, it was fitted with the European-spec Vantage engine producing 400 bhp, along with a 5-speed manual gearbox, high-performance handling kit, and large-bore exhaust system – all completed with the utmost care and attention to detail. Every component of the work has been meticulously documented and is available for review. In 1994, the car was sold by none other than Nicholas Mee to its current owner – who has cherished it for over 30 years. In late 2024, the entire drivetrain and mechanicals were comprehensively overhauled by a renowned Aston Martin specialist in the Netherlands. This recent work ensures an unparalleled driving experience. Now available immediately as one of the Coolest Classics at our Clubhouse in Naarden.