One to Buy: 25,000 mile Cannock Black 1988 Aston Martin V8 Volante V585
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By the mid 1980s, the super high end front-engined GT had become something of an endangered species, especially in open-bodied form. Ferrari’s 412 along with the much less expensive Porsche 928 and BMW M635 CSi were Grand Tourers in the traditional mould, but only Aston Martin built such a car with a drop head body.
Manufactured in both Volante and Vantage Volante trim, the Newport Pagnell firm’s long-running V8 combined the kind of build quality you would expect from a Rolls-Royce or Bentley with performance that, in its ultimate configuration, was a match for Europe’s top flight mid-engined supercars.
In early 1986, Aston Martin upgraded the non-Vantage V8 with an electronic fuel-injection system that permitted installation of a smaller, more discrete power bulge on the hood. In total, just 274 of these V585 models were produced by the time production came to an end in 1989. 215 were open top Volantes.
Although supremely elegant in almost any colour combination, the V585 looked particularly good in darker shades as per this handsome Cannock Black example currently on the market at the Nicholas Mee showroom in Hatfield, Hertfordshire.
One of just two right-hand drive UK market Cannock Black V585 Volantes built, Nicholas Mee’s August 1988 machine was configured with a Black roof, Magnolia leather upholstery, Black carpet and automatic transmission.
Originally delivered via Aston Martin Sales in London, the car’s first owner retained it for five years while the second kept it until 2003. At this point, the Volante was purchased by Pink Floyd manager, noted collector and privateer racer, Steve O’Rourke.
Following O’Rourke’s untimely death, Nicholas Mee & Co. acquired the car. It was then sold to a lady who presented it as a 50th birthday gift to her husband. After 17 years, the superbly optioned V585 was supplied to its fifth and most recent custodian.
Currently showing just 25,000 miles, the V8 is accompanied by its original book pack, tool kit and keys. A highly detailed service history confirms the car has been maintained exclusively by Aston Martin in Newport Pagnell and renowned marque specialists since new.
Aftermarket enhancements include a set of desirable 16-inch Vantage V580X wheels, upgraded suspension and a wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel. The original leather-covered steering wheel can be fitted should a new owner wish.
The sale includes an up-to-date service, a comprehensive health check and twelve-month warranty.
