One to Buy: 19,000 mile manual gearbox 1990 Aston Martin Virage 6.3
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Although Aston Martin’s Virage was clearly an accomplished Grand Tourer, some customers wanted a machine with more punch than the standard car offered.
From January 1992, those that desired such a machine were able to order a Virage with an engine enlarged from 5.3 to 6.3-litres. In addition, the 465bhp 6.3 package featured uprated suspension, bigger brake discs, AP Racing four-piston calipers, four channel Bosch ABS (which later became standard on the 5.3) plus 18-inch diameter OZ Racing five spoke wheels shod with Goodyear Eagle tyres.
Cosmetically, the 6.3 came with flared fenders, modified skirts and bumpers and an optional rear spoiler. Engine cooling vents were carved out from behind each front wheel.
Because the 6.3 kit cost a little under half the price of a standard Virage and markets were in a generally depressed state, relatively few customers took up the option which was offered on both new cars and to existing customers as a retro-fit upgrade.
Accordingly these cars are pretty rare, but despite this scarcity they currently represent great value as evidenced by a superb example currently on offer at the Stratton Motor Company in Long Stratton, Norfolk.
Configured in British Racing Green with Fawn hide, Dark Green piping, Parliament Green carpet, no rear spoiler and (perhaps most importantly) manual transmission, this three owner 19,000 mile car has been with the most recent custodian since 1995, during which time it has been maintained exclusively by the Stratton Motor Company.
The car is being offered with a fully documented history to include the original near £61,000 bill from Aston Martin Works Service for its 6.3 conversion.
