by Mike –

Here is my pick for the classic car for sale today that I would like to own. This Aston Martin is for sale at the Bonhams auction in Arizona in January.

1977 Aston Martin AMV8 Vantage Coupe

Bonhams says:

• 5,340cc V8
• Five-speed manual transmission
• Rare Series III Vantage spec.
• Original Raven Black color
• Upgraded to X-Pack specification
• Extensive cosmetic and mechanical work

These Series III Vantages, built in the shadow of the Oil Crisis, were built in tiny quantities and just 38 are thought to have been completed, along with a further batch of eight more delivered to Canada – this being one of them.

Given the bespoke nature of these cars it was common for Aston Martin owners to enhance their pride and joy and this early Vantage received the X-Pack upgrade in 1990, with four Weber 48mm carburetors, larger inlet ports and high lift camshafts.

This Aston Martin is for auction here.

Offered without reserve the estimate is:

US$125,000 – 175,000
£77,000 – 110,000
€95,000 – 130,000

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I have always liked the looks of Aston Martins from this period. This is the transition period from the DB6 which had become dated and before the very beautiful DB7 arrived.

This is an interesting alternative to an Iso Grifo:

* The styling is similar although the Grifo is better looking

* The estimate on this Aston Martin is less than the cost of an equivalent condition Iso Grifo

* The front engine V8 is similar to a Grifo except the maintenance cost and parts sourcing are more problematic for the Aston Martin

* The good news is that Aston Martin is still around and there are dealers who hopefully can source mechanical parts if needed

* This Aston Martin also has an unusual hood scoop according to Bonhams it has a “blocked-off bonnet scoop, blanked air intake” and the Iso Grifo 7 Liter has an unusual hood scoop

Let us know what you think about this classic car in the Comments.

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