V8 Vantage and V8 Vantage Volante At Aston Martin, the term “Vantage” has referred to a high-performance engine option since the DB2. Although the V8 Vantage was originally offered as a tuned version of the standard model, it quickly became a model in its own right and is considered by many to be the first British supercar. The engine has undergone numerous upgrades: larger Weber carburetors, improved intake manifolds, valves, exhaust manifolds, camshafts, compression ratio... everything has been tweaked to gain nearly 100 hp over the standard version, bringing it close to 380 hp. The chassis gains stiffness with stiffer, shorter shock absorbers and springs, a wider anti-roll bar, larger tires, and a wider track. The radiator is moved under the bumper (which gets a more aerodynamic deflector), allowing the grille to be concealed. Cibie high-beam headlights are added to the grille, a feature later carried over to the standard version. A spoiler adds a touch of sportiness to the trunk. Unveiled in 1986 at the Birmingham Motor Show, the Volante version of the Vantage marked the most flamboyant iteration of the V8 series, featuring the widebody styling so characteristic of the 1980s—a look that ultimately suited it perfectly. Equipped with a more aggressive front bumper, widened wheel arches, and side skirts, the V8 Vantage Volante certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. Perhaps a bit too much so for the Prince of Wales, who ordered a V8 Vantage Volante with a more subdued look—a design that would eventually give rise to the V8 Vantage Volante POW.