Feature: The 100 Greatest British Cars - part three

51 Aston Martin V8 Vantage (1977-89) (page 1 of 25)

Next

Dubbed Britain's first supercar in 1977, when 170mph was a very big deal, the 380bhp Series III V8 Vantage was said to be the fastest production car in the world. Accelerating to 60mph in 5.2 seconds, it was quicker off the mark than either a Porsche 911 or a Lamborghini Countach. The Vantage name - denoting a higher performance version of the standard V8 - and the spoiler signalled Aston's return from bankruptcy, and put it back in the race. Volante convertible versions followed, as did the curious Zagato-bodied models; these now look very dated, but are credited with raising sufficient capital to ensure the company's survival.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•