Superstar’s car to go under the hammer

A RARE Aston Martin formerly owned by one of the biggest music stars on the planet is being offered for sale at the Silverstone Auctions Race Retro Classic Car Sale later this month.

Sir Elton John’s hand-built 1997 V8 Vantage V550 (pictured right), which he ordered new from the Aston Martin factory in Newport Pagnell, is expected to fetch up to a quarter of a million pounds at the auction on February 24 and 25.

In black with a black leather interior, the car once owned by the man who wrote such megahits as A Candle in the Wind, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and Rocket Man is capable of 0-60mph in under five seconds and hitting a top speed of 186mph – an astonishing feat for such a large car.

Adam Rutter, classic car specialist at Silverstone Auctions, said: “Sir Elton is a global superstar so it’s a pleasure to offer for sale this Aston Martin that he ordered new back in 1997.

“As well as enjoying celebrity ownership, this stunning V8 Vantage has been maintained regardless of expense and has a mere 8,663 miles on the clock, that’s equivalent to being driven about 400 miles only a year!”

The Aston still has a ‘new car’ smell and is fitted with sumptuous wood and leather. In addition it is thought that only 240 standard V550s were ever made, making them highly collectable no matter who the previous owner was.

The exterior also boasts a deep front spoiler, lower stance and flared wheel arches. The car even has its original service books and invoices.

Adam added: “Our Race Retro auction is a rare opportunity to own one of the last coach-built Aston Martins. If that wasn’t enough, then throw in the fact it was ordered new by Sir Elton John and you have a truly special car.”

For more information visit www.silverstoneauctions. com/1997-aston-martin-v8-vantage-v550.