1979 ASTON MARTIN V8 OSCAR INDIA
WITH ITS 352 BUILT-BY-HAND RARITY, THE SERIES 4 OSCAR INDIA’S VISUAL TWEAKS MAKE FOR ONE ATTRACTIVE PACKAGE
THE ASTON MARTIN V8 platform arrived in the early 70s, arguably marking the beginning of the marque’s golden years – for both business and the products they released.
New investors helped the historically cash-strapped company traverse various manufacturing concerns, and the new V8 car enjoyed significant success along with a healthy back-log of forward orders.
They remain the most charming and handsome classic models in the British marque’s rich history.
It wasn’t just its gentleman’s-vehicle looks going for it either; the car was underpinned by coil sprung suspension on all four corners, a live rear axle and four wheel disc brakes, powered by the then very sophisticated quad-cam 32-valve 5.4-lt V8 which breathed through four downdraught Weber carburettors. Most cars in this series boasted the praised Chrysler Torqueflite three-speed automatic.
Inside the cabin, you’re greeted by generous amounts of leather and walnut, climate control, electric windows and central locking, highlighting the true grand-touring intentions that bely its sporting resumé.
At the 1978 Birmingham Motor Show, Aston Martin raised the curtain on the V8’s Series 4 update, named the “Oscar India”.
Visually distinguished by the integrated ducktail spoiler at the rear, and a smoothed over power-bulge bonnet replacing the large scooped piece preceding it.
On offer at Melbourne’s Brooklands Classic Cars, this 1979 Oscar India coupe presents factory correct with its hand-assembled 5.4lt V8 and TorqueFlite auto. It has comprehensive history, and was imported, prior to current sale, by Brooklands 10 years ago – coming from a long-term overseas owner of 12 years.
It arrived on our shores painted green, but has since been repainted in metallic grey, with the odometer sitting currently at 76,600 miles.
There’s consistent demand for these classic Astons, with this factory RHD model built out of the rare Oscar India production pool. It’s a gracious and gorgeous coupe, that looks like every dollar in its $198,950 pricetag.