1977 Aston Martin V8 Volante Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante ranges around 1830 kg (4,037 lbs). This weight, relatively heavy by modern sports car standards, is due largely to its robust V8 engine, steel construction, and luxury appointments typical of grand tourers from the late 1970s and 1980s. The weight contributes to a substantial and planted driving feel, enhancing stability at high speeds. While it may not accelerate as sharply as lighter sports cars, the heavy build supports comfort during long-distance cruising and adds to the overall solid feel of the car.

The wheelbase of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante is approximately 2640 mm (103.9 inches). This relatively long wheelbase helps provide a smooth and stable ride, especially important for a grand tourer intended for spirited yet comfortable driving over long distances. A longer wheelbase contributes to better straight-line stability and improves ride comfort by reducing the impact of road irregularities. However, it slightly reduces maneuverability compared to short-wheelbase sports cars but suits the V8 Volante's GT character perfectly.

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante is designed as a two-door cabriolet grand tourer, and while it seats four, the rear seats are best suited for small passengers or occasional use due to limited legroom and headroom. Passenger space is luxurious in the front with richly appointed leather interiors, but the rear offers more of a 2+2 configuration. Cargo capacity is modest, generally around 200 liters (7 cubic feet) in the trunk, enough for short trips or light luggage. The convertible roof mechanism also slightly limits trunk space compared to the coupe version, which is typical for cabriolets.

Yes, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante should comfortably fit in a standard home garage. Most typical garages are around 2400 to 3000 mm (8 to 10 feet) in width and about 4800 to 5500 mm (16 to 18 feet) in length. With its length of approximately 4700 mm (185 inches) and width of 1820 mm (71.6 inches), the V8 Volante fits well within these limits. However, owners should allow some extra clearance for opening doors and maneuvering, especially given the car’s broad and luxurious stature.

As a cabriolet, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante shares the majority of its exterior dimensions with the coupe, including length, width, and height. However, the absence of a fixed roof requires additional structural reinforcements in the chassis to maintain rigidity, which can add some weight and slightly affect handling characteristics. The convertible top mechanism also impacts boot space marginally. Despite these changes, Aston Martin maintained strong build quality ensuring the V8 Volante delivers an engaging driving experience while offering open-air motoring.

Compared to its predecessor, the early Aston Martin V8 Vantage models produced prior to the Volante iteration, the V8 Vantage V8 Volante cabriolet maintains very similar dimensions, with minor differences mainly due to the convertible design. Wheelbase and length remain largely consistent, around 4700 mm in length and 2640 mm wheelbase, offering a familiar footprint. The width and height also remain close to earlier iterations, with small adjustments for reinforced chassis structure to compensate for the open-top design. Overall, the V8 Volante builds on the established dimensions while adding the convertible feature.

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante is competitively sized within the luxury grand tourer convertible segment of the late 1970s and 1980s. Its length of 4700 mm (185 inches) and width of 1820 mm (71.6 inches) is similar to contemporaries such as the Jaguar XJ-S Convertible and the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class of that era. Its low height of around 1300 mm (51.2 inches) gives it a sportier silhouette while offering comparable interior comfort and luggage space. The V8 Volante’s dimensions strike a balance between sporty presence and grand touring practicality, making it a standout in its class.

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante was a significant model in Aston Martin’s lineup from 1977 to 1989 because it combined the power and performance of the V8 Vantage coupe with the luxury and open-top experience of a roadster. It was renowned for being one of the fastest and most powerful British convertibles of its day, symbolizing a blend of British craftsmanship, luxury, and muscle. Its charcoal style, strong V8 engine options, and exclusivity cemented its status as a classic grand tourer that appealed to both performance and luxury enthusiasts.

Comparing the classic Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Volante from 1977-1989 with modern Aston Martin V8 Vantage models, there are notable dimensional changes reflecting advances in automotive engineering and market trends. The classic V8 Volante measures about 4700 mm (185 inches) in length and 1820 mm (71.6 inches) in width, while current models tend to be more compact and aerodynamic, typically around 4440 mm (175 inches) long and 1920 mm (75.6 inches) wide. The modern cars also feature more advanced materials to reduce weight despite increased safety equipment, while offering improved interior space and technology. These size shifts illustrate the evolution from classic GT proportioning to more agile, sports-car-oriented design.