Thirty years ago, Aston Martin‘s V8 Vantage V550 began its journey into the hands of a fortunate few as a true supercar of its era. Its unveiling at the British Motor Show in 1992 celebrated a new pinnacle of performance for the Aston Martin brand, and by the time deliveries commenced in 1993, it had already attained legendary status. The automotive world waits in anticipation, fueled by reviews from critics like Jeremy Clarkson, who admired its exceptional power. Packing a colossal 550 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque from a 5,340cc V8 engine. Amplified by twin Eaton M90 superchargers, the V550 promised, and delivered, a driving experience like no other. This power massive powertrain catapulted from 0-60 mph in a mere 4.6 seconds, racing to a top speed of 186 mph.
The Aston Martin V550’s exterior proportions were breathtaking, embodying the essence of what a supercar should be, wide, long, and impossible to ignore. Designers Ken Greely and John Heffernan crafted an icon with a distinctive front grille, heated glass-covered headlights, and bodywork that screamed luxury and aggression in equal measure. The V550’s stopping power was equally impressive, boasting the world’s largest brakes on any production car at the time. Coupled with Bosch ABS, the car’s safety features were as robust as its performance credentials.
Inside, the interior of the V550 features quintessential British luxury characteristics, including rich Connolly leather, plush Wilton carpets, and a generous application of burr walnut veneer. It also showcases modern conveniences such as electrically adjustable front seats and an airbag-embedded steering wheel, a first for Aston Martin. Priced at the equivalent of $540,000 today, only 239 units of the V550 were crafted, ensuring its status as a true collectible. As we mark 30 years since its introduction, the V8 Vantage V550 remains a treasured modern classic, revered by enthusiasts and experts alike. View all Aston Martin models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.
Source: Aston Martin