Wednesday, March 9, 2016

A Rare Sir Elton John Aston Martin is Up for Sale

BOLD RIDE

Copyright © 2016 Bold Ride LLC.
 
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Over the years, Sir Elton John has unquestionably defined pop culture, churning out hit after hit across multiple decades, and earning himself widespread acclaim as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. 
 
But what you might not know about Sir Elton is that he has a bit of an automotive obsession. Elton John has famously owned many classic and rare cars—from Jaguar E-Types to Ferrari Testarossas, Rolls-Royce Phantoms to Bentley Turbo Rs, and even an XJ220 supercar.

The expansive list also includes this car, a 1985 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, which according to the UK’s Fiskens historic car dealership was once ordered new by the pop star at the Aston Martin Showroom on Sloane Street, London. It is now up for sale, but beware—this is no ordinary Aston. It’s a road-going rocket ship (cue the “Rocket Man” music).

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Most Aston Martin V8 Vantages of the period came fitted with the firm’s famed 5.3-liter V8, which delivered a boisterous 380 horsepower, 370 lb.-ft. of torque, and unlocked speeds of 170 mph. This was supercar territory. However, you could opt for more power, and that is exactly what this Aston Martin provides.

Instead of 5.3-liters of V8, this V8 Vantage boasts a bombastic 7.0-liter V8, which has been converted by Aston Martin specialist R.S. Williams, along with the addition of a five-speed manual gearbox. While the boutique dealer hasn’t confirmed the car’s specific power output, similar 7.0-liter Vantages wield a sizzling 450 horsepower and mammoth 500 lb.-ft. of torque. Make no mistake, this is a fast car, and it’s also a rather beautiful one too.


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With its original “C194 BYW” number plate up front, the ’85 V8 Vantage also wears its original and deeply colored Royal Cherry paint, which is accented inside by bright Magnolia upholstery with matching Royal Cherry piping. Interestingly, the only factory option equipped appears to be the car’s detachable headrests. Recent modifications do include a popular upgrade to AP brakes, however.

Like it? Who wouldn’t. The Aston Martin is said to carry its original owner’s handbook, certificate of origin, invoices, and a brochure signed by Sir Elton John himself. However it ought not be cheap—serious buyers will need to inquire, and likely raid their savings.

Photo Credit: Fiskens Fine Historic Automobiles



 

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