In 1978, Aston Martin thoroughly updated its V8 grand-tourer model and gave it the curious “Oscar India” moniker, a pronunciation of the internal designation “OI” — for “October Introduction” — using the phonetic alphabet. Numerous revisions brought significant improvements in luxury, refinement and performance across the range.
Higher-specification V8 Vantage models featured a blanked front grille with supplementary lights, a deep air dam under the front bumper, a closed bonnet bulge, a subtle rear spoiler and Vantage badging. Leather replaced the vinyl dash covering and cloth headlining for the interior. Koni dampers and a larger anti-roll bar enhanced the suspension. Aston Martin claimed that changes to the 5,340-cc quad-cam V8 engine increased power by 40% and torque by 10%. A ZF 5-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential were standard.
This striking V8 Vantage “Oscar India,” delivered new to Kuwait in December 1984, came finished from the factory in Telford Gold with Magnolia hides piped in dark brown, according to a copy of its original build sheet (available to view on file). Notably, the car retains its matching-numbers engine and rides on handsome BBS cross-lace alloy wheels characteristic of V8 Vantage models produced from 1983 to 1985. It also features the mesh front grille of the standard V8 saloon in place of the blanked unit, lending a more elegant appearance. Please note, the Aston Martin will require mechanical recommissioning prior to use following a period of static display.
Now finished in gray over brown leather with black piping, the car presents in good condition and offers an excellent opportunity for its next caretaker to fully recommission for showing and touring.
(Introductory description courtesy of RM Sotheby’s.)
