Introduction:

Whether you expect it or not, whether you're a motoring enthusiast or not, no one with blood running in their veins can deny that the Aston Martin Virage is an extraordinarily impressive machine. A hand built, large bodied design that oozes craftsmanship makes any Aston Martin stand-head and shoulders above the common herd, but the Virage seemed to achieve even more courtesy of its dynamic appearance. Add to the sweeping curves the musical symphony of its V8 engine taken from the pages of engineering song writers, and the Aston Martin Virage makes a powerful statement even when you can't see it.

Today the Virage has been replaced by more modern machinery such as the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, which could best be described as a Grand Tourer for the very rich. In keeping with the modern day concept of performance the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish come in two guises, one offering just 480 bhp and the other a massive 520 bhp, making both cars almost capable of around 200 mph.

History of the Virage:

The story of the Virage began more than a decade ago back in 1988, when Aston Martin provided the public with a first glimpse. However although expectations were aroused the Aston Martin Virage did not actually get into production until 1990. Both a coupe and convertible were built, although no convertibles were actually delivered before 1991, after its launch at Geneva. With its roof lowered the convertible (called Volante), looked even more stunning than its hard roofed counterpart, partly because of its luxurious, leather interior being on view for all to see. The Volante was a genuine 2+2.

The concept of the Virage was for Aston Martin to produce a new V8 "world-car" that could be sold in all international markets without the need for significant modifications to either the engine or body. The power plant selected was a new version of the 5340 c.c. V8 equipped with four valves per cylinder, and a Weber Marelli fuel injection system. Bodywork was all new with alloy panels fitted onto a steel frame/chassis, a method which Aston Martin has perfected. The suspension at the rear was independent and constructed on an "A" frame carrier.

It would be remiss not to acknowledge that the Virage was not perfect. A combination of quality control problems together with some design faults contributed towards poor initial sales. In addition new emission laws and a global recession at the time did their best to undermine the Aston Martin Virage as a viable proposition.

However Aston Martin has a long history of struggling through hard-times and surviving, which it has done. Set backs aside the Aston Martin Virage continued to develop and was produced not only as a coupe and convertible but also as a two and four door "Shooting Brake", before a special "Virage LE" Limited Edition became available in 1994. These were installed with a 6.3 litre high performance engine and featured additional paint, trim and interior differences compared with standard models.
Production of the Virage ceased in 1996 when it was replaced by the V8 Coupe.
Performance:

The rear wheel driven Aston Martin Virage generated 334 bhp at 6,000 rpm which was sufficient to push it to a top speed of 157 mph. While acceleration was as exhilarating with zero to sixty miles and hour reached in under 7 seconds. For a car weighing 1800 kg these figures are impressive.

Economy:

Aston Martin does not build cars with a focus on economy, perhaps if it did then expectations of fuel economy would be greatly increased. However, the Virage is capable of around 16 miles per gallon, which for a powerful V8 has some merit. If you can't resist the performance however, the fuel consumption can drop rapidly to 8 miles per gallon.

Values:

You can expect to pay between £38 and £42k for a 1993 Convertible with a three speed automatic transmission, provided it comes with a Full Service History (FSH). Aston Martin's tend to hold their value from new to the tune of 50-60% after three years, 36,000 miles and with a full service history. After a decade or so they then turn into an investment for collectors of fine machinery and values can soar.