1978 Aston Martin V8 Vantage ‘Molded Fliptail’
Britain’s answer to Ferrari’s Berlinetta Boxer arrived in February 1977 with aerodynamic enhancements and substantially uprated mechanicals.
The first 16 examples featured three-piece spoilers bolted to the trunk lid, earning them the “Bolt-On” designation. Production then shifted to an integrated design where the fliptail formed part of the body structure, creating the more visually cohesive “Molded Fliptail” configuration that collectors particularly favor.
Additional aerodynamic elements included a deep front spoiler, blanked grille openings, and the distinctive raised tail section designed to reduce lift at high speeds. These modifications contributed to a claimed 170 mph top speed and 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.3 seconds.
Under the hood, four 48mm Weber carburetors replaced the standard car’s smaller units, while high-performance camshafts, larger inlet valves, an increased compression ratio, and revised manifolds coaxed about 390 horsepower from the 326-cubic-inch aluminum V8. The combination earned the nickname “Britain’s First Supercar.”
Beginning in 1978, just 11 examples reached American buyers. Federal emissions requirements mandated lower compression, unleaded-fuel engines in these cars, which became known as “Cosmetic Vantages” due to their significantly reduced output compared to European-spec versions.
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