🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Aston Martin Model: V8 Saloon Year: 1979 Codes Chassis Code: V8 Series 2 / Series 3 (depending on specific chassis number range) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: High-performance luxury grand tourer, representing Aston Martin's flagship model of the era. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Competed against other high-end European GTs and luxury sedans such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and certain high-specification Mercedes-Benz models, offering a unique blend of potent V8 power, hand-built craftsmanship, and refined luxury. Key Features Key Features: Powerful V8 engine, luxurious and spacious saloon body, iconic Aston Martin styling, hand-built construction, focus on comfort and performance for long-distance touring. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: All V8 Saloon styles for 1979 Page Count Page Count: Hundreds of pages (actual count not specified, but described as 'COMPLETE' and 'all aspects of repair') Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle Procedures Included Procedures Included: Step-by-step repair procedures, advanced troubleshooting, diagnostic guidance, maintenance, repair, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration, tuning Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive factory-trained technician level, covering fundamentals to advanced repair and diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Print Quality: High resolution, printable pages Binding Type Binding Type: Not applicable (Downloadable PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (Downloadable PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Primary Engine: Aston Martin V8 (Tadek Marek designed) Performance Performance: Approx. 280-300 bhp (depending on specific tune/carburation, e.g., Weber 42 DCNF or Lucas fuel injection). Fuel System Fuel System: Quad Weber 42 DCNF carburetors or Lucas/Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection (depending on sub-model/market). Manual covers both aspects for the year. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard: ZF 5-speed manual transmission Optional Optional: Chrysler TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission Features Features: The manual will cover detailed procedures for both manual and automatic transmission maintenance, repair, and adjustment. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Exterior: Full-size luxury saloon; dimensions vary slightly by sub-model but generally around 4.7 meters length, 1.8 meters width, 1.3 meters height. Interior Interior: Four-door saloon configuration offering comfortable seating for four adults with a focus on luxurious appointments. Weights Weights: Curb weight typically in the range of 1,800 - 2,000 kg. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Ratings: No formal crash test ratings available for this era and segment; safety features focused on passive restraints and robust construction. Active Features Active Features: Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated at front), power-assisted steering. Passive Features Passive Features: Seat belts, reinforced body structure. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment: Basic for the era: AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Analog gauges for speed, RPM, oil pressure, temperature, voltage, and fuel. Manual covers dashboard and electrical component diagnostics. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance: None in the modern sense. Driver aids are limited to effective braking and steering systems. Connectivity Connectivity: No factory connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Service Intervals: Typical intervals: Oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually. Major service with checks of all systems recommended annually or every 6,000-10,000 miles. Specific intervals for ignition, fuel systems, and other components detailed in the manual. Fluid Specifications Fluid Specifications: Engine Oil: SAE 20W/50 or 10W/40 (depending on climate/specific engine build, likely Castrol or similar premium oil). Transmission Fluid: Manual - Gear oil (e.g., GL-4 80W/90); Automatic - Dexron III/Mercon. Brake Fluid: DOT 4. Coolant: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Power Steering Fluid: Automatic transmission fluid or specified power steering fluid. Known Issues Known Issues: Rust corrosion (especially sills, wheel arches, door bottoms), potential overheating if cooling system is not meticulously maintained, wear on suspension bushings, carburettor/fuel injection tuning sensitivity, ignition system reliability. The manual provides solutions and preventative measures for these. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Heritage: Aston Martin has a storied history of building high-performance luxury grand tourers and sports cars, synonymous with British craftsmanship and motorsport success. Model Evolution Model Evolution: The V8 Saloon evolved from the V6 Vantage and DBS models, with the V8 engine becoming the defining characteristic, offering significantly more power and torque. 1979 falls into the Series 2 or early Series 3 iterations, depending on chassis number, marking refinements in styling and engineering. Production Production: The V8 Saloon (including its various iterations) was produced from 1972 through 1989. The 1979 model year represents a significant period of the V8's development. 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Recognitions: While specific awards for the 1979 Saloon are not readily documented in modern databases, Aston Martin models of this era were consistently recognized for their luxury, performance, and craftsmanship in automotive press reviews and by discerning enthusiasts.