Aston Martin V8 Zagato prototype for sale

A 1986 Aston Martin V8 Zagato prototype is for sale with Bicester Heritage-based dealer Pendine Historic Cars. Chassis 20011 is one of just three prototypes, and one of two configured in right-hand drive.

Finished in Gladiator Red and presented in restored condition, this prototype was commissioned with a unique specification by Aston Martin enthusiast Wensley Hayden-Baillie, close friend of former Aston Martin Lagonda chairman, Victor Gauntlett.

It comes to market from a private collection for the first time in 20 years – the same time as the Zagato brand marks its 100-year anniversary.

Based on the Aston Martin V8 but with a Zagato coachbuilt body, the car’s angular appearance and squared-off grille are paired with a lighter weight and shorter wheelbase than the ‘standard’ Vantage, with deleted rear seats.

The factory quoted a 0-60mph time of under five seconds with a top speed of around 190mph, making it Aston Martin’s fastest ever car at the time.

As with all cars commissioned by Wensley Hayden-Baillie, chassis 20011 has an exceptionally high specification and consequently is one of only four known to have been built with the 432bhp motor, and one of just two with an integral roll bar. Other features include black leather seats, leather covered steering wheel and dashboard, walnut centre console and authenticity plaques.

Between 2009 and 2013 the car was restored by Pebble Beach winning specialist Auto Restorations, based in New Zealand. Today the car is listed by Aston Martin Heritage Trust as a significant car and was invited to the prestigious Concorso Eleganza Villa d’Este at Lake Como in 2016.

The V8 Zagato prototype is for sale with an asking price of £530,000 and is accompanied by all of its original manuals, delivery and warranty documents as well as copies of the fascinating factory memos about this special build. There is an unbroken, complete and extensive history file along with the original service vouchers book and handbook.