Powered by a 430 hp (321 kW) V8 engine, the new Vantage Zagato was first shown as a design at Geneva in 1985. With Giuseppe Mittino as the Chief Stylist, the project was reminiscent of the lightweight DB4GT Zagato, a 1960s race car that was meant to challenge Ferrari at the top level of sports car racing. Like its classic counterpart, the modern V8 Vantage Zagato was reduced in overall size and received an updated aluminum body from Italy. Much like the DB4, the chassis was shortened and the rear seats removed. Only 52 coupés were built.
A Volante version made its debut at the 1987 Geneva Auto Show and was offered at an even more limited run of only 25, although a total of 37 were eventually made due to high demand. Styling changes from the coupe include flip-up front headlight covers and the removal of the hood bulge, which was not required with the less powerful engine. Not all the Volantes had the flip-up light covers however. (supercars.net)
V8 Zagato Coupé
52 were built.
(Photos from hiesen-automobile.com, autowp.ru, bramleyweb.co.uk, dkeng.co.uk & rswilliams.co.uk)
V8 Zagato Volante
Only 37 were built.
(Photos from hemmings.com,ultimatecarpage.com, houtkamp.nl,
commons.wikimedia.org & collectorscarworld.com)
commons.wikimedia.org & collectorscarworld.com)