After more than four decades since its initial attempt, the Aston Martin Bulldog, a unique one-off vehicle, has finally surpassed the 200-mph milestone.
Recently, racing driver Darren Turner took the Bulldog to a former airforce base in Campbeltown, U.K., where an impressive top speed of 205.4 mph was achieved.
Overview of the Aston Martin Vanquish
Originally designed in 1977 by Aston Martin, the Bulldog is a mid-engine supercar adorned with distinctive gullwing doors. Its primary goal was to claim the title of the world’s fastest production car. However, during testing at the MIRA test track in the U.K. in 1979, the car fell short of Aston Martin’s target, reaching a top speed of only 191 mph.
Initially, Aston Martin intended to build several customer examples of the Bulldog. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints, the project was abandoned, and no further progress was made. Ultimately, the sole prototype was sold.
Conceptualizing the Aston Martin Bulldog
At the time of its development, Aston Martin was under the ownership of American businessmen Peter Sprague and George Minden. They were also responsible for the production of the Lagonda sedan, which shared the Bulldog’s distinct wedge-like design. Unlike the Bulldog, the Lagonda sedan saw limited production.
The Bulldog boasted a turbocharged 5.3-liter V-8 engine, estimated to generate an astonishing 600 to 700 horsepower, an impressive figure during its era.
To prepare the Bulldog for its record-breaking run, the car’s current owner, Phillip Sarofim, commissioned a comprehensive restoration process. This meticulous endeavor, carried out by the esteemed Classic Motor Cars in the U.K., spanned 18 months.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Aston Martin Bulldog
What is the Aston Martin Bulldog?
The Aston Martin Bulldog is a unique one-off supercar designed by Aston Martin in 1977. It was intended to be the world’s fastest production car.
What was the top speed achieved by the Aston Martin Bulldog?
During a recent attempt, the Aston Martin Bulldog reached an impressive top speed of 205.4 mph.
Why did Aston Martin abandon the production of the Bulldog?
Aston Martin’s plans to build customer examples of the Bulldog were canceled due to financial constraints. The sole prototype was eventually sold.
Who is the current owner of the Aston Martin Bulldog?
The current owner of the Aston Martin Bulldog is Phillip Sarofim.
How was the Bulldog prepared for its top speed run?
The Bulldog underwent a thorough restoration process that lasted 18 months, commissioned by Phillip Sarofim. The restoration was carried out by Classic Motor Cars in the U.K.
What is the engine power of the Aston Martin Bulldog?
The Bulldog is equipped with a turbocharged 5.3-liter V-8 engine estimated to deliver between 600 and 700 horsepower.
Who was responsible for the design of the Aston Martin Bulldog?
The design of the Aston Martin Bulldog was undertaken by Aston Martin, which was owned by American businessmen Peter Sprague and George Minden at the time. They were also involved in the production of the Lagonda sedan.
More about Aston Martin Bulldog
- Aston Martin Bulldog – Wikipedia
- Aston Martin Bulldog: The Forgotten Legend – Aston Martin
- Aston Martin Bulldog: The Untold Story – Classic Driver
- Restoring the Aston Martin Bulldog – Classic Motor Cars
- Aston Martin Bulldog: The Rise and Fall of the Forgotten Supercar – Car and Driver
5 comments
Wow, the Aston Martin Bulldog finally did it, hitting 205.4 mph! After all those years, it’s impressive to see this unique supercar break the 200-mph barrier. Aston Martin sure knows how to create legends.
Finally, the Bulldog woke up from its long slumber and showed us what it’s made of! Aston Martin really nailed it with this one-off masterpiece. 205.4 mph? That’s mind-blowing, man!
Aston Martin Bulldog, a true icon of automotive history! It’s amazing how this supercar was ahead of its time back in ’77. Kudos to Phillip Sarofim for restoring it and bringing back the glory. Can’t help but admire the craftsmanship!
Aston Martin’s Bulldog, a beast from the past, roars back to life with a top speed of 205.4 mph! Talk about sheer power and elegance combined. This car is a symbol of excellence and engineering marvel.
Aston Martin’s Bulldog is a blast from the past that has finally proven its worth. It may have taken decades, but breaking the 200-mph barrier is worth the wait. This supercar’s resurrection is a testament to its timeless design and performance.