The legendary Aston Martin Bulldog, a supercar concept from 1980, is gearing up for a remarkable comeback. After an extensive 18-month restoration, this one-off creation aims to achieve a stunning top speed of over 200 mph. Initially conceived as a competitor to the Lamborghini Countach, the Bulldog is an emblem of British automotive innovation, despite Aston Martin’s decision to limit its production.

Power and Performance

The Bulldog featured a mid-mounted 5.3-liter V8 engine equipped with dual Garrett turbos and Bosch fuel injection. This setup produced a robust 650 horsepower, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 190 mph at the Motor Industry Research Association test track in the UK. Although it fell short of the anticipated 200 mph, its engineering was ahead of its time.

A Journey Towards Redemption

The current owner of the Bulldog, Nigel Woodward, the managing director of Classic Motor Cars, has set ambitious goals for the vehicle. He admits that restoring the nearly 16-foot-long supercar to its glory will present numerous challenges:

“At the moment we are assuming that nothing on the car works, and I am sure that as we take it apart we will find all sorts of challenges.”

Restoration Details

The restoration will involve significant changes, including updating the car’s original white and gray paint scheme and replacing carburetors with a modern fuel-injection system. Woodward aims to preserve the Bulldog’s classic essence while incorporating contemporary components to enhance reliability. This balanced approach highlights the necessity of merging vintage charm with modern technology.

Design Features

The unique aesthetics of the Bulldog contribute to its allure. With its wedge-shaped design and aerodynamic features—such as recessed headlights and distinctive rear louvers—the car promises to captivate onlookers as it aims for heightened speeds. Consequently, the restoration team hopes to ensure that the Bulldog’s stability at high speeds aligns more with today’s supercar standards rather than those of the 1980s.

Conclusion

The Aston Martin Bulldog embodies ambition and nostalgia for supercar enthusiasts. As the restoration nears completion, the automotive world eagerly anticipates whether this iconic vehicle can indeed break the 200 mph barrier, marking a significant chapter in its storied history.