Best Car Reviews - 1992 Aston Martin Virage Saloon

Introduction

The 1992 Aston Martin Virage Saloon is an epitome of British luxury car craftsmanship melded with a sporting pedigree. Introduced in the early 90s, this car was designed to appeal to affluent car enthusiasts seeking a blend of elegance and performance. Notably, the Virage Saloon stands apart with its blend of classic Aston Martin styling cues and robust performance attributes. Designed to appeal to a niche market, the Virage offers a unique proposition of a luxurious subcompact with a touch of sportiness.

Design and Exterior Features

The Aston Martin Virage Saloon possesses a distinctive presence with its elongated, smooth lines and striking front grille, retaining its classic ancestry while providing a modern twist. The car's design captures attention with its deft mix of sharp angles and gentle curves, making it a timeless beauty on the road.

• Sleek, aerodynamic silhouette
• Elegant front grille with the iconic Aston Martin emblem
• Traditional Aston Martin body lines with modern touches
• Stylish alloy wheels contributing to its premium appearance
• Subtle rear spoiler for added sportiness

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the Virage Saloon is a sanctuary of luxury and refinement. The cabin's layout speaks volumes of Aston Martin's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and comfort, blending traditional handcrafting with modern amenities.

• Premium leather upholstery providing a plush experience
• Rich wood accents adding a touch of elegance
• Manual adjustment seats with superb support and comfort
• Adequate legroom and headroom considering its subcompact classification
• Strategic placement of controls ensuring driver-centric cockpit feel

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1992 Virage Saloon boasts a powerful 8-cylinder GUZZLER engine, offering a thrilling driving experience. It comes with a robust manual 5-speed transmission that allows the driver to feel more connected to the road. The car's acceleration is impressive, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 7 seconds.

Driving the Virage in the city reveals its smooth performance, while on the highway, it cruises effortlessly, embodying the spirit of grand touring. With an average fuel consumption of approximately 22.89 l/100 km, it's a thirst that's justified by its sheer performance attributes.

• Rear-wheel drive enhances driving dynamics
• Precise steering with excellent feedback
• Well-tuned suspension providing a blend of comfort and control
• Ample power for confident overtaking and highway merging
• Decent fuel efficiency for its class

Technology and Connectivity

While newer cars boast an array of tech features, the 1992 Virage Saloon focuses on essential functionality underlined with a touch of luxury.

• Classic analogue gauges, echoing its traditional roots
• Minimalist yet elegant dash layout
• Intermittent wipers for varying weather conditions
• Premium sound system for a rich auditory experience
• Absence of modern connectivity options like Bluetooth, highlighting its era

Safety Features

The Aston Martin Virage Saloon includes fundamental safety features that were standard for its time, emphasizing a balance between driver engagement and assurance.

• Basic anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Driver and front passenger airbags
• Sturdy construction with side impact bars
• Engine immobilizer enhancing security
• Seatbelt pretensioners for added safety

Pricing and Variants

The 1992 Aston Martin Virage Saloon retailed at a base price of approximately $150,000 USD. While it stood as a premium offering in the subcompact category, it positioned itself well against competitors for those seeking exclusive luxury.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Luxurious interior materials and craftsmanship
• Impressive performance with capable V8 engine
• Timeless and stylish exterior design
• Engaging driving experience with manual transmission
• Exclusivity and prestige associated with the Aston Martin badge

Cons

• High fuel consumption relative to modern standards
• Limited modern tech and connectivity features
• Smaller rear seating space due to its subcompact nature
• High maintenance costs for upkeep
• Availability of parts may be challenging

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintaining the Virage Saloon annually can be on the higher side, typical for luxury vehicles of its genre.

• Oil leaks from the engine
• Electrical system issues, including non-functioning gauges
• Wear and tear on suspension components
• Cooling system failures, leading to potential overheating
• Difficulty finding specific replacement parts

Rating

• Overall Rating: 7.5/10
  • Design: 9/10
  • Comfort: 8/10
  • Performance: 8/10
  • Technology: 5/10
  • Safety: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Real-world owners have shared varied experiences:

1. Love the powerful engine and classic driving feel, but the fuel consumption is quite high – Mark T.
2. I cherish the craftsmanship, both interior and exterior. However, the lack of modern tech is a downside – Elaine D.
3. This car makes every drive feel special, even if maintenance is on the pricey side – Richard M.
4. Superb design, love the manual gearbox, but parts are not always easy to find – Sylvia K.
5. A collector's dream offering exclusivity and charm – William H.

Best Cars in this Category

• 1992 Bentley Continental R
• 1992 Jaguar XJ-S
• 1992 Porsche 968 Coupe
• 1992 Mercedes-Benz 500E
• 1992 BMW 850i

Summary

The 1992 Aston Martin Virage Saloon is best suited for car enthusiasts who value craftsmanship, performance, and exclusivity. While it may not boast modern connectivity features, its timeless design, luxurious interior, and engaging driving dynamics offer a compelling package. If you prioritize driving pleasure and have an appreciation for classic luxury, the Virage Saloon stands as a remarkable choice.