A prototype called the Aston Martin Bulldog has finally achieved its goal of topping 200 mph (322 km/h)… forty years later. Earlier today the car was driven to over 205 mph (330 km/h) by endurance race ace and Aston Martin works driver Darren Turner.

Follow Double Apex on Instagram and Facebook where we share more car content.

Order from our online store and take advantage of free delivery in South Africa on orders over R349.

History Lesson

When the Bulldog was unveiled in 1980, the automaker claimed it would be the first road car to top 200 mph. A bold claim at the time. Their best efforts result in a top speed of 192 mph (309 km/h). Not long after the one-off managed this speed the projected was canned. Aston Martin pulled the plug because of the projected sky-high price.

The build run was supposed to consist 10 to 15 Bulldogs. However, the prototype ended up being the only example that was ever built. The car was sold off to a Saudi Prince. It is reported that the engine blew up on his very first drive. Since then the car changed hands a few times before ending up with a UK car collector.

Refurbished

The Aston Martin Bulldog has been painstakingly refurbished by a UK classic car specialist. The process included rebuilding the car’s engine. The original 5,3-litre V8 has been rebuilt, bored and stroked to 5,7 litres. A pair of Garrett turbochargers have also bolted to help increase the car’s power. Current power output is somewhere around the 480 kW mark.

In His Own Words

Darren said: “Bulldog’s 200 mph goal has been over 40 years in the making, being part of that legacy is a fantastic feeling The conditions were perfect for the run and the car performed perfectly too, easily hitting the 200 mph mark.

“The Bulldog has now fulfilled Aston Martin’s 1980s promise and everyone who has worked on the car – from those who first designed and built it, to Classic Motor Cars who undertook the restoration under the management of Richard Gauntlett, can feel very proud.”