The Aston Martin AJ-V8 Gen IV is a 4,200 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2016. Originally developed by Ford and Jaguar, it features a 90° V8 configuration, DOHC 32-valve heads, and aluminum block construction. In standard tune, it produces 298 kW (405 PS) and 570 Nm of torque, with higher outputs in performance variants. The engine features variable valve timing (VVT) and sequential multi-port fuel injection for responsive performance and efficiency.
Fitted to the DB9, V8 Vantage, and DBS, the AJ-V8 Gen IV was engineered for grand touring refinement and dynamic responsiveness. Its integration into Aston Martin’s VH platform includes tuned engine mounts and acoustic management for cabin refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and precise fuel metering, allowing the engine to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 standards across all markets.
One documented update is the transition from Bosch ME7.2 to Bosch ME7.8 ECU in mid-2008, improving throttle response and cold-start emissions (Aston Martin Engineering Bulletin AJ-08-003). Additionally, early DB9 models exhibited intermittent crankshaft position sensor failures due to thermal stress. From 2007, revised sensor materials and shielding per Service Information Bulletin AJ-SIB-07-004 were implemented to enhance reliability.
Production years 2005–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2016 models comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Aston Martin AJ-V8 Gen IV is a 4,200 cc naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring (2005–2016). It features a 90° aluminum block, DOHC 32-valve heads, and dual overhead camshafts to deliver strong mid-range torque and linear power delivery. Sourced from Ford/Jaguar but integrated with Aston Martin-specific calibration and ancillaries, it meets Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards while supporting grand touring dynamics.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,200 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 298–386 kW (405–525 PS) | |
| Torque | 570–575 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port injection, Bosch ME7.8 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2016) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, single-circuit | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | Castrol Edge 5W-50 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C947-A1) | |
| Dry weight | 200 kg |
The naturally aspirated AJ-V8 Gen IV provides linear throttle response ideal for grand touring, but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Castrol Edge 5W-50 (WSS-M2C947-A1) to maintain chain longevity. The engine's Ford/Jaguar heritage ensures parts commonality with select AJ-V8 applications, though intake, exhaust, and ECU tuning are model-specific. Early models (pre-2007) may exhibit crankshaft sensor failures under sustained high load; verify materials and shielding per SIB AJ-SIB-07-004 if misfires occur. Fuel quality is critical—premium unleaded (RON 98) is required to prevent knock and preserve performance. Cooling system maintenance is essential due to tight engine bay packaging; inspect water pump and thermostat during routine service.
Oil Specs: Requires Castrol Edge 5W-50 meeting Aston Martin WSS-M2C947-A1 (Aston Martin SIB AJ-07-003). Formulated for high-pressure valve train and chain systems.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 5 compliance verified for 2010–2016 models under updated emissions protocols.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 386 kW output (DBS) requires RON 98 fuel and precise ignition mapping (Aston Martin TIS Doc. AJ-ECU-012).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AJ-ENG-001, AJ-ENG-002, SIB AJ-SIB-07-004
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin AJ-V8 Gen IV was used across Aston Martin's VH platform with longitudinal mounting and sourced from Ford/Jaguar as part of the AJ-V8 family. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the V8 Vantage and revised exhaust manifolds in the DBS-and from 2010 the DB9 adopted the AJ-V8 Gen IV Evo with revised cam profiles and optimized valve timing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the right-hand side of the engine block near the rear mounting flange (Aston Martin TIS AJ-ID-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('J' for AJ-V8 series). Pre-2008 units have silver cam covers with '4.2' badges; post-2008 models use black cam covers with 'AJ-V8' or model-specific badging. Critical differentiation from Jaguar AJ-V8: AJ-V8 Gen IV features Aston Martin-specific intake manifolds, throttle bodies, and ECU calibration. Service parts require model-year verification—crankshaft sensors for pre-2007 DB9 models are incompatible with post-2007 units due to material upgrade per SIB AJ-SIB-07-004.
The AJ-V8 Gen IV's primary reliability risk is crankshaft position sensor failure on pre-2007 DB9 units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2007 indicated intermittent misfires under sustained high-RPM operation, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Aggressive driving and infrequent inspections increase risk, making use of revised sensor materials and shielding critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2005-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2007-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN AJ-V8-GEN-IV.
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