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…
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 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.
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.
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The AJ-V8 Gen IV is generally robust when properly maintained, but pre-2007 DB9 models are prone to crankshaft sensor failures. Later revisions (post-2007) improved sensor durability. Regular oil changes with correct 5W-50 specification and cooling system maintenance are essential. Well-serviced engines can exceed 150,000 km without major issues.
The most frequent issues are crankshaft position sensor failure (especially in early DB9), oil consumption in high-mileage engines, cooling system leaks, and throttle body motor wear. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and supported by dealer repair records.
The AJ-V8 Gen IV powered the DB9 (2005–2016), V8 Vantage (2005–2017), and DBS (2009–2012). It was sourced from Ford/Jaguar (AJ-V8 basis) but features Aston Martin-specific calibration and intake systems. Each application features model-specific tuning and thermal management systems tailored to grand touring or high-performance use.
Yes, though it is naturally aspirated. ECU remapping can yield +30–50 kW gains safely. Intake and exhaust upgrades improve breathing. Forced induction conversions exist but are complex. Tuning should preserve factory reliability and use high-octane fuel to prevent knock and protect valvetrain integrity.
Moderate for a high-performance V8. In a DB9, expect ~15.8 L/100km (city) and ~9.6 L/100km (highway), or 18 mpg UK combined. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style and fuel quality.
Yes. The AJ-V8 Gen IV is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Chain replacement is recommended every 120,000 km or 10 years, whichever comes first.
Aston Martin specifies Castrol Edge 5W-50 meeting WSS-M2C947-A1 standard. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or 2 years. Using incorrect oil can accelerate cam and chain wear due to the high-pressure valve train design.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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