The Aston Martin AM05 is a 4,735 cc, V8, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It served as the primary powerplant for several grand tourer and sports car models, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and multi-point fuel injection. In standard configuration, it delivered 344 kW (470 PS) and 540 Nm of torque, providing smooth power delivery and refined high-speed cruising capabilities.
Fitted to models such as the V8 Vantage, DB11, and Vanquish S, the AM05 was engineered for balanced performance and grand touring refinement. Its design emphasizes linear throttle response, acoustic quality, and long-distance drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated close-coupled catalytic converters and engine management calibration, meeting Euro 6b standards across all markets during its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature throttle body actuator wear, particularly in early production units (2016–2017). This issue, highlighted in Aston Martin Service Information Bulletin SIB-AM05-03, can result in reduced throttle response or limp-mode operation. No major generational updates were introduced; the engine was succeeded by the twin-turbocharged AE31 in 2020.
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Aston Martin AM05 is a 4,735 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for grand touring applications (2016–2020). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and acoustic refinement. Engineered to meet Euro 6b, it balances everyday usability with spirited driving performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,735 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 85.8 mm | |
| Power output | 344 kW (470 PS) @ 7,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 540 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME17 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Aston Martin Longlife-16 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 223 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response and smooth power delivery ideal for grand touring, but demands adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals to maintain valve train longevity. Aston Martin Longlife-16 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its formulation protecting high-RPM components. Extended idling should be avoided to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. The Bosch ME17 ECU requires OEM-grade diagnostics for calibration updates. Early AM05 units (2016–2017) are prone to throttle body actuator wear; replacement with updated part per SIB-AM05-03 is recommended. Catalytic converters require high-octane fuel (RON 95+) to prevent thermal degradation.
Oil Specs: Requires Aston Martin Longlife-16 (5W-30) specification (Aston Martin SIB 16 05 25). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 95+ fuel (Aston Martin TIS Doc. AM-AM05-PWR).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-AM05-2016, SIB 14 03 18, SIB 16 05 25
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin AM05 was used across Aston Martin's Vantage and DB platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly higher torque in the Vanquish S and revised intake manifolds in the DB11—but no structural changes. All variants are documented in OEM technical bulletins and ETK parts catalogues.
Locate the engine identification plate mounted on the front-left cylinder bank near the timing cover (Aston Martin TIS AM-AM05-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('U' for AM05 series). All units feature silver valve covers with black trim. Critical differentiation from turbocharged units: AM05 has no intercooler or turbo plumbing. Service parts require model-year verification—throttle bodies for 2016–2017 models should be replaced with the updated actuator per SIB-AM05-03. DB11 intake manifolds are not interchangeable with Vantage units due to routing differences (Aston Martin SIB 15 02 10).
The AM05's primary reliability risk is throttle body actuator wear in early production models (2016–2017), with elevated incidence in vehicles with frequent short-trip driving. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2018 noted a moderate share of pre-2018 units requiring actuator replacement by 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate a low but growing number of emissions-related failures in city-driven Vantage models. Stop-start cycles and infrequent high-RPM operation increase wear, making timely replacement and driving pattern management critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN AM05.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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