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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AM05 is a robust naturally aspirated engine with strong build quality. No widespread reliability issues have been reported, though early units (2016–2017) may develop throttle body actuator wear if used primarily for short trips. Regular maintenance, use of RON 95+ fuel, and adherence to 12,000 km oil changes with OEM-specified oil ensure long-term durability.
The most documented issues are throttle body actuator wear (especially 2016–2017), intake valve carbon buildup, and minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Coolant leaks from the water pump have been noted in high-mileage units. These are addressed in Aston Martin service information bulletins.
The AM05 powers the V8 Vantage (2016–2020), DB11 V8 (2016–2018), and Vanquish S (2016–2018). It was succeeded by the twin-turbo AE31 in 2020. No non-Aston Martin applications exist. All models are Euro 6b compliant.
Limited tuning potential exists via ECU remap, typically yielding +20–25 kW on stage 1. Due to its naturally aspirated design, gains are modest compared to turbo engines. Supporting mods like exhaust and intake upgrades offer marginal benefits. Over-tuning risks valve train stress and is not recommended without internal reinforcement.
In the V8 Vantage, combined consumption is ~11.8 L/100km (23.9 mpg UK), with city driving reaching ~15.2 L/100km (18.6 mpg). Highway efficiency improves to ~9.2 L/100km (30.6 mpg). Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style. Expect 18–24 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions.
Yes. The AM05 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner per service schedule is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Aston Martin Longlife-16 standards. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or 12 months. Using correct oil ensures proper high-RPM lubrication and reduces intake carbon formation in this port-injected engine.
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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