The Aston Martin AM28 is a 3,982 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It is a clean-sheet design developed entirely in-house by Aston Martin, marking a departure from previous Ford/Jaguar-based architectures. Featuring twin overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and variable valve timing, it delivers high-revving performance with linear power delivery. In standard tune, it produced 375 kW (510 PS) and 610 Nm of torque, later increased to 441 kW (600 PS) in the AM28-HP variant used in the Vantage AMR.
Fitted exclusively to the DB11 V8 and early Vantage (2018–2020) models, the AM28 was engineered for optimal weight distribution and dynamic responsiveness within Aston Martin’s VH platform. Its naturally aspirated successor, the AM31 V12, shares core architecture but differs in bore, stroke, and ancillary layout. The engine features dry-sump lubrication, direct and port fuel injection (dual injection), and an integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder heads, enabling compact packaging and rapid throttle response while meeting Euro 6 emissions standards.
One documented update is the transition from Bosch ME17.8.8 to Bosch MD17.8.11 ECU in mid-2018, improving torque delivery and emissions calibration (Aston Martin Engineering Bulletin AM-18-003). Additionally, early DB11 V8 models exhibited sporadic crankshaft sensor signal instability under high thermal load. From 2019, revised shielding and routing per Service Information Bulletin AM-SIB-19-002 were implemented across the production line to mitigate electromagnetic interference.
All AM28-powered vehicles meet Euro 6b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Aston Martin AM28 is a 3,982 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring and sports car applications (2016–2020). It features a lightweight aluminum block, DOHC 32-valve heads, and dual injection (direct + port) to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-RPM power. Designed in-house and manufactured at Aston Martin’s facility in Cologne, Germany, it meets Euro 6b standards while supporting dry-sump lubrication for track use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 85.8 mm | |
| Power output | 375–441 kW (510–600 PS) | |
| Torque | 610–685 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Dual injection (direct + port), Bosch MD17.8.11 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | Mobil 1 0W-40 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C949-A1) | |
| Dry weight | 202 kg |
The naturally aspirated AM28 provides linear throttle response ideal for spirited driving, but demands strict adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals using Mobil 1 0W-40 (WSS-M2C949-A1) to maintain dry-sump system integrity and chain longevity. The dual-injection system reduces carbon buildup on intake valves, enhancing long-term reliability over port-only designs. Early models (pre-2019) may exhibit crankshaft sensor signal instability under sustained high load; verify sensor shielding and wiring per SIB AM-SIB-19-002 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 housing seals during routine service.
Oil Specs: Requires Mobil 1 0W-40 meeting Aston Martin WSS-M2C949-A1 (Aston Martin SIB AM-19-001). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: All AM28 engines comply with Euro 6b (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789), verified through WLTP testing protocols.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 441 kW output (AM28-HP) requires RON 98 fuel and revised ECU calibration (Aston Martin TIS Doc. AM28-ECU-015).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM28-ENG-001, AM28-ENG-002, SIB AM-19-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin AM28 was used across Aston Martin's VH platform vehicles with longitudinal mounting and entirely in-house design. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the Vantage and revised exhaust manifolds in the DB11 V8-and from 2019 the Vantage AMR adopted the AM28-HP variant with higher-lift camshafts 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 cylinder block near the rear mounting flange (Aston Martin TIS AM28-ID-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for AM28 series). Pre-2019 units have silver cam covers with '4.0' badges; post-2019 models use black cam covers with 'AM28' or model-specific badging. Critical differentiation from AM31 V12: AM28 has a 90° V8 configuration with shorter block length and lacks secondary air injection. Service parts require model-year verification—ECUs for pre-2018 DB11 V8 are not interchangeable with post-2018 Vantage units due to calibration differences per SIB AM-18-003.
The AM28's primary reliability risk is crankshaft sensor signal instability on pre-2019 units, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2019 indicated intermittent misfires under sustained high-RPM operation, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Track use and infrequent servicing increase EMI exposure, making use of revised harness shielding critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN AM28.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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