The Aston Martin S65B40 is a 3,999 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32 — valve architecture, and Bosch ME17.8 engine management, delivering 309 kW (420 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. This engine was sourced from BMW and adapted by Aston Martin for longitudinal mounting in the V8 Vantage, combining high — revving performance with grand touring refinement.
Fitted exclusively to the V8 Vantage (20…
Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Aston Martin S65B40 is a 3,999 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine adapted from BMW's S65 platform for high-performance applications (2008–2013). It combines DOHC 32-valve architecture with Bosch ME17.8 engine management to deliver linear power delivery and high-RPM refinement. Designed to meet Euro 5, it balances track-capable performance with road-going usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,999 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 75.2 mm | |
Power output | 309 kW (420 PS) @ 7,300 rpm | |
Torque | 400 Nm @ 4,900 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME17.8 port injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin Longlife-08 (SAE 5W-50) | |
Dry weight | 218 kg |
The Aston Martin S65B40 was used exclusively in the V8 Vantage platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific tuning—reinforced engine mounts and modified exhaust routing—but no structural changes. All variants are documented in OEM technical bulletins and ETK parts catalogues. The engine was phased out in 2013 with the introduction of the in-house AE16 twin-turbo V8.
The S65B40's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup in low-speed urban use, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2014 noted a moderate share of pre-2011 units showing reduced airflow by 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate a low but growing number of emissions-related failures in city-driven V8 Vantage models. Short trips and infrequent high-RPM operation increase deposit formation, making oil quality and driving pattern management critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The S65B40 is a robust naturally aspirated V8 with strong build quality. No widespread reliability issues have been reported, though pre-2011 models may develop intake carbon buildup 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 intake valve carbon buildup, throttle body actuator wear, 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 and field engineering updates.
The S65B40 powers the V8 Vantage (2008–2013). It is a BMW-sourced engine adapted by Aston Martin with no non-Aston Martin applications. All models are Euro 5 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 ~11.4 L/100km (24.8 mpg UK), with city driving reaching ~15.0 L/100km (18.8 mpg). Highway efficiency improves to ~9.0 L/100km (31.4 mpg). Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style. Expect 19–25 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions.
Yes. The S65B40 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-50 synthetic oil meeting Aston Martin Longlife-08 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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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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