Which Vantage?
Discussion
Hi, I've just joined the site as I'm returning to the UK later this year after an 8 year absence working abroad. I'll be in the market for a lightly used Vantage in the GBP60-80k range. The last one I drove was one of the very first cars back in 2006. So, my apologies if this has been done before, but which should I be looking for. 4.7? S? V12? Which is the best gearbox etc? I've studied the options here, but have only driven that early car. I won't mention colour as that's obviously personal preference. It will be a second car, but will be driven often, and I will drive it long distances in Europe. I also intend to keep the car for the long term, so will wait for the right vehicle. Obviously, I will test drive the various models but any ideas, strong views etc from you guys with the relevant experience would be very much appreciated. Thanks a lot in advance!
First port of call is get Grant's book for great research:
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
They say on here don't drive a V12V unless you can buy it as it really is a step up from any other Vantage. Your budget would get you into a used V12V, so you really have the pick of the range. Grant's book really is worth getting to narrow down your choices to the exact spec that you want and then search from there.
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...
They say on here don't drive a V12V unless you can buy it as it really is a step up from any other Vantage. Your budget would get you into a used V12V, so you really have the pick of the range. Grant's book really is worth getting to narrow down your choices to the exact spec that you want and then search from there.
The V12V for long drives in Europe is not what it is designed for particularly, but is my choice. The V8 has more supple suspension, so probably better in that department for long distances. That said, I have made several 500mile plus trips in 1 day in the V12V and it is very comfortable.
However if you are looking at a GT car (long distances) why not a DBS or even a DB9 if you own the pre-requisite pipe and slippers?
If it is a Vantage you are after, the V12V is in your price range and is the one that will give you the biggest grin
With an 80k budget, it could really come down to whether you want a 7spd flappy paddle box on the V8S (ASM2) or a manual box of the V12V.
Both drive beautifully, not much to choose between them performance wise (there isn't really guys) and both are very well sorted and resolved cars.
However, sticking with a V8S or a well specced 4.7 gives you the opportunity of having a roadster as well. No downsides to that, that I can see
Oh, or a DBS manual
Both drive beautifully, not much to choose between them performance wise (there isn't really guys) and both are very well sorted and resolved cars.
However, sticking with a V8S or a well specced 4.7 gives you the opportunity of having a roadster as well. No downsides to that, that I can see
Oh, or a DBS manual
mjk1 said:
My advice would be to save yourself £45k and get 99% of the car you are currently looking at in the form of an early V8V.
Where's the fun in saving all that money??!! (Says the accountant :-O )The best advise I can give is get the best car you can afford or you'll always be looking to upgrade!
mjk1 said:
My advice would be to save yourself £45k and get 99% of the car you are currently looking at in the form of an early V8V.
Not been in a V12V then? 85 - 90% I would have agreed, nowhere near 99% I am afraid. The early V8V is a great car indeed, the V12V is a beast and worth every penny of that 45K. Cockernee said:
Not been in a V12V then? 85 - 90% I would have agreed, nowhere near 99% I am afraid. The early V8V is a great car indeed, the V12V is a beast and worth every penny of that 45K.
it's talk like that which has me wondering which internal organ I can sell to help me upgrade I haven't even been in one yet, but one day I will make the jump.Gettoff said:
Cockernee said:
Not been in a V12V then? 85 - 90% I would have agreed, nowhere near 99% I am afraid. The early V8V is a great car indeed, the V12V is a beast and worth every penny of that 45K.
it's talk like that which has me wondering which internal organ I can sell to help me upgrade I haven't even been in one yet, but one day I will make the jump.Little Donkey said:
Surely you would go for the newest, highest spec car in a colour you can afford with the fewest miles and the gearbox that suits you most........or am I being a bit simplistic?
I think thats the plan But
OP said:
I will test drive the various models but any ideas, strong views etc from you guys with the relevant experience would be very much appreciated
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