Advice please on buying a DB7.

[Colinbentley]

I have always wanted to own an Aston Martin. I have never driven one, I have never even seen one 'in the metal' so to speak, but I am sorely tempted to stetch to my absolute limit budget wise and look at used DB7s. I live in Australia,where even used models from 1997 to 2002 models sell from about $75000 to $99000. Are there any inherent problems with different year models, V8s as opposed to V12s. Wher do I start ? I'm only toying with the idea but would appreciate some guidance in the meantime.

[Colinbentley]

Thanks tonyhall38.....I already have a Jag...and a Mercedes....but I want an Aston Martin. Believe me I'm used to expensive repair bills.

[Colinbentley]

Guys, thank heaps for all the replies, but I think you've frightened me off buying one especially at the price I would have to pay in Australia. I thought I could buy one in England for about twenty three thousand pounds and by the time I ship it here it would cost about $50,000, still much, much cheaper than buying one here, but I am told by a good friend who is well versed in this area that I cannot import a car unless it is more than 30 years old.....I thought I was living in a free country country....it appears not. I could buy a pre 1989 model or live in England for a couple of years and bring the car with me. What a ridiculous law. I may have to complain to my local Federal Member....not that it will do any good.Welcome to the land of Milk and Honey unless you want to express free choice.

[Colinbentley]

Thanks F1 NDW, I was told 30 years and that cars had to be pre 1989......but that of course is only 20 years, so I will have to look into further via the appropriate government department. Thanks for your help.

[Colinbentley]

I've checked on line and it is correct....you may not import a car unless it is prior to a 1989 model unless you have lived and owned it in the UK for at least 12 months.At least there are some nice cars in the pre 1989 arena I can look at. Maybe not Aston Martins though.

[Colinbentley]

Just talked to a company that handles allthe details on importing cars ....and guess what......there is one exception to the 1989 rule.....an Aston Martin V12 Vanquish !!!!!! but you have to use a specific import company to handle it for you. It appears they are so rare here that you are not competing with local dealers by importing one......yeah but who can afford one ?

[Colinbentley]

Yes I have ....as long as it passes an independant assessment by a Ferrari dealer.