Interesting test drive Vanquish Volante
Discussion
Had a great test drive with the new Vanquish Volante last week. I drove to and from the event with my own DBS Volante, and also had the opportunity to drive the new DB9. A good way to compare these cars side by side, in every different aspect, of course biased by its own subjective view 
Thanks AM for this opportunity.
Exterior design:
This subjective view starts with the outside design. The new Vqs Volante looks of course powerful, but side to side with the “old” DBS Volante, I prefer the later, since the DBS is more in balance, and more stylish, less “in your face” as is the Vqs. The Vqs has much more curves, can be too “busy” in some colors, and the front-splitter and rear spoiler of the Vqs are intrresting (design gimmicks) but I wonder how long it will be “modern” and last as acceptable from a design perspective.
The DB9 proves this point, since it is even less strong than the DBS (imho) but still looks stylish, being based on the “old” design language. The front spoiler (a la Virage) is just acceptable for me, because It is not as/too aggressive as with the Vqs.
With the roof down, the difference is less prominent, the Vqs looks still more modern, but not as timeless as the DBS and the DB9. The small side window is not that annoying in real life as I thought, but still a design error for a convertible in this price range imho.
Score: 1. DBS 2. DB9 3. Vanquish
Interior design:
The interior of the Vqs is totally different than of the DBS and DB9 (and all other previous AMs from Gaydon). The instruments, central dash as well as the nav screen (Garmin) look more refined than before, and there is much more (leg) space for driver and passenger. The (standard) seats look better too, and sit very well. Also the trunk space is much larger than in the DBS/DB9.
From the inside, the small side window is even less annoying than from the outside, and will be getting used to probably. What will not be so easy to get used to (and very difficult to like), is the center touch panel: they tried to implement a “touch vibration feedback” mechanism, but it feels like a cheap Asian gadget, not like the dash of an expensive British car……….complete FAIL imho.
Score: 1. Vanquish (except the centre console touch interface) 2. DBS/DB9
Engine/exhaust:
The new V12 engine has more current technology, using knock control, variable air intakes, etc, resulting in higher power and torque output, at lower CO2 emission, so a big step forward. The Vqs combines this with a more aggressive exhaust, finally including open valves (Sport) mode from factory (on the DBS this can be done aftermarket easily).
The (exhaust) sound of the Vqs is much louder and sporty than of the DBS which again is much louder than the standard DB9. The new V12 is very smooth, but in normal situations, not noticeable faster than the DBS, in competitive environments of course the Vqs will take the lead. The difference between Sport and Drive mode is more prominent than in the DBS, and therefore the Vqs and sounds feels more sporty.
Score: 1. Vanquish 2. DBS 3. DB9
Transmission:
The transmission is one of the most important aspects of a sport car, since it is the main connection of the driver with how the car delivers the power to the wheels. Not a fan of the original TT2 auto box with torque convertor, but very enthusiastic about the Manual gearbox in connection with the V12, since it gives a much more involving drive (no unnecessary up/down shifting), I was very anxious to see and feel how the new TT3 of the Vqs would perform in real life.
Let’s start to say the TT3 is a big improvement over the TT2 box: it shifts faster, gives better downshifts, and driving in Manual mode is really Manual (no down/upshifting anymore), so you can drive the Vqs rather sporty and always in the (right) gear the driver chooses! But even in Sport mode, the down and upshifts are relatively “slow” (soft) compared to “regular” S-tronic / DSG / PDK double clutch boxes of “normal” German cars like Audi, BMW and Porsche. The TT3 does its job for an auto box very good, but for people who really like to drive, and are used to manual or double clutch boxes, it is too “boring” and does not fit the rest of the character of the Vqs. It is perfectly in place however in the DB9, which is more of a GT cruiser.
Score: 1. DBS manual 2. Vanquish TT3 3. DBS TT2 4. DB9 TT2
Overall/Driving:
Of course all aspects of the car contribute to a certain driving experience. Driving the new Vqs Volante was better than I expected: the more rigid structure/chassis, the sharper engine/exhaust note as well as the improved auto-box, made it a very good experience and a great ride over local roads. Especially with the roof down, the experience multiplies of course, and even more when driving through tunnels
However, when driving more sporty/actively, you really miss a decent gearbox. A Manual would be perfect, but even a good double clutch box would bring the car to the right level. The new TT3 is better than before, but its behavior does not fit a sports car in this price range.
Of course many people who shop in this price range, like GT cruising too, but then they are better off with the new DB9 or the Bentley Continental. If you like sporty/active driving, the Vqs with this gearbox is certainly not the perfect match, and those people would better go for the V12V, the F12, the MP4-12 or stick to their DBS Manual!
Score: DBS Manual 2. Vanquish TT3 3. DB9 TT2
Closing remark:
The ideal Aston for me would have the exterior design of the DBS (Volante), the new V12 engine, exhaust, rigidness/chassis and interior of the Vqs (but without the toyish touch buttons) and a Manual or Double Clutch gearbox (of AMG?).
Thanks AM for this opportunity.
Exterior design:
This subjective view starts with the outside design. The new Vqs Volante looks of course powerful, but side to side with the “old” DBS Volante, I prefer the later, since the DBS is more in balance, and more stylish, less “in your face” as is the Vqs. The Vqs has much more curves, can be too “busy” in some colors, and the front-splitter and rear spoiler of the Vqs are intrresting (design gimmicks) but I wonder how long it will be “modern” and last as acceptable from a design perspective.
The DB9 proves this point, since it is even less strong than the DBS (imho) but still looks stylish, being based on the “old” design language. The front spoiler (a la Virage) is just acceptable for me, because It is not as/too aggressive as with the Vqs.
With the roof down, the difference is less prominent, the Vqs looks still more modern, but not as timeless as the DBS and the DB9. The small side window is not that annoying in real life as I thought, but still a design error for a convertible in this price range imho.
Score: 1. DBS 2. DB9 3. Vanquish
Interior design:
The interior of the Vqs is totally different than of the DBS and DB9 (and all other previous AMs from Gaydon). The instruments, central dash as well as the nav screen (Garmin) look more refined than before, and there is much more (leg) space for driver and passenger. The (standard) seats look better too, and sit very well. Also the trunk space is much larger than in the DBS/DB9.
From the inside, the small side window is even less annoying than from the outside, and will be getting used to probably. What will not be so easy to get used to (and very difficult to like), is the center touch panel: they tried to implement a “touch vibration feedback” mechanism, but it feels like a cheap Asian gadget, not like the dash of an expensive British car……….complete FAIL imho.
Score: 1. Vanquish (except the centre console touch interface) 2. DBS/DB9
Engine/exhaust:
The new V12 engine has more current technology, using knock control, variable air intakes, etc, resulting in higher power and torque output, at lower CO2 emission, so a big step forward. The Vqs combines this with a more aggressive exhaust, finally including open valves (Sport) mode from factory (on the DBS this can be done aftermarket easily).
The (exhaust) sound of the Vqs is much louder and sporty than of the DBS which again is much louder than the standard DB9. The new V12 is very smooth, but in normal situations, not noticeable faster than the DBS, in competitive environments of course the Vqs will take the lead. The difference between Sport and Drive mode is more prominent than in the DBS, and therefore the Vqs and sounds feels more sporty.
Score: 1. Vanquish 2. DBS 3. DB9
Transmission:
The transmission is one of the most important aspects of a sport car, since it is the main connection of the driver with how the car delivers the power to the wheels. Not a fan of the original TT2 auto box with torque convertor, but very enthusiastic about the Manual gearbox in connection with the V12, since it gives a much more involving drive (no unnecessary up/down shifting), I was very anxious to see and feel how the new TT3 of the Vqs would perform in real life.
Let’s start to say the TT3 is a big improvement over the TT2 box: it shifts faster, gives better downshifts, and driving in Manual mode is really Manual (no down/upshifting anymore), so you can drive the Vqs rather sporty and always in the (right) gear the driver chooses! But even in Sport mode, the down and upshifts are relatively “slow” (soft) compared to “regular” S-tronic / DSG / PDK double clutch boxes of “normal” German cars like Audi, BMW and Porsche. The TT3 does its job for an auto box very good, but for people who really like to drive, and are used to manual or double clutch boxes, it is too “boring” and does not fit the rest of the character of the Vqs. It is perfectly in place however in the DB9, which is more of a GT cruiser.
Score: 1. DBS manual 2. Vanquish TT3 3. DBS TT2 4. DB9 TT2
Overall/Driving:
Of course all aspects of the car contribute to a certain driving experience. Driving the new Vqs Volante was better than I expected: the more rigid structure/chassis, the sharper engine/exhaust note as well as the improved auto-box, made it a very good experience and a great ride over local roads. Especially with the roof down, the experience multiplies of course, and even more when driving through tunnels
However, when driving more sporty/actively, you really miss a decent gearbox. A Manual would be perfect, but even a good double clutch box would bring the car to the right level. The new TT3 is better than before, but its behavior does not fit a sports car in this price range.
Of course many people who shop in this price range, like GT cruising too, but then they are better off with the new DB9 or the Bentley Continental. If you like sporty/active driving, the Vqs with this gearbox is certainly not the perfect match, and those people would better go for the V12V, the F12, the MP4-12 or stick to their DBS Manual!
Score: DBS Manual 2. Vanquish TT3 3. DB9 TT2
Closing remark:
The ideal Aston for me would have the exterior design of the DBS (Volante), the new V12 engine, exhaust, rigidness/chassis and interior of the Vqs (but without the toyish touch buttons) and a Manual or Double Clutch gearbox (of AMG?).
Edited by AWV12 on Saturday 19th October 18:48
AWV12 said:
Closing remark:
The ideal Aston for me would have the exterior design of the DBS (Volante), the new V12 engine, exhaust, rigidness/chassis and interior of the Vqs (but without the toyish touch buttons) and a Manual or Double Clutch gearbox (of AMG?).
Be interested to hear what your "ideal Aston" would be :-)The ideal Aston for me would have the exterior design of the DBS (Volante), the new V12 engine, exhaust, rigidness/chassis and interior of the Vqs (but without the toyish touch buttons) and a Manual or Double Clutch gearbox (of AMG?).
AWV12 said:
Be interested to hear what your "ideal Aston" would be :-)
Lots I agree with there AMV12 and thanks for posting. Maybe the one notable exception would be the Vanquish interior, the centre console side 'flashing' not for me, too extreme and will quickly date. On the performance side, your comparison findings are particulary informative. Not wishing to sound pompous AWV12 but I own my ideal Aston, a bespoke DB9.2. I feel very fortunate indeed to possess such a magnificent machine.
Just a bit of correction. The Vanquish uses a TT3 if you want to call it that. All of the Gaydon cars use TT2. TT1 refers to the previous ZF with TT in the DB7. Just didn't want potential purchasers to be confused when they see TT2 in various specs thinking that it is the trans you are referring to in your Vanquish review.
And by the way, when I reviewed the Vanquish from my test drive several months ago, I came to a similar conclusion regarding the perfect (or almost) Aston: roll the Vanq power train under the DBS body, but with a bigger boot.
And by the way, when I reviewed the Vanquish from my test drive several months ago, I came to a similar conclusion regarding the perfect (or almost) Aston: roll the Vanq power train under the DBS body, but with a bigger boot.
When I saw that center console up front I just shook my head. Aesthetically and functionally it just doesn't cut it.
I wasn't crazy about the front or back of the new Vanquish, but I suspect a lot of that is having to work around the new standards, especially in the front. However, there's just no excuse for that center console.
I wasn't crazy about the front or back of the new Vanquish, but I suspect a lot of that is having to work around the new standards, especially in the front. However, there's just no excuse for that center console.
DB9VolanteDriver said:
Just a bit of correction. The Vanquish uses a TT3 if you want to call it that. All of the Gaydon cars use TT2. TT1 refers to the previous ZF with TT in the DB7. Just didn't want potential purchasers to be confused when they see TT2 in various specs thinking that it is the trans you are referring to in your Vanquish review.
Oops, thx, I corrected it.Edited by AWV12 on Saturday 19th October 18:49
even Mrs T said wow 
Small update to my earlier testdrive with the Vanquish Volante with 6=speed auto box.
I am addicted to Manual sport cars, and therefore will stick to my DBS for a long long time, but I test drove both the V12VS as well as the Vanquish with the new 8-speed auto box one week ago, and I was surprised about my conclusion afterwards....
Both cars share the same engine, but are completely different to drive. I would neer buy the V12VS as a daily driver. It drives great when pushing it, of course, and probably is good competition for nay Porsche on a track, but on normal roads it is too nervous for my taste. And then the SS III box........it is indeed better than earlier SS boxes of AM, but it still a nightmare to drive it in Auto mode. In Manual (with the fippers) it is a little bit better (because somewhat controllable) but it is still far from involving. Downshifting is great, especially with the exhaust blips coming with that. I could live with that part, but when upshifting.....even when lifting the right, it is not smooth, and keeps you focussing on the transmission instead of the steering and the road. Test drove a manual V12V a while ago, and would prefer that transmission by a mile (also the reason I bought a manual DBS).
Then stepped over to the Vanquish with the new, 8-speed ZF autobox. Since I am not a fan of torque convertors, etc, I was very sceptic. But what a difference this makes: of course you can drive it in Auto, and it is as smooth as any other higg power German car with an auto box, but when using the pedals in Manual mode, it appeard much more involvng than the previous 6-speed auto box, and yes, more involving than the SS III in the V12VS! Since I drive a RS5 with S-tronic (double clutch) transmission, I started to cmpare the shift times, and the down/upshift behaviour, and I must say that AM/ZF did a great job with this 8-speed auto box: the down/upshifts are very fast, and direct, and it is (almost) on the same level as a S-tronic/DSG/etc double clutch box.
I still would prefer a Manual box, but since that era seems over for good, this 8-speed box is a blessing for the Vanquish. Probably not for long, since when all new car, engines, etc appear next year, a totally new transmission will appear too (AMG double clutch?).
I am addicted to Manual sport cars, and therefore will stick to my DBS for a long long time, but I test drove both the V12VS as well as the Vanquish with the new 8-speed auto box one week ago, and I was surprised about my conclusion afterwards....
Both cars share the same engine, but are completely different to drive. I would neer buy the V12VS as a daily driver. It drives great when pushing it, of course, and probably is good competition for nay Porsche on a track, but on normal roads it is too nervous for my taste. And then the SS III box........it is indeed better than earlier SS boxes of AM, but it still a nightmare to drive it in Auto mode. In Manual (with the fippers) it is a little bit better (because somewhat controllable) but it is still far from involving. Downshifting is great, especially with the exhaust blips coming with that. I could live with that part, but when upshifting.....even when lifting the right, it is not smooth, and keeps you focussing on the transmission instead of the steering and the road. Test drove a manual V12V a while ago, and would prefer that transmission by a mile (also the reason I bought a manual DBS).
Then stepped over to the Vanquish with the new, 8-speed ZF autobox. Since I am not a fan of torque convertors, etc, I was very sceptic. But what a difference this makes: of course you can drive it in Auto, and it is as smooth as any other higg power German car with an auto box, but when using the pedals in Manual mode, it appeard much more involvng than the previous 6-speed auto box, and yes, more involving than the SS III in the V12VS! Since I drive a RS5 with S-tronic (double clutch) transmission, I started to cmpare the shift times, and the down/upshift behaviour, and I must say that AM/ZF did a great job with this 8-speed auto box: the down/upshifts are very fast, and direct, and it is (almost) on the same level as a S-tronic/DSG/etc double clutch box.
I still would prefer a Manual box, but since that era seems over for good, this 8-speed box is a blessing for the Vanquish. Probably not for long, since when all new car, engines, etc appear next year, a totally new transmission will appear too (AMG double clutch?).
I have had a both DBS and a V12V and thought the manual gearbox was far to slow when measured against the new 2015 Vanquish. Obvously, its all down to personal opinions. However, I do love the look of the DBS and believe it will become a timeless classic. (question answered and confirmed in you last post:-)
Edited by FloSpeed on Tuesday 12th May 09:35
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