Opinions please - thinking of buying Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Discussion
Hi, I’m thinking of buying Aston Martin V8 Vantage!!
2 years ago I bought a e85 z4 3.0i as our second car to enjoy the mandated uk holidays (and subsequent road trips).
Working and living in London this car is for weekend enjoyment and road trips only. This year we ventured out of the UK for the first time.
In the last 2 years my situation has changed slightly, new job and house purchase mean that I’ve got more disposable income, and some funds burning a hole - with mortgage rates ruling out a house move for the next 4yrs+. No need for 4 seats and happily live with practicality compromises in return for some fun at the weekend!
I am currently torn between Z4M coupe and v8 vantage. I know two very different cars- but who knows when I might be back in this situation! Ideally would aim to avoid any massive depreciation, hence boiling down to these 2!
Would be looking towards the top of z4m market, but bottom of v8v market (less than 30k ideally). Would be looking at 4.3 manual, flexible on spec - any must haves??
Looking for all opinions and advice please! How much more is it going to cost to run a v8v in servicing and maintenance per year? Are they as reliable as reviews and videos make out?
Unfortunately no driveway or garage, so would be kept on road, is this an issue? I’ve seen solar battery tenders might combat the battery drain issues?
Any and all thoughts very welcome and appreciated, especially anybody who’s had/bought/considered both (or come from e46m3s).
2 years ago I bought a e85 z4 3.0i as our second car to enjoy the mandated uk holidays (and subsequent road trips).
Working and living in London this car is for weekend enjoyment and road trips only. This year we ventured out of the UK for the first time.
In the last 2 years my situation has changed slightly, new job and house purchase mean that I’ve got more disposable income, and some funds burning a hole - with mortgage rates ruling out a house move for the next 4yrs+. No need for 4 seats and happily live with practicality compromises in return for some fun at the weekend!
I am currently torn between Z4M coupe and v8 vantage. I know two very different cars- but who knows when I might be back in this situation! Ideally would aim to avoid any massive depreciation, hence boiling down to these 2!
Would be looking towards the top of z4m market, but bottom of v8v market (less than 30k ideally). Would be looking at 4.3 manual, flexible on spec - any must haves??
Looking for all opinions and advice please! How much more is it going to cost to run a v8v in servicing and maintenance per year? Are they as reliable as reviews and videos make out?
Unfortunately no driveway or garage, so would be kept on road, is this an issue? I’ve seen solar battery tenders might combat the battery drain issues?
Any and all thoughts very welcome and appreciated, especially anybody who’s had/bought/considered both (or come from e46m3s).
Quite a few owners on here had E46 M3s at some point, myself included. Some similarities in how the cars behave but the Vantage definitely feels more of a sports car and more of an event overall.
The Z4M is going to be the least hassle, where £2k will easily cover you to run the BMW annually and the benefit of long life service intervals and more predictable, strong residuals, make the whole thing more approachable financially. The Vantage definitely can live outside but you’ll have to factor in things like the rear subframe and brake lines rusting more quickly and needing attention versus dry storing. Not something you’d necessarily need to deal with immediately but worth baring in mind now they’re 16 years old. The Vantage would also happily go weeks between starting if the battery is healthy and the car is working (faulty OEM tracker being a common parasitic draw).
In a cheap year a Vantage is only going to cost you a service at £700-£1k. But over time general running costs will be beyond the Z4M and depending on how many common issues you run into, clutch replacement, timing cover leaks, subframe corrosion, etc can add up. Consumables, brakes and tyres, will be similar.
The Vantage is more practical than the Z4 in that it’s got a bigger boot if that matters. A harder London car to live with though, steering and clutch are heavy at slow speeds and judging where the front left corner is in tight spaces is ‘fun’.
The Vantage is bloody brilliant though so if you fancy one and can justify running one then go for it!
The Z4M is going to be the least hassle, where £2k will easily cover you to run the BMW annually and the benefit of long life service intervals and more predictable, strong residuals, make the whole thing more approachable financially. The Vantage definitely can live outside but you’ll have to factor in things like the rear subframe and brake lines rusting more quickly and needing attention versus dry storing. Not something you’d necessarily need to deal with immediately but worth baring in mind now they’re 16 years old. The Vantage would also happily go weeks between starting if the battery is healthy and the car is working (faulty OEM tracker being a common parasitic draw).
In a cheap year a Vantage is only going to cost you a service at £700-£1k. But over time general running costs will be beyond the Z4M and depending on how many common issues you run into, clutch replacement, timing cover leaks, subframe corrosion, etc can add up. Consumables, brakes and tyres, will be similar.
The Vantage is more practical than the Z4 in that it’s got a bigger boot if that matters. A harder London car to live with though, steering and clutch are heavy at slow speeds and judging where the front left corner is in tight spaces is ‘fun’.
The Vantage is bloody brilliant though so if you fancy one and can justify running one then go for it!
HWEC2 said:
Hi, I’m thinking of buying Aston Martin V8 Vantage!! ...
There is a tradition amongst prospective buyers of Aston Martins, to select a model and/or budget, then be tempted in a slightly different direction.
Lets cut to the chase. A huge number of improvements were made to the Vantage for model year 2009.
First cars available in September 2008.
A little more money yes, but click on this link, to read about all the technical enhancements.
http://www2.astonmartin.com/en/live/news/2008/05/2...
Fantastic cars. Every drive becomes a special occasion.
Try to find the best condition 4.7, standard suspension, manual gear change.
Here is a video that should convince you about Aston Martins.
https://youtu.be/b-DqmhNPf8Y
HWEC2 said:
Hi, I’m thinking of buying Aston Martin V8 Vantage!!
That’s the decision made so just look for one now !
If the choice is between those 2 then the Aston will feel and sound so much more special than the BMW.
I had an E46 which I then moved onto various 911’s before getting a V8S 4.7 Aston.
I thought the step up feeling between the BMW and the Porsche/s was good but then the step up further was huge.
There will be niggles with Astons so if you are looking for generally German build quality and reliability you will notice a difference but older BMW’s aren’t bombproof either. If it isn’t your main car then this is also less of a concern.
Depreciation I would have thought was pretty near the bottom for the Aston ( doesn’t mean it will necessarily appreciate but equally you shouldn’t lose much if you decide at some point to upgrade - to say a newer Aston ).
Fwiw I’ve had 4 Astons and none have broken down or stopped me from ever finishing a journey.
Condition probably more important than spec per se at this level - but equally there are probably a few on the market to go and look at and drive to get a better feel.
MD’s won’t have many that age but there are some good Indy’s who might - Mcgurks springs to mind as an obvious choice to at least speak to for some advice if nothing else.
As long as the battery is relatively new leaving the car for a few weeks is fine although there seem to be a lot of issues when the battery does go flat so obvs best not to risk this.
I’ve no experience of Solar battery chargers but perhaps this is a sensible compromise.
It won’t be the quickest car in the world but for what you want it for it doesn’t need to be and when you have packed your luggage ( plenty of room in the boot ) and fired her up and then driven to your ( say ) Hotel and parked up you will not say “ wish I’d bought that old BMW “.
If you worried about such things add a plate that isn’t year specific.
Best of luck in your deliberations and hopefully buying experience.
That’s the decision made so just look for one now !
If the choice is between those 2 then the Aston will feel and sound so much more special than the BMW.
I had an E46 which I then moved onto various 911’s before getting a V8S 4.7 Aston.
I thought the step up feeling between the BMW and the Porsche/s was good but then the step up further was huge.
There will be niggles with Astons so if you are looking for generally German build quality and reliability you will notice a difference but older BMW’s aren’t bombproof either. If it isn’t your main car then this is also less of a concern.
Depreciation I would have thought was pretty near the bottom for the Aston ( doesn’t mean it will necessarily appreciate but equally you shouldn’t lose much if you decide at some point to upgrade - to say a newer Aston ).
Fwiw I’ve had 4 Astons and none have broken down or stopped me from ever finishing a journey.
Condition probably more important than spec per se at this level - but equally there are probably a few on the market to go and look at and drive to get a better feel.
MD’s won’t have many that age but there are some good Indy’s who might - Mcgurks springs to mind as an obvious choice to at least speak to for some advice if nothing else.
As long as the battery is relatively new leaving the car for a few weeks is fine although there seem to be a lot of issues when the battery does go flat so obvs best not to risk this.
I’ve no experience of Solar battery chargers but perhaps this is a sensible compromise.
It won’t be the quickest car in the world but for what you want it for it doesn’t need to be and when you have packed your luggage ( plenty of room in the boot ) and fired her up and then driven to your ( say ) Hotel and parked up you will not say “ wish I’d bought that old BMW “.
If you worried about such things add a plate that isn’t year specific.
Best of luck in your deliberations and hopefully buying experience.
Thanks guys, really appreciate the replies!
Food for thought, but I’m definitely swaying towards the AM.
My only hesitation is the ability for it to throw a big bill or two! I know these things won’t be a Toyota to run, and a step up from what I’m used to, how much should I be budgeting (roughly) is £2k per year (seen in some videos) actually realistic or am I multiples away?
Want to go into this eyes open - all infortmation, experiences and useful links appreciated.
What are peoples experiences with dealerships, have one down the road but currently prefer using reputable (budget friendly) independents for the z4!
Food for thought, but I’m definitely swaying towards the AM.
My only hesitation is the ability for it to throw a big bill or two! I know these things won’t be a Toyota to run, and a step up from what I’m used to, how much should I be budgeting (roughly) is £2k per year (seen in some videos) actually realistic or am I multiples away?
Want to go into this eyes open - all infortmation, experiences and useful links appreciated.
What are peoples experiences with dealerships, have one down the road but currently prefer using reputable (budget friendly) independents for the z4!
I think the thing is - having had my first Aston for 18 months - is that you don't know how much it will cost you. It may be that everything works fine, and it costs no more to run than the rival, apart from insurance perhaps, or maybe something goes pop and it's wallet time. Much of the secret I've found is to choose your suppliers carefully. You don't say where you are, but for example if it's East Anglia, avoid a certain indy ex-dealer who will happily charge you a 4 figure sum to look at the wrong end of the car.
I think that as long as you have a few K spare in the bank 'for contingencies', go for it. But I would say that wouldn't I
I think that as long as you have a few K spare in the bank 'for contingencies', go for it. But I would say that wouldn't I
I know you say you want a manual, but as others have said, the search can go in different directions. You may find an otherwise perfect car at your budget but discover it’s the dreaded ‘sportshift’….
You can search PH to find endless debate on this, but as a reminder, the three key choices, assuming budget stretches are coupe vs roadster, manual vs automated manual and 4.3 vs 4.7. You’ve said 4.3 manual is the preference. There’s a bit of a premium on a manual, though less so on the 4.3 as all of the early cars only came in manual flavour. I think SS was offered from 2007.
You might spot a later car with sportshift and be tempted. It has always sparked strong opinions.
Sportshift
It’s not an auto, it is actually the same manual gearbox as the ‘manual’. It’s just not not a ‘real’ manual as there’s no stick or pedal. It’s an automated manual - Clarksons infernal ‘flappy paddle’ gearbox. It comes in three flavours, SS1, fitted to all non S V8 with the 6-speed box, the much more developed SS2, fitted only to V8S (7 speed box and a crucially lower reverse gear) and SS3, fitted only to the V12VS with the same 7 speed box as the V8VS. SS3 is effectively the same as SS2, but uses a lighter flywheel (because a V12 is an inherently smoother engine than a V8) and a twin plate clutch arrangement for the beefier V12. Both SS1 and SS2 can be significantly improved by specialist installation of broadly the same V12 light flywheel and twin plate clutch assembly - sometimes at cost of slightly increased driveline NVH from the secondary vibes of the V8.
Many try it once on a test drive, especially SS1, hate it, then spend their lives slagging it in forums like this.
Many more buy one, especially SS1, come to hate it, then spend their lives much more authoritatively hating it on forums like this.
Others, having first learned all the little tricks to work around the, er, ‘characterful’ low speed characteristics, then perhaps later upgraded to the V12 based clutch and flywheel, come to love it.
Fact is, once you know the sportshift transmission, and especially once it’s been ‘breathed on’, it is possible to drive the car perfectly and smoothly in any situation, with no stalling, no burning clutches, no lurching, no shunting at low speed, no nodding dog and no embarrassment.
Then we come to love them, and the driver engagement and practising the unique techniques and skills that are required to get the best out of them.
Then there are others for whom only the third pedal and rowing their own box will do.
The first time you drive any of them you will experience all of the above. It needs time, without it, someone who really knows demonstrating and showing you how to drive it.
So if you are thinking of an ‘auto’ - don’t listen to the opinions of others, just try one for yourself, ideally one with the far better twin plate clutch, and with someone who can demonstrate how to get the best out of it.
You can search PH to find endless debate on this, but as a reminder, the three key choices, assuming budget stretches are coupe vs roadster, manual vs automated manual and 4.3 vs 4.7. You’ve said 4.3 manual is the preference. There’s a bit of a premium on a manual, though less so on the 4.3 as all of the early cars only came in manual flavour. I think SS was offered from 2007.
You might spot a later car with sportshift and be tempted. It has always sparked strong opinions.
Sportshift
It’s not an auto, it is actually the same manual gearbox as the ‘manual’. It’s just not not a ‘real’ manual as there’s no stick or pedal. It’s an automated manual - Clarksons infernal ‘flappy paddle’ gearbox. It comes in three flavours, SS1, fitted to all non S V8 with the 6-speed box, the much more developed SS2, fitted only to V8S (7 speed box and a crucially lower reverse gear) and SS3, fitted only to the V12VS with the same 7 speed box as the V8VS. SS3 is effectively the same as SS2, but uses a lighter flywheel (because a V12 is an inherently smoother engine than a V8) and a twin plate clutch arrangement for the beefier V12. Both SS1 and SS2 can be significantly improved by specialist installation of broadly the same V12 light flywheel and twin plate clutch assembly - sometimes at cost of slightly increased driveline NVH from the secondary vibes of the V8.
Many try it once on a test drive, especially SS1, hate it, then spend their lives slagging it in forums like this.
Many more buy one, especially SS1, come to hate it, then spend their lives much more authoritatively hating it on forums like this.
Others, having first learned all the little tricks to work around the, er, ‘characterful’ low speed characteristics, then perhaps later upgraded to the V12 based clutch and flywheel, come to love it.
Fact is, once you know the sportshift transmission, and especially once it’s been ‘breathed on’, it is possible to drive the car perfectly and smoothly in any situation, with no stalling, no burning clutches, no lurching, no shunting at low speed, no nodding dog and no embarrassment.
Then we come to love them, and the driver engagement and practising the unique techniques and skills that are required to get the best out of them.
Then there are others for whom only the third pedal and rowing their own box will do.
The first time you drive any of them you will experience all of the above. It needs time, without it, someone who really knows demonstrating and showing you how to drive it.
So if you are thinking of an ‘auto’ - don’t listen to the opinions of others, just try one for yourself, ideally one with the far better twin plate clutch, and with someone who can demonstrate how to get the best out of it.
Edited by Calinours on Monday 31st July 08:44
HWEC2 said:
Thanks guys, really appreciate the replies!
Food for thought, but I’m definitely swaying towards the AM.
My only hesitation is the ability for it to throw a big bill or two! I know these things won’t be a Toyota to run, and a step up from what I’m used to, how much should I be budgeting (roughly) is £2k per year (seen in some videos) actually realistic or am I multiples away?
Want to go into this eyes open - all information, experiences and useful links appreciated.
What are peoples experiences with dealerships, have one down the road but currently prefer using reputable (budget friendly) independents for the z4!
Lots of good independents (a search on here will reveal them all). Personally I've been pleased with running costs and mine hasn't thrown any surprises. Of course there is that possibility but if you 'self warranty' with your £2k per annum I'd expect to have a fair bit in reserve after a few years. Lots of parts commonality with Ford / Volvo / Jag (there is a thread on her about that too) which can really bring the costs down. I upped my budget a tiny bit and managed to get into a 4.7 2010 manual roadster - it is, frankly, sublime and way more than I'd ever dreamed it could be! Just go for it! Obviously covered storage is better but, especially for a coupe, I don't see any real issue with it living outdoors. Give it a good coat of quality wax and maybe budget for a bit of light subframe refurb every few years.Food for thought, but I’m definitely swaying towards the AM.
My only hesitation is the ability for it to throw a big bill or two! I know these things won’t be a Toyota to run, and a step up from what I’m used to, how much should I be budgeting (roughly) is £2k per year (seen in some videos) actually realistic or am I multiples away?
Want to go into this eyes open - all information, experiences and useful links appreciated.
What are peoples experiences with dealerships, have one down the road but currently prefer using reputable (budget friendly) independents for the z4!
First advice is usually read 'The Book' 
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
This will help with what spec was what on what year, so you can tell who's talking rubbish in adverts.
At sub £30K there's lots about, but caution is certainly needed, most will either not have any warranty or 15 minutes from a back street dealer that will not cover much so knowing what your looking at will help, or pay for an inspection when you are 99% there on a car.
Don't be afraid of mileage, sometimes a well used car will be more reliable than a garage queen, but any 16 year old car can throw a big bill without multiplying it by the Aston Tax.
I think most of my running costs are in my profile, but I do quite low mileage and think I have been VERY luck with my bills but some could say that's from buying a solid car in the first place, which again was just a lot of luck, I just liked the colour.
Having £1k for servicing a year doing 3k miles with an extra £1k 'just in case' money per year seems to work for me, but there's always an additional slush fund for the 'big bill' that can raise it's head at any time, a set of tyres would be £1k clutch £4k, etc....
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
This will help with what spec was what on what year, so you can tell who's talking rubbish in adverts.
At sub £30K there's lots about, but caution is certainly needed, most will either not have any warranty or 15 minutes from a back street dealer that will not cover much so knowing what your looking at will help, or pay for an inspection when you are 99% there on a car.
Don't be afraid of mileage, sometimes a well used car will be more reliable than a garage queen, but any 16 year old car can throw a big bill without multiplying it by the Aston Tax.
I think most of my running costs are in my profile, but I do quite low mileage and think I have been VERY luck with my bills but some could say that's from buying a solid car in the first place, which again was just a lot of luck, I just liked the colour.
Having £1k for servicing a year doing 3k miles with an extra £1k 'just in case' money per year seems to work for me, but there's always an additional slush fund for the 'big bill' that can raise it's head at any time, a set of tyres would be £1k clutch £4k, etc....
If we are talking first year costs, here's my break down. V8 Vantage 48,000 miles with Timeless Warranty.
New clutch, £3600
Service £700
Misc costs not really budgeted for...
Car mats - 80
Noco Booster pack - 120
Engine oil - 50
Battery conditioner - 100
New tyre sealant ( other had expired) - 70
SAT Nav update -35
OBD Reader - 30
Filler cap tether - 70
On the second service I had a new battery fitted, all wheel nuts replaced as 8 were cracked, all the filters changed, and a broken bleed nipple. That was expensive and then in the same month the warranty for the next year. lol!!!
When I think about the whole cost, it makes me laugh , otherwise I would cry!!! but , when you get in, push that key in the dash, all that goes out the window, and you realise life to short so get on and enjoy yourself!
So after my first year, I now budget for 5k per year, as although everything is now sorted , when it goes for a service you never know.
Tyres will be next , so they are not a cheap thing to run. Then you have all the nice to have things like, tickets to Aston Martin events, clothing, magazine subscriptions, club membership fees, it quickly adds up.
Kev
New clutch, £3600
Service £700
Misc costs not really budgeted for...
Car mats - 80
Noco Booster pack - 120
Engine oil - 50
Battery conditioner - 100
New tyre sealant ( other had expired) - 70
SAT Nav update -35
OBD Reader - 30
Filler cap tether - 70
On the second service I had a new battery fitted, all wheel nuts replaced as 8 were cracked, all the filters changed, and a broken bleed nipple. That was expensive and then in the same month the warranty for the next year. lol!!!
When I think about the whole cost, it makes me laugh , otherwise I would cry!!! but , when you get in, push that key in the dash, all that goes out the window, and you realise life to short so get on and enjoy yourself!
So after my first year, I now budget for 5k per year, as although everything is now sorted , when it goes for a service you never know.
Tyres will be next , so they are not a cheap thing to run. Then you have all the nice to have things like, tickets to Aston Martin events, clothing, magazine subscriptions, club membership fees, it quickly adds up.
Kev
Edited by kevin_cambs_uk on Monday 31st July 17:40
Sub £30k and outside of the main dealer network is a fairly scary place to be shopping for a V8 Vantage.
About two years ago, that’s exactly where I found myself, as my lack of budget meant I couldn’t stretch to a dealer 4.3 or a private 4.7.
However, the PH forms are a great help and an invaluable source of information. Read as much as you can, take as much advice as you can and see as many cars as you can.
There are good cars out there at the £30k level, but sadly, there are some lemons out there too. Just be aware of the potential pitfalls and go in with your eyes open.
My readers cars thread - https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
About two years ago, that’s exactly where I found myself, as my lack of budget meant I couldn’t stretch to a dealer 4.3 or a private 4.7.
However, the PH forms are a great help and an invaluable source of information. Read as much as you can, take as much advice as you can and see as many cars as you can.
There are good cars out there at the £30k level, but sadly, there are some lemons out there too. Just be aware of the potential pitfalls and go in with your eyes open.
My readers cars thread - https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
HWEC2 said:
Thanks guys, really appreciate the replies!
Food for thought, but I’m definitely swaying towards the AM.
My only hesitation is the ability for it to throw a big bill or two! I know these things won’t be a Toyota to run, and a step up from what I’m used to, how much should I be budgeting (roughly) is £2k per year (seen in some videos) actually realistic or am I multiples away?
Want to go into this eyes open - all infortmation, experiences and useful links appreciated.
What are peoples experiences with dealerships, have one down the road but currently prefer using reputable (budget friendly) independents for the z4!
Of course it could all go wrong, but so far off me the Vantage is cheaper to run than a z4M…(my previous car). Killer for the M is the shim service every 2 years, was £1k + at Indy, probably more now. And though you could go 2 years between service most owners would do oil at least annually. Same with AM service at a decent Indy, annually do oil unless something else is needed ( many on here would say you don’t even need to bother with that if low mileage) So far nothing much has gone wrong on mine - cost per item may be more on Aston but tbh most BMWs I’ve had get expensive at the age of car you’re looking at here with regular replacement bits being needed, that aren’t cheap…many can be M only which means you can only get from BMW hence comparatively high costs to fix. However putting all that aside, Is there any real comparison in what you’ll be driving and the engine sound you’re listening to? No, Aston wins outright!! Food for thought, but I’m definitely swaying towards the AM.
My only hesitation is the ability for it to throw a big bill or two! I know these things won’t be a Toyota to run, and a step up from what I’m used to, how much should I be budgeting (roughly) is £2k per year (seen in some videos) actually realistic or am I multiples away?
Want to go into this eyes open - all infortmation, experiences and useful links appreciated.
What are peoples experiences with dealerships, have one down the road but currently prefer using reputable (budget friendly) independents for the z4!
Ps- if you do go for z4M, it is in itself a great fun car, and most owners recommend using a good Indy - if the dealer doesn’t ask you to bring it in the day before it’s shim service, steer clear! The oil has to be cold. And they will charge you much more for the privilege as well…. .
Check out the Z4 Forum for their views, it’s much more active for those cars than PH is
Check out the Z4 Forum for their views, it’s much more active for those cars than PH is
geresey said:
Ps- if you do go for z4M, it is in itself a great fun car, and most owners recommend using a good Indy - if the dealer doesn’t ask you to bring it in the day before it’s shim service, steer clear! The oil has to be cold. And they will charge you much more for the privilege as well…. .
Check out the Z4 Forum for their views, it’s much more active for those cars than PH is
Check out the Z4 Forum for their views, it’s much more active for those cars than PH is
I needed to look up the Z4 to see if it was the car I had in mind.
I could then see that the design has been greatly improved from the Z3.
The Z3 has always puzzled me, because by ignoring the golden proportion rule, it has an ugly feature that my eye is always drawn to.
The metal part of the door height is about 50%, then the window sill to roof another 50%.
Compare that with the Vantage, where there is two thirds, then one third. A far more attractive proportion.
Edited by Jon39 on Tuesday 1st August 02:32
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