Aston Newbie in need of some advice
Discussion
Hi everyone, really lovely to join and meet you all. I'm based in wiltshire, full time single dad to a very full on but fun 4 year old. I'm going to become an AM owner in the next few months, having wanted one since I was 12 (I'm 40 now). But I have a slight worry I'd like some advice on. I've read this forum extensively which has helped me get to this point, but I can't put my finger on the answer to this but (perhaps because it's very subjective)
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
First and best investment on a vantage is this ebook:
https://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Guide-Gaydon-Ast...
Said that, in a nutshell. Personally my preference would be a manual (4.3 or 4.7). If -like me- you do not find a manual in the right price range, make sure you get a SSII gearbox. I came from a boxster spyder. Forget that the aston perform/dance like the boxster/cayman. It's more a GT, but easy to drive despite the additional hp. Be ready to have glitches here and there but, in my case, I was always able to drive home/to the dealer, and that for me it's enough. Look and sound are just WOW. Overall I do not regret the purchase of this car, at all. Even if drivingwise it would not be my first choice.
https://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Guide-Gaydon-Ast...
Said that, in a nutshell. Personally my preference would be a manual (4.3 or 4.7). If -like me- you do not find a manual in the right price range, make sure you get a SSII gearbox. I came from a boxster spyder. Forget that the aston perform/dance like the boxster/cayman. It's more a GT, but easy to drive despite the additional hp. Be ready to have glitches here and there but, in my case, I was always able to drive home/to the dealer, and that for me it's enough. Look and sound are just WOW. Overall I do not regret the purchase of this car, at all. Even if drivingwise it would not be my first choice.
I find the Vantage quite tame compared to what I’ve been
used to, it’s very well behaved in all weathers and very easy to drive, really nothing to be worried about. The traction control is too intrusive imo and doesn’t let you have any fun at all, which makes it very sure footed and safe, when you’re used to it you can always switch the nanny off and have a bit of fun.
I love mine to bits, it just feels so special, my only regret is they’re expensive to modify so I have to beat that side of me down
used to, it’s very well behaved in all weathers and very easy to drive, really nothing to be worried about. The traction control is too intrusive imo and doesn’t let you have any fun at all, which makes it very sure footed and safe, when you’re used to it you can always switch the nanny off and have a bit of fun.
I love mine to bits, it just feels so special, my only regret is they’re expensive to modify so I have to beat that side of me down
AstonNewbieUK said:
Hi everyone, really lovely to join and meet you all.
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
I am sure that it won't be 'too much' car for you.
I have a 4.7 manual which is a delight and it is quite happy to be driven slowly, or quickly. Plenty of engine torque, so can potter along in a higher gear than might be expected.
Plenty of room inside and the boot is a surprisingly generous size for a sports car.
I think the size is just right. Here is a comparison.
I would choose one of the 4.7 models, because a large number of improvements were introduced for that model.
Make sure you know all about Sportshift, if considering that gear change.
Suggest the SportsPack cars (harder suspension) (think the S models also have that suspension) might be too bumpy on our now dreadful road surfaces.
Your reference to 'comfortable cruiser'. Well, it is not Mercedes S class comfortable. The standard suspension is quite firm, which would be expected of a sports car. It is wonderful to drive which makes ever journey an occasion, and I still say that after 13 years of ownership.
Take your time selecting a car and go for the best condition possible. Many are fairly lightly used, so there are some magnificent cars appearing for sale sometimes. If the interior looks brand new, that is one good indication.
Edited by Dewi 2 on Sunday 1st December 21:30
First up, welcome, and no question is too vague etc, especially when prefaced with as much background as that.
The short answer to your question is no, any 4.7 including S and all other variants absolutely would not be too much. Maybe only the V12 could be.
More detail below..
The short answer to your question is no, any 4.7 including S and all other variants absolutely would not be too much. Maybe only the V12 could be.
More detail below..
AstonNewbieUK said:
Hi everyone, really lovely to join and meet you all. I'm based in wiltshire, full time single dad to a very full on but fun 4 year old. I'm going to become an AM owner in the next few months, having wanted one since I was 12 (I'm 40 now). But I have a slight worry I'd like some advice on. I've read this forum extensively which has helped me get to this point, but I can't put my finger on the answer to this but (perhaps because it's very subjective)
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
The 4.7/S is just a bit quicker than a 4.3 as may be expected. Roughly 10% bigger engine = roughly 10% more power and torque. Hardly a step change. Due to the weight and the nature of that V8, no n/a Vantage will feel much quicker than the lighter Cayman.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
If you have the money, with any aston, always buy the best and latest car that you can. All V8 Vantages are essentially the same car and all can do the GT thing very well. Be wary of too noisy cars that can grate on the motorway and annoy neighbours. Aftermarket silencers and de-cats (loads of folk chop headers and cats up) are the usual culprits, and many feel the sports suspension to be too firm. Best to drive as it's all subjective.
Your range is 2010-2015. Any S, SP10, N430 or post 2012.5 car with the mechanical upgrades is the obvious way to go if you have the cash.
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
The 4.7/S is just a bit quicker than a 4.3 as may be expected. Roughly 10% bigger engine = roughly 10% more power and torque. Hardly a step change. Due to the weight and the nature of that V8, no n/a Vantage will feel much quicker than the lighter Cayman.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
If you have the money, with any aston, always buy the best and latest car that you can. All V8 Vantages are essentially the same car and all can do the GT thing very well. Be wary of too noisy cars that can grate on the motorway and annoy neighbours. Aftermarket silencers and de-cats (loads of folk chop headers and cats up) are the usual culprits, and many feel the sports suspension to be too firm. Best to drive as it's all subjective.
Your range is 2010-2015. Any S, SP10, N430 or post 2012.5 car with the mechanical upgrades is the obvious way to go if you have the cash.
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
AstonNewbieUK said:
Hi everyone, really lovely to join and meet you all. I'm based in wiltshire, full time single dad to a very full on but fun 4 year old. I'm going to become an AM owner in the next few months, having wanted one since I was 12 (I'm 40 now). But I have a slight worry I'd like some advice on. I've read this forum extensively which has helped me get to this point, but I can't put my finger on the answer to this but (perhaps because it's very subjective)
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
I bought mine (V12V) when my daughter was 4, and she loves it! Always asks if she can go in the racing car.I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
I can’t comment on the choice of V8, but I think the size of the vantage is wonderful - it doesn’t feel any bigger than my old Cayman.
Exciting times, OP!
You’re in the right place here for getting the right advice - something I benefitted from earlier last year when returning to the brand.
As others have said, don’t worry about the Vantage’s size. It’s not a long car and whilst it may feel wider than it is, it’s not a big car (certainly compared to more modern products).
I had a 2009 4.7 Manual back in 2009-2011 and now have a 2017 S SSII as my weekender. The SSII is not an automatic and doesn’t compare to something like a PDK. I, like many, really like it. However, it had detractors due to the fact you need to “learn” how to drive it properly.
Whilst not fragile, the one piece of advice I’d give is to keep it on a battery conditioner when not in use (especially as it’s not your daily driver). Happy hunting!
You’re in the right place here for getting the right advice - something I benefitted from earlier last year when returning to the brand.
As others have said, don’t worry about the Vantage’s size. It’s not a long car and whilst it may feel wider than it is, it’s not a big car (certainly compared to more modern products).
I had a 2009 4.7 Manual back in 2009-2011 and now have a 2017 S SSII as my weekender. The SSII is not an automatic and doesn’t compare to something like a PDK. I, like many, really like it. However, it had detractors due to the fact you need to “learn” how to drive it properly.
Whilst not fragile, the one piece of advice I’d give is to keep it on a battery conditioner when not in use (especially as it’s not your daily driver). Happy hunting!
My first Aston was an SP10 which was basically a well optioned "special " 4.7S but it had comfort suspension as opposed to sports and manual.
I came from a succession of 911's and prior to that M3's and certainly didn't find the 4.7 "too much " nor did I ever find the size an issue.
Great introduction to the marque but I made the "mistake " of driving a V12S at Millbrook and changed to that.
In fairness I still have my GT8 with a 4.7 engine which I will never sell.
Grant's book (I think only available online now ) is an excellent suggestion and depending on where you are in the UK a visit to somewhere like Mcgurks might whet your appetite some more.
The whole Aston experience is so much more ( quite literally sometimes though ) than the numbers suggest.
I came from a succession of 911's and prior to that M3's and certainly didn't find the 4.7 "too much " nor did I ever find the size an issue.
Great introduction to the marque but I made the "mistake " of driving a V12S at Millbrook and changed to that.
In fairness I still have my GT8 with a 4.7 engine which I will never sell.
Grant's book (I think only available online now ) is an excellent suggestion and depending on where you are in the UK a visit to somewhere like Mcgurks might whet your appetite some more.
The whole Aston experience is so much more ( quite literally sometimes though ) than the numbers suggest.
AstonNewbieUK said:
Hi everyone, really lovely to join and meet you all.
<snip>
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
Similar situation to you - my "daily" is a Volvo V60 CC and I've had a 2015 4.7 non-'S' SSII Vantage Coupe for about 5 years.<snip>
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
Sorry, incredibly vague question, but any thoughts greatly appreciated
A Vantage is about the same size as a Ford Focus, so physically it won't be too much. I found the 4.3 too lacking in low-down torque, as I prefer not to "rev" a car like a VTEC, so I went 4.7. If you're referring to the 400+ bhp then no, it won't be too much. The Vantage (common to many VH Astons) has a long throttle travel, especially when not in "Sport" so you won't find yourself with unexpected amounts of power from pressing the throttle unless you deliberately ask the car for it; similarly, the (relative) lack of low-down torque means the car will just trickle along unless you ask it not to. I personally went for the non-'S' for the laughingly-named "Comfort" suspension (believe me, it isn't soft or wallow-y like your Volvo) because of the state of our UK roads. In retrospect I would have considered 4.7 'S' cars if I'd have known how much changing the tyres away from Bridgestones can transform the ride.
Think of a Vantage more as a stunning-looking GT car - you'll never keep up with a well-driven Golf 'R', as that's not what a Vantage is about. But it's not slow. You will have to get used to people saying "Nice car, mate" in car parks (my latest was on Saturday when I was out shopping in mine) and being videoed by young boys to show on their social media as you drive down the high street - First World Aston-owner problems!. You'll get let out of junctions like Porsche and BMW owners never will.
What you might find takes some getting used to is the visibility (or lack of it). Your Volvo is like a greenhouse on wheels by comparison, but it's just a case of getting acclimatising to it. You can't see the front corners, but you soon get used to "sensing" where the car ends. Visibility over the shoulders is also a bit limited, but the mirrors are good and the Park Sensors also work well. The rear camera can help, depending how bright it is outside (it's early 2000's technology).
My advice? Drive some. Try the 4.3 and the 4.7 and decide which you prefer - some swear by the 4.3. I used main dealers and just booked drives, but you may find that more difficult 5 years on as most 4.3's are now out of the MD circuit. I actually took mine to meet up with PH'er and prospective buyer and that sealed the deal for him - he is now the proud owner of a very nice 4.7 Coupe.
edited to add
I missed the "comfortable cruiser" bit. Yes, it is. At motorway speeds I happily sit in 7th with the engine at less than 3000 rpm listening to talk radio for hours. Wind-noise is very low, the driveline is quiet, the seats are firm but comfortable, you have a decent HVAC, heated seats and a cosy cabin - what's not to like? If the weather is good and the wife and I are going on a trip then I'll take the Vantage over the Volvo. The only downside is the fat tyres can be a bit noisy on some surfaces, but nothing like in a 911.
Edited by LTP on Monday 2nd December 10:16
Dewi 2 said:
AstonNewbieUK said:
Hi everyone, really lovely to join and meet you all.
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
I'll have an AM as a second car, to my 2017 Volvo XC60 (which will handle winter, bad weather, and toddler duties!). So I'm landing in a Vantage Coupe (probably c. 2010-2015) as "the car" but I'm unsure on spec. I have a good understanding of the options, but I'm slightly worried it could be "too much" car for me. I'm a confident driver, and have driven high performance, smaller engined cars (Golf GTI, Cayman etc), but the Vantage is a (beautiful) big beast.
So I guess I'm questioning whether I should go for a base model, or even a slightly older 4.3, vs a newer S. Does it make much of a difference, and is it possible to drive one as more of a comfortable cruiser than full on, all the time (although I'll clearly do a bit of that).
I am sure that it won't be 'too much' car for you.
I have a 4.7 manual which is a delight and it is quite happy to be driven slowly, or quickly. Plenty of engine torque, so can potter along in a higher gear than might be expected.
Plenty of room inside and the boot is a surprisingly generous size for a sports car.
I think the size is just right. Here is a comparison.
I would choose one of the 4.7 models, because a large number of improvements were introduced for that model.
Make sure you know all about Sportshift, if considering that gear change.
Suggest the SportsPack cars (harder suspension) (think the S models also have that suspension) might be too bumpy on our now dreadful road surfaces.
Your reference to 'comfortable cruiser'. Well, it is not Mercedes S class comfortable. The standard suspension is quite firm, which would be expected of a sports car. It is wonderful to drive which makes ever journey an occasion, and I still say that after 13 years of ownership.
Take your time selecting a car and go for the best condition possible. Many are fairly lightly used, so there are some magnificent cars appearing for sale sometimes. If the interior looks brand new, that is one good indication.
Edited by Dewi 2 on Sunday 1st December 21:30
DBA086 said:
I bought mine (V12V) when my daughter was 4, and she loves it! Always asks if she can go in the racing car.
I can’t comment on the choice of V8, but I think the size of the vantage is wonderful - it doesn’t feel any bigger than my old Cayman.
My lad loves all cars and vehicles, and especially racing cars. I'm really excited to have something exciting for him to go in. We have had a tough year (his mum/my wife is currently in end of life care with MND) so I feel like we both deserve something fantastic next yearI can’t comment on the choice of V8, but I think the size of the vantage is wonderful - it doesn’t feel any bigger than my old Cayman.
The V12 Way said:
where abouts in wiltshire are you, i am north dorset so could help with questions, 7 year owner of 2010 V12V and 2015 V12S
I'm in Chippenham. Grew up in Dorset actually, on the coast in West Dorset, so know your neck of the woods too. One thing I have been wondering is if there is a decent indie specialist who would be able to service etc somewhere in this neck of the woods? ZT260SE said:
Exciting times, OP!
You’re in the right place here for getting the right advice - something I benefitted from earlier last year when returning to the brand.
As others have said, don’t worry about the Vantage’s size. It’s not a long car and whilst it may feel wider than it is, it’s not a big car (certainly compared to more modern products).
I had a 2009 4.7 Manual back in 2009-2011 and now have a 2017 S SSII as my weekender. The SSII is not an automatic and doesn’t compare to something like a PDK. I, like many, really like it. However, it had detractors due to the fact you need to “learn” how to drive it properly.
Whilst not fragile, the one piece of advice I’d give is to keep it on a battery conditioner when not in use (especially as it’s not your daily driver). Happy hunting!
The advice has been amazing! So greatfeuly recieved. And thank you on the battery conditioner point! Noted You’re in the right place here for getting the right advice - something I benefitted from earlier last year when returning to the brand.
As others have said, don’t worry about the Vantage’s size. It’s not a long car and whilst it may feel wider than it is, it’s not a big car (certainly compared to more modern products).
I had a 2009 4.7 Manual back in 2009-2011 and now have a 2017 S SSII as my weekender. The SSII is not an automatic and doesn’t compare to something like a PDK. I, like many, really like it. However, it had detractors due to the fact you need to “learn” how to drive it properly.
Whilst not fragile, the one piece of advice I’d give is to keep it on a battery conditioner when not in use (especially as it’s not your daily driver). Happy hunting!
alscar said:
ZT260SE said:
Whilst not fragile, the one piece of advice I’d give is to keep it on a battery conditioner when not in use (especially as it’s not your daily driver). Happy hunting!
Keeping it on one is excellent advice - CTEK MSX5 is probably the one to get if a lead battery.Gassing Station | Aston Martin | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff