RE: Aston Martin V12 Vanquish: PH Buying Guide
Sunday 3rd January 2016
The Aston Martin V12 Vanquish had a slightly faltering start to its life. Born as the Project Vantage in 1998 as a replacement for the ageing Vantage range, the resulting Vanquish was supposed to have appeared at the Birmingham Motor Show in 2000. However, Aston boss Ulrich Bez took exception to some of the more obviously Ford-sourced interior trim and pulled the car from the show.
Yes, you could really could get a Vanquish in 2001By the time the production Vanquish appeared in 2001 with a £158,000 starting price, the Ian Callum-styled coupe was eagerly anticipated and much needed. Gone was the old Vantage model's V8 motor and steel tube-framed base in favour of a 5.9-litre V12 and bonded aluminium chassis that made extensive use of carbon fibre.
520hp Vanquish S arrived in 2004At the end of the Vanquish's life, the final 50 cars were the Ultimate edition model finished in metallic black paint and with unique trim and fittings. When the last rolled off the line in July 2007, it marked the end of Aston Martin production in Newport Pagnell. In total, 1,086 S models were made.
Aston Martin V12 Vanquish: PH Buying Guide
The car that launched 21st century Aston and still in demand today - here's the PH guide to getting a Vanquish
Search for an Aston Martin V12 Vanquish here
Yes, you could really could get a Vanquish in 2001
With 460hp as standard, the Vanquish came with a six-speed manual gearbox but no clutch pedal. The shifting was automated via an electrohydraulic, paddleshift operated gear change, though it could also be left in automatic mode. Aston Martin Works later offered a conversion to a full manual for those owners who preferred complete control over the gear selection process.
The Vanquish was a steady seller for Aston, racking up 1,489 sales, but in 2004 the Vanquish S was introduced that offered a 520hp motor and subtle changes to the front grille, splitter and rear spoiler. These helped cope with the S model's new 200mph top speed.
520hp Vanquish S arrived in 2004
Now the Vanquish is very much a rising modern classic thanks to its limited numbers, beautiful looks, V12 engine and even a bit of movie fairy dust from its appearance in Die Another Day. Prices are rising and where you might once have snapped up a Vanquish for £40,000, today you will be looking at spending from £70,000 for a car with full history and reasonably low miles. For the very best late 2007 Vanquish S with low miles, you'll be looking at £100,000.
PHer's view:
"Looks, style, comfort, a V12 engine, huge performance and even some luggage space. All that and it's a pukka James Bond car. How can you not like the Vanquish?"
J Blythe
Buying Guide Contents:
Introduction
Powertrain
Rolling Chassis
Body
Interior
Search for an Aston Martin V12 Vanquish here
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Discussion
I remember test driving the Vanquish when it first came out. I had already bought in 1999 a second hand 550 Maranello, but with the new Aston, a change was on the cards. I had already owned the Jag derived straight 6 supercharged DB7 Volante, a stunningly beautiful car with a fairly useless drivetrain. I was sad to see the DB7 go, but looks weren't everything (I wasn't going to miss the Ford Granada switch-gear and MX5 door handles either.)
When the all new V12 Vanquish arrived, I was ready to switch back to Aston Martin.
I couldn't wait for the Aston dealer to arrive at my home for the drive, and when he finally pulled up in the brand new stunning Aston Vanquish, looking wonderful in its Aston metallic green spec, I was ready to write out the cheque without stepping foot into the car.
But then came the drive. Like the DB7, the drivetrain was awful, especially in traffic. With the gearbox at the back, every shift resulted in a clunk. While the sound of the exhaust was glorious its overall dynamics were poor.
As a sweet GT, the Vanquish is more than fine. Stunning to look at, with an exhaust note to die for. But as a supercar V12, it wasn't even close to the Maranello.
When the all new V12 Vanquish arrived, I was ready to switch back to Aston Martin.
I couldn't wait for the Aston dealer to arrive at my home for the drive, and when he finally pulled up in the brand new stunning Aston Vanquish, looking wonderful in its Aston metallic green spec, I was ready to write out the cheque without stepping foot into the car.
But then came the drive. Like the DB7, the drivetrain was awful, especially in traffic. With the gearbox at the back, every shift resulted in a clunk. While the sound of the exhaust was glorious its overall dynamics were poor.
As a sweet GT, the Vanquish is more than fine. Stunning to look at, with an exhaust note to die for. But as a supercar V12, it wasn't even close to the Maranello.
Camlet said:
I remember test driving the Vanquish when it first came out. I had already bought in 1999 a second hand 550 Maranello, but with the new Aston, a change was on the cards. I had already owned the Jag derived straight 6 supercharged DB7 Volante, a stunningly beautiful car with a fairly useless drivetrain. I was sad to see the DB7 go, but looks weren't everything (I wasn't going to miss the Ford Granada switch-gear and MX5 door handles either.)
When the all new V12 Vanquish arrived, I was ready to switch back to Aston Martin.
I couldn't wait for the Aston dealer to arrive at my home for the drive, and when he finally pulled up in the brand new stunning Aston Vanquish, looking wonderful in its Aston metallic green spec, I was ready to write out the cheque without stepping foot into the car.
But then came the drive. Like the DB7, the drivetrain was awful, especially in traffic. With the gearbox at the back, every shift resulted in a clunk. While the sound of the exhaust was glorious its overall dynamics were poor.
As a sweet GT, the Vanquish is more than fine. Stunning to look at, with an exhaust note to die for. But as a supercar V12, it wasn't even close to the Maranello.
Lovely insight. Thanks!When the all new V12 Vanquish arrived, I was ready to switch back to Aston Martin.
I couldn't wait for the Aston dealer to arrive at my home for the drive, and when he finally pulled up in the brand new stunning Aston Vanquish, looking wonderful in its Aston metallic green spec, I was ready to write out the cheque without stepping foot into the car.
But then came the drive. Like the DB7, the drivetrain was awful, especially in traffic. With the gearbox at the back, every shift resulted in a clunk. While the sound of the exhaust was glorious its overall dynamics were poor.
As a sweet GT, the Vanquish is more than fine. Stunning to look at, with an exhaust note to die for. But as a supercar V12, it wasn't even close to the Maranello.
Pretty nice article.
I wish the author had posted the MY2006-2007 S refreshed interior :
I already posted this message on the forum, so here it is a good opportunity to post it again :
The Vanquish/S (2001-2007) is already a classic and the best modern Aston Martin you can get for investment... and driving experience
Why the Vanquish (and especially the S) could be considered as the "next DB5" ?
- its timeless design mixing charisma and sexiness
- the last ever of Newport Pagnell factory since the DB4 in 1958
- only 2578 ever made (1086 of them were Vanquish S), so a pretty rare car
- in the case of the S, more than 200 MPH of top speed, one of the fastest AM ever
- one of the most beautiful engine sounds ever, no other modern V12 Aston can beat it
- a very raw car without DSC, only a limited slip differential and traction control, pure driving experience
- the gearbox is not an automatic with torque converter, it is a manual with electro-hydraulic clutch, which allows you to feel greatly the car while changing gears
- iconic status because the Vanquish back in 2001 was a complete new model
- it announced the following models of the current range
- while all new modern Aston are good cars, they all look like the same
- the new Vanquish 2013/2015 (which, to me, doesn't deserve the name at all...) remains a "tuned" DB9 2013, not at all a new model as the Vanquish was 14 years ago
- it was mixing craftsmanship and modern technologies
- it appeared in James Bond "Die Another Day" in 2002
The Vanquish/S (2001-2007) will remain as one of the most iconic Aston Martin ever made.
People are realizing more and more that the Vanquish is something quiet special.
Many have been criticizing the gearbox while 99% of them never sat in a Vanquish (I repeat that many times on other forums but that's so true).
The early models might have suffered a bit from the clutch because of the lack of magnetic sensors but that was added later. Besides, only the S clutch is available since 2005, as a replacement part.
I can confirm here that the gearbox works perfectly fine if you know how to drive it. In fact, it works as a F1 Ferrari gearbox, the system is the same.
One of my friends who owns a 2002 Vanquish since new, currently has 45 000 miles with his S clutch, and it is only worn at 50% so you can see how long it can last.
Prices in the UK and rest of Europe are firming up.
It's becoming more and more difficult to find a Vanquish S.
No doubt that the value will keep on increasing over the next years.
I think any car enthusiast would fall in love with the Vanquish at the first driving.
The way it drives, the way it sounds, the way it looks… this car is just MAGICAL !!!
Definitely, if you can get a late (2006 & 2007) Vanquish S, that's the best you could do.
By the way, it is almost impossible to find a 2007 S at £100,000. Those are more around £120,000.
- About rusty subframe, it is really not so common. And everytime I heard about that, it was a UK car... maybe because of the typical British weather ?
- On non-S cars (2001-2004) and MY2005 S, coils had to be replaced around 20 000 miles, while on late S (2006-2007) they can last 50 000 miles.
- Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires are MUCH better than the original Yokohama. Much better grip (especially on the wet), much more comfortable and less noisy. They really transform the car.
- I suggest to open the valves of the original exhaust. Originally, valves close between 1500 and 3500 rpm. When opened, you can enjoy the engine sound from idle to 7000 rpm... pure MADNESS !!!
And downshifts get marvelous even at low speeds. Some people put the Quick Silver exhaust, no doubt it sounds perfect. To me, the original exhaust is already incredible, one of the greatest sounding cars ever made.
Some pictures of our '07 S, the one shown at Geneva Motorshow 2007 :
I wish the author had posted the MY2006-2007 S refreshed interior :
I already posted this message on the forum, so here it is a good opportunity to post it again :
The Vanquish/S (2001-2007) is already a classic and the best modern Aston Martin you can get for investment... and driving experience
Why the Vanquish (and especially the S) could be considered as the "next DB5" ?
- its timeless design mixing charisma and sexiness
- the last ever of Newport Pagnell factory since the DB4 in 1958
- only 2578 ever made (1086 of them were Vanquish S), so a pretty rare car
- in the case of the S, more than 200 MPH of top speed, one of the fastest AM ever
- one of the most beautiful engine sounds ever, no other modern V12 Aston can beat it
- a very raw car without DSC, only a limited slip differential and traction control, pure driving experience
- the gearbox is not an automatic with torque converter, it is a manual with electro-hydraulic clutch, which allows you to feel greatly the car while changing gears
- iconic status because the Vanquish back in 2001 was a complete new model
- it announced the following models of the current range
- while all new modern Aston are good cars, they all look like the same
- the new Vanquish 2013/2015 (which, to me, doesn't deserve the name at all...) remains a "tuned" DB9 2013, not at all a new model as the Vanquish was 14 years ago
- it was mixing craftsmanship and modern technologies
- it appeared in James Bond "Die Another Day" in 2002
The Vanquish/S (2001-2007) will remain as one of the most iconic Aston Martin ever made.
People are realizing more and more that the Vanquish is something quiet special.
Many have been criticizing the gearbox while 99% of them never sat in a Vanquish (I repeat that many times on other forums but that's so true).
The early models might have suffered a bit from the clutch because of the lack of magnetic sensors but that was added later. Besides, only the S clutch is available since 2005, as a replacement part.
I can confirm here that the gearbox works perfectly fine if you know how to drive it. In fact, it works as a F1 Ferrari gearbox, the system is the same.
One of my friends who owns a 2002 Vanquish since new, currently has 45 000 miles with his S clutch, and it is only worn at 50% so you can see how long it can last.
Prices in the UK and rest of Europe are firming up.
It's becoming more and more difficult to find a Vanquish S.
No doubt that the value will keep on increasing over the next years.
I think any car enthusiast would fall in love with the Vanquish at the first driving.
The way it drives, the way it sounds, the way it looks… this car is just MAGICAL !!!
Definitely, if you can get a late (2006 & 2007) Vanquish S, that's the best you could do.
By the way, it is almost impossible to find a 2007 S at £100,000. Those are more around £120,000.
- About rusty subframe, it is really not so common. And everytime I heard about that, it was a UK car... maybe because of the typical British weather ?
- On non-S cars (2001-2004) and MY2005 S, coils had to be replaced around 20 000 miles, while on late S (2006-2007) they can last 50 000 miles.
- Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires are MUCH better than the original Yokohama. Much better grip (especially on the wet), much more comfortable and less noisy. They really transform the car.
- I suggest to open the valves of the original exhaust. Originally, valves close between 1500 and 3500 rpm. When opened, you can enjoy the engine sound from idle to 7000 rpm... pure MADNESS !!!
And downshifts get marvelous even at low speeds. Some people put the Quick Silver exhaust, no doubt it sounds perfect. To me, the original exhaust is already incredible, one of the greatest sounding cars ever made.
Some pictures of our '07 S, the one shown at Geneva Motorshow 2007 :
Camlet said:
I remember test driving the Vanquish when it first came out. I had already bought in 1999 a second hand 550 Maranello, but with the new Aston, a change was on the cards. I had already owned the Jag derived straight 6 supercharged DB7 Volante, a stunningly beautiful car with a fairly useless drivetrain. I was sad to see the DB7 go, but looks weren't everything (I wasn't going to miss the Ford Granada switch-gear and MX5 door handles either.)
When the all new V12 Vanquish arrived, I was ready to switch back to Aston Martin.
I couldn't wait for the Aston dealer to arrive at my home for the drive, and when he finally pulled up in the brand new stunning Aston Vanquish, looking wonderful in its Aston metallic green spec, I was ready to write out the cheque without stepping foot into the car.
But then came the drive. Like the DB7, the drivetrain was awful, especially in traffic. With the gearbox at the back, every shift resulted in a clunk. While the sound of the exhaust was glorious its overall dynamics were poor.
As a sweet GT, the Vanquish is more than fine. Stunning to look at, with an exhaust note to die for. But as a supercar V12, it wasn't even close to the Maranello.
I have no idea what that sales Rep told you but the gearbox is definitely below where you would expect to find the gearstick.When the all new V12 Vanquish arrived, I was ready to switch back to Aston Martin.
I couldn't wait for the Aston dealer to arrive at my home for the drive, and when he finally pulled up in the brand new stunning Aston Vanquish, looking wonderful in its Aston metallic green spec, I was ready to write out the cheque without stepping foot into the car.
But then came the drive. Like the DB7, the drivetrain was awful, especially in traffic. With the gearbox at the back, every shift resulted in a clunk. While the sound of the exhaust was glorious its overall dynamics were poor.
As a sweet GT, the Vanquish is more than fine. Stunning to look at, with an exhaust note to die for. But as a supercar V12, it wasn't even close to the Maranello.
Have the front subframe waxoiled as soon as you buy the car and corrosion should not be an issue. Most have had that problem sorted. A friend of mine even had his replaced FOC at works service just after he bought it. Most only suffered from it if they were used as everyday cars in all weather from new. Those that were kept for special occasions and not used in winter weather appear to have escaped the problem.
The gear box is so much better than an auto. Armen is right when he says it gives so much more feel. The clinkiness is just not their in manual mode if driven correctly. It's also wise to regularly carry out the clutch learn procedure if the car is used sporadically.
An appreciating asset? I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet. Lots of LHD examples starting to make the return journey from the states. Shows how strong the market is for quality examples.
I never quite 'got' the Vanquish. Awful clunky automated manual (OK, you can convert, but it costs a bomb) and very awkward styling, a step back from the slinky DB7. Then came the DB9 and all was right once more. The DBS does the muscular supercar look so much better, and has substantially more power - that'd be the one for me, not this.
P.S. The DB7 certainly never had MX5 door handles or vice versa. They look more like chrome-plated Ford Sierra handles to me.
P.S. The DB7 certainly never had MX5 door handles or vice versa. They look more like chrome-plated Ford Sierra handles to me.
Armen your Vanquish looks stunning!
I've aways liked these, and I would agree they are a true future classic. I'm gutted that I missed out when they were 50k. The only way I'll ever own one now is if I move to the US is the next couple of years. Which thinking about it could actually happen...
I'm also pleased to hear that some people like the gearbox. I really like the F1 box in my Maserati GS so if it's comparableI think I'd get on well with it.
I've aways liked these, and I would agree they are a true future classic. I'm gutted that I missed out when they were 50k. The only way I'll ever own one now is if I move to the US is the next couple of years. Which thinking about it could actually happen...
I'm also pleased to hear that some people like the gearbox. I really like the F1 box in my Maserati GS so if it's comparableI think I'd get on well with it.
RoverP6B said:
I never quite 'got' the Vanquish. Awful clunky automated manual (OK, you can convert, but it costs a bomb) and very awkward styling, a step back from the slinky DB7. Then came the DB9 and all was right once more. The DBS does the muscular supercar look so much better, and has substantially more power - that'd be the one for me, not this.
P.S. The DB7 certainly never had MX5 door handles or vice versa. They look more like chrome-plated Ford Sierra handles to me.
Internal door handles from a DB7 are from the Mk1 MX5. Your first hand experience of the Vanquish gearbox is more accurate though, I am sure.P.S. The DB7 certainly never had MX5 door handles or vice versa. They look more like chrome-plated Ford Sierra handles to me.
I also agree that the original Jaguar I6 engine and 4 speed ZF auto was a really disappointing drivetrain, a real "don't meet your heroes" experience that one, I can see why they are/were £15k. I've sadly not had any experience of the later V12 DB7 Vantage.
I do have to ask the owner of the (stunning) Vanquish S if those silver coloured knobs on the centre console feel as Amstrad as they look? The facelifted interior was a bit more special than the very Jaguar parts bin original, although let's not forget that high end interiors across the board generally improved rapidly over this time period.
I think there are beautiful, a really nice bridge between the Virage/V8/Vantage models of the 90s and the DB9 from a styling point of view. Much more muscular and purposeful than the very graceful DB9, as befits it's position in the range. Last Aston Martin to have any real interest for me.
Edited by dme123 on Monday 28th December 00:05
RoverP6B said:
I never quite 'gfgot' the Vanquish. Awful clunky automated manual (OK, you can convert, but it costs a bomb) and very awkward styling, a step back from the slinky DB7. Then came the DB9 and all was right once more. The DBS does the muscular supercar look so much better, and has substantially more power - that'd be the one for me, not this.
P.S. The DB7 certainly never had MX5 door handles or vice versa. They look more like chrome-plated Ford Sierra handles to me.
Clearly never seen one in the flesh then P.S. The DB7 certainly never had MX5 door handles or vice versa. They look more like chrome-plated Ford Sierra handles to me.
the DB7 is far from slinky compared to the Vanquish, it's positively archaic. The DB9 looses all of the muscular looks (as well as the sound and decent build quality) of the vanquish too..........The ASM gearbox works great with the later "s" clutch and flywheel, whereas the manual conversion is atrocious to drive...
Ah, sorry, was thinking external door handles - Ford Escort/Sierra items chrome-plated, I believe.
All reviewers agree, now as then, that the Vanquish gearbox is crap until you screw a stick onto it.
It also looks too tall and narrow to me, and the squared haunches are just awful. DB9/DBS are so much better-looking...
All reviewers agree, now as then, that the Vanquish gearbox is crap until you screw a stick onto it.
It also looks too tall and narrow to me, and the squared haunches are just awful. DB9/DBS are so much better-looking...
RoverP6B said:
Ah, sorry, was thinking external door handles - Ford Escort/Sierra items chrome-plated, I believe.
All reviewers agree, now as then, that the Vanquish gearbox is crap until you screw a stick onto it.
It also looks too tall and narrow to me, and the squared haunches are just awful. DB9/DBS are so much better-looking...
Exterior door handles are from a mazda estate car. It was always a fun game playing "spot the part" with an Aston, sadly stopped with the move to gaydon and the VH cars. All reviewers agree, now as then, that the Vanquish gearbox is crap until you screw a stick onto it.
It also looks too tall and narrow to me, and the squared haunches are just awful. DB9/DBS are so much better-looking...
RoverP6B said:
Ah, sorry, was thinking external door hanndles - Ford Escort/Sierra items chrome-plated, I believe.
All reviewers agree, now as then, that the Vanquish gearbox is crap until you screw a stick onto it.
It also looks too tall and narrow to me, and the squared haunches are just awful. DB9/DBS are so much better-looking...
The manual conversion sucks. The gearstick is too far forward in the console and virtually rests against the middle of the dashboard. The engine software was written for ASM, and aside from an additional small box of electronics to "fool" the car that the ASM system is still present, no changes are made. So acceleration from standstill is difficult, the engine rpm hunts all over the place, the clutch is very heavy and the pedal is too close to the carbon tunnel.All reviewers agree, now as then, that the Vanquish gearbox is crap until you screw a stick onto it.
It also looks too tall and narrow to me, and the squared haunches are just awful. DB9/DBS are so much better-looking...
ASM works perfectly well with the updated clutch and flywheel and if set up properly. I work on these everyday by the way....
williamp said:
Exterior door handles are from a mazda estate car. It was always a fun game playing "spot the part" with an Aston, sadly stopped with the move to gaydon and the VH cars.
I always enjoy that game. Even with the VH cars you can spot familiar bits here and there, from memory the air vents have a very Volvo look about them for a start. I think one of the big steps forward for Aston was when Ford bought some better car companies so they could have bits from a Volvo, Mazda or a Jaguar rather than from a Ford 
VanquishRider said:
An appreciating asset? I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet. Lots of LHD examples starting to make the return journey from the states. Shows how strong the market is for quality examples.
That's true, as they become so rare in Europe... really difficult to find one, especially in perfect condition.mario64 said:
Armen your Vanquish looks stunning!
Thank you very much Mario ! @RoverP6B : I bet you never drove a Vanquish.
To each their own, but a well-sorted Vanquish's gearbox works perfectly and is a Joy to use.
Please don't do like all people who never sat in (or even saw) a Vanquish and who uses Jeremy Clarkson's words in Top Gear video...
By the way, put a DBS and a Vanquish side by side, I can assure you that the Vanquish's muscular and athletic body totally eclipses the DBS' one.
Sure the DBS is a a good looking car, but it is not that different of a DB9. In fact, it is a DB9 with some "tuned" aero parts. Once again, to each their own, but the DBS is not more muscular.
I could agree with the Vanquish's rear lights which look a bit old-fashionned but at least those are unique, and it is part of the charm.
This is what is interesting with the Vanquish, it has an UNIQUE design. Not as all Gaydon cars which ALL look like each other sharing the same interior etc...
Plus, you have the privilege to get a very beautiful engine bay with apparent carbon fiber and a carbon fiber roll bar, not the aluminium one on all the Gaydon cars.
And +1 with all what Cerberaherts said !
Armen said:
VanquishRider said:
An appreciating asset? I'm pretty sure it's a safe bet. Lots of LHD examples starting to make the return journey from the states. Shows how strong the market is for quality examples.
That's true, as they become so rare in Europe... really difficult to find one, especially in perfect condition.mario64 said:
Armen your Vanquish looks stunning!
Thank you very much Mario ! @RoverP6B : I bet you never drove a Vanquish.
To each their own, but a well-sorted Vanquish's gearbox works perfectly and is a Joy to use.
Please don't do like all people who never sat in (or even saw) a Vanquish and who uses Jeremy Clarkson's words in Top Gear video...
By the way, put a DBS and a Vanquish side by side, I can assure you that the Vanquish's muscular and athletic body totally eclipses the DBS' one.
Sure the DBS is a a good looking car, but it is not that different of a DB9. In fact, it is a DB9 with some "tuned" aero parts. Once again, to each their own, but the DBS is not more muscular.
I could agree with the Vanquish's rear lights which look a bit old-fashionned but at least those are unique, and it is part of the charm.
This is what is interesting with the Vanquish, it has an UNIQUE design. Not as all Gaydon cars which ALL look like each other sharing the same interior etc...
Plus, you have the privilege to get a very beautiful engine bay with apparent carbon fiber and a carbon fiber roll bar, not the aluminium one on all the Gaydon cars.
And +1 with all what Cerberaherts said !
The DBS is just a DB9 after a gym workout. A truly lovely car in its own right, but not a better looking car than a Vanquish. To judge the 2 dynamically is wrong. Like trying to compare a DB5 with a DB9. Just wrong.
Quality cars are now highly sought after. I'm pretty sure that the market is reflecting that. DB9's and DBS? Well the market is also reflecting the value of those, but in a different direction. But I'm sure that the DB9's and DBS's with manual gearboxes will be the last of the great V12 GT's and their time will come, particularly the DBS. Watch my word.
VanquishRider said:
I'm with Armen on this one, to each his own, but a the Vanquish has far more presence than any modern Aston. Also the S version has 10HP more than a DBS, it's also 10MPH quicker. An AMOC member in the US has his at 203 MPH and that is verified by GPS.
The DBS is just a DB9 after a gym workout. A truly lovely car in its own right, but not a better looking car than a Vanquish. To judge the 2 dynamically is wrong. Like trying to compare a DB5 with a DB9. Just wrong.
Quality cars are now highly sought after. I'm pretty sure that the market is reflecting that. DB9's and DBS? Well the market is also reflecting the value of those, but in a different direction. But I'm sure that the DB9's and DBS's with manual gearboxes will be the last of the great V12 GT's and their time will come, particularly the DBS. Watch my word.
Agree completely. The last of the true Newport produced cars, in small numbers (as opposed to db9's and v8's, of which they have produced more than every other model combined!) and a special car in it's own right. The jump In values over the last 14 months speak for themselves, they are becoming coveted and a lot of collectors are snapping them up, s and non-s alike. The last three we sold went to collectors who didn't even view....The DBS is just a DB9 after a gym workout. A truly lovely car in its own right, but not a better looking car than a Vanquish. To judge the 2 dynamically is wrong. Like trying to compare a DB5 with a DB9. Just wrong.
Quality cars are now highly sought after. I'm pretty sure that the market is reflecting that. DB9's and DBS? Well the market is also reflecting the value of those, but in a different direction. But I'm sure that the DB9's and DBS's with manual gearboxes will be the last of the great V12 GT's and their time will come, particularly the DBS. Watch my word.
Edited by Cerberaherts on Monday 28th December 18:00
Compared to the 550, the Vanquish is a bargain, especially given the 'importance' of the car in Aston Martin's timeline. For me, they are still fantastic looking things, with proportions you can only appreciate in the flesh. In comparison, the new Vanquish is a bit of a joke in comparison; clearly a tarted up DB9.
I was very surprised not to see Armen's Vanquish not sporting an AMOC badge on the front, such was his blinkered outburst however! Be in no doubt, the gearbox is a horrid, horrid thing. We ended up getting ours replaced (under warranty) and in the end not only was it horrible to use, it ended up randomly giving no gears at all.
I can only imagine Armen and others haven't driven a modern car; even going back to something like an E46 M3 (another automated manual) demonstrates how poor the Aston's 'box was. I also got annoyed by the long 1st gear (so it achieved a good 0-60 time for the mags), although it was fun for drifting at roundabouts.
Handling wise, it really belied it's weight with fast, direct steering. Except for it's width, it was actually a great B Road blast, with a very predictable and playful chassis.
Given they are relatively affordable next to Ferraris of similar age, and yet far more special in my eyes, i could easily justify doing the manual conversion (i'd argue it would add value to the car anyway).
I guess the problem is the image really; that's why they're affordable. Ferraris are cool, Astons are owned by AMOC members who put on their best blazers on a Sunday and head to a National Trust park. I actually almost spat out my tea when Armen mentioned having no DSC meant it was a 'pure' driver's car; like any Vanquish owner has gotten anywhere near the limit!
I was very surprised not to see Armen's Vanquish not sporting an AMOC badge on the front, such was his blinkered outburst however! Be in no doubt, the gearbox is a horrid, horrid thing. We ended up getting ours replaced (under warranty) and in the end not only was it horrible to use, it ended up randomly giving no gears at all.
I can only imagine Armen and others haven't driven a modern car; even going back to something like an E46 M3 (another automated manual) demonstrates how poor the Aston's 'box was. I also got annoyed by the long 1st gear (so it achieved a good 0-60 time for the mags), although it was fun for drifting at roundabouts.
Handling wise, it really belied it's weight with fast, direct steering. Except for it's width, it was actually a great B Road blast, with a very predictable and playful chassis.
Given they are relatively affordable next to Ferraris of similar age, and yet far more special in my eyes, i could easily justify doing the manual conversion (i'd argue it would add value to the car anyway).
I guess the problem is the image really; that's why they're affordable. Ferraris are cool, Astons are owned by AMOC members who put on their best blazers on a Sunday and head to a National Trust park. I actually almost spat out my tea when Armen mentioned having no DSC meant it was a 'pure' driver's car; like any Vanquish owner has gotten anywhere near the limit!
I guess you were just not lucky with your car.
We've owned our '07 S for almost 6 years now, and not a single problem, perfectly reliable.
Maybe you own a MY2005 S without the mag clutch sensor ? I think those came at the end of MY2005 and they improved reliability a lot.
I've driven many modern sport cars (I'm a car dealer specialist sport & luxury cars) and I wouldn't compare them with the Vanquish.
What I can say is that despite the weight, the Vanquish/S is pretty nimble and the chassis feels very stiff especially on the S.
As you said, the steering provides a very direct response, and I like it a lot.
What I meant about the DSC is that the Vanquish is not the typical modern car with all that electronic stuff to keep you straight on the road.
If you accelerate in a corner, the car can leave the road, even on a dry one. I mean, the car feels very raw and has a pure feed-back that modern cars miss sometimes.
I don't have the prevention to drive the car at its limit (I can not), but I've had the opportunity to drive the car on Le Mans racetrack and the car never felt dangerous, you could actually feel when the car would start to derivate from the rear.
About the gearbox, ours has been very reliable since the beginning and I'm not the only one.
Earlier cars (non-S) and early MY2005 S may have suffered a bit, but a well-sorted gearbox (by a great specialist who really knows the car well) is completely reliable and very pleasant to drive.
Sure, it is not as fast as an F1 gearbox you can find in a 599 GTB or even a 575M but it is more than enough for the kind of driving.
Let's not forget the original concept is from 1998. The Vanquish S is now 11 years-old and it is still faster than a DBS in a straight line and is still one of the fastest Aston Martin ever made.
I didn't even know about the 203 MPH top speed GPS-measured (I have a screen-shot of an AMOC member at 323 km/h = 201 MPH)... OK, you need a (very) long road to reach that, but still impressive.
We've owned our '07 S for almost 6 years now, and not a single problem, perfectly reliable.
Maybe you own a MY2005 S without the mag clutch sensor ? I think those came at the end of MY2005 and they improved reliability a lot.
I've driven many modern sport cars (I'm a car dealer specialist sport & luxury cars) and I wouldn't compare them with the Vanquish.
What I can say is that despite the weight, the Vanquish/S is pretty nimble and the chassis feels very stiff especially on the S.
As you said, the steering provides a very direct response, and I like it a lot.
What I meant about the DSC is that the Vanquish is not the typical modern car with all that electronic stuff to keep you straight on the road.
If you accelerate in a corner, the car can leave the road, even on a dry one. I mean, the car feels very raw and has a pure feed-back that modern cars miss sometimes.
I don't have the prevention to drive the car at its limit (I can not), but I've had the opportunity to drive the car on Le Mans racetrack and the car never felt dangerous, you could actually feel when the car would start to derivate from the rear.
About the gearbox, ours has been very reliable since the beginning and I'm not the only one.
Earlier cars (non-S) and early MY2005 S may have suffered a bit, but a well-sorted gearbox (by a great specialist who really knows the car well) is completely reliable and very pleasant to drive.
Sure, it is not as fast as an F1 gearbox you can find in a 599 GTB or even a 575M but it is more than enough for the kind of driving.
Let's not forget the original concept is from 1998. The Vanquish S is now 11 years-old and it is still faster than a DBS in a straight line and is still one of the fastest Aston Martin ever made.
I didn't even know about the 203 MPH top speed GPS-measured (I have a screen-shot of an AMOC member at 323 km/h = 201 MPH)... OK, you need a (very) long road to reach that, but still impressive.
Armen - great car!
I am seriously considering one and drove one for a week when I was a member of P1 International Club in 2007 - and back to back with many so called 'supercars'. Once you get into the groove with it and use the gearbox it truly is a great. One of the best of the era as far as I am concerned; it has so much presence, is great to drive, and is wild enough to need respect (it won't save you from being an idiot).
I am seriously considering one and drove one for a week when I was a member of P1 International Club in 2007 - and back to back with many so called 'supercars'. Once you get into the groove with it and use the gearbox it truly is a great. One of the best of the era as far as I am concerned; it has so much presence, is great to drive, and is wild enough to need respect (it won't save you from being an idiot).
Nice to see a decent write-up on the Vanquish. It is a very special car, more than able to withstand comparison with the Ferrari 550 and 575. Earlier this year, after narrowing my choice to the 550/575 and the Vanquish, I bought an '05 Vanquish S (I prefer the '05 interior). I like the 550/575 a lot and it's a really good drive, but I found the Vanquish far more special and interesting and, importantly, also a great drive. The 550/575 has a fairly simple steel tube structure, whereas the Vanquish has an extremely stiff and strong structure using a bonded alumin{i}um tub, with the center tunnel, A-posts, front and rear crash structures and strut tower brace all made from carbon fiber. This is very advanced NOW, and was ground-breaking in 2001.
My car has the Sports Dynamics Pack suspension, brakes and steering -- as all S models do -- and its dynamics are superb. The gearbox, when it is set up properly and -- this is crucial -- the driver really understands how to use it, works very well. As an early paddle-shift system, the driver really has to work with it, and that's part of the appeal -- this is a car that one really has to drive, and when one learns to properly drive it, the rewards are enormous. I love the Gaydon cars (and have no trouble telling them apart), but the Vanquish is a truly special car, and the last ever Newport Pagnell-built Aston Martin. It's the end of an era, and also the start of the next one. To me, it has everything -- looks, performance, handling, 12 glorious cylinders, craftsmanship, character and limited production.
My car has the Sports Dynamics Pack suspension, brakes and steering -- as all S models do -- and its dynamics are superb. The gearbox, when it is set up properly and -- this is crucial -- the driver really understands how to use it, works very well. As an early paddle-shift system, the driver really has to work with it, and that's part of the appeal -- this is a car that one really has to drive, and when one learns to properly drive it, the rewards are enormous. I love the Gaydon cars (and have no trouble telling them apart), but the Vanquish is a truly special car, and the last ever Newport Pagnell-built Aston Martin. It's the end of an era, and also the start of the next one. To me, it has everything -- looks, performance, handling, 12 glorious cylinders, craftsmanship, character and limited production.
I am a 2002 Vanquish Owner. Whilst they are an iconic supercar, I would urge you not buy one without getting Bamford Rose to crawl all over it first.
I had Aston check mine over prior to purchase and amongst an extenisve list of missed problmes they failed to spot the seriously corroded front subframe, why I will never know, but the comeback from them was nothing short of appauling. My Aston experience was saved by Mike and Adrian who I can only describe as first rate and they will be crawling over my DBS prior to handing over any money.
James
I had Aston check mine over prior to purchase and amongst an extenisve list of missed problmes they failed to spot the seriously corroded front subframe, why I will never know, but the comeback from them was nothing short of appauling. My Aston experience was saved by Mike and Adrian who I can only describe as first rate and they will be crawling over my DBS prior to handing over any money.
James
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