Considering early V8 Vantage
Discussion
Hello all,
After running many and varied classics and hobby vehicles over the past 30 years my thoughts have once again turned to a V8 Vantage.
Missed the boat on 70's V8's a few years back when prices started going haywire. Previously been in the AMOC but don't think there's much I'm missing by sticking on this forum from the looks of it.
Thinking of an 05 a 07 manual Vantage in silver or grey with black leather. Budget is circa 30k so pretty much starting point. I've ordered "the book" and just to get me into AM again I've got a DB7 for a couple of days next week.
Any words of wisdom for an early V8 Vantage would be much appreciated. I'd be moving from an R 230 SL auto and relish the thought of the manual box and more driver involvement. I can get handy with the spanners if necessary for some more basic maintenance jobs.
Cheers !
After running many and varied classics and hobby vehicles over the past 30 years my thoughts have once again turned to a V8 Vantage.
Missed the boat on 70's V8's a few years back when prices started going haywire. Previously been in the AMOC but don't think there's much I'm missing by sticking on this forum from the looks of it.
Thinking of an 05 a 07 manual Vantage in silver or grey with black leather. Budget is circa 30k so pretty much starting point. I've ordered "the book" and just to get me into AM again I've got a DB7 for a couple of days next week.
Any words of wisdom for an early V8 Vantage would be much appreciated. I'd be moving from an R 230 SL auto and relish the thought of the manual box and more driver involvement. I can get handy with the spanners if necessary for some more basic maintenance jobs.
Cheers !
Welcome.
Have you driven a V8 Vantage yet?
I have never driven a DB7, so what do I know, but I think you should find noticeable improvements in the driver experience with a V8.
We tend to be better here, at dealing with specific questions, but the book will be a great read for you.
Manual vs Sportshift (automated manual) needs careful thought. It is a 'Marmite' choice.
Get out and drive some to get a feel for their character.
Regardless of the expectation of how they should be, there are plenty of tired examples out there that haven't been given the care they deserve. I think was a real eye-opener for me when I first started shopping.
A good example should be taught, with quick initial steering response and a little crashy on poor road surfaces which will be very different to what you're currently used to.
Pick what spec you want and stick to it. The market is pretty buoyant so you shouldn't have to compromise too much.
If you can get to a late 2006 car, you can get the 2007 spec interior which gives you better looking and more comfortable seats (personal opinion) with memory function, Bluetooth option and slightly higher residual value as a result.
The book will help you get acquainted with what is on offer for you to base your requirements. It's a helpful tool in deciding what to look for but ultimately, experience of the car and it's capabilities will steer you in the right direction.
Regardless of the expectation of how they should be, there are plenty of tired examples out there that haven't been given the care they deserve. I think was a real eye-opener for me when I first started shopping.
A good example should be taught, with quick initial steering response and a little crashy on poor road surfaces which will be very different to what you're currently used to.
Pick what spec you want and stick to it. The market is pretty buoyant so you shouldn't have to compromise too much.
If you can get to a late 2006 car, you can get the 2007 spec interior which gives you better looking and more comfortable seats (personal opinion) with memory function, Bluetooth option and slightly higher residual value as a result.
The book will help you get acquainted with what is on offer for you to base your requirements. It's a helpful tool in deciding what to look for but ultimately, experience of the car and it's capabilities will steer you in the right direction.
Edited by Frances The Mute on Thursday 29th June 00:37
When I bought mine I read the BOOK forwards and backwards uncounted times, it's a great source for Gaydon cars. Btw it is this one: http://www.astonmartinreview.co.uk (sorry no idea if I am allowed to post the link here).
Take your time and enjoy.
Take your time and enjoy.
I can't PM you but I'm considering selling my V8...it's a 2007 car with the updated interior, bluetooth phone and premium audio. Had a small fortune spent on it this year (as detailed in my thread) and has Aston Martin extended warranty and MOT protect until the end of October. Let me know if you would like any more info
Although I've owned quite a few autos over the years (mainly where there was no other choice such as Jag XK8 etc) I think I would really prefer a manual gearbox in a Vantage. I know the auto would be easier in traffic but this would very much be a hobby car for weekend runs out and fun so not a regular commuter.
bigfella70 said:
Although I've owned quite a few autos over the years (mainly where there was no other choice such as Jag XK8 etc) I think I would really prefer a manual gearbox in a Vantage. I know the auto would be easier in traffic but this would very much be a hobby car for weekend runs out and fun so not a regular commuter.
It isn't an auto - the DB9, DBS, Virage, Vanquish and Rapide are, but the Vantage has a single clutch automated manual. If it was the torque converter box it would be far better IMO, particularly compared to the early SS1 box.Edited by Thorburn on Tuesday 27th June 22:49
Hi I'm also looking at purchasing an early vantage but I'm looking at the roadster with up to 40 k to spend. It's going to be early next year it an 50th birthday present to my self. I'm going to be looking at test driving some soon to get the feel of driving a prestige car. And I'm considering getting a company to source the vehicle for me any advice on that front guys
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