Aston Newbie in need of some advice
Discussion
AstonNewbieUK said:
Thank you, this is exactly what I'm after so it sounds like we have a winner!!
And it sounds like you could soon be regretting your forum name! 
PM sent
edited
No it ain't
as you don't appear to accept PMs. Drop me a line if you'd like to meet up half-way between us (I'm near Solihull) so it's about an hour each
Edited by LTP on Monday 2nd December 13:32
My daily is an F-Pace (still waiting for it to die) and is similar size to your Volvo.
I bought a Vantage 4.3L V8, manual, last summer. I went with a limited edition car (N400). You’ll find manuals are similar if a little more than sportshift and limited editions at moment are around max 5k more.
It is much smaller than the SUV in width and also shorter in length, being N400 mine has original sports pack and flared side skirts, still no issues, fits much better into an average parking bay with less worry of someone door swiping you.
On the topic of manual versus Sportshift, in slow moving traffic my manual is actually a bit unwieldy, it has a lot of torque and really does not really love low speeds. It manages it but I’ve often wondered if it’d be easier or better in a sportshift, guess it depends where you’ll be driving it mainly.
As for the comment about loud cars, I agree completely, some try to change exhaust systems or even straight pipe them.
I have a two way switch hidden discretely on my steering column (think it’s aftermarket?) so I can switch the exhaust valve to fully open or normal mode where it is quiet until above about 3-3.5k revs that way if I want noise I just set it to open and otherwise leave it as normal. With the valve open it is pretty loud, but it’s a nice roar rather than the popping you get in boy racer cars.
My brother has an M4 which pops like mad and even he commented he like the engine noise and exhaust tone more as it wasn’t over the top, more refined if you like.
I bought a Vantage 4.3L V8, manual, last summer. I went with a limited edition car (N400). You’ll find manuals are similar if a little more than sportshift and limited editions at moment are around max 5k more.
It is much smaller than the SUV in width and also shorter in length, being N400 mine has original sports pack and flared side skirts, still no issues, fits much better into an average parking bay with less worry of someone door swiping you.
On the topic of manual versus Sportshift, in slow moving traffic my manual is actually a bit unwieldy, it has a lot of torque and really does not really love low speeds. It manages it but I’ve often wondered if it’d be easier or better in a sportshift, guess it depends where you’ll be driving it mainly.
As for the comment about loud cars, I agree completely, some try to change exhaust systems or even straight pipe them.
I have a two way switch hidden discretely on my steering column (think it’s aftermarket?) so I can switch the exhaust valve to fully open or normal mode where it is quiet until above about 3-3.5k revs that way if I want noise I just set it to open and otherwise leave it as normal. With the valve open it is pretty loud, but it’s a nice roar rather than the popping you get in boy racer cars.
My brother has an M4 which pops like mad and even he commented he like the engine noise and exhaust tone more as it wasn’t over the top, more refined if you like.
Exciting times for you.
I’ve owned an early 4.3 and currently own a 2012 4.7 S. both are fantastic cars. The S really does have a much stiffer suspension. Beautiful on the motorway or a smooth A road, but you really notice it on any poorly maintained roads.
For your first, I’d suggest a 4.7 where it simply improves on the 4.3 which is still a great car. I believe some of the early 4.7 models will either have the large brake kits which are brilliant but very expensive to change. So you might want to factor that in. The pads and discs are just over twice as much.
These cars handle incredibly well and ar not prone to spinning out, compared to a Ferrari 360 for example. The traction/stability control helps massively. But I strongly suggest Michelin Pilot Sport 4. The grip and comfort are improved massively.
If you can, get out and drive both, just to be sure.
Good luck and hope to hear you’ve bought your dream car soon.
John
I’ve owned an early 4.3 and currently own a 2012 4.7 S. both are fantastic cars. The S really does have a much stiffer suspension. Beautiful on the motorway or a smooth A road, but you really notice it on any poorly maintained roads.
For your first, I’d suggest a 4.7 where it simply improves on the 4.3 which is still a great car. I believe some of the early 4.7 models will either have the large brake kits which are brilliant but very expensive to change. So you might want to factor that in. The pads and discs are just over twice as much.
These cars handle incredibly well and ar not prone to spinning out, compared to a Ferrari 360 for example. The traction/stability control helps massively. But I strongly suggest Michelin Pilot Sport 4. The grip and comfort are improved massively.
If you can, get out and drive both, just to be sure.
Good luck and hope to hear you’ve bought your dream car soon.
John
From 2015-2018 I had a 2007 4.3 manual that I absolutely loved. Kids arrived so reluctantly decide to sell it. In 2023 I decided I wanted another one, I ended up with a 2013 4.7 Vantage S with a sport shift 2 gear box and in my opinion the difference is unbelievable, I don’t think I could fault it.
After having a good look round and purchasing mine, I knew that it needed some TLC and money spending on it. It basically required 99% of all the common issues. I will admit to being a bit OCD so have an ended up doing the following bits.
Removed rear subframe and had zinc printed and powder coated, then sprayed the internal cavity with bilt hamber dynax s60.
Vapour blasted all suspension components, hubs etc that were removed to carry out the subframe works then coated with XCP.
A large number of nuts and bolts replaced and all bits and bolts cadmium plated.
Removed back box and had new helical valves installed.
New DAE ASM hoses.
New front and rear pads and discs.
New hand brake pads, pins and shims.
New rear hard brake lines.
Rear lights removed and sent away to be re sealed.
Powder coated mirror arms.
Powder coated all mesh.
Repair to carbon front splitter.
Front grill removed and re anodised.
Full re spray.
New door and bonnet rubbers.
Steering wheel re trimmed.
Dash panels closest to windscreen and binnacle re trimmed.
Replaced air filters, pollen filters, spark plugs, gearbox oil, ASM fluid, brake fluid and coolant.
Oil service by AM main dealer.
New side repeaters.
New centre black parking sensors.
New old set of S wheels that had never been diamond cut.
4 wheel geometry.
There’s probably a load that I have missed. Fortunately I’ve managed to carry out the majority of the above works myself otherwise it would not have been viable to spend that sort of money.
Although I didn’t, I would recommend a pre purchase inspection even if buying from a main dealer. I was aware I needed to carry out a fair amount of work on mine, but didn’t realise the extent of it. Now it is all done I couldn’t be happier.
After having a good look round and purchasing mine, I knew that it needed some TLC and money spending on it. It basically required 99% of all the common issues. I will admit to being a bit OCD so have an ended up doing the following bits.
Removed rear subframe and had zinc printed and powder coated, then sprayed the internal cavity with bilt hamber dynax s60.
Vapour blasted all suspension components, hubs etc that were removed to carry out the subframe works then coated with XCP.
A large number of nuts and bolts replaced and all bits and bolts cadmium plated.
Removed back box and had new helical valves installed.
New DAE ASM hoses.
New front and rear pads and discs.
New hand brake pads, pins and shims.
New rear hard brake lines.
Rear lights removed and sent away to be re sealed.
Powder coated mirror arms.
Powder coated all mesh.
Repair to carbon front splitter.
Front grill removed and re anodised.
Full re spray.
New door and bonnet rubbers.
Steering wheel re trimmed.
Dash panels closest to windscreen and binnacle re trimmed.
Replaced air filters, pollen filters, spark plugs, gearbox oil, ASM fluid, brake fluid and coolant.
Oil service by AM main dealer.
New side repeaters.
New centre black parking sensors.
New old set of S wheels that had never been diamond cut.
4 wheel geometry.
There’s probably a load that I have missed. Fortunately I’ve managed to carry out the majority of the above works myself otherwise it would not have been viable to spend that sort of money.
Although I didn’t, I would recommend a pre purchase inspection even if buying from a main dealer. I was aware I needed to carry out a fair amount of work on mine, but didn’t realise the extent of it. Now it is all done I couldn’t be happier.
tom-4hcey said:
Although I didn’t, I would recommend a pre purchase inspection even if buying from a main dealer. I was aware I needed to carry out a fair amount of work on mine, but didn’t realise the extent of it. Now it is all done I couldn’t be happier.
^^^^ This if possible. Don't take main dealers word as mine was delivered by main dealer with big ends knocking. Now, I'm not trying to put anyone off nor cause offence but after all is said and done, both specialists and main dealers are second hand car dealers after all. They are fabulous cars, not that fast by any means but fab' none the less. The looks and sound alone does it, and a very nice place to be and residuals are holding up it seems for the right cars. Hell, I'm even considering coming back if/when I sell my McLaren as I'm approaching senior years, retirement and well, I could do with raising couple bob to exchange and despite my experience there is nothing out there at 40 to 50k price point that does it for me.Good luck and keep us posted.
ETA. Aston Martin customer services were superb and I cannot fault them nor my local main dealer in Birmingham. I also must say there are 'some' good independents as I've since found with the purchase of my McLaren four years ago.
Edited by macdeb on Wednesday 4th December 09:14
macdeb said:
tom-4hcey said:
Although I didn’t, I would recommend a pre purchase inspection even if buying from a main dealer. I was aware I needed to carry out a fair amount of work on mine, but didn’t realise the extent of it. Now it is all done I couldn’t be happier.
^^^^ This if possible. Don't take main dealers word as mine was delivered by main dealer with big ends knocking. Now, I'm not trying to put anyone off nor cause offence but after all is said and done, both specialists and main dealers are second hand car dealers after all.Bamford Rose inspection would’ve been cheaper for the inspection but I’d have had to pay transport there too, they even have a logistics guy who can quote to collect and return and he was reasonable as would tag in on to return leg of another job.
tom-4hcey said:
Although I didn’t, I would recommend a pre purchase inspection even if buying from a main dealer. I was aware I needed to carry out a fair amount of work on mine, but didn’t realise the extent of it. Now it is all done I couldn’t be happier.
Thanks for this, really helpul to see that list. I'm very DIY handy aroudn the house, but not on cars. I'm tempted to learn, but should probably try it out on the volvo before the Aston Apollya said:
I have a two way switch hidden discretely on my steering column (think it’s aftermarket?) so I can switch the exhaust valve to fully open or normal mode where it is quiet until above about 3-3.5k revs that way if I want noise I just set it to open and otherwise leave it as normal. With the valve open it is pretty loud, but it’s a nice roar rather than the popping you get in boy racer cars.
My brother has an M4 which pops like mad and even he commented he like the engine noise and exhaust tone more as it wasn’t over the top, more refined if you like.
Those switches are a great idea. i saw someone else talking about them and an instal video. I have zero issue with it being loud (luckily, I'm rarely in the care before 8am these days) but i love the fact the volume comes in a throaty gutteral roar, and not from a £200 back box someone got from halfords.My brother has an M4 which pops like mad and even he commented he like the engine noise and exhaust tone more as it wasn’t over the top, more refined if you like.
Apollya said:
macdeb said:
tom-4hcey said:
Although I didn’t, I would recommend a pre purchase inspection even if buying from a main dealer. I was aware I needed to carry out a fair amount of work on mine, but didn’t realise the extent of it. Now it is all done I couldn’t be happier.
^^^^ This if possible. Don't take main dealers word as mine was delivered by main dealer with big ends knocking. Now, I'm not trying to put anyone off nor cause offence but after all is said and done, both specialists and main dealers are second hand car dealers after all.Bamford Rose inspection would’ve been cheaper for the inspection but I’d have had to pay transport there too, they even have a logistics guy who can quote to collect and return and he was reasonable as would tag in on to return leg of another job.
I'd say be prepared to get your hands dirty or spend a lot of money with a specialist. Its just the way it goes!
I've had my 4.3 two and a half years. In addition to normal servicing I've had:
A new aircon condensor (done under warranty)
A wiring problem sorted (done under warranty)
Aircon pipes replaced (£500)
I have also done a lot myself including paintwork, repaired front splitter, new wing strake, new centre caps, new thermostat, repairs to both headlights (washer mountings broke), new washer bottle (split), new door seal (£150).
The car has done 32,000 miles and looks stunning, but that's because I'm fastidious!
They can be tricky to fix cheaply as some parts are unique to AM. Eg new wheelnuts will be around £390. Yes, you can get a set off eBay for about £25 but they are not the same.
By all means buy one - they are unique cars - but expect to pay a lot in maintenance and upkeep.
I've had my 4.3 two and a half years. In addition to normal servicing I've had:
A new aircon condensor (done under warranty)
A wiring problem sorted (done under warranty)
Aircon pipes replaced (£500)
I have also done a lot myself including paintwork, repaired front splitter, new wing strake, new centre caps, new thermostat, repairs to both headlights (washer mountings broke), new washer bottle (split), new door seal (£150).
The car has done 32,000 miles and looks stunning, but that's because I'm fastidious!
They can be tricky to fix cheaply as some parts are unique to AM. Eg new wheelnuts will be around £390. Yes, you can get a set off eBay for about £25 but they are not the same.
By all means buy one - they are unique cars - but expect to pay a lot in maintenance and upkeep.
AstonNewbieUK said:
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? @OP - I also came into Aston ownership from a series of increasingly-quick FWD stuff. The last of these was a stupidly quick 488bhp Fiat Coupe, so I was certainly not worried about the measly 380bhp of a 4.3 Vantage.
However, for some reason, when I first got the Vantage, it felt huge and a bit clumsy to drive. The weight of the primary controls was massively heavier than the Fiat and it just felt unwieldy.
Junking the ancient Bridgestones for new PS4S fixed the numb feeling instantly, and I then set about getting used to the car. Within a few hundred miles, all the heavy controls started to feel more natural, although the gearshift will never be described as ‘bolt-action’ - it can’t be hurried, otherwise the synchromesh can’t keep up.
However, over the weeks, I got more and more used to everything and at the same time, the car started to ‘shrink’ around me and now it feels quite normal.
Getting used to RWD has taken a lot longer - I’m really not keen on oversteer, so I’m not the sort to hoof it round wet bends (my Fiat had a Quaiffe diff, so I could do really stupid things with it in all weathers and it just went where I pointed it)
The biggest difference for me is that I don’t really miss the ballistic performance of the Fiat (where 150 was really quite easy - wasn’t even in 6th gear by then). The Aston just seems to be more entertaining at slight less illegal speeds - I get more enjoyment out of the drama and spectacle of driving a noisy, thirsty, expensive, drop-dead gorgeous coupe.
Just do it, but buy carefully - big jobs equals big bills (ask me how I know…)
However, for some reason, when I first got the Vantage, it felt huge and a bit clumsy to drive. The weight of the primary controls was massively heavier than the Fiat and it just felt unwieldy.
Junking the ancient Bridgestones for new PS4S fixed the numb feeling instantly, and I then set about getting used to the car. Within a few hundred miles, all the heavy controls started to feel more natural, although the gearshift will never be described as ‘bolt-action’ - it can’t be hurried, otherwise the synchromesh can’t keep up.
However, over the weeks, I got more and more used to everything and at the same time, the car started to ‘shrink’ around me and now it feels quite normal.
Getting used to RWD has taken a lot longer - I’m really not keen on oversteer, so I’m not the sort to hoof it round wet bends (my Fiat had a Quaiffe diff, so I could do really stupid things with it in all weathers and it just went where I pointed it)
The biggest difference for me is that I don’t really miss the ballistic performance of the Fiat (where 150 was really quite easy - wasn’t even in 6th gear by then). The Aston just seems to be more entertaining at slight less illegal speeds - I get more enjoyment out of the drama and spectacle of driving a noisy, thirsty, expensive, drop-dead gorgeous coupe.
Just do it, but buy carefully - big jobs equals big bills (ask me how I know…)
AstonNewbieUK said:
I'm very DIY handy aroudn the house, but not on cars. I'm tempted to learn, but should probably try it out on the volvo before the Aston
I ended up learning rather more about my Aston than I'd planned for when I bought it!AstonNewbieUK said:
Those switches are a great idea. i saw someone else talking about them and an instal video. I have zero issue with it being loud (luckily, I'm rarely in the care before 8am these days) but i love the fact the volume comes in a throaty gutteral roar, and not from a £200 back box someone got from halfords.
These little beasties work well and are an easy DIY fit: https://www.cccharger.co.uk/We bought our 2009 V8 Vantage 4.7 manual nearly two years ago from a dealer in Exeter. Due to the money involved, we wanted it checked over first, and the dealer was happy to take it a few miles down the road to AJ Tech at Newton Abbot.
This was the best £300 ish that we spent and it gave us confidence in the car. Would also really recommend AJ Tech!
The car has such a presence on the road that it gives you the impression that it's massive, and I will admit that I struggled with it at first, finding it quite intimidating. This was compounded by the lightweight flywheel and clutch which at first makes it easy to stall. I did find that I couldn't drive it with heavy boots on.
When using it, I have to really get myself in the mindset that it's only a car. On that score, prior to buying, we checked with a local garage that we'd used for years and most importantly trust, to see if they would be happy to do the mundane work on the car and they were more than happy to do so. At the end of the day it's just a car!
It will go very quickly if you need to do so, but it's really not about that. It's the presence on the road!
Prior to buying, I spoke with a good friend who told me about how when he tried to pull out of junctions in his Porsche 911, it could often take ages. However, once he had a Vantage he never had to wait and other drivers willingly let him out. I have found this to be very true.
Don't rush in, don't automatically trust the specialists (as previously mentioned they are just car salesmen), do your homework, and it will put the biggest smile on your face.
This was the best £300 ish that we spent and it gave us confidence in the car. Would also really recommend AJ Tech!
The car has such a presence on the road that it gives you the impression that it's massive, and I will admit that I struggled with it at first, finding it quite intimidating. This was compounded by the lightweight flywheel and clutch which at first makes it easy to stall. I did find that I couldn't drive it with heavy boots on.
When using it, I have to really get myself in the mindset that it's only a car. On that score, prior to buying, we checked with a local garage that we'd used for years and most importantly trust, to see if they would be happy to do the mundane work on the car and they were more than happy to do so. At the end of the day it's just a car!
It will go very quickly if you need to do so, but it's really not about that. It's the presence on the road!
Prior to buying, I spoke with a good friend who told me about how when he tried to pull out of junctions in his Porsche 911, it could often take ages. However, once he had a Vantage he never had to wait and other drivers willingly let him out. I have found this to be very true.
Don't rush in, don't automatically trust the specialists (as previously mentioned they are just car salesmen), do your homework, and it will put the biggest smile on your face.
AstonNewbieUK said:
geresey said:
I’ve used Aston Service Dorset, in Wimborne/Ferndown area since I got my 4.7. Always been good for me, and reasonable (given Aston prices). Always some nice cars in the workshops too, VH and older era’s.
Thank you, that's great Dewi 2 said:
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.
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