What's happening Aston Martin?
Discussion
We keep being informed how the UK Motor Industry is booming especially in the more expensive ranges. JLR are riding on the crest of a wave together with Bentley and Rolls Royce. All I seem to hear from Aston Martin is the sound of silence. Most days I have a look on the AM home site to no avail. Now that the AMG deal has been struck the company needs to get a move on with either a new mainstream model (Vantage replacement) or at the very least offer new engines in the existing range. There must be a raft of buyers out there who would love to order a new AM but are holding fire because they now know of the AMG involvement .
I have no wish to be controversial but feel that AM should be leaking snippets of information to whet the appetites of new buyers otherwise their market share will continue to slip away. All the ballyhoo and expense of the centenary year was great and at times quite emotional but I would question whether it sold AM any more new cars. I gather used sales are very buoyant, new not the same.
As a very proud owner of a 6 month old Vantage S there is no doubt that Aston Martin ownership is a very special thing and in some ways other manufacturers cannot aspire to offering that specialness but that alone will not sell them new cars!
Knowing that AM Personnel read this forum and that I am probably not alone in my thoughts maybe we could be offered some little nuggets of spy shots, engine info, chassis development , weight reduction, something ,anything in fact!
I have no wish to be controversial but feel that AM should be leaking snippets of information to whet the appetites of new buyers otherwise their market share will continue to slip away. All the ballyhoo and expense of the centenary year was great and at times quite emotional but I would question whether it sold AM any more new cars. I gather used sales are very buoyant, new not the same.
As a very proud owner of a 6 month old Vantage S there is no doubt that Aston Martin ownership is a very special thing and in some ways other manufacturers cannot aspire to offering that specialness but that alone will not sell them new cars!
Knowing that AM Personnel read this forum and that I am probably not alone in my thoughts maybe we could be offered some little nuggets of spy shots, engine info, chassis development , weight reduction, something ,anything in fact!
Edited by robgt on Friday 17th January 17:55
Agree with you , the news of the AMG engine deal and inferred 'new' model(s)to go with it will mean that prospective new buyers will hesitate and that will surely dent sales.
The only info I have seen is in Autocar in a news item about the forthcoming Mercedes C63 AMG in that power will come from a new twin turbo 4 litre V8 to replace the current 6.2 V8 and twin turbo 5.5 V8 and that 'as part of the recent tie up between Aston Martin and Daimler, future Astons are also set to get the 4 litre TT V8'.
The only info I have seen is in Autocar in a news item about the forthcoming Mercedes C63 AMG in that power will come from a new twin turbo 4 litre V8 to replace the current 6.2 V8 and twin turbo 5.5 V8 and that 'as part of the recent tie up between Aston Martin and Daimler, future Astons are also set to get the 4 litre TT V8'.
At best all they can announce is good intentions... it takes some time to sort out where the investments should take place. Since a major area of improvements is under the skin, gearbox drive train, together with electronics. Let alone the realighment/introduction of production lines. Mind you it would nice to hear something....
Edited by pilgrim7777 on Friday 17th January 17:58
Edited by pilgrim7777 on Friday 17th January 17:59
i know its frustrating for those who want new models and now. But unfortunately i don't think its that easy to sign a deal with AMG and then produce a car with their engines 6 months later
But for what its worth, Aston Martin has indicated (to the bond markets) that:
1. its going to invest £500m over a 5 year period (on the back of the InvestIndustrial stake) in capital spend on new model development
2. That spend is going to peak in 2016 and 2017 with the arrival of a new model range.
I would guess from that that we're going to see evolutions of the existing range for the next 15-18 months and then hints/spyshots of completely new models emerging in late 2015/early 2016. But that is just a guess based on the above
But for what its worth, Aston Martin has indicated (to the bond markets) that:
1. its going to invest £500m over a 5 year period (on the back of the InvestIndustrial stake) in capital spend on new model development
2. That spend is going to peak in 2016 and 2017 with the arrival of a new model range.
I would guess from that that we're going to see evolutions of the existing range for the next 15-18 months and then hints/spyshots of completely new models emerging in late 2015/early 2016. But that is just a guess based on the above
Agree with what you're saying Rob, car makers have to keep innovating and freshening their range, it's what people expect and when manufacturers don't release new models the prospective buyers worry about a company's direction and financial health etc.
But how could you follow up the vantage? I've lost count now of how many people have described my car as simply 'beautiful', perfect in many respects.
What would they change, I myself went through a phase of wanting new sills etc and then came to the conclusion that the un-silled original is to my taste the best look. The reason I mention sills is simply to illustrate the point that even subtle changes often are just different but not better. I look at cars like the 3 series BMW and recent mustang incarnations and think that each successive generation is uglier than its predecessor, that's a big risk for AM with such a fantastic form as the vantage. Just my opinion obviously, good topic you've started !
But how could you follow up the vantage? I've lost count now of how many people have described my car as simply 'beautiful', perfect in many respects.
What would they change, I myself went through a phase of wanting new sills etc and then came to the conclusion that the un-silled original is to my taste the best look. The reason I mention sills is simply to illustrate the point that even subtle changes often are just different but not better. I look at cars like the 3 series BMW and recent mustang incarnations and think that each successive generation is uglier than its predecessor, that's a big risk for AM with such a fantastic form as the vantage. Just my opinion obviously, good topic you've started !
Jalfonse said:
...But how could you follow up the vantage? I've lost count now of how many people have described my car as simply 'beautiful', perfect in many respects.
Then again, think back to the DB7 undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cars ever when it was launched yet now we perceive it as slightly old fashioned and the Vantage as top dog. I am sure it can be topped. Totally agree with the sentiment. Once something "new" is known to be coming soon which the AMG deal indicates. Existing models are perceived to be "old" The longer the period of gap the harder new cars will be to sell. Discounts then follow with all the knock on effects. Apart from a V12s roadster I can't see what else AM get get out of existing technology bar more and more limited editions. Carbon editions , ultimate editions, etc.
I suspect we are in for 2 quiet years but then waiting is supposed to be part of the fun......assuming we do wait.
I suspect we are in for 2 quiet years but then waiting is supposed to be part of the fun......assuming we do wait.
To carry on being controversial , so you own a latish V12V and you are fancying a new V12VS ; regardless of mileage I would reckon £50-£60K to change. Bamford Rose could give you a very similar performance upgrade for a fraction of that figure with all parts fitted being highly saleable when the new models are released. The continued depreciation of your original would pale into insignificance in comparison to what a new S will lose. Some time ago I stated that in my humble opinion to ensure continued customer retention the V12S should be targeted to a new audience thereby avoiding alienating an existing customer base. I appreciate there are those people out there where losing vast amounts of money in depreciation is not a consideration.
I also feel that announcing the AMG deal was premature and smacks in someway of desperation , maybe AM thought that by doing so it would keep the brand interest high. New car registrations in the luxury sports car segment would certainly not substantiate that. Just my opinion I feel the deal should have been struck , then a huge emphasis placed on getting a hot AMG based engine into one or two of their models as quickly as possible. That combined with some outwardly different features so that the new car stood out from existing models and I am sure that they would sell and more importantly attract new blood to our much loved brand. Nobody could deny the sheer beauty and timeless elegance that our cars offer but if I were to change my V8S for a V12S I am not sure if the neighbours or most other people would notice any difference.
The car trade is a very fickle business often with very little customer loyalty, Aston Martin need to keep moving on. With increased investment and AMG involvement the future could be very bright, I for one sincerely hope so. If they can come up with a New Vantage 4ltr twin turbo packing 500 plus BHP cylinder de-activation, a 250Kgm weight loss , drop dead gorgeous looks and a circa £100K price tag I for one want the first one please!!!!
I also feel that announcing the AMG deal was premature and smacks in someway of desperation , maybe AM thought that by doing so it would keep the brand interest high. New car registrations in the luxury sports car segment would certainly not substantiate that. Just my opinion I feel the deal should have been struck , then a huge emphasis placed on getting a hot AMG based engine into one or two of their models as quickly as possible. That combined with some outwardly different features so that the new car stood out from existing models and I am sure that they would sell and more importantly attract new blood to our much loved brand. Nobody could deny the sheer beauty and timeless elegance that our cars offer but if I were to change my V8S for a V12S I am not sure if the neighbours or most other people would notice any difference.
The car trade is a very fickle business often with very little customer loyalty, Aston Martin need to keep moving on. With increased investment and AMG involvement the future could be very bright, I for one sincerely hope so. If they can come up with a New Vantage 4ltr twin turbo packing 500 plus BHP cylinder de-activation, a 250Kgm weight loss , drop dead gorgeous looks and a circa £100K price tag I for one want the first one please!!!!
Oi Rob, sorry to take this to a metaphysical level but you do realise that the loudest noise you will ever hear is.....silence 
Furthermore, if there were to be a new strategy announced we would only knock it. Then, new models would be announced and we would critique them. The early adopters - those that paid top dollar for the new model - would be 10% acclaimed and 90% derided for paying such an exorbitant price. The subjunctive tense would be employed...."if I were ever in a position"...and we would seek solace in the fact that we had made the right decision, come what may.
Hey, it's the way of the world.
If nothing happens, half of us go to Maserati, the other half to Jaguar.
Oh, before you ask, its a Chateau de Beaucastel 1999
Furthermore, if there were to be a new strategy announced we would only knock it. Then, new models would be announced and we would critique them. The early adopters - those that paid top dollar for the new model - would be 10% acclaimed and 90% derided for paying such an exorbitant price. The subjunctive tense would be employed...."if I were ever in a position"...and we would seek solace in the fact that we had made the right decision, come what may.
Hey, it's the way of the world.
If nothing happens, half of us go to Maserati, the other half to Jaguar.
Oh, before you ask, its a Chateau de Beaucastel 1999
Here you go. The new Vanquish is automotive porn. When I need another auto on the drive this will be it. IMVHO this car and DB9.2 were huge steps forward. If you want to join the BHP race leave the brand 
On the way back from BR today Binz was always within 100 yards of me in his Training Bra because that's what it is in real world driving on UK roads.
Rob. What do AM need to produce to stop you spending money at BR out of interest?
On the way back from BR today Binz was always within 100 yards of me in his Training Bra because that's what it is in real world driving on UK roads.Rob. What do AM need to produce to stop you spending money at BR out of interest?
Edited by AMDBSNick on Friday 17th January 20:21
Guys, another thread that started well and got more and more references to Bamford Raid/Rise/ Rose! I like other PH'rs are sick of hearing this crap...we get it! You love BR! We don't want to hear it in every thread! It's not right. I used BR myself and like Mike but I don't understand why people are prostituting themselves to just one vendor, it's frankly embarrassing. We need the moderators to get involved here, this doesn't happen on Porsche/TVR/other PH sections and shouldn't here :-(
I'm more concerned about the styling of the new cars when they arrive than the engines/technical input from AMG. They may well be turbo units - not my cup of tea, but I'm very unlikely to be in the market for a new AM anyway, and all the technology will be under the skin, out of site and in theory 'just work'.
When the DB9 and V8V came out it was home run, out the park as far as the styling went. You can argue which is better looking but in their original forms, both beautiful. The subtle updates over the years has given something for those wishing to update and upgrade while still retaining those stunning looks.
When the new models appear, if they are all new, they will have to be visually stunning, so no front end like the one-77 for starters ( Derby winner with a mouthful of broken biscuits ).
When the DB9 and V8V came out it was home run, out the park as far as the styling went. You can argue which is better looking but in their original forms, both beautiful. The subtle updates over the years has given something for those wishing to update and upgrade while still retaining those stunning looks.
When the new models appear, if they are all new, they will have to be visually stunning, so no front end like the one-77 for starters ( Derby winner with a mouthful of broken biscuits ).
Rob. What do AM need to produce to stop you spending money at BR out of interest?
Evening Nick, As you know I have now had 3 Vantages in a relatively short time, (partially by default I know). Had Purdey not been written off I would without doubt still have her.
To answer your question. I have been fortunate to be able to drive any number of supposed rivals to our Aston; always I prefer the whole package that AM ownership offers. It is not just the car it is the emotion, the involvement , the friendships that as far as I can tell is unique to our brand. Our car feels fresh and different to a standard S model. When Aston Martin come up with a V8 which is very different in appearance and has improved performance over Pearl I will consider a change.
Jalfonse edited for you
Evening Nick, As you know I have now had 3 Vantages in a relatively short time, (partially by default I know). Had Purdey not been written off I would without doubt still have her.
To answer your question. I have been fortunate to be able to drive any number of supposed rivals to our Aston; always I prefer the whole package that AM ownership offers. It is not just the car it is the emotion, the involvement , the friendships that as far as I can tell is unique to our brand. Our car feels fresh and different to a standard S model. When Aston Martin come up with a V8 which is very different in appearance and has improved performance over Pearl I will consider a change.
Jalfonse edited for you
Edited by robgt on Friday 17th January 20:42
Jalfonse said:
Guys, another thread that started well and got more and more references to Bamford Raid/Rise/ Rose! I like other PH'rs are sick of hearing this crap...we get it! You love BR! We don't want to hear it in every thread! It's not right. I used BR myself and like Mike but I don't understand why people are prostituting themselves to just one vendor, it's frankly embarrassing. We need the moderators to get involved here, this doesn't happen on Porsche/TVR/other PH sections and shouldn't here :-(
You having a pop at me 
AMDBSNick said:
Here you go. The new Vanquish is automotive porn. When I need another auto on the drive this will be it. IMVHO this car and DB9.2 were huge steps forward. If you want to join the BHP race leave the brand On the way back from BR today Binz was always within 100 yards of me in his Training Bra because that's what it is in real world driving on UK roads.
Rob. What do AM need to produce to stop you spending money at BR out of interest?
The best looking modern AM is the DBS. The best 'under the skin' model is the Vanquish. A DBS exterior combined with a Vanquish platform, with a mixture of DBS/Vanq interior appointments would be the best Gaydon-era AM ever. On the way back from BR today Binz was always within 100 yards of me in his Training Bra because that's what it is in real world driving on UK roads.Rob. What do AM need to produce to stop you spending money at BR out of interest?
Edited by AMDBSNick on Friday 17th January 20:21
Must admit, Aston aren't really doing it for me these days.
No new big engine manual models which means if I am being forced down auto route then I am being forced into looking at alternatives.
Car that has my attention at moment is the new Lamborghini Huracan........stunning car and bang up to date.
Is it better than my Aston? Well it's certainly different!
Not available yet but enquiries beginning.
No new big engine manual models which means if I am being forced down auto route then I am being forced into looking at alternatives.
Car that has my attention at moment is the new Lamborghini Huracan........stunning car and bang up to date.
Is it better than my Aston? Well it's certainly different!
Not available yet but enquiries beginning.
robgt said:
Rob. What do AM need to produce to stop you spending money at BR out of interest?
Evening Nick, As you know I have now had 3 Vantages in a relatively short time, (partially by default I know). Had Purdey not been written off I would without doubt still have her.
To answer your question. I have been fortunate to be able to drive any number of supposed rivals to our Aston; always I prefer the whole package that AM ownership offers. It is not just the car it is the emotion, the involvement , the friendships that as far as I can tell is unique to our brand. Our car feels fresh and different to a standard S model. When Aston Martin come up with a V8 which is very different in appearance and has improved performance over Pearl I will consider a change.
Jalfonse edited for you
I like it..., a lot, that's what I'm talking about, Rob (Molly) you've clearly got a lot to offer this forum in non partisan posts like this :-)Evening Nick, As you know I have now had 3 Vantages in a relatively short time, (partially by default I know). Had Purdey not been written off I would without doubt still have her.
To answer your question. I have been fortunate to be able to drive any number of supposed rivals to our Aston; always I prefer the whole package that AM ownership offers. It is not just the car it is the emotion, the involvement , the friendships that as far as I can tell is unique to our brand. Our car feels fresh and different to a standard S model. When Aston Martin come up with a V8 which is very different in appearance and has improved performance over Pearl I will consider a change.
Jalfonse edited for you
Edited by robgt on Friday 17th January 20:42
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