Vehicle Overview
A brand-new high-dollar model named V12 Vanquish joined the lineup of this legendary British sports car maker in 2002. Not only was the initial allotment of 70 cars for the United States hurriedly snatched up, but the total for 2003 — an even 100 cars — also sold out early, according to Automotive News.
Two rear-wheel-drive body styles are available: a two-passenger coupe and a 2+2 model with a small backseat. Starting with cars produced in May 2004, a Sports Dynamic option will be available as a dealer-installed accessory. It consists of a sport pack suspension and a new braking system with six-piston front calipers and larger discs. Nine-spoke wheels are 19 inches in diameter and are made of lightweight, forged alloy.
At the 2004 North American International Auto Show, Aston Martin introduced a brand-new DB9 model that will emerge for 2005. Production of the DB7 Vantage model halted after 2003.
Headquartered in Buckinghamshire, England, and long known for limited-production sports cars, Aston Martin is owned by Ford. Aston Martin sold 519 cars in the United States during 2003; most of the automaker’s vehicles are sold in the United States and Great Britain.
Exterior
Because the elegantly styled V12 Vanquish was designed largely by Ian Callum, who also penned the now-departed DB7 Vantage, there’s a strong resemblance between the two sports cars. With side vents and a larger grille that is flanked by bold auxiliary driving lamps, the V12 Vanquish looks a bit more muscular than the DB7.
The front fenders and hood panels incorporate finely detailed compound curves that sweep back to steeply raked windshield pillars and a low, curving roofline. Deeply sculptured sill and door panels accentuate the classic profile, and larger trapezoidal taillights sit in a slightly higher, arching tail. A chrome racing-style fuel filler is used.
The main body structure of the V12 Vanquish utilizes carbon fiber, extruded aluminum and composite materials that are bonded together to form a central safety cell in a process also used in the aerospace industry. Aston Martin says it’s lighter, stiffer and stronger than conventional body construction that utilizes bolts or welding. The automaker also claims it provides improved crash protection.
Built on a 106-inch wheelbase, the V12 Vanquish measures 183.7 inches long overall and stands 51.9 inches tall. Buyers can choose their own colors for the car’s body and leather upholstery.
Interior
The V12 Vanquish is available with or without a small backseat. Prospective owners are invited to visit Aston Martin’s Newport Pagnell factory in Buckinghamshire to select both the body color and Connolly leather upholstery scheme. A deep center console separates the front occupants and incorporates a red starter button. White-faced instruments and a message center can provide information in 11 languages.
Under the Hood
Developed with Ford’s assistance, the 6.0-liter dual-overhead-cam V-12 engine develops 460 horsepower and 400 pounds-feet of torque and works with a drive-by-wire throttle. The close-ratio six-speed-manual transmission uses fingertip-actuated Formula One-style paddles to produce gear changes; the gearbox can also be used in automatic mode. A special shifting program is tailored for winter weather conditions.
Safety
All-disc antilock Brembo brakes are installed. Side-impact airbags are not available.