2000 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage

Highlights

• Fantastic modern classic grand tourer
• Gorgeous styling by Ian Callum
• V12 rated at 426hp
• Extensive history
• V12 private plate included

Overview

Over its long history, it’s fair to say that Aston Martin’s business model has not been without its challenges. Those of us that love beautiful cars, then, should be grateful to Ian Callum for riding in on his designer white horse to rescue the company with his delightful styling for the DB7.

Introduced in 1994 with a supercharged straight six, the model saw a significant upgrade in 1999 when the DB7 Vantage was launched with a 5.9-litre V12 engine. This upped the top speed by 20mph to 185mph and increased power by a quarter to 426hp, giving it a serious punch.

The car’s grand-touring credentials were preserved, however, and the V12 with an automatic gearbox remains an amazing way to cover serious distances. Total sales of the DB7 amounted to over 7,000, the most of any model to date in the company’s history at a time when it sorely needed it.

Today, they remain sought after for their gorgeous looks, effortless ability and V12 refinement, but are probably the lowest-cost way into Aston ownership. This example has extensive history for the years that it’s been on the road, taking a break between 2016 and 2022. Finished in metallic black and with a tasteful two-tone grey leather interior with carbon fibre trim, it’s a very desirable specification. Condition-wise, there are a few items that will need looking at over time but the reward will be the joy of being able to utter the magic phrase “shall we take the Aston?”

History and documentation

• Registered 17 Feb 2000
• Stamped service book with main dealer services as follows: May 2000 @ 1,162 miles, Nov 2002 @ 4,423 miles, Aug 2004 @ 4,956 miles, Mar 2005 @ 11,447 miles, Oct 2005 @ 16,561 miles, Jun 2006 @21,857 miles
• Further stamps in the service book from independent dealers: Apr 2007 @ 32,103 miles, Apr 2008 @ 41,165 miles, May 2009 @ 52,032 miles, Jun 2011 @ 60,774 miles, Oct 2013 @ 69,738 miles, Jun 2015 @ 70,508 miles, Jun 2016 @ 71,241 miles, Feb 2023 @71,844 miles
• Full document pack
• The invoice for the latest service is provided and the owner tells us that various others are also present
• Showing 72,637 miles at the time of photography
• Two keys and fobs
• Current MOT expires 22 Feb 2025
• V5 in owner’s name
• HPI clear
• Desirable private plate V12 JHP included in the sale

Interior

• The cabin is finished in a subtle combination of two tone light and dark grey leather, with carbon fibre inserts to the dashboard, centre console and doors
• The soft leather used by Aston Martin can sometimes show more wear but here it’s very nicely preserved with only the driver’s outer bolster showing some slight patina
• It appears that there has been some water ingress on the passenger side as the floor mat shows slight water damage to its leather edging and there seems to be some water damage to the passenger door carbon fibre inlay; however, the owner reports that the interior is all good
• The seats are electric and heated and have the Aston Martin crest embossed into the seat backs
• Powering the Aston Martin Premium Audio speakers is an Alpine stereo with USB and CD changer under boot floor
• Speaking of the boot, it looks reasonably tidy and has an in-built battery conditioner and a space saver spare wheel under the floor

Exterior

• In our view, the DB7 is a highlight of Ian Callum’s back catalogue and continues to age beautifully
• Presented here in gorgeous metallic black, it looks fabulous in the sunshine
• On closer inspection there are a few blemishes to note: a small crack to the the underside of the front bumper on the nearside, a small scuff above the nearside rear wheelarch and some slight bubbling of the paint behind both rear arches
• The wheels are in fine condition and wear a matching set of Bridgestones that have reportedly covered only around 1,000 miles
• The MOT history shows that it has had work to address corrosion in recent years and that there is still some corrosion underneath but that it has had underseal applied
• Overall, it remains a real head-turner which presents very well and, with attention to a few minor cosmetics, would be a stunner

Mechanical

• 5,935cc V12 engine rated at 426 hp and 400 lb ft of torque
• Five-speed automatic gearbox
• Rear wheel drive
• The owner reports that the car runs and stops well and has the unmistakable sound of an Aston V12
• Extensive history; last serviced Feb 2023 less than 1,000 miles ago and no known mechanical issues

Summary

The DB7 is the most attainable of Aston Martins at present so this is an opportunity to get your hands on one of the all time great grand tourer designs at reasonably sensible money. Mechanically, this example looks to be in good order and, while there are some cosmetic items that could be addressed and potential ongoing attention underneath, it’s easy to forgive when it looks so great. Plus, you get a V12 number plate thrown in for good measure.

To arrange a viewing, please request this in the Q&A section. You can click through to the seller's profile and use the 'Email Me' function to arrange a viewing privately. This seller is located in Northampton, Northants.