Aston Martin DB7

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A fine modern classic with a firm following this Aston is much more than a Jag in drag

Why buy?

Apart from being one of the best looking Astons ever, the DB7 feels more thoroughbred than the Jag XJ-S (or XK8) it’s based upon and has still relative affordability on its side.

Driving

It doesn’t feel like a Jag while specialists say that, if anything, the original ‘six’ feels more thoroughbred over the faster V12, although none feel as precise or as exciting as a Porsche 911. A surprising number are automatics. Post ’99 cars are best to drive.

What to pay

The earliest cars are now worth £25,000; anything cheaper will typically need £10,000 spent to make decent. Although Volantes aren’t especially sought after (yet), they command a 10 per cent premium over the sleek coupé and this gap will widen over time. The cheapest open DB7 currently fetches around 30K; an extra £5000 will secure a Vantage coupé while the open-topped equivalent is still in excess of £40,000 – more than newer DB9 or in some cases (See our full buying guide in this issue for further information).

General

As ever, with any premium brand, it’s very wise to buy the best example – preferably from a specialist – you can find as a poor DB7 can easily need five figures spent to bring it up to speed. Your first port of call must be a HPI or similar service, to check the car’s history and whether it’s been in a bad prang.

Body and chassis

Rust can be an issue, especially as Aston cut back on undersealing their cars around 2002 and don’t be surprised to see past welding repairs or advisories on the MoT certificate. Leaks from the windscreen are costly and can lead to chassis rust.

Running gear

Back axles inherently noisy. Suspension bushes have a hard time (some say they are better made than Jag items) and expect to see worn brake discs. Like the XJ-S, wheel bearings are prone to rapid wear, compounded by wide tyres. Check all rims.

Best model?

V12

Worst model?

‘Six’ automatic

Budget buy?

I6 auto

Ok for unleaded?

Yes

Spares situation?

Indifferent

Diy ease?

Like all moderns…

Club support?

Typical Aston

Appreciating asset?

Some are beating Vantage and DB9