* Engine: Jaguar-derived 3.2-litre engine is very tough, as is the later 6.0 V12. Even the 3.2's three-year supercharger belt-renewal stipulation is affordable.
* Brakes: Hard-worked discs are susceptible to warping, revealed by a judder under braking. Source new parts from specialists rather than dealers; you'll pay around £75.
* Suspension: Tyres are sensitive to pressures, and wear rapidly if incorrect. Look for problem signs on the inside edge, which indicate mis-aligned suspension geometry.
* Interior: The cabin is cheapened by Ford-derived switchgear, but at least it's reliable. Ensure the air-con works, though, as the dash-out repair can cost more than £3,000.
* Reliability: Early cars did suffer annoying niggles, but these were all cured over time. Our best advice? Buy as late as you can possibly afford, even if it means choosing a higher-mileage example.
Driving Impressions
Even the 3.2-litre DB7 has ample performance, but the V12 is truly stunning. Many prefer the automatic box to the heavy manual, yet the handling inspires confidence and suits British roads, while the ride is brilliant for a sporting model.
There's reasonable room for two inside (forget the token rear 'seats', though) and the trim is plush, but the classy dash is spoiled by cheap Nineties' Ford switchgear. Look out instead; the view over the bonnet is sublime.
Glass's View
Continuing Aston Martin's heritage for building beautiful cars, the DB7 has seen an increase in interest following the launch of the DB9, thanks to a two-year waiting list for the newcomer. Manuals and autos are worth the same, while Volante cabriolets are seasonal and not as good to drive as the coup
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Why is it almost all online reviews of the DB7 range often omit the GT, which in most peoples opinions was the best DB7 produced.
The difference between the GT is almost as obvious as that between the i6 and the Vantage.
I whole heartedly agree on the switchgear, although the GT did address this partly with alloy controls for the heater / AC.
My main bug bear were the parts bin rear lights.. ok for early ones as they suited the time, but into the millennium they should have rectified the ageing design a little around the rear end.
are they still in good condition
db7 looks very tempting, now, especially with the secret out that
Porsche 911´s with 3.4 litre engines are a huge risk, and 3.6´s not much less of a risk. However, what is the substance to db7 horror stories of early ones not working, or catching fire? were these ´niggles´ that were sorted out? If so, when?