Aston Martin DB7
1994-2003: Sales smash secured the maker’s future
The history of Aston Martin is littered with make-or-break models, but few have been as important as the DB7. Launched in 1994, the graceful entry-level coupé was the first car to be developed under the watchful eye of new owner Ford, and was charged with taking the company back to profitability. When production ended nearly 10 years later, more than 7,000 examples had been sold, making it the most popular Aston of all-time. But this success wasn’t without controversy.
Unlike its more expensive stablemates, the DB7 wasn’t hand-built in the historic Newport Pagnell factory, but instead rolled down a production line at a facility in Bloxham, Oxfordshire. Even more alarming for Aston purists was the fact that the car shared some of its underpinnings with the old-fashioned, and cheaper, Jaguar XJS.
Yet while the DB7’s mechanicals were engineered to a strict budget, its gorgeous bodywork looks a million dollars. Penned by current Jaguar design chief Ian Callum, both the curvaceous coupé and drop-top Volante versions still turn heads today. Inside, the DB7 is beginning to show its age. Not only is the cabin a little cramped, but its Ford switchgear lowers the tone.
The first cars were powered by a supercharged 3.2-litre straight-six engine. On the move, the DB7 is more cosseting cruiser than scalpel-sharp sports car – the real driving thrills were reserved for the 420bhp 6.0-litre V12 Vantage (pictured), which arrived in 1999. It was the firm’s first ever V12 and capable of 185mph.
Today, the underrated DB7 represents one of the most affordable avenues into Aston Martin ownership, with decent used examples costing as little as £15,000. Take the plunge and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful cars of all-time. More importantly, you’ll own a machine that virtually single-handedly helped save this legendary British brand.
* Value: £15,000-£50,000
* Engine: 6.0-litre V12 (Vantage), 420bhp
* Transmission: Six-speed manual/five-speed auto
* 0-62mph/top speed: 5.0 seconds/185mph
* Cars built: 7,091 (including 4,431 Vantages)
For an in-depth buyer's guide on the Aston Martin DB7 from Classic and Performance Car click here...
