2003 Aston Martin

Chassis Number: SCFAD12313K 304096

Engine Number: AM2A/00192

UK Registration Number: BV 03 AAY

Date of first reg: 14th April 2003

Exterior colour: Solway Grey

Hood:

Interior colour: Blue Leather

Current Odometer reading: 42,000

Mileage Warranty:

Steering: Right

Transmission: Manual

In 1993, at the invitation of Walter Hayes, Sir David Brown became life president of Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. This provided the perfect opportunity to revive the DB prefix. The new production was established at Bloxham, near Banbury and Aston Martin Oxford Ltd was born. Chassis number sequence begins at: 100,001. Code named NPX, the new design was subjected to far more development testing that any previous Aston Martin. Approximately 30 prototypes were driven in some of the most diverse areas in the world. From the altitude and heat of Arizona to the intense cold of Scandinavia. Also full use was made of Ford's own test facilities.

The body is a semi-monocoque shell with composite materials used for some of the outer panels. The designed by Ian Callum captures the very essence of "Aston Martin". The elegant shaped radiator opening and the consequence compound curves of the front of the bonnet can be traced back to the DB3S. The sculpted interior with it's predominate curved lines, is trimmed in Connolly leather and further complimented by burr walnut panels. The instrument panel has round, analogue gauges, and the exception being a digital clock mounted in the centre consol. Front seats are electrically operated and designed to hold the body in place while making the most of cornering capability. Air conditioning is fitted.

After four years production (The DB7 was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1993), demand for more performance prompted a joint engineering programme between Fords advanced vehicle technology department and Cosworth engineering. The DB7 Vantage coupe and Volante were introduced at The Geneva Salon on the 9th March 1999 and marked the production of the first 12-cylinder Aston Martin. The engine is an all alloy multi valve 6.0 Litre V12 producing 420 horsepower with a top speed of 180 m.p.h. and able to accelerate to 60 m.p.h. in 5.0 seconds. Controlled by a sophisticated Visteon electronic engine management system offering monitoring and coordination of many parameters such as ignition strategy, traction control, exhaust emission and diagnostics, this engine employs some of the most advanced manufacturing techniques and use of composites. Both 6-Speed close ratio manual and a ZF 5-speed automatic transmission option was available, a semi automatic "Touchtronic" gearbox followed later.

To cope with the extra performance, the chassis and drive train underwent some changes to improve tensional rigidity. Suspension improvements included new upper and lower wishbones and rear vertical links, revised damping ratings and new more ridged Bilstein shock absorbers. Brakes linked to the Teves 4 channel electronic anti-lock control systems, Brembo callipers bite on 355 mm cross-drilled disk to the front, 330 mm to the rear. The Vantage was equipped with specially designed 15" diameter road wheels, shod with ZR rated Bridgestone SO2 tyres special to the Aston Martin requirements.

Bodyworks enhancements were limited to slightly flared sills and a larger opening front air intake finished with a new bright work slated grille. Front and rear bumpers were improved in impact absorption, the rear under bumper section redesigned to accommodate the larger bore exhaust tailpipes. New front driving lights and indicators were featured as an integral part of the deeper more aerodynamic front air dam and a high-level third brake light to meet current legislation.

On 22nd October 2002 at the British motor show, the DB7 GT and GTA were introduced. A number of our customers had wanted a different approach to the DB7 Vantage and with Vanquish now some two years into production, engineers were able to incorporate many dynamic changes that provided a higher level of performance but not at the sacrifice of refinement and the result was the DB7 GT and GTA. Coachwork modifications were limited to subtle but effective changes that further enhanced the aerodynamic balance such as additional upsweeps to the under tray, wheel arch liner extensions and a boot lid lip, all adding to reducing lift and therefore increasing high speed stability by some 50%. Two power veins crafted into the bonnet incorporating grilles allowed under-bonnet air-flow management as well as additional cooling. Full load ECU re-mapping allowed fuel and ignition to be re-calibrated, breathing through an active sports exhaust system with a rear muffler by-pass valve system (as used on Vanquish, closed between 1500 and 3500 rpm) helped boost the power to 435bhp and torque from 400lb ft to 410 lb ft. as well as producing a unique tone. Power delivery was transferred by a 228mm AP twin plate racing clutch with final drive ratios increased accordingly. A quicker shifting gear lever unit, steering snubber washer and rack location enhanced the positive driving feel with modification to dampers, front and rear lower wishbones, compounded chassis agility and control. The interior changes were essentially cosmetic but the fitting of the standard high winged Recaro sports seats added to both comfort and a sense of security in this hand-finished cockpit.

Although more a tuning exercise, the changes made transformed this accomplished Grand Tourer into something rather special. Sharpening all most every aspect of the DB7 Vantage talents, the GT and GTA perform in a manner more similar to its big brother, the Vanquish.

Summary:

eremy Clarkson was once moved to describe the DB7 Coupe as "the best looking thing made by man".

The DB7 GT is the ultimate evocation of this modern Aston Martin classic and its value is reinforced by its comparative rarity. With a good record of maintenance and a clear ownership history, this is an opportunity to acquire what has become an appreciating asset and one of the finest sports tourers of recent years.

Vehicle History

Delivered was new on 14th April 2003 by P J Evans of Birmingham to a John Hardy who registered the car in his company name, Contract Appliances of Coalville, Leicestershire. PJ Evans continued to service the car until it was sold to a Barry Surtees of Brighton when the car was just a year old.

In fact they serviced the car once for the new owner in November of 2003 before maintenance duties moved closer to the owner's home on the South Coast. The car remained in Brighton until February 2006 when it was acquired by the current owner, an Aston Martin enthusiast and collector in Surrey.