2003 Aston Martin DB7

Review

Shaken, Stirred and Satisfying

Why do we drive what we drive anyway? I mean, other than those of us who purely made a means-based decision (i.e. best junker under a thousand), what causes us to choose the vehicle or vehicles in our garages?

Did you choose yours because its horsepower rating was the highest in its specific category? Probably not. What about road holding? Was yours the best in its class? Most likely this wasnt the deciding factor either. Like most intelligent people you probably committed to your specific brand and model because it met the majority of your needs while balancing as many of your wants as was possible, given your restrictive budget. Do you think this scenario magically changes if you take the budgetary restraints out of the picture?

The Aston Martin DB7 Vantage isnt the quickest to 60 mph, nor has it the fastest top speed. There are other exotics that will turn circles around it and many more that can out-brake the British model. Whats more, the majority of these alternative supercars are less expensive. So why does a wealthy person buy a DB7 anyway?

In true British tradition, its not only how fast you get there but how you arrive. Aston Martin is all about class and refinement. Aromatic hides envelope all occupants while gorgeous woodwork stimulates the optic nerves. Even the gauges and switchgear are jewel-like. But as sumptuous as an Aston Martin interior is, its hardly all about luxury. An ample dose of speed is part of the package of course.

This is especially true when factoring in the new DB7 GT. A healthy 435-hp and 410 lb-ft of torque is produced by its 48-valve, DOHC 5.9-L V12 - 15-hp and 10 lb-ft more than the regular DB7, derived by a remapped engine management system (EMS) and more free flowing exhaust. Thats a substantial amount of power, but it needs to be in order to make the 3,924 pound GT feel lively. And it goes, with acceleration to 60 mph taking a mere 4.9 seconds? While on the tardy side compared to Porsches 3.9 second to 60 mph 911 GT2 or Ferraris 4.2 second 575M, its still ruddy quick. I mean, have you ever sprinted to 60 mph from standstill in under 5 seconds? Its an awesome experience. I drive over a hundred new cars a year and still have had the pleasure of only a dozen or so that are capable of this feat.

Whats monumental about the new engine is its 12-cylinder configuration. Initially all DBs, even 007s (Sean Connery not Pierce Brosnan), received only inline 6-cylinder engines - plenty powerful for their respective eras nonetheless. The 70s brought V8 coupes and convertibles, only in the brands pinnacle models. It seems that the relationship with Fords Premier Auto Group is finally paying dividends in parts sourcing, as the new V12 is a much more technologically advanced engine than anything ever produced by Newport Pagnell previously. The DB7s V12 will spin to 7,000 rpm on its way up through the gears, shifted either manually through a Tremec 6-speed transaxle, reportedly modified for snappier shifts and a more positive feel, with power routing to the rear wheels via a new twin-plate racing clutch - the standard DB7 uses a single plate clutch.

Balancing the power a variety of suspension mods improve on the DB7s road holding prowess, starting with revalved dampers and ending with the relocation of the steering rack, said to enhance overall steering feel.

To compensate for its increased power, the GT delivers larger diameter grooved brake rotors, 14-inches up front and 13-inches in the rear. The new Pagid pads are also upgraded to improve stopping performance.

"Improving" on what many consider to be one of the most beautifully designed new cars on the road today, would have been a formidable task, thus Aston Martin chose to add minimal exterior modifications. Included as part of the GT, a racy wire mesh insert occupies the traditionally shaped Aston grille opening, while dual engine vents sit atop the long hood. The rear decklid gets a sporty Kamm-style flip, while gorgeous 5-spoke alloy wheels literally round out the package. The DBs already lavish interior gets upgraded with well-bolstered sport seats in GT trim, plus bright metal trim and distinct color options.

While not perfect ergonomically, the DB7 GT offers a ride and handling combination said to be in a class of few. Also, compared to the $235,000 460-hp Vanquish, its a relative bargain at $160,000. Whats more the GT is incredibly exclusive, with only 50 examples arriving in the U.S. this year out of a 300 model run.

Again, its not the specific performance figures that best reflect Aston Martins DB7 GT, but its all-round balance. Few sports cars offer its high level of luxury, refined character and thoroughbred performance, nor anything near its stunning styling, making the handcrafted DB7 GT a rare find indeed.