2005 Aston Martin Vanquish S

• Launched in 2004, the Vanquish S featured an increase in engine power to 520bhp from 460, revised gear and back axle ratios and a much-improved paddle-shift gear change
• One of only 375, right-hand drive S variants built, this lovely example has covered 41,971 miles (atoc)
• A superb combination of Mendip Blue with Caspian Blue and pale grey hide interior. Complemented by Wilton carpet throughout
• Very well spec'd with electric seats, fully adjustable steering column, air-con, sat nav, diamond-quilted headlining in Taylor Grey
• Chrome finish exterior door handles, rear parking sensors, heated front seats and 2+2 configuration
• Great history. Chronologically kept file. 15 service stamps
• This desirable Aston appears to be guided very sensibly for such a rare car

The Vanquish was built in two versions, a two-seater and what became known as the '2+2' with a couple of child-friendly rear seats filling the space that in the two-seater was occupied by a shelf for a golf bag or other luggage. A pleasing blend of up-to-the-minute technology and traditional materials, the interior was dominated by an imposing aluminium centre console extending from fascia to transmission tunnel. Connolly leather upholstery, Wilton carpeting and quilted Alcantara headlining emphasised its Aston Martin heritage for, despite its advanced specification, the Vanquish was built like all other Astons before it, one at a time and by hand. Production ceased in 2007, by which time the model had been upgraded as the Vanquish 'S' and the UK list price had risen to over ú185,000. The Vanquish is yet another 'James Bond' Aston Martin, having featured in 'Die Another Day' starring Pierce Brosnan as the eponymous secret agent.

The car offered here is an example of the revamped Vanquish 'S' that superseded the original version following its debut at the Paris Auto Show in 2004. Chief upgrade concerned the engine, which now produced 520bhp, an output good enough to whistle the 'S' up to 200mph, a figure only recently exceeded by the Aston 177 and the, previously optional, Sports Dynamic Pack of enhanced steering, suspension and brakes came as standard with the 'S'. It was the last of the line of handbuilt Aston Martins, the last model to be produced at the Newport Pagnell factory and, with only 375 built in right-hand drive, is now a very rare car. At circa ú185,000 when new in 2005, exclusivity had its price.

The Vanquish 'S' on offer here is one of those 375 right-hand-drive cars and is finished in a superb combination of Mendip Blue with a Caspian Blue/Pale Grey hide interior. The Aston has covered just 41,971miles since leaving the factory 15 years ago and this example is accompanied by a great history file (chronologically kept) which contains the Service Records displaying 15 service stamps.

The specification is impressive and includes: Chrome finish exterior door handles, rear parking sensors, heated front seats, 2+2 configuration, electric seats, fully adjustable steering column, air con, sat nav and diamond Quilted headlining in Taylor Grey.

Coming to auction from a private collection well known to Silverstone Auctions, this example looks incredible value when you consider the exclusivity and performance on offer and will certainly reward a closer look.