2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage - Manual

Background:

Aston Martin's V8 Vantage was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005, with styling cues carried over from the 2003 AMV8 concept. The Vantage name had previously been used to denote the most powerful version of a model but now became an entirely separate model in itself.

For those who associated the name with performance however, there was no disappointment, as the new Vantage was launched for 2006 with a hand-built 4.3-litre quad-cam, 32-valve V8 producing 385PS (380bhp), which utilised dry-sump technology to allow it to be mounted low in the chassis, for optimum centre of gravity.

Designed by Ian Callum and his replacement Henrik Fisker, the Vantage immediately won plaudits for its sublime styling as well as its power, performance and handling prowess. The svelte two-door coupé featured a bonded aluminium structure for strength and lightness, with a hatchback-style tailgate adding everyday practicality.

The V8 Vantage was an immediate success, chassis #10,000 leaving Gaydons hand-assembly line in the first half of 2008, after just two years of production. Not for nothing was the Vantage was Aston's biggest selling model, with 24,664 Vantages of all kinds (V8, V12, Coupés and convertibles) leaving Gaydon in its 11-year production cycle.

The car:

The first owner of this delightful steel-grey manual transmission V8 Vantage was certainly an early adopter, taking possession on his car early in April 2006, not long after the first customer deliveries began. The car would have been a rare sight on UK-roads at that time and it remains very much the same today, despite being a model which went a long way towards re-establishing Astons reputation (and positive bank balance). There simply aren't that many for sale. To keep other road users guessing as to exactly what they were following, a badges-delete option was specified.

This example has covered just over 62,000 miles during its 18 year life, enough to keep it well exercised and limber and to create the beginnings of a subtle, comfortable patina on the luxurious deep burgundy leather interior. The 160W Aston Martin sound system remains in place and the SatNav is also present, with its flip-up screen.

Under the skin, the 4.3-litre V8 and manual transaxle ensure that the Vantage should live up to its reputation as a dual-purpose companion as at home on early morning blasts along favourite roads as it is on the daily commute of popping out for the weekly shop. All accompanied by a soundtrack thats always a delight.

Riding on 18" 10-spoke anthracite alloys, this V8 Vantage remains as potent yet discreet as it left the production line and will grave any driveway, as well as setting the heart racing and adrenalin pumping. Its the sort of car where youll turn back just to look at it, as you walk away.

Whilst it does have wear and tear commensurate with a 18 year old car, its full service history backs-up the fact its been looked after all it's life.

Summary:

This V8 Vantage oozes class and offers a luxurious, powerful yet subtle introduction to supercar ownership, for econobox money. Its the Aston you always promised yourself.

Seller: Private

Location: Warwickshire

Photos: Professional

NB: Whilst the car is pictured with a private registration, it will revert back to its standard plate of NT06 GWD at the point of sale