Introduced in March 1999, the DB7 Vantage was an exciting new model powered by a state-of-the-art, all-alloy V12 engine, a 'first' for a production Aston Martin. This 6-litre, quad-cam, 48-valve unit produced 420bhp and 400lb/ft of torque while meeting all current and projected emissions regulations. There was a choice of two alternative transmissions: a new six-speed manual or ZF five-speed automatic with manually selectable ratios. A top speed of 185mph was claimed for the Vantage coupé.
The existing six-cylinder DB7 bodyshell was re-engineered to accommodate the new V12 engine/transmission package, resulting in a stiffer structure exceeding all contemporary crash test requirements, while the suspension was developed specifically for this new model. The 15" diameter wheels too were unique to the Vantage, which also featured cross-drilled and ventilated Brembo brakes equipped with ABS.
Notwithstanding all the DB7 Vantage's high-tech attributes, its makers had not lost sigh