• Displayed at the 2003 LA Auto Show
• Presented at the world debut of the DB AR1
• Uniquely specified by Aston Martin
• Their fastest open-top model at the time
• Only 12,500 miles from new

Marking the return of the six-cylinder Aston Martin, the DB7 was launched in March 1993 at the Geneva Motor Show. Six years later, Aston Martin squeezed its first production 12-cylinder engine into the DB7 to create the potent Vantage. For the first time since the DB6 Mk II, the marque announced the coupe and the convertible Volante simultaneously, made possible by increased production capabilities at the new factory in Bloxham.

The DB7 Vantage Volante, as offered here, was largely similar to the coupe. The newly designed body was transformed with a larger nose intake, a modified grille and lamps, and a new rear bumper. In order to take the weight and power of the larger V-12 engine, the chassis was strengthened with stiffer springs, new front wishbones and uprights were included, and a cruciform brace at the rear reduces axle tramp under hard acceleration. Equipped with an all-aluminum alloy V-12 engine married to the optional Touchtronic transmission, the car has an electronically limited top speed of 165 mph, with a maximum power output at a whopping 420 bhp. At the time, the DB7 Vantage Volante was Aston Martin’s fastest open-top vehicle, with a dash to 60 mph taking just 5.1 seconds.

Chassis 403554 is a particularly special DB7 Vantage Volante, as it was crafted by Aston Martin to display alongside the brand-new Zagato-bodied DB AR1 at the 2003 Los Angeles Auto Show (as noted on the car’s doorsills). Ordered to showcase new 2003 model year trim packages, this Volante is beautifully finished in unique two-tone Atlantic Blue and Ivory along the dash, seats, and center console, accentuated by Atlantic Blue piping along the blue carpets. The only DB7 in these colors, the exterior is finished in subtle Solway Grey.

The Carfax report on file notes that the car was sold into private ownership in July 2005, having been driven just 1,082 miles. The following years saw the Vantage Volante move around the Southwest, ultimately settling in Texas. A full service was performed at Aston Martin of Dallas in 2013. By 2017 chassis 403554 was acquired by its current owner in Arizona. For a model that has increasingly become a favored driver among Aston enthusiasts, this DB7 is incredibly low-mileage—showing under 12,500 miles from new.

Factory specified and one of a kind, this low-mileage Aston Martin show car is offered in virtually as-new condition.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo19.