Aston Martin Vanquish Classic Cars for Sale

Aston Martin Vanquish – The Story Behind the Grand Tourer

Premiered at the 2001 Geneva Motor Show, the Aston Martin Vanquish was introduced as a modern successor to the Virage series, taking its final form as the last hand-built car at the iconic Newport Pagnell plant. The model, penned by Ian Callum with design echoes of the DB4 GT Zagato, immediately stood out through its blend of aluminium bodywork and new-generation carbon fibre chassis, ushering in a new technical language for the brand. Its cinematic debut as James Bond’s car in “Die Another Day” heightened its global profile and established its status among contemporary British performance cars.

Model Series Evolution

The Vanquish story begins as the spiritual and technical heir to the Virage, stepping forward as Aston Martin’s new flagship in 2001. The initial generation (2001–2007) offered both a standard and, from 2004, a sharpened S version, with only around 1,400 pieces built, making both scarce today. Its direct follow-up came with a full second generation in 2012, presented as part of the brand’s centenary celebrations; this model drew on design language from the One-77 hypercar and added innovations like a pure carbon fibre bodyshell. With power outputs climbing in successive iterations, the Vanquish S (2017) closed the combustion-powered era in style, with rare versions such as the Zagato Shooting Brake, Speedster, and bespoke Q by Aston Martin variants marking the zenith of limited-production luxury.

Highlights and Statistics

Handcrafted performance defines every Vanquish, from the naturally aspirated V12 engine with outputs from 450 to 603 PS, to its agile near-50:50 weight distribution enabled by an aluminium and carbon fibre chassis. Technical refinements like adaptive damping, carbon ceramic brakes on S models and the optional paddle-shifted or manual gearboxes distinguish the Vanquish driving experience. Interiors showcase extensive use of hand-stitched Connolly leather, optional quilted Alcantara, custom audio by Linn, and a range of luxury accessories. On Classic Trader, the Vanquish accounts for 100% of Aston Martin listings in this series, demonstrating its singular presence and steady demand among enthusiasts.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Several Vanquish variants cater to connoisseurs and collectors: the Vanquish S Ultimate Edition marked out the final run of the first generation with just 50 units in ‘Ultimate Black’ and bespoke interior touches. The Vanquish 'One of Seven' series, crafted by Q by Aston Martin, offered unique specifications in carbon fibre and ‘Jet Black’. Most notable is the collaboration with Zagato, producing 99 Shooting Brakes, along with ultra-rare Speedster and Coupé forms—all celebrating distinctive Italian design (the Double Bubble roof, unique grille) married with 595 PS V12s, 8-speed automatics, and all-carbon bodies.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Potential Vanquish buyers should be aware that infotainment and navigation systems in early models are now dated, often prompting retrofits for Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay. Routine checks of regular maintenance—especially with service history from Aston Martin dealers or specialists—are crucial, as is verifying the smooth function of electrohydraulic gearboxes and adaptive dampers on later variants. Retrofitted manual gearboxes are sought after but should be verified for professional workmanship.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

Performance is at the heart of the Vanquish. Early models sprint from 0–100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, later dropping below 4 seconds in S and Zagato versions (3.5s for the latter). Top speeds consistently top 320 km/h in S-spec, with lauded throttle response and linear power from the V12. The shift from electrohydraulic 6-speed (with optional manual conversions) to the 8-speed automatics in later generations improved response and driving pleasure. Adaptive damping and carbon-ceramic brakes broaden dynamic control, while rear-wheel drive and a finely balanced chassis provide a responsive, assertive grand tourer feel. - Vanquish S (2004-2007): Enhanced power, refined handling, carbon-ceramic brakes.

• Vanquish S Ultimate Edition: Collector appeal, special finish, limited to 50 units.
• Vanquish Zagato (2017): 595 PS, all-carbon design, only 99 Shooting Brakes built.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Ian Callum’s signature is visible in every sweep of the Vanquish’s body, referencing heritage models but advancing with fluid carbon bodywork, modern lighting and commanding proportions. The interior is enveloped in hand-sewn Connolly leather and optional quilted Alcantara; customer choice extends to colour, stitching pattern and dashboard material. Packages from ‘Q by Aston Martin’ enable further customisation: special exterior paint like ‘Ultimate Black’, carbon fibre kits (roof, splitter, diffuser), and even commemorative plaques or unique badging (Zagato, S Ultimate, custom ‘Q’ builds). All variants include sports seats—optionally 2+2—and cutting-edge options for in-car audio or ‘infotainment’ (with some retrofit modernisation inevitable on older cars).

Other Relevant Features

Factory accessories and documentation, such as original car covers, battery conditioners, fire extinguishers and first-aid kits, often remain with cherished cars and add value. Vanquish cars are available in coupe, Volante (convertible), and, for Zagato, even Speedster and Shooting Brake bodystyles, each with individual customisation options. Security and comfort features—alarm systems, advanced keyless entry and bespoke luggage—recall the attention to detail given every Aston Martin.

Summary

The Aston Martin Vanquish stands as a prime example of hand-built British performance, blending unmatched V12 engineering with evolutions in carbon and aluminium construction. Each generation and special edition interprets the marque’s heritage through modern craftsmanship and technical sophistication. On Classic Trader, the Vanquish commands attention both for its low production numbers and the unwavering enthusiasm from the collector market.