An entirely new Aston Martin for the 21st century, the V12-engined Vanquish coupe debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in March 2001. Aston Martin’s first power unit of its type, the 5.9-liter, 48-valve, V12 engine (first seen in the DB7 V12 Vantage) developed 460 horsepower at 6,800 rpm, with 400 lb-ft of torque available at 5,500 rpm. The 6-speed gearbox was controlled by F1-style paddles and could be operated in either of two modes — fully manual or computer-controlled automatic — with a Sport setting available on both. The inventory of standard equipment included almost everything the discerning connoisseur could wish for, while the performance — 190 mph and 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds — placed the Vanquish firmly in the supercar class. Dominated by an imposing aluminum center console, the interior featured Connolly leather upholstery and Wilton carpeting that emphasized the 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.
Dating from early 2003, this V12 Vanquish was originally supplied by Harwoods of Chichester finished in a stylish Mendip Blue over a classic Aston interior in Magnolia hide. Specification highlights include heated front seats, Premium Sound and Power Fold Mirrors, in addition to the comprehensive standard features that made the Vanquish such a compelling Grand Tourer in period.
It has enjoyed the attentions of respected marque specialists throughout its life including Harwoods, HWM Walton-on-Thames, Lancaster Sevenoaks and, most notably, Aston Martin Works, Newport Pagnell, whose involvement underscores the car’s careful custodianship. Now showing a little over 39,000 miles from new, the Vanquish has clearly been cherished and maintained as required, its service record complete with 15 stamped entries and a file of corresponding invoices, all neatly housed in an Aston Martin Works leather binder.
Latterly part of our discerning vendor’s private collection, this fabulous Aston is now ready to be enjoyed once more, accompanied by both keys and that reassuring depth of provenance that defines the best of its kind.
(Introductory description courtesy of Iconic Auctioneers.)
