12 Oct 00
static.jpg)
The Vanquish is the first Aston Martin to be fully developed under Ford's ownership, but it remains true to many Aston traditions, despite the presence of much advanced engineering beneath its dramatic skin. Just 300 a year will be built by hand at Aston's Newport Pagnell factory, each car made individually to bespoke specifications, and the sumptuous cabins will, like any decent gentleman's motor car, feature the refined, sensual pleasures of Connolly leather and thick-pile Wilton carpets. Even the styling looks reassuringly classic: designer Ian Callum - now charged with leading Jaguar's design department as well as Aston's - has adhered to the Aston template, providing the long-bonneted Vanquish with a wide-mouthed grille, a low air intake, retro-look side vents and distinctive sweeping curves. In short, the Vanquish has heritage and pedigree stamped all over it.
static.jpg)
However, despite appearances, Aston Martin is not living in the past, Bristol-fashion. Parent company Ford is determined to position Aston Martin as a standard-bearer for new technology (which represents a return to the company's philosophical roots) and as a worthy rival to the best the world can offer - which in Aston's case means Ferrari. And the Vanquish is intended to take on Ferrari's 550 Maranello and 456 GT. Yes, really. It might be more subtle to look at, but the spec sheet claims acceleration to rival Modena's finest - 60mph is despatched in less than 4.5 seconds. On top of that, the Vanquish is the first Ford Premier Group model to pioneer a new lightweight body construction that ought to make the Vanquish the fine-handling machine an Aston ought to be.
.jpg)
The V12 6.0-litre, 48-valve engine is developed from the all alloy, twin overhead camshaft unit used in the DB7 Vantage. In effect, this engine is two Mondeo V6 motors butted together. It pushes out 450 bhp (up from the DB7's 420 bhp) and promises a top speed of over 190 mph should you find yourself in a suitable location in which to reach it - so it's not short of go. Torque has increased slightly over the DB7, and emissions are reduced too thanks to the new inlet manifolds, camshafts, valve gear, crankshaft and exhaust system.
To exploit this power to the full, the electronic throttle is linked to six-speed semi-automatic transmission, which is controlled by steering wheel-mounted paddle controls. And should you just wish to cruise, the gearbox can also be operated automatically, with the option of a 'winter' mode to suit slippery driving conditions. Besides the transmission, the brakes, suspension and steering are all modern, high-grade items, but the most innovative part of the Vanquish is its body construction.
