I bought a new V8 vantage in October 2006. Within a week it was back in the garage to have an 'Emission System Fault' fixed. Then back in again for the same problem. Then the drive belt started squealing, which it went in on four occasions to have fixed. Then it rev limited to 2,700 revs and told me the engine needed urgent attention. The Aston assitance guy cleared this fault down and we never did get to the root of the problem. Then it told me there was a 'Total Brake System Failure'!
What can I say? This is a car that cannot be appreciated without being driven. It's the best Aston I've ever driven (and I've driven plenty...). In just about every condition, it's a joy to drive, and one of a few things in life that fill you with a constant glow.
I picked up my V8 in January and drove it back to the UK... it has proved to be very reliable and a real head turner. The only criticisms I have are around the brakes, which don't feel very solid. Visibility parking is also a bit poor. Performance is good, if not startling and the car feels solidly built - and the engine howls from 4000 rpm - best car I've ever had.
