2003 | Aston Martin V12 Vanquish

Lot details

Year: 2003
Make: Aston Martin
Model: Vanquish 2+2 Coupe
Registration: BFZ 3631
Chassis No: SCFAC13323B500792
Engine No: AM3/00868
Mileage: 34,750
•: The last of the hand-built Astons
•: Comprehensive service history with owner's pack
•: Brand new MoT test certificate with fitted Tracker

The Vanquish is widely accepted as being one of the most important cars developed by Aston Martin and heavily influenced the direction of the company's line-up of sports cars in recent times. So much so, in fact, that the Newport Pagnell factory underwent an extensive refurbishment just to accommodate it, gaining a new assembly line, paint shop, rolling road and water test facility. The genius that is Ian Callum utilised an all-new engine management systems incorporated with a drive-by-wire throttle control and six-speed manual gearbox and an electro-hydraulic change mechanism matched to a hugely powerful six litre, V12 powerplant. It was an instant success and was thus the obvious choice for the nation's favourite secret agent.

It was, however, the last Aston Martin to be built at Newport Pagnell with all future cars moving to Gaydon. The bespoke example offered here today was ordered through Grange Aston Martin of the Welwyn Garden City showrooms by a gentleman of the same locale and officially registered in March 2003. It was fully equipped with all the latest extras including Connolly leather and Wilton carpeting throughout costing the princely sum of £165,000. The car presents with a full main agent service history reflected in the stamped service book, including some at Newport Pagnell. During the current ownership, it has also been looked after by accredited Aston Martin specialists with the full-service history maintained throughout its ownership with the majority of works undertaken by the 'Aston Kensington' workshops in London. The current mileage is still only 34,750 and it has been kept in good order from both its two recorded keepers. Additionally, we are led to believe that the first owner always kept the car garaged as part of his private collection as indeed has the current owner.

Upon inspection, the 'charcoal black' paintwork, a favourite with 007, is in good order with a deep lustrous sheen although there are a number of minor issues to note. In terms of light scratches/blemishes, theses can be found infrequently although the owner clearly found himself in an awkward situation with a significant blemish to the offside rear wheelarch, possibly from a bollard. There was thought to be some 'smoking' from the large V12 engine however after a visual inspection, very little could be determined and, as it has also just passed an MoT test which obviously includes emissions checks, both neutral idle test and fast idle tests both passed. Potential customers may like to engage some professional advice, however. The charcoal black leather interior appears in reasonable order for a 20+ year old Aston Martin with only light wear noticeable to both front seat bolsters. It's worth mentioning also, that the factory-supplied umbrella is present, particularly as these are so often the first thing to go missing. This four- (belted) seat 2+2 touring car is stunning to behold and the design is timeless, the next custodian would certainly be lucky indeed. Consigned by Edward Bridger-Stille.