In March 1999 a totally revised DB7 Vantage and Vantage Volante made their debut at the annual Geneva Motorshow. Building on the success of the in-line 6 cylinder DB7 the new Vantage models featured an all new 420bhp, 6.0 litre V12 engine, with a choice of 6 speed manual or 5 speed automatic gearbox. A ‘Touchtronic’ option quickly became available offering a more involving experience for customers who preferred automatic gearboxes.
In addition to the new powertrain, DB7 Vantage had more aggressive styling, with a bigger front grille, new fog/side/indicator lights and imposing 18” wheels with Bridgestone S02 tyres. The interior leather trim was cut and sewn at a special trim shop at Newport Pagnell along with Wilton Carpet for the flooring and choice of wood veneer or carbon fibre facia panels.
In 2002 the GT and GTA (Touchtronic automatic) joined the DB7 line-up. 190 GT’s and 112 GTA’s were built, they featured Bonnet vents, ‘framed’ wire grille with the GT insignia, unique 5 spoke wheels and a re-sculptured lip spoiler on the boot lid. Other improvements included a twin plate clutch, uprated suspension, brakes with Vanquish brake booster and special under trays to improve aerodynamics. Power increased by a further 15bhp to 435bhp on the manual GT model, with the GTA developing 420bhp.
DB7 Vantage had worldwide appeal and set new standards of power, refinement and reliability for handmade luxury sports cars.
DB7 VANTAGE SPECIAL EDITION
In 2002 a special edition of DB7 Vantage was produced to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. 24 examples of DB7 Vantage Jubilee were built, 19 for the UK and 5 for Europe, with magnolia leather and dark walnut wood veneers. For UK customers the cars were handed over, along with a matching watch, at an exclusive event held at Thornbury Castle.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Engine: V12, 5935 cc, 420 bhp @ 6000 rpm 400 lbs-ft @ 5000 rpm
- Suspension: Front: Coil springs, monotube dampers and anti-roll bar Rear: Coil springs, monotube dampers and anti-roll bar
- Transmission: 6-speed manual with optional 5-speed automatic
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 4666 x 1830 x 1238 mm (Saloon), 4666 x 1830 x 1260 mm (Volante)
- Brakes: Front and rear ventilated discs
- Weight: 1780 kg (Saloon), 1875kg (Volante)
- 0 – 60 mph: 5 sec
- Top Speed: 185 mph (Saloon), 165 mph (Volante)
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