2002 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage

Listed here with us at The Market is a 2002 Aston Martin DB7 Volante convertible. Given that the DB7 was eventually replaced a year or so later, this one's a late example. It has done 10,175 miles from new, and accompanying the car is a variety of paperwork including the original owner's guide. As the new gentleman’s supercar for the early 2000s, the DB7 won many a heart during its nearly decade-long stint as a new car.

Having received the approval to develop what could have been an XJS replacement into an Aston Martin, TWR was tasked to do the needful. A few years down the line, as a V12 engine found its way under the DB7's bonnet, some minute changes were carried out too: like the window-mounted rear-view mirrors, the indicator and fog lamp infused into one unit, etc. Right from day one, the DB7 was a fine-looking grand tourer, and despite its age, it hasn't lost its charm one bit. And with its top down, the Volante takes appearance even more seriously.

As you can see in the photos below, the car hasn't deviated from how it looked originally. The bodywork, paint, and even the wheels look good. There's a visible scratch right under the driver's door, a small scuff on the front bumper, and tiny marks (most likely stone chips) at the front.

The Aston Martin might've been based on a Jaguar platform but owing to its different, more exclusive positioning, it had to have a more upmarket interior. Which it does, but with Ford at the helm, there were many parts shared with lesser cars. From window switches, buttons, AC vents, to even the steering wheel, finding replacements is unlikely to be an issue, given that many of these come from cars that don't command as much value as the DB7 — and were available in abundance.

Condition-wise, there's not much to fault with this example, as far as looks and wear go. The car has been used — and you can see that — but it's been well-kept, too. The leather seats do have some wear and the rear seat has a spot on it, leather on the center console has slight damage (on the driver's side) while some scratches on the dashboard can be seen too.

The DB7 Vantage had the distinction of being powered by Aston Martin's first V12 engine — essentially two Ford V6 motors grafted together. The 5.9-liter unit, mated to either a six-speed manual or (as is the case with this example) a ZF automatic, made 420 hp and was said to hit 60 mph in 5 seconds. Impressive then, impressive now. The hood opens up to reveal the star of the show, which is neatly tucked inside. We don't see any damage here, and it must be noted that the forward-hinged hood looks rather marvelous.

The Aston Martin DB7 has an interesting backstory to it: the car was offered to Jaguar as a modern replacement to the XJS. But Jaguar didn't warm up to the idea; although, Aston Martin, on the other hand, also under Ford ownership, did like it and thus went ahead with it. This led to the project being redesigned slightly but still running Jaguar running gear and an AJ6-based engine for the standard car. During its life, from 1994 to 2003, the Aston Martin DB7 saw a handful of variants, but the most prominent change was the inclusion of a V12 engine from 1999 onwards. In total, Aston Martin sold a little more than 7,000 examples of the car, making it quite a successful model in the brand's history.

Estimated to be valued between $15,000 and $25,000, this late-model 2002 Aston Martin DB7 Volante is one fine modern classic that promises great GT capabilities in an undeniably arresting package. Plus with increasing values, it's likely to be a good investment, too.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for several years and we have no history available beyond that shown in the photography section.

We have not started or driven this vehicle so we cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. The vehicle will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Due to California emissions laws, please note that this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/The Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/The Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/The Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government or other delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.