Background

Launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1993, the DB7 was scheduled to follow the DB6 (now there is a surprise), but because of marketing it was the DBS and we had to wait for 27 years for the DB7 to appear. Originally, it was the brainchild of Victor Gauntlet, who first suggested a new smaller Aston Martin in 1990. Production was to be sited at a new factory in Milton Keynes. However, the advent of the Ford Motor Company not only provided funding but also the dynamic Walter Hayes.

Code-named DP1999, development of the new car was charged to Rod Mansfield, Engineering Director. In 1993, at the invitation of Walter Hayes, Sir David Brown became life president of Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. This provided the perfect opportunity to revive the DB prefix. The new production was established at Bloxham, near Bambury and Aston Martin Oxford Ltd was born. Chassis number sequence begins at: 100,001.

Code named NPX, the new design was subjected to far more development testing that any previous Aston Martin. Approximately 30 prototypes were driven in some of the most diverse areas in the world. From the altitude and heat of Arizona to the intense cold of Scandinavia. Also full use was made of Ford's own test facilities. The body is a semi-monocoque shell with composite materials used for some of the outer panels. The designed by Ian Callum captures the very essence of ‘Aston Martin’. The elegant shaped radiator opening and the consequence compound curves of the front of the bonnet can be traced back to the DB3S. The sculpted interior with it's predominate curved lines, is trimmed in Connolly leather and further complimented by burr walnut panels. The instrument panel has round, analogue gauges, and the exception being a digital clock mounted in the centre consol. Front seats are electrically operated and designed to hold the body in place while making the most of cornering capability. Air conditioning is fitted. After the DB7 had been in production for some four years, demand for more performance prompted a joint engineering programme between Fords advanced vehicle technology department and Cosworth engineering. The DB7 Vantage coupe and Volante was introduced at The Geneva Salon on the 9th March 1999 and marked the production of the first 12-cylinder Aston Martin. The engine is an all alloy multi valve 6.0 Litre V12 producing 420 horsepower with a top speed of 180 m.p.h. and able to accelerate to 60 m.p.h. in 5.0 seconds. Controlled by a sophisticated Visteon electronic engine management system offering monitoring and coordination of many parameters such as ignition strategy, traction control, exhaust emission and diagnostics, this engine employs the most advanced manufacturing techniques and use of composites. Both 6-Speed close ratio manual and a ZF 5-speed automatic transmission option was available, a semi automatic ‘Touchtronic’ gearbox followed later. To cope with the extra performance, the chassis and drive train underwent some changes to improve tensional rigidity. Suspension improvements included new upper and lower wishbones and rear vertical links, revised damping ratings and new more ridged Bilstein shock absorbers. Brakes linked to the Teves 4 channel electronic anti-lock control systems, Brembo callipers bite on 355 mm cross-drilled disk to the front, 330 mm to the rear. The Vantage was equipped with specially designed 15" diameter road wheels, shod with ZR rated Bridgestone SO2 tyres special to the Aston Martin requirements. Bodyworks enhancements were limited to slightly flared sills and a larger opening front air intake finished with a new bright work slated grille. Front and rear bumpers were improved in impact absorption, the rear under bumper section redesigned to accommodate the larger bore exhaust tailpipes. New front driving lights and indicators were featured as an integral part of the deeper more aerodynamic front air dam and a high-level third brake light to meet current legislation. Cockpit changes were limited to improved instrumentation, more comfortable and supportive multifunctional heated sports seating for driver and passenger, the engine now being fired by way of a red starter button positioned in the centre consol below a more traditional analogue clock. As with exterior coachwork, customers were now able to choose from virtually any interior leather and finishing combination along with a selection of veneer and inlays of alternative materials such as Aluminium and Carbon Fibre. An extensive range of factory and dealer supplied options were available, such as satellite navigation, premium sound systems and tailored luggage. It was even possible to order a DB7 with a carrier area in lieu of rear seats for transporting the family pet. DB7 marked the beginning of a new era for this famous manufacturer. In its earlier 6- cylinder form, the DB7 was a capable and beautiful GT that could be used for both intercontinental touring and daily commuting. As with previous Vantage derivatives, the engine and chassis revision compounded its capabilities, making countries merge and regular journeys, a driving experience to contemplate.

Vehicle History: The build sheet for this car shows that it was delivered to the supplying dealer, Stratstone of Wilmslow, but Byron have no service records for the car.