Background

Launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1993, the DB7 was scheduled to follow the DB6 (now there's 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 brain child 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 with the exception of the clock which has digital display. Front seats are electrically operated and designed to hold the body in place while making the most of cornering capability. Air conditioning is fitted, as is cruise control.

The engine is a light alloy, twin camshaft, supercharged 6 cylinder in-line, with a displacement of 3228 cc. The cylinder head has 4 valves per cylinder with Zytec electronic multi-point fuel injection. The Eaton 'roots' type supercharger is driven by a toothed belt from the crankshaft. To meet exhaust emission requirements, fuel is unleaded and the latest engine management systems are employed, together with an exhaust three way catalyst. The power developed is 335 b.h.p. at 5600 rpm with a peak torque figure of 368lb.ft. at 3000 rpm. Transmission is either a Getrag manual 5-speed gearbox or a 4-speed GM automatic. Telvis antilock disc brakes are all mounted outboard. Steering is power assisted with 2.54 turns lock to lock. The independent wishbone suspension has coil springs and monotube dampers all round and there is an anti-roll bar controlling both front and rear systems. The 18 x 8 ins light alloy wheels are of a special design an are shod with Bridgestone 245/40ZR18 tyres. Autocar magazine, October 19^th 1993, achieved 5.8 secs 0-60 mph, 14.4 secs 0-100 mph and a maximum speed of 157 mph.

Following the introduction of the coupe in 1994, the eagerly awaited 'VOLANTE' finally went into production with the first cars appearing in January 1996, debuting at both the Detroit and Los Angeles Motor Shows with the European launch following in the spring at Geneva. As a Joint production venture between Bloxham and Newport Pagnell, the drophead was essentially the same from the doors forward, with modified rear panels and boot lid to accommodate the electrically operated hood mechanism and a storage compartment. Additional strengthening was engineered into the chassis to reduce flex with the windscreen undergoing similar treatment for safety in the event of a roll. Autocar road tested a 'VOLANTE' for the November 1996 issue (4212) achieving 6.5 seconds 0-60 and a maximum speed of 152 mph.

First registered in June 1996 with the registration number 3 JJJ and the registration document notes a total of 4 keepers and two further registration number changes P 513 LRD changing to the current 623 BNR in 2006.�The current registration number is being retained by the owner and is not included in the sale of the car.

The service book notes a good service history and this is reflected in the condition of the car which can only be described as exceptional.