Market Position:
The Aston Martin DB7 represented a significant step for the brand, combining classic GT styling with modern performance and luxury, bridging the gap between traditional Aston Martins and contemporary sports cars.
Competitors:
Competed against high-end GT cars such as the Jaguar XJS, Ferrari 456 GT, and Porsche 928.
Key Features:
Elegant styling, powerful straight-six engine (later supercharged V12), luxurious interior, refined driving dynamics.
Systems Covered:
General Information, Specifications, Technical Features and Description, Rigging Information, Troubleshooting, Electrical System, Fuel System, Power Unit (Engine), Lower Unit (Drivetrain/Transmission), Bracket Unit (Chassis/Suspension/Brakes), Maintenance, Index, Appendix
Page Count:
Not specified, but implied to be comprehensive based on content list.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Factory Manual
Engine Management:
Detailed coverage of the XK6 3.4L/4.0L straight-six engine and its supercharged variants, including fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and cooling systems.
Drivetrain:
Covers the manual and automatic transmission options, clutch operation, driveshaft, differential, and axle assemblies.
Suspension And Steering:
Comprehensive details on front and rear suspension geometries, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, and the power steering system.
Braking System:
In-depth coverage of the hydraulic braking system, including ABS, brake fluid specifications, caliper maintenance, rotor replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures for the entire electrical system, including lighting, instrumentation, power windows, and ECU diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Covers fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control system, and fuel tank servicing.
Body And Chassis:
Includes information on body panel alignment, door mechanisms, convertible top operation (for Volante models), and chassis structural components.
Climate Control:
Procedures for servicing the air conditioning and heating systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake fluid replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic steps and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems.
Component Repair Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for the removal, repair, and installation of major components such as engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and electrical modules.
Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:
Detailed guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting wiring diagrams, and repairing electrical faults.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Information on engine disassembly, component inspection, clearances, assembly, and initial startup procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for both experienced DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Engine Type Early:
3.4L (3394 cc) DOHC 24-valve Jaguar AJ6 inline-6
Engine Type Late:
3.4L (3394 cc) Supercharged DOHC 24-valve Jaguar AJ6 inline-6 (DB7 Volante/Coupe post-1995)
Bore Stroke Early:
83 mm x 102 mm
Bore Stroke Late:
83 mm x 102 mm
Horsepower Early:
335 hp (250 kW) @ 5,000 rpm
Torque Early:
361 lb-ft (490 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm
Horsepower Late:
335 hp (250 kW) @ 5,000 rpm (Supercharged)
Torque Late:
361 lb-ft (490 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm (Supercharged)
Fuel Delivery Early:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Delivery Late:
Supercharged, Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Transmission Type Early:
5-speed manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic (GM 4L80-E)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Gear Ratios Manual:
Specific gear ratios detailed within the manual.
Gear Ratios Automatic:
Specific gear ratios detailed within the manual.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific ATF and manual transmission fluid specifications (e.g., Dexron III for automatic).
Length:
Approx. 4,704 mm (185.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,795 mm (70.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,264 mm (49.8 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,590 mm (102.0 in)
Curb Weight Coupe:
Approx. 1,720 kg (3,792 lbs)
Curb Weight Volante:
Approx. 1,830 kg (4,034 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
Not independently crash-tested by modern agencies due to era and low production volume. Structural integrity and passive safety features align with GT standards of the period.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available traction control system (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Infotainment System:
Basic factory audio system, typically cassette/CD player with radio. Limited integration compared to modern vehicles. Manual covers any factory-fitted upgrades or options.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS and Traction Control were the primary electronic driver aids. No advanced active safety systems like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Connectivity:
Minimal connectivity features by modern standards. May include provision for external phone connection in later models or as an aftermarket addition.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for precise recommendation.
Major Service Interval:
Significant checks and component replacements often recommended at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals, including timing belt (if applicable, though this era likely had chain-driven cams), coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40 synthetic).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., OAT).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid (or as specified).
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific hydraulic fluid, consult manual for type (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Common Issues:
Early models may experience minor electrical gremlins, potential for vacuum leaks in the supercharged system, and wear on suspension bushings. Overheating can be a concern if cooling system maintenance is neglected. Convertible top mechanisms (Volante) require regular inspection and lubrication.
Supercharger Maintenance:
Supercharger belt tension and idler pulley bearing integrity are critical. Supercharger oil changes are part of scheduled maintenance.
Brand Heritage:
Aston Martin boasts a rich history of producing iconic grand tourers and sports cars, synonymous with luxury, performance, and distinctive British styling.
Model Evolution:
The DB7 was designed by Ian Callum and launched in 1994, replacing the ageing Virage. It was initially powered by a naturally aspirated Jaguar straight-six, later upgraded to a supercharged version for increased performance. The convertible Volante variant followed the coupe.
Production Period:
1994-2004 (This manual covers the initial 1994-1999 phase).
Manufacturing Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England.
