Positioning:
The Aston Martin DB7 i6 represented a significant revival for the brand, blending classic Aston Martin styling with modern performance and luxury, making it a direct competitor to other high-end GTs of its era.
Competitors:
Competed with models like the Jaguar XJS, Bentley Continental R, and Porsche 928.
Design:
Penned by Ian Callum, featuring timeless lines inspired by Aston Martin's heritage. Available as a sleek coupe and a stylish Volante convertible.
Engine Development:
Initially utilized a supercharged 3.4-liter inline-six engine, later evolving to a 3.2-liter supercharged version (as implied by the 'i6' designation, though the product description focuses on the earlier model).
Manual Benefit:
Essential tool for owners to maintain their classic Aston Martin, potentially saving significant costs on dealership servicing and repairs.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Secondary Coverage:
Parts Catalogue, OBD II Diagnostic Manual
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages, comprehensive coverage
Type:
Technical Service Manual, Parts Catalog
Format:
CD-ROM (Digital format)
Engine:
In-depth engine repair, overhaul, and component diagnostics for the inline-6 engine.
Transmission:
Covers both automatic and manual transmissions, including removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment procedures.
Suspension:
Detailed information on front and rear suspension components, geometry, adjustments, and repair.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system diagnostics, repair, and alignment procedures.
Braking System:
Comprehensive coverage of ABS, brake fluid service, caliper and disc replacement, and hydraulic system diagnostics.
Body Chassis:
Includes body panel repair, structural integrity checks, door mechanisms, and interior trim removal/installation.
Electrical:
Extensive electrical schematics, component testing, wiring harness repair, and diagnostic procedures for all systems.
Wheels Tyres:
Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, and wheel alignment procedures.
Air Conditioning:
Service and repair of the climate control system, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Exhaust Emission Control:
Information on emission control systems, catalytic converters, and exhaust component replacement.
Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, overhaul, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
OBD II diagnostic information, fault code interpretation, and live data analysis.
Parts Identification:
Comprehensive parts catalogue with diagrams and part numbers for accurate component identification and ordering.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Supercharged Inline-6 (AJ6-based)
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (3425 cc) for early models, later 3.2 Liters (3239 cc)
Aspiration:
Roots-type Supercharger (e.g., Eaton M90)
Horsepower:
Approximately 335 bhp (250 kW) at 5000 rpm (for 3.4L)
Torque:
Approximately 361 lb-ft (490 Nm) at 3000 rpm (for 3.4L)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Supercharger
ECU:
Jaguar/Ford Electronic Engine Control (EEC-IV/V variant typical)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically HOAT or OAT type. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Consult manual for specific Aston Martin approved oils.
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 290 or similar)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP24)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch for manual transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent. Consult manual for exact ZF fluid specification.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Verify manual for specific recommendation.
Length:
Approximately 4,737 mm (186.5 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1,794 mm (70.6 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1,268 mm (49.9 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1,750 kg (3,858 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate and manual for exact GVWR.
Crash Test Results:
As a low-volume, hand-built luxury sports car of its era, formal crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP are not readily available. Design focused on occupant protection within its class.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Bosch ABS IV typical)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often standard or optional.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage and crumple zones within its steel backbone chassis and composite body panels.
Audio System:
Premium audio systems typically from manufacturers like Alpine or Aston Martin branded units, often with cassette and CD players. Navigation systems were optional.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system with air conditioning.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Diagnostics Port:
OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant port for electronic diagnostics and fault code retrieval.
Minor Service:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months. Includes oil and filter change, fluid level checks, and general inspection.
Major Service:
At higher mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 or 60,000 miles), may include spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, and accessory belt inspection/replacement.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 Liters (8.9 US quarts) of 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic oil. Verify with manual.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10 Liters. Use approved coolant mix. Refer to manual for specific type and ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 High Performance. Flush and replace every 2 years. Consult manual for exact specification.
Supercharger Couplings:
Potential for wear or failure of the supercharger drive couplings, leading to noise or reduced boost.
Door Latches:
Weakening of door latch mechanisms, sometimes requiring adjustment or replacement.
Coolant Leaks:
As with many older vehicles, potential for minor coolant leaks from hoses or connections.
Interior Trim:
Age-related wear and potential detachment of interior trim pieces.
Electronics:
Aging electronic components and connectors can sometimes lead to intermittent faults. Manual is crucial for diagnosis.
Legacy:
Aston Martin has a long and storied history of producing elegant, high-performance grand tourers and sports cars, renowned for their craftsmanship and iconic styling.
Db7 Introduction:
Launched in 1993, the DB7 marked a new era for Aston Martin, revitalizing the brand with a modern design and accessible (relative to previous models) performance.
Db7 I6 Significance:
The 'i6' refers to the inline-six engine, a departure from Aston Martin's V8 tradition, initially developed with input from Jaguar.
Manufacturing Location:
Designed in the UK, manufactured primarily at Aston Martin's Gaydon facility in Warwickshire, England.
Years:
1994-1999 for the DB7 i6 variant.
Automotive Press:
The DB7 i6 was generally well-received by automotive press for its styling, performance, and blend of luxury and sportiness, although some noted the limitations of the supercharged inline-six compared to V8 or V12 competitors in later models.
Customer Satisfaction:
Consistently ranked high in owner satisfaction surveys for its desirability and driving experience, though maintenance costs reflect its luxury status.
Design Awards:
While specific design awards might not be cataloged, Ian Callum's design for the DB7 is widely recognized as a modern classic and highly influential.