Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Competitors:
Ferrari 456M GT, Bentley Continental GT, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230)
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, comfortable for long-distance touring
Platform:
VH (Vertical-Horizontal) aluminum bonded structure, shared with Aston Martin V8 Vantage (X150)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management, transmission, driveline
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS/DSC), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, infotainment, climate control, ECUs, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, airbags, HVAC components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system overhauls, component-level repair
Depth:
Comprehensive (includes detailed component specifications, torque values, diagnostic trees, and schematics)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.3 Liters (4300 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
91 mm x 82.7 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower:
380 bhp (283 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
410 lb-ft (555 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic ME7.1.1 or similar (specific Aston Martin calibration)
Type:
Touchtronic 6-speed automatic transaxle
Type:
Graziano 6-speed manual (available on select markets/builds)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for each gear, including final drive (detailed in manual)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Typically a high-quality ATF, such as Mobil ATF 220 or equivalent (check manual for exact specification and part number)
Crash Test Results:
Specific official ratings for this era are less common for niche luxury vehicles. Focus on inherent safety features.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Braking:
ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), performance brake calipers and discs
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, potentially curtain airbags
Body Structure:
Advanced aluminum bonded structure for high torsional rigidity and occupant protection
System Features:
Navigation system, premium audio system (e.g., Bang & Olufsen or Aston Martin Premium Audio), CD player, radio
Interface:
Likely a combination of physical buttons and a central display screen
Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (front and rear), potentially adaptive damping system (ADS)
Options:
Limited by modern standards; may include Bluetooth for phone connectivity on later production runs or specific options.
Minor Service Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (e.g., oil and filter change).
Major Service Interval:
Typically every 20,000 miles or 24 months, involving more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, brake fluid).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic engine oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 meeting specific API and/or ACEA specifications (e.g., API SN, ACEA A3/B4). Consult manual for precise Aston Martin specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 - 8.5 liters (check manual for exact capacity with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a blue or pink OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, compatible with aluminum engines. Aston Martin OE coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) or DOT 5.1 brake fluid, meeting FMVSS 116 standards.
Common Problems:
Early models might experience issues with the 'Touchtronic' gearbox software, minor electrical gremlins, or wear on certain suspension components due to the vehicle's performance focus. Catalytic converter issues can arise with age and mileage.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection and replacement of coolant hoses, proper servicing of the transmission, and diligent attention to electrical system warnings are crucial.
Legacy:
Aston Martin has a long history of producing elegant and high-performance sports cars and GTs, synonymous with British craftsmanship and motorsport success.
Predecessor:
Aston Martin V8 Vantage (post-Virage era), DB7
Introduction Year:
2004 (Geneva Motor Show)
Manufacturing Location:
Gaydon, Warwickshire, England
Production Period:
2004-2012