Positioning:
High-performance luxury grand tourer, representing the pinnacle of Aston Martin's design and engineering during its era.
Competitors:
Ferrari 550 Maranello, Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911 Turbo, Lamborghini Murciélago.
Design Philosophy:
Hand-built craftsmanship, aerodynamic efficiency, potent V12 power, timeless British styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and specialists to maintain and repair this exclusive and complex vehicle, preserving its performance and value.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), driveshafts, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS/EBD), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules, ECU/ECM, infotainment, navigation
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, climate control (HVAC), airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, adjustments, calibrations
Wiring:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, cylinder heads, valvetrain, and timing components.
Transmission Repair:
In-depth instructions for the automated manual gearbox, including hydraulic systems, actuators, clutch assembly, and internal components.
Suspension Geometry:
Specifications and procedures for suspension alignment, component replacement (shocks, springs, control arms, bushings), and related diagnostics.
Depth:
Full factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and macOS
Software Requirements:
Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer), WinZip (or compatible unarchiver)
Printability:
Printable pages for on-site workshop use
Binding:
Digital (N/A for physical binding, but implies printable)
Paper Type:
Digital (N/A for physical paper type)
Engine Code:
Naturally Aspirated V12 (based on Ford's modular V8, expanded)
Displacement:
5.9 Liters (5935 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 79.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Horsepower:
414 bhp (420 PS) @ 6100 rpm (early models), later increased to 450 bhp (456 PS) @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
395 lb-ft (535 Nm) @ 5000 rpm (early models), later increased to 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95-98 RON / 91-93 AKI)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic ECU (specific model varies)
Type:
6-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) by Graziano Trasmissioni
Optional Transmission:
None offered
Clutch:
Twin-plate clutch
Gear Selection:
Paddle shifters and manual shift gate
Fluid Type:
Specialized ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) – consult manual for exact specification and part number (e.g., Mobil ATF LT 71141 or equivalent)
Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (check manual for precise capacity)
Length:
4,755 mm (187.2 in)
Width:
1,975 mm (77.8 in)
Height:
1,320 mm (52.0 in)
Wheelbase:
2,745 mm (108.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,730 kg (3,814 lbs)
Gross Weight:
Approx. 2,100 kg (4,630 lbs)
Seating Capacity:
2+2 (rear seats are primarily for luggage or very small children)
Crash Test Data:
No official NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings available due to low production volume and niche market. Aston Martin would have conducted internal testing.
Braking:
Ventilated disc brakes front and rear, ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - availability and specifics may vary by model year and market.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags (specific availability may vary)
Body Structure:
Bonded aluminum chassis and composite body panels designed for rigidity and occupant protection.
Head Unit:
Integrated audio system with CD player, often with navigation system and premium audio options (e.g., Linn).
Display:
Central dashboard display for climate control, navigation, and vehicle information.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors (often optional or added later).
Bluetooth:
Limited connectivity, often no standard Bluetooth for hands-free calling on early models.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact interval.
Major Service:
Intervals vary significantly; major services often involve coolant flush, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement, transmission service, etc. Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
Synthetic 5W-40 or 0W-40 meeting Aston Martin specifications. Consult manual for precise API/ACEA ratings and part numbers (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional A5/B5 0W-30 or similar high-performance synthetic).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Aston Martin 'AML’s coolant' or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4, ideally a high-performance, low-viscosity racing fluid (e.g., Castrol React Performance DOT 4 or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Dry clutch wear (AMT), timing chain tensioner wear, electronic component failures (e.g., window regulators, infotainment), coolant leaks, door handle microswitches, catalytic converter failure.
Maintenance Challenges:
High cost of parts and specialized labor due to low production volume and complex construction.
Brand Legacy:
Aston Martin, founded in 1913, is synonymous with luxury, performance, and elegant British sports cars, often associated with James Bond films.
Vanquish Development:
Conceived as a successor to the aging Virage range, the Vanquish was a bold re-imagining of Aston Martin's flagship GT, showcasing advanced materials and technologies.
Vanquish Variants:
Initially launched as the V12 Vanquish, it was later facelifted in 2004 as the 'Vanquish S' with increased power and revised styling.
Production Location:
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England
Production Volume:
Limited production, approximately 1,400 units (including original and 'S' variants).
Design Awards:
While specific awards are not always widely publicized for individual models, the Vanquish was critically acclaimed for its design and performance upon release.
Editorial Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its V12 power, luxurious interior, and dramatic styling, though the AMT transmission received mixed reviews.
