Porsche 911 Carrera, Ferrari F430, Jaguar XK, Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG, BMW M6.
Competitive Analysis
Value Proposition:
The V8 Vantage offered a blend of handcrafted luxury, V8 engine performance, and classic British styling at a more accessible price point than its higher-performance siblings.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Bond-esque elegance combined with modern sports car dynamics.
Chassis Architecture:
Bonded aluminum 'VH' platform, offering a rigid and lightweight structure.
Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed schematics for all major electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, audio, and power accessories.
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Resolution:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Optimized for printing, with clear diagrams and legible text.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
4.3L V8 (derived from Ford's 'Coyote' architecture but significantly modified)
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI minimum)
Engine Oil
Oil Type Specification:
API SN, ACEA A3/B4, SAE 5W-30
Oil Capacity Liters:
7.7 Liters (including filter)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Graziano 6-speed Manual Transaxle
Optional
Transmission Type:
None offered for 2007 model year.
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Gear Ratios 1St:
2.93:1
Gear Ratios 2Nd:
2.07:1
Gear Ratios 3Rd:
1.55:1
Gear Ratios 4Th:
1.23:1
Gear Ratios 5Th:
1.00:1
Gear Ratios 6Th:
0.77:1
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.87:1
Gear Ratios Final Drive:
3.45:1
Fluid Spec
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Castrol Syntrans SMX-80 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.8 Liters
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
4396 mm
Width Mm:
1860 mm (excluding mirrors)
Height Mm:
1260 mm
Wheelbase Mm:
2600 mm
Front Track Mm:
1560 mm
Rear Track Mm:
1530 mm
Interior
Seating Capacity:
2
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
1730 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
2070 kg
Weight Distribution:
Approx. 47% Front / 53% Rear
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating:
Not officially rated by NHTSA in the US market.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not specifically rated for the V8 Vantage as a standalone model; Euro NCAP tests are typically for broader platforms.
Active Features
ABS:
Yes, with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Yes, Adaptive Traction Control (ATC).
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Yes, front side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Immobilizer:
Yes, factory-fitted alarm and immobilizer system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Premium sound system (e.g., Aston Martin Premium Audio, optional Bang & Olufsen).
Navigation System:
Optional GPS navigation system with dashboard screen.
Connectivity:
CD player, auxiliary input, optional Bluetooth for phone connectivity.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Comfort Features
Seats:
Electrically adjustable sports seats with memory function and heating.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 miles or 24 months (includes inspection of various systems, brake fluid, etc.).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 30,000 - 40,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and procedure).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, meeting Aston Martin specification (often a long-life pink or purple type).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.0 Liters
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High Performance or DOT 5.1
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF DEXRON-III or equivalent (check specific manual revision)
Known Issues
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be significant with spirited driving due to the car's performance nature. Clutch replacement is a common major maintenance item.
Driveshaft Uj:
Universal joints on the driveshaft can wear over time, leading to clunking noises, especially on acceleration/deceleration.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
HVAC system blend door actuators can fail, leading to issues with temperature control or airflow direction.
Door Handle Actuators:
Electronic door handle actuators can fail, preventing doors from opening correctly.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Over time and high mileage, catalytic converters can become inefficient or fail, often due to oil consumption or rich fuel mixtures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Aston Martin Legacy:
Aston Martin has a storied history dating back to 1913, renowned for creating elegant, powerful, and luxurious grand tourers and sports cars, often associated with James Bond films.
Model Evolution
Vantage Lineage:
The 'Vantage' nameplate has been used by Aston Martin for performance-oriented variants of its grand tourers since the 1950s. The V8 Vantage launched in 2005 marked a significant departure, introducing Aston Martin's VH platform and a more compact, focused sports car.
2007 Model Year Updates:
The 2007 model year largely carried over the successful formula from its 2005 introduction. Minor refinements in interior trim and options were common, but no major mechanical changes occurred.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Gaydon, Warwickshire, England
Production Years V8 Vantage:
2005-2017 (various iterations)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Overall Reception:
The V8 Vantage was widely praised by automotive journalists for its stunning design, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior, earning numerous accolades for its class.
Performance Awards:
Often cited as a benchmark for sports car performance and handling in its segment.
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