For all of those who are upset at this video ... I've bought one. It's currently at Bamford Rose getting a new clutch and video will be coming soon

First comment on youtube and unfortunately not a good one.. the points made in the video are specifically targeted to drive the point home that the Vantage is not a good car in his eyes. I currently own both the V8 vantage and porsche 718 spyder and can say the handling on the Vantage isn’t nearly as bad as he claims. It’s just not as darty as the Porsche, but far more predictable due to slower steering ratio (smoother and less busy during hard cornering). Repairs haven’t been terribly expensive. The clutch is actually fully adjustable. It is obvious this guy only drove one or two for a couple minutes and based his remaining opinion on internet research. The one and only real downside to the Vantage that he never mentioned were the brakes, it needs aftermarket pads to feel right. The 4.7 is plenty powerful and more torque than the 4.0 porsche powerplant. The bilstein sport suspension rides firm but not as firm as the Porsche, while still offering great damping. Dealerships now offer a twin-disk clutch upgrade when you need to change your clutch. The paint is SUPER thick, the clear coat is on the soft side, but is super easy to polish. The residual values have been climbing steadily. The leather isn’t super durable but the traditional way it is installed from factory makes for easy repairs from a professional upholstery shop. All his complaints can be summed up: not enough seat time and too much time chasing Porsche ideology. Sorry, but this will also be the last video I watch from you.

I've owned two, and the only reason I own the second one (2012 V8VS) is because I regretted selling the first one (2009 V8V). I got rid of a much faster car (550 horsepower tuned V8 Biturbo Merc E-coupe) to get back into a (slower) Vantage because of how much I enjoyed the car. That's my experience, and the only thing I'd get rid of my V8VS for is the V12 if the right deal came along, but otherwise it's sticking around for the long haul. Love it.

As an Aston owner, I think the video was well on point. Aston is an exotic car and it comes with exotic bills. However, the only reason you hear so much about this with the Aston is the upfront cost for a depreciated Aston is pretty approachable, not so much for Ferrari or Lambo, so people buy them when they probably shouldn’t. They are not a cheap financial proposition. I have a new one and can renew the extended warranty for 10 years. It ain’t cheap but that is not what owning an exotic is about. You hold your nose and spend the money. It’s not that complicated. You want a cool, cheap, fun car...buy an old MG or Triumph. Or buy a Porsche,they are very easy to live with in terms of repairs but they have had a lot of mechanical issues over the years that fanboys easily overlook. Porsche bulletproof engineering is a bit of a myth. Finally...50 quid...80 quid....WTF...what decade do you live in..Nothing is ever that cheap to fix on any modern sports car I have owned.

You’ve got it all wrong. A Picasso is obviously not worth millions and millions, after all it’s just paint on a piece of canvass! The Vantage will go down in history as one of the most beautiful cars ever designed, a piece of art! If you want something fast buy a Ferrari, if you’re after a drivers car get a Lotus or a Porsche! If you’re after a piece of art, love a Vantage!

For sure there are a fixed set of issues you need to know about but that said, look at it, the fabulous balance, the motor, the interior, the sound, the history and kudos. Just fabulous and in a different league to mass produced car... A real event every time I drive mine.

Having owned a variety of cars over the years including a Cl55 AMG Mercedes, 911s etc and driven a huge variety of sports cars...you make very good comments, almost all of which I agree with. In particular parts costs, however there are often fixes or alternatives if you cross reference parts in Ford and volvo, JLR group...but you totally miss the point!!. If you go into the purchase with eyes open, then you understand why you buy one. Yes the car has a slightly heavy clutch, but not excessive. ..its nowhere like an old mustang...I know as I own one as well...and that really does drive like crap...but I love it...for the same reason as the Aston. It's actually about 24mpg unless you are really hustling. If you know how to drive properly..which I do as an advanced qualified driver.. it's a hugely capable car and fast around twisting roads. So..its not about lap times...its about the whole package. For the money and exclusivity there isn't another comparable car. Yes there are technically better ones , like the 911..yes there are more expensive ones, but for an average person to afford and own, there isn't anything as beautiful and provokes such a positive reaction as a V8V. On a recent 600 mile trip in the sunshine...I saw loads of porsche,Ferrari and Lambo. I didn't see one Aston. That exclusivity comes at a price....when you see it takes two days of craftsmanship to make the bonnet badge...you then understand why you buy an Aston.....its just makes you feel special and excites you in a way not many cars do.

I had a 2007 V8V and it was a really reliable car. I changed out the clutch myself (a huge pita and still very $$$), but very interesting to have gone through in the end. I unfortunately had to sell because the pandemic F'd my business, but I have great memories.

I own a 2014 4.7 Sportshift and love it- not entirely sure where the comments about underpowered come from, though I’ve never driven a 4.3. Yes it is not perfect, but the majority of these points just aren’t relevant for owners. I know it’s more expensive to run and doesn’t drive as well as a 997 would, but the noise, comfort, looks, and overall experience are leagues apart

many people view them as unreliable because they run to the dealership every time they get a warning light on the dash and the occur all the time. most are red herrings and can be safely ignored. but many people are terrified of them and head directly to the dealership to have them "fixed". on a recent cross country trip i had six or seven warning lights. from O2 sensor warnings (deep in the manual it states that these can occur if the driver simply changes the "style" of their driving, to tpms warnings to air bag warnings to tire inflation warnings on a cool morning. none of them needed attention. in fact i drove the car 5500 miles across the country without any mishap at all. the only warning that would have been of assistance but was not registered is that the thermostat was defective. this guy is all over the place, way too may digressions... anyway the biggest fault of the early vantages was with the transmission on the manuals. the reverse gear is way, way too high. it results in an abnormal amount of stalling and a consequent slipping of the clutch to deal with it. too, the throttle response in reverse, for some reason is atrocious and only adds to the difficulty of backing up. many don't like the semi-automatic paddle shifting transmission either, but honestly none of them from that era was particularly good. and yes the parts are ridiculously expensive. some however can be with a bit of diligence sourced from ford or volvo or jaguar. for example, the aforementioned thermostat was sourced from ford for $15.00 (NAPA) rather than from Aston Martin for $172.00 (amazon). same savings are for the taking on brake pads. if you want to have a vantage and maintain it inexpensively, stay away from the dealership, find a good independent garage or do it yourself and spend time on the internet looking for any parts you need. that's my advice.

When the Tin man met the Wizard of Oz, even though the Wizard explained how impractical having a heart was because they could never be made unbreakable, the Tin man simply said “but I still want one” I agree, it has its faults, but who could not look at it every time and think Wow!

Couldn’t disagree more. Having owned 2 Vantages in the past, one V8 and the other a V12, I found them both relatively reliable and parts not overly expensive. As with any luxury brand, you can always pick out a few items that are eye wateringly expensive, but in the main its reasonable. There are a number of reputable specialists out there to even keep servicing costs down. I think your research would be more reliable and trust worthy if you spoke to owners rather than relying on unverified sources on the internet 👍🏼

Picked up my V8 Vantage in Feb and I love everything about it. I've driven manual ones before, along with the fully auto gearbox in the DBS and the SS-2 gearbox wins me over every time. The shear sound is something that puts a lump in your throat every time those valves open up.

Dont forget how timelessly beautiful its design is on the exterior. That is a huge selling point.

I own a 2013 manual coupe in California. I’m an engineer too, I can’t argue with your experience and your opinion and that’s all there is your opinion and I have my own opinion of the car. You missed a point, what’s your criteria of a good car or what are you looking for in a car or your 2nd or 3rd car and how much is that worth to you specifically is very different from me. Luckily for me I’ve owned one for the past 4 years and lucky for you there are many other options that you can choose over a vantage. Just because you don’t understand it doesn’t make it wrong or right. Not sure what sources you used for your quoted information but some of your facts are not correct and it’s ok. I’m happy majority of people miss the point makes it more unique. Thanks for your review.

Some interesting points I agree with (clutch is horrible, parts too expensive in cases, Aston not supportive of owners, 4.3 not quite pokey enough) but a lot I disagree with. Which one of these did you drive? A Vantage should handle beautifully

Very informative video thanks. I test drove a 2010 manual Vantage yesterday and I liked it a lot. Previously coming from a manual E92 V8 M3 with similar power I was surprised how much more special the Aston felt during the run. I was originally looking at buying a 997 2s or 4s with rebuild completed or spend more and go for the 997.2 but just love the look of the Vantage. Late nights ahead deciding🤔

You must own one for 10 years and driven it over 100k miles, which I have. It is not the fastest or best handling car out there, however the steering feel is as good or better than anything out there. It does have the trailing throttle hop which can be lethal as it was in Lemans a feww years back, but if you are aware of it, it is tolerable, you just have to know it is coming and not lift. The car was designed and built under Ford tenure and mechanically very reliable. The clutch BS is from the poor folks that don't know how to drive a manual, and there must be quite a few. It is my go to car for any drive up to 3-4 hrs in any weather save snow. I reccomend forums over videos for gathering info. The key to a car is how one feels in the seat and how much, and how quickly, confidence in the car manifests. It is a great car to have in flyover country, especailly in gray; few know what it is and fewer care, irradicating the problems with a car on the rare side in more urban areas. Also, I would not consider tracking one of these in street condition ever. All four corners have to be completely readied as the bushing are not up to the task. Also, the crank shaft is a thing of beauty, a work of art, but the rods and pistons deifinitely are not, fine for street driving but inviting disaster if run hard continually. If you want to race, get a cart or buy a car and make it track ready, you will have way more fun, save a lot of money, and maybe your life. BTW. in america we got plenty of scrap yards, replaced a bent knuckle on the car from a bump i hit. Also, I have until recently used mustang gt rotors at $90 instead of AM rotors. I replaced the High spec alarm system, FoMoCo right on it $47. Nobody in ther right mind will ever fix the sat nav, this guy is nuts. I have 170k miles on my original clutch. The 4.3 is fine with power. He is nuts about the clutch weight, his is likely spent, power is more than adequate, i do have power pak and high flow cats. I often skip gears. It is fine in corners, and confident, and has a heavy feel which is great as it is much more predictable, except for the hop mentioned earlier, surprisinngly not even mentioned in the video which is demonstrative of the knowledge base on display here. If you are looking seriously, this is not an unbiased video.

Yes Ive experienced some of your "issues" first hand but you miss the point. The Vantage is an achingly beautiful car from just about any angle and the sense of occasion you get every time you drive her makes it worthwhile. Sure there are other cars that are more powerful, that handle and go round corners better, that are cheaper to run but if you go into ownership with your eyes open you will not be disappointed. I use mine as a daily driver and on most outings a member of the public will compliment me on the car - in my experience you don't get that with a Porsche or Ferrari.

Thank you for your review.Some of the things that you mention reflect one's feelings about a bad day when perhaps the engine warning light comes on for no apparent reason!What is misses is the sense of occasion one feels driving a beautiful hand built car at home on a twisty country road! I am now retired and have throughout my life had many exotic cars but I would not swop my 2006 V8 Vantage for any of them and I will only sell it when I can no longer climb in and out of the sumptious leather interior! As for its value,I paid £29k for my 20 thousand mile car just 2 years ago and.on a routine annual fixed price( £680 )service was offered £36k! How's that for an expensive car to own!

Bomb proof engine, rising prices, great place to sit, top after sales servicing from specialists, great kerb appeal, beautiful inside and out. “For a normal car it will cost you fifty quid to repair, this will cost you seven hundred” Name one thing that costs fifty quid on a “normal car” (whatever you think normal is) that costs seven hundred on a Vantage? Garbage.

Thats for the content-very helpful. My GLE PCP plan is up for renewal. I’m just about to sign a new deal, but a PCH hire this time & it’s a better deal. I do around 8k miles a year. Would you say this is a wise choice? Thanks

Hi Doug, great video! Can you help, I’m wanting a ‘new shape’ AM Vantage 2019/20. Full warranty and I plan to keep it for just 12 months. What’s the best way to get myself into one and a guarantee of costing no more than £20k in depreciation over this period? I’m aware that many of the original extras are now standard. David

I have had a 2010 v8v with MT for almost a year (4.7 liter). Love it! Definitely some quirks and flaws but beautiful and incredibly rewarding to drive/own. Clutch could be better but still...

Hope you achieve your mission of making the Vantage an unappealing car and driving down the price when you come to buy yours 😂😂

I've owned three of them..One FHC and two roadsters..Great cars in all areas and always respect from the public. I think matey here may have had his judgement blown away with his syrup..

Hi mate, love the videos keep them up! In response to your video I would some advise on the following; 1. A daily driver that has a bit of a split personality (calm daily vs fast sports car feel) 2. Something not too common 3. A saloon or big coupe (not a sports coupe like z4 or TT) 4. Budget = 30-40K 5. Something on the high end of its spec (to hold its value) Looking forward to hear back from you, Triv

I'd love to hear your opinion on current AM models to see if they've addressed past issues such as Christian von Koenigsegg does with his creations after getting feedback on areas that need improvement.

Please keep up these videos. I wish there were more like this for my own personal benifit. I was lazy buying a V8 Vantage manual last year and the prices shot up because of videos on the "best kept secrete - Aston Vantage". I still really want one buy I want the 2019 price. I thought this review was well done.

What's the better all round car from 2008 - 2010? Personally, I think most cars from that period look terribly old.

Being a once proud owner of a manual 2009 Vantage one of the first 4.7l. I sold the car with 10,000miles on the clock, after having only owned the car for 8 months. The intolerably heavy clutch had become the cause of anxiety of being snarled up in traffic...Im now considering a Lexus LC500 and would welcome any feedback

Absolutely loved my 2007 V8V that I owned for about 2.5 years - but we should never be concerned about honest reviews like this, so that a constructively critical purchase approach can be made. 'Upgraded' recently for a slightly younger manual V12V. Not looking back. BTW - I think AM parts etc are way better 'value' than Lambo - it's all relative,and (massive understatement) sources vary wildly on price...

Have you ever actually driven or owned a Vantage?

Yeah, I shouldn't have bought my second Vantage, but I love my convertible (sport shift) so much that I had to buy a coupe (6 spd manual) to add to the stable. What is this guy talking about? I LOVE mine and often find myself taking the longest routes because I don't want to get out of them! Sorry, but ask owners how they feel about them and they will tell you they love them. The Vantage is THE car to get in 2021 - prices are only moving UP, and for good reason!

I’ve owned a 2006 Vantage V8 6-speed for 3 years. It has been very reliable. Just oil changes and a few hood and door struts. You missed one of the best selling points which is the beautiful styling of the Vantage that was specially designed using the golden ratio. I upgraded to a Velocity AP x-pipe, 200 cell cats and a stage 2 tune. It woke the car up. It is a blast to drive. MPG and the stereo system mean absolutely nothing to me. The same applied to both my 911’s

I've had a 2012 V8V for nearly 4 years now (got it July 2019), so the 4.7L one. It's definitely more of a GT than a true sports car. I think this is mostly true of the AM brand in general, by the way; they are a mix of luxury and sportiness. (Not as much as a Bentley Continental GT, but still.) It's plenty fast for me, and still a blast to drive and it's the only car I have (mainly for city commutes.) It temporarily stranded me when it wouldn't start, and did so properly one more time when the clutch gave out and had to be towed. These problems were in the first month or two of owning, even after a PPI. Ditto with replacing the TPMS. *However*, after sorting these issues out -- which was not cheap, but obviously the car itself was a great deal compared to alternatives at the price point -- it's basically been trouble free for me ever since. I use the paddles (yes D mode can be jerky), and I have the dreaded V1 of the automated manual. I avoid reversing up hills and stopping on a hill can be awkward engaging afterward, but it's manageable and any manual car will have the same basic problems. Most people who aren't familiar with the AM brand still think it's a new car, and IMO it's the prettiest understated sporty GT car out there still. It's also unique enough and *different* than 911s that it positively sticks out for most car enthusiasts. So, I don't dispute a lot of the points made in this video, but to summarize: the looks, combined with the fact that it's fun to drive around town, gets you most of the way there as to why it's popular among a certain set of people. I wouldn't chalk it up to an emperor-has-no-clothes conspiracy! 😛

I don't quite understand the car fix comment, I am currently waiting on $300 repair on my subaru that only has 25000 miles on it and is 3 years old, the part shouldn't have broken, plain and simple, cars have issues all the time, and supercars are no different, when owning a supercar, its typically not an issue of money

I’ve owned none…I’m heading for a Slk 350 (used 08) if I’m lucky. Addicted to car videos though. Cheers for the run down. Slk 55 was incredible

Owned a 2014 V8, 2016 V8S then had a 2015 Boxster S and now back to Aston with a V12S. Saved up hard for each in turn. Tried Porsche but it was less reliable, sounded like a bag of spanners unless wrung out, boring PDK gearbox, didn’t feel premium through the cabin materials used, inadequate “premium” hifi, costly and very sniffy main dealer who refused to fit Michelin PS4S as the car wasn’t built with them. All looked after Vantages are involving to drive at all speeds, not just license-losing, relatively good value to service at a main dealer, plenty of third party support (also, contrary to the video, pattern parts do get made, but I’d stick to original), you can get a good manufacturer warranty extension for over 10 years, etc. But forget all that. The biggest reason I own an Aston is the community and support network. It’s much more than just owning another mass produced car. It’s about being part of something special and feeling every mile made you lucky to be on earth. Or you could listen to somebody who jumped in a bad example for 0.2 miles and then learnt the world through forums 🤷🏻‍♂️

Thank you. I have been considering purchasing as a second car in retirement. A lot of good information for me to consider.

Great points... Just found this channel by off chance... Subscribed

Last week, I had the opportunity to drive a 2012 V8 Vantage, and I must say, it's a remarkable car both inside and out. The steering and response were impeccable, the balance was great, and it was definitely an attention-grabber. However, my only complaint was the clutch engagement when shifting into first gear, which felt unnervingly thin compared to other manuals I've driven, including my current E39 M5. Once you get past first gear, though, it's a marvel. Nevertheless, I am a lifelong ///M guy and wouldn't consider driving this car daily. However, as an additional car to the collection, it's definitely a great choice.

Seems like a bit of Texas Sharpshooter logical fallacy going on. I was curious so I looked up the spring cost for the Ferrari 360 mentioned. £138 each but the kicker is the damper is £835 and that is the part that wears out... By comparison Aston V8 Vantage is £965 for the complete damper unit (spring + damper already assembled). So both cars are comparably expensive in that example. I have an alternate theory that the low prices for some Vantages tempts people who would not normally buy an exotic. Then they need to replace a Vantage specific part and get sticker shock.

I thought that was a very objective video and certainly buying one that had been run on a budget would be asking for expense and trouble unless the price reflected it as I found when I bought my E46 325ci sport several years ago - that cost me many thousands to get right but it’s perfect and I’ll never sell it. Your comment regarding 15mpg or so and regular fuel station stops - I also have an early 4.0 mk2 Range Rover and you’re right about that too, it’s much more economic when it’s parked in my garage! Incidentally they have a reputation for unreliability and expense but mine has been looked after and is great, 17 years ownership and counting. Just going to watch your vid on the M2 now as that’s another car on my radar. Ps - sounds great economy from your slk 55, my wife has the 200 kompressor and don’t think she manages that. Cheers :-)

Very interesting. I’m looking for a fast car, up to around £20k, to semi-daily drive but not many miles a year, as small as possible (will be driving on small country roads), as luxurious/comfortable as possible. The SLK55 (your review is how I found your channel) seems like it would be a good match, but I’m slightly scared of running such a big engine (insurance costs etc). A 6cyl SLK just wouldn’t feel like the real deal enough in comparison. A 6cyl SL could work but they’re a lot wider. A BMW 1M would be good - but the price 😱 - and maybe the ride is a bit harsh? Looking for a coupe/convertible as swapping out of a hot hatch (2015 Mini Cooper SD) - great car but want something more special. Would appreciate your thoughts on this difficult hunt!

So in a summary no 4.3 no manual, no crappy automatic basically 4.7 vantage S is the only choice if fuel consumption and maintenance is not an issue?

Jaguar XKR supercharged 5 litre is a better all round bet but not quite as pretty as an AM?

My DB9 is awesome. V12 with plenty of power. Only problem I have had was a blown radiator which I had re-cored at a good price. Have driven a Vantage and is now where near the DB9.

man.. thanks for the level of detail. got me thinking I should keep my e46 m3 and maybe avoid this...

Umm, those aren't reliability issues, if you insist on paying AM £100 for a filter you can buy in a Mazda box for £20, that's just stupidity. As for "the paint is bad, it might need a respray after 15 years", seriously? Finally, a "double flywheel" clutch? Did you perhaps mean a "twin plate clutch"? 😂😂😂

Own one for three years now. Stock AMV8 2006 manual. Pro’s : 1) Design: perfect ratio car, elegance, headturner. 2) Interior: comfortable, leather everywhere 3) Driving: a great GT car. Negatives: 1) Hight biting point clutch 2) Reverse : this car was not designed to reverse a lot ( especially not uphill). Overall: A great car that is a treat to drive especially as a GT ( the stock AMV8 manual 2006).

One of the best looking cars of all time. Not a Porsche. Reliable if you can afford to run it. Nuff said really.

And what its your opinion to db9 Aston martin ?

I have a vantage, I’ve had it over a year and I love my car but I tend to agree with you , you are right 👍

I’ve owned 2 Aston Martins one was a Vantage.. I’ve had Porsches many other sports cars. I can honestly say the Aston’s were the most reliable cars and most enjoyable to drive the after service from the dealership is also amazing . The only one that comes close for enjoyment is the BMW X5 M which is running at 750 bhp now … which is a much better car than my Porsche or the Rs4 . an Aston Martin is probably one of the best looking cars ever made . Ask James Bond ;)

You don’t have to buy everything OEM, especially on an older one. Get a good specialist. I’d buy one just for the looks and sound.

Should I get an XK8R 4.2 over the manual 4.3 Vantage?

This video actually made ME BUY a V8 Vantage :)

Some of what you say is true. However, to say its a dog to drive simply isn't true. Would be good to hear your context on why you feel it's not good to drive. Steering is direct, chassis is set up for GT car, its no Lotus in this respect however, to say its a dog to drive is garbage. I will agree the original cars fitted with the Dynamics dampers can be crash especially with the OEM fit Bridgestone tyres but the tyres being a wearable item, you soon fit Pilot sport 4s and its a different car. Mileage... I've never had 15mpg, always get around 20mpg, 22 on a run. Parts can be expensive (rear lights £1500 the pair) but there are plenty of spares specialists that offer better prices (but that's the same for all cars). Handling is not rubbish, you can carry a lot of speed into corners..... Who's car did you drive? Was it correctly set up? Technology in the cars upto 2009 were behind the times.

I don't know about this, for lots of parts e.g. A nav unit or lights, you would pull it from a scrapped car and springs if they were so much, you would just get aftermarket like bilsteins. It sounds like you drove a dog tbh, bad tires and alignment.... Watch some reviews from someone like jayemm if you haven't, he doesn't hold back on his reviews and is very honest, he shits on cars if they are bad and does not own one. Fuel economy and the clutch is literally no concern for a weekend car. It seems like a strange video, idk what you are trying to do? Maybe get them down to the point you can afford them?

Very good vídeo, you said the truth. Congrats.

I just put a V8V around a track for a few laps and instantly fell in love. So much so I’m considering making an investment.

really appreciate your opinion!

this sounds more like an advert for why you SHOULD buy a V8 4.7 Vantage. Had my 2015 model 6 months and I love it. My 911 carrera 2S had a major rebuild then the guy I sold it to had to have the same bloody rebuild - cylinders 4,5,6 - apparently its very common - and I did not even think it was fast - it felt Meh. In comparison the Vantage feels pretty fast. And its just such an awesome car - every time you get into it, its a thrill. My Merc S500 was almost as fast and the detailing just as good, but it didn't feel as special as this - its such a great place to be - the design and build quality is still great 10 yrs on. Price of failures - is something I had factored in before I bought it. You would not buy a Ferrari and expect to get £50 repair bills ? I cant think of any other car I'd rather have - and essentially its all analogue - I love that also.

I’ve owed a Cayman S, F21 M5 and a 4.7 V8 Vantage. The Aston was my favourite. Everyone let’s you out, people come and tell you what a nice car it is, the sound is amazing, it’s a V8, it’s timeless.

I agree with you , but to me is a compromise and it comes with the territory I work on it on my own but some thing just have to be done by a AML expert.

I think you should share your design for the Double flywheel with Mike at Bamford Rose, I am sure he will be very interested to hear about it. Also, why would the cost of parts depreciate, just because the value of car itself has, and there just aren't enough to justify widespread patern part availability. I think there is an amount of exclusivity with an Aston you simply don't get with a Porsche\Merc - when did you last take a second glance at a generic 997?

I recently purchased one. absolutely love it.

I’ve never driven a vantage, but btw my local ford dealer will charge $300 for simple diagnostic, dealers are expensive no matter the brand

It happens to me the same with the 997.2 4s pdk. It was supposed to be amazing... It felt heavy and the pdk was changing gear always to eliminate the lack of tork. I was thinking I was wrong.. But naa.. The car was over valued. It s a good car for 40k... Not 65k

How long has the publisher owned one or driven one .....

They are beautiful that's why. Only way I would own one is if I could afford the bumper to bumper warranty they offer here in the US.

There are 3 ways to be happy with an Aston Martin: 1) not owning one; 2) laughing at Aston owners outraged with experts telling the truth on KZfaq; 3) renting one for a short time, appreciating its exquisite beauty on a road trip, and returning the bomb to the rental company a few days later.

Or, if you’re not caught up on brand identity and posing, get a BMW e92 M3 which will pummel a V8 vantage in all performance categories. If BMW is too pedestrian for you then look at the R8, 997.2 or 991.1. Very true about 997.1 Porsche. Bore scoring and IMS bearings issue are endemic.

I just got a service and a new drive shaft on my ford transit custom £800.00 at a Ford Dealer . I did get 75.00 discount because I do work for them now and again.

Appreciate this guy's perspective but he's sort of splitting hairs and making things sound like major differences or drawbacks... but compared to what?? The comments about the clutch are exaggerated and perplexing. The clutch isn't particularly odd or challenging, certainly not to trigger such a visceral reaction. Also odd/incongruent that the video shows mostly footage of 430 hp V8V... which performed about the same as a Carrera of the same era... while saying the Vantage is substantially underpowered. It did 0-60 in 4.8 seconds.... what would be considered sufficiently powered? 4.4? Just begs the question: Underpowered compared to what? Even taking his review on its own terms, the conclusion in the title (don't buy one) doesn't seem to logically follow..... he acknowledges a lot of valid reasons why people love the car, agrees they are really well built, attractive, reasonably obtainable price point... sure they have expensive repairs but no more so than any exotic..... so I conclude you should not buy one.

Have those guys owned a Vantage for long enough?? Mine is 15 years old and still going strong!! It is a beautiful car period. I have 2 Porsches 996 and a 991.2 4S. I love the Aston. It is not as fast I know. With the double clutch and a engine map and cats removed! I love it.

you’ve sorted nothing out with your opening sentence. Yes, I do look at cars that I do and have owned. Because I have a very valued point of view and really understand what it is to not only drive them but live with them on a daily basis. So I’m afraid it sounds like you are just complaining about the fact that people may not agree with your point of view. Bottom line is the cost price of cars like this is not purchase once depreciated, it’s maintenance. If you’re worried about a few grand a year stick to a modern new normal car. Don’t buy an AM if u can’t afford it over time it’s exotic of course you need money to own it. But bottom line is, if you have a car with this much horsepower you are going to be buying very very expensive tyres. Probably over £500 each tire. If you replace one you’ll replace at least two. I’ve driven the v12s with its quirky auto gearshift - which many malign mainly as they don’t know how to drive it. Maybe v8s different. Clutch of manuals may be an issue welcome to non daily standard cars m8. Some million pound super cars are nowadays are dogs to drive? The Ford mustang is a classic and priced accordingly - again your point is moot. Got bored he’s missed entire point of this car. 1000 v12s made world wide. Dislike is based on what you say - I dont own one but have researched and driven them. I just don’t think your points are that valid in regards to the fun and experience the car provides vs any modern car and its desirability going forward. Old rare things often accumulate value irrelevant of how good or bad they are.

I don't believe for a second replacement springs on s Ferrari are £80. My 1990 Vauxhall Nova SR needed new front springs in 2003 and that was £120 then for a Nova!

I love mine.. but I can fix it myself. If you can't work on your own car, don't buy it..

Right off the rip this video title seemed suspect. I've owned and own numerous "lower end" exotic, sport, GT, super, whatever you want to call them cars. When he said 997 Rebuilt cars were the problematic ones, not quite, 996 were the most known for IMS and scoring, a well known fact in the enthusiast realm. Searching "rebuilt" listings is going to find you wrecked cars, and not doing a comparable search for any but the target of his argument negates any point intended. Third, he cites an OEM price for front Aston Springs, but his "proof" of Ferrari Modena front spring prices was "somebody in the comments said they are $80". You have to compare apples to apples sir, OEM prices to OEM prices.... a quick search just showed me OEM 360 springs are $529.01 EACH. Im a Porsche guy and I still don't like his points as they are fully weighted and with no research.

The 2006 to 2009 v8 vantage uses a lot of parts from other cars. The engine is two ford i4 put together so you can get cheap ford parts to replace anything on it. The infotainment system is Volvo so you can replace it with volvo components. Personally I love working on my car so this makes that generation of Aston a steal.

I've only known three people who bought Aston's, and it was a bad experience for them all. My boss bought a DB9, and the engine sounded great ... when it worked (cough), which wasn't very often! *Month 1* - 16 days at the dealer being repaired ... *Month 2* - 15 ... *Month 3* - 18 days ... *There wasn't a month 4!* He ditched it for an F430 ... oh well ... out of the frying pan .......... But nothing was worse than my cousins and brother's Porsche stories … but that's a comment for another time!

Thank you, my philosophy is that when I see the owner of an Aston Martin sitting next to his car in a shop giving an honest review is that I will run from that car, You wanna have no issues with tail lights, clutch, door lock, and electrical window modules??? Get yourself a Lexus and enjoy your life

A friend of mine, Banker, who earned 500,000 Swiss Francs a year, drove his V8 Vantage every day, as only car, he had. Around 60,000 Kms, his clutch needed to be renewed, which is normal, they said... so, servicing plus a new clutch, they asked for 18,000 Swiss Francs. He had enough and left the car at the dealership, buying a used Jaguar s-Type instead, with notably the same V8 under the hood. This was so reliable and costed almost nothing in maintenance, compared to the Aston... Therefore, i drive a DB7 i6 (perfect car) and a ultra rare Cygnet, which costs nothing in maintenance...

it's good to let people know that they can't buy an aston and expect the dealership to treat it like a brand new 25k car, but I never would. I'd do all of the work it needs myself, source the parts myself, and that will ALWAYS save you money, even more so on something simple that has higher cost because of pedigree. Also if I was going to own one, it'd be an 08 4.3 coupe manual. In regards to power/mpg, there's a few kits for a couple grand where you can signifigantly bump power and torque, like 60 hp, and make real world mpg go go nearly 28 on the highway just be freeing up the intake and exhaust system with less restrictions. The fuel tank is enourmous btw, 20 us gallons. Even stock you will probably get 400+ miles per fill up.

V8 vantage parts are shared with ford/volvo fyi...

A lot of ford parts fits the aston martin. Like say your fuel pump in your vantage goes out, u can use an f250 fuel pump. Same part number

The Chosen examples for Those expensive Parts are a Bit odd. Springs for a Sports car are more expensive than for a vw Golf/audi tt. Most of a v8 vantage is Jaguar Land Rover Ford or Volvo. One example: rockercover gaskets incl. Bolts. 250€ for a vantage. 550€ for the Same AJV8 in a Range Rover 4.2 SC.

If you want a cheap to run car, buy a Nissan Micra. If you want a totally reliable car, buy a Honda. If you want a boring car, buy a Tesla. But if you want an exclusive (i.e. rare), lovely looking and exciting car to own - buy an Aston. No less reliable than a contemporary Ferrari, Maserati or Lambo. And parts prices are roughly on a par (ask me how I know this). You miss the point of owning an exotic - of any make.

What kind of person takes the conscious decision to spew negativity?

-Looks amazing inside and outside -Sounds amazing -a freaking Manual Gearbox on a NA V8. What more do you want?

No videos in months, is the channel still live?

what do you think of the 2017 - 2018 Lotus Evora 400. love the look of car and of course the toyota power plant. but I heard that to replace clutch, the whole rear clam of the car has to come off and the engine and trans has to be removed. what a shame if only they could cut a large hole in the frame or pan or some bolt in/bolts out of the frame to do clutch job. any info on? have you driven the car? thanks Mike

Don’t forget that they now being Mercedes in a Aston body, getting a 3rd party garage to work on them is pretty much nil. They need to buy very expensive diagnostic machines, PLUS the software, PLUS the yearly SUBSCRIPTION to even use any of it. Only to have maybe one Aston a yr to come by.

Considering this is a "feeling issue". Been comparing to Maserati Gran Turismo and a couple of Ferraris, and any of these cars is upon right approach of it's owning: if the cost is an issue owning such a vehicle, there are endless amount of cost effective options out there. It's stupidity to buy one and complain it costs to maintain. During viewing I started to think about design furniture: you pay 5000-10.000e for a piece, saying it won't "lose appreciation" or even goes up on value. Sure. But do you sit better than on 399e Ikea couch? You can have 10 of them. Also the clutch issue; why hardly any automaker continued making big engines with manual gearbox is THE CLUTCH. Big engine, high torque, manual gearbox - you must pump iron with it. You don't need more than turbocharged cars from late 1990s to have left leg damaged. A good, traditional automatic would have been a match with A-M V8, but there's none to compare to. Also, a heavy car with naturally aspired big engine means big consumption. Try Bentleys. Bringing SLK in as comparison it's quite something; it's a tiny car. Technically speaking, nobody should buy an Aston Martin. Neither Ferrari. Be an engineer, be rational. But a good question is how V8 Vantage sold so much, if it wasn't a good purchase? And what comes to appreciation: I found many for €40k and under two-three years ago. Now all in prestige condition are above €50k, are if sold in Finland, you must pay €65-80k for 2006 models with below 100.000km and well maintained. Means, it's getting up. And we could always discuss about Mercedes quality when all money went to support failed Chrysled merge, or Porsche until 2007-8 and necessary updates. But I think as a Finn it's like those Artek furniture pieces: those are absolute horror to sit on, but take decades... so you rather suffer to own design. Rational? If you value design and decor you see above the feeling in your ass. And can say, after driving 6700km around Europe in Fiat 500 Twinpower (yes, it's 875cc two cylinder) and thinking it was best of all cars I did the tour so far. With 5,1L/100km however you drove. So, I'm considering having perhaps Aston Martin - and keep the Fiat. :D -tk-

You took 4:30 seconds to finally get to the point. You waffle on too much.

I don't have or have never owned an Aston Martin, but there could also be the factor than many owners enjoy their cars regardless and haven't had all the problems some owners have reported.

He is right. Most people buy a almost 20 years old Aston not because they love the brand. It is only because they can finally buy a exotic car for around 50k. They buy to make themselves look good, to flex in front of their friend and families, on social media, etc. Then they got hit by a normal Aston repair bill that they just don’t have the extra fund to spend. They are the people who complaint about Aston. People who love the Aston Brand and really ready to own one already knew and ok with the possible repair bill.

Crown vic light control module is 700 from ford. If you can solder its 2.50 cents.