Aston Martin Vantage replace my 997?
10-28-2010, 11:27 PM
#32
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My AMV8 Experience
They really are different cars so it depends upon what you value most. If you're looking for a timeless piece of automotive art and can live with 85% of the 911's performance, then you'd probably be happy with a Vantage. Here's my experience:
Performance
As others have said, the steering is a bit meaty and you do feel the weight of the car at slower speeds (I'd call it stable.) At higher speeds, and while pushing through twisty turns, the car feels surprisingly nimble and grippy. Off the line the car is quick, but not 997 quick by any means. That said, I've looked down a few times and been surprised at how fast I was going. The speed builds so smoothly.
Transmission
Whatever you do, don't get the auto-manual transmission. It requires you to "shift" the car (kinda like a manual) with the gas pedal in order to have a smooth ride. By that, I mean you need to let off the gas when the RPMs climb to a shift point and then get back on the gas after the car shifts. It is somewhat odd so definitely stick to the manual which has a direct feel if a slight bit notchy. The clutch is noticeably heavier than a 997.
Maintenance
Maintenance is only slightly more expensive than a 911. Annual maintenance (oil changes, cabin filters, etc.) runs about $600-$1000 depending upon what you do. One downside to AM ownership is lack of certified mechanics. You're pretty much stuck with the dealer unless you do the work yourself.
Looks and Sound
I love the 911's classic coke bottle looks, but this car is just in another league. In my opinion it has one of the finest automotive shapes of all time. It is simply gorgeous from all angles. Be prepared to get lots of thumbs-ups and approving nods. The sound track is amazing. I rarely drive with the radio on because it is just so satisfying to listen the throaty V8. If you have the chance, drive through a tunnel with the windows down and the the RPMs above 5k. I guarantee it will put a smile on your face.
Performance
As others have said, the steering is a bit meaty and you do feel the weight of the car at slower speeds (I'd call it stable.) At higher speeds, and while pushing through twisty turns, the car feels surprisingly nimble and grippy. Off the line the car is quick, but not 997 quick by any means. That said, I've looked down a few times and been surprised at how fast I was going. The speed builds so smoothly.
Transmission
Whatever you do, don't get the auto-manual transmission. It requires you to "shift" the car (kinda like a manual) with the gas pedal in order to have a smooth ride. By that, I mean you need to let off the gas when the RPMs climb to a shift point and then get back on the gas after the car shifts. It is somewhat odd so definitely stick to the manual which has a direct feel if a slight bit notchy. The clutch is noticeably heavier than a 997.
Maintenance
Maintenance is only slightly more expensive than a 911. Annual maintenance (oil changes, cabin filters, etc.) runs about $600-$1000 depending upon what you do. One downside to AM ownership is lack of certified mechanics. You're pretty much stuck with the dealer unless you do the work yourself.
Looks and Sound
I love the 911's classic coke bottle looks, but this car is just in another league. In my opinion it has one of the finest automotive shapes of all time. It is simply gorgeous from all angles. Be prepared to get lots of thumbs-ups and approving nods. The sound track is amazing. I rarely drive with the radio on because it is just so satisfying to listen the throaty V8. If you have the chance, drive through a tunnel with the windows down and the the RPMs above 5k. I guarantee it will put a smile on your face.
10-29-2010, 09:32 AM
#35
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Just drove a XKR with the intention of buying it,I passed.
10-29-2010, 06:07 PM
#36
Need to drive both and compare to your driving style, both are beautiful cars. For me, the Vantage had poor visibility in front if you are less than 6' as seats do not adjust upward.
10-30-2010, 02:21 AM
#37
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In my opinion, the only real reasons to buy the Vantage is for it's killer looks and sound. The exhaust on that thing sounds absolutely sick at WOT, and I think it's one of the most beautiful coupes ever.
I've had some good seat time in a few AMV8's and agree that the car is far more GT, than sports car. Not that that's a bad thing. It's a great GT.
However, if you're after sports car driving dynamics, Porsche is the clear choice.
I've had some good seat time in a few AMV8's and agree that the car is far more GT, than sports car. Not that that's a bad thing. It's a great GT.
However, if you're after sports car driving dynamics, Porsche is the clear choice.
10-30-2010, 03:06 AM
#38
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In my limited experience, you are not going to get the sharp dryving dynamics of a 911 in many other cars. You get a similar feel in a Honda S2000 or a Lotus Exige but they don't have that "grown up" car feel. I find cars like the M3 to be a bit too soft. A friend just bought a Lexus IS350 convertible and while it's fast off the line, it feels like you're driving a bus.
10-30-2010, 04:29 AM
#39
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I'm just sayin'...
10-30-2010, 07:31 AM
#40
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This is such a great post !, Today i am trading my 2006 tricked out 997 for a 2011 Maserati GranCabrio. for the past week while my car is being prepared with all the stuff i am adding, i was going thru the same thoughts and perhaps aprehension. While my Porsche is bullet proof, drives like i stole it, The Maserati is elegant, has the room in the back seets i need for my growing kids (11&14) . 5 years ago the seats were fine. I looked at the Panamera and found it cheap as compared to the Maserati, and of course no Cab, and certainly no 911, which was a big downside for me. When i sit in the Maserati, it is all leather, stitching , elegance and does not drive bad either. V8 with 433 hp, gives it both seat HP and real HP. The 911 is a go kart, but now that i am getting older (59) and this being my 3rd Porsche, I will try to settle into elegance. If i cant handle elegance, luxury and exotic, WTF i can always get another Porsche :0
11-01-2010, 07:33 PM
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I have owned a 997TT, two V8 Vantages (a manual coupe and an auto convertible) and now back to a C4S. The Vantage is an absolutely beautiful car inside and out. I still love the way they look...killer. The performance is no where near what the Pcar is but in the city, you don't notice it that much unless you are dragging from the stoplight. The ride is smoother but steering less precise. The auto gearbox sucks, so avoid. If you want to track the car or drive hard, the Pcar is a much better choice. If you want to cruise, the Vantage is a blast. Maybe the V12 Vantage can get to Porsche performance numbers but you'll take a big spanking on the depreciation hit. Buy a used (NOT an automatic, I would agree) one and enjoy it for a bit until you get bored...
Good luck.
Good luck.
11-01-2010, 07:33 PM
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I have owned a 997TT, two V8 Vantages (a manual coupe and an auto convertible) and now back to a C4S. The Vantage is an absolutely beautiful car inside and out. I still love the way they look...killer. The performance is no where near what the Pcar is but in the city, you don't notice it that much unless you are dragging from the stoplight. The ride is smoother but steering less precise. The auto gearbox sucks, so avoid. If you want to track the car or drive hard, the Pcar is a much better choice. If you want to cruise, the Vantage is a blast. Maybe the V12 Vantage can get to Porsche performance numbers but you'll take a big spanking on the depreciation hit. Buy a used (NOT an automatic, I would agree) one and enjoy it for a bit until you get bored...
Good luck.
Good luck.
11-01-2010, 08:44 PM
#43
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Maserati
Just traded my 997 for a Maserati GT Cabrio, great car, not a porsch in go kart tendencies, but i have never had so many people turn their heads. Car is great for my kids, no regrets.
11-02-2010, 09:56 PM
#44
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I can't imagine the Vantage (even the V12) to hold your attention long-term; unless you are completely done with a 911. The DBS may well be a different story.
That said, both are great cars, but yeah, the AM's really drop like a rock once you drive out of the showroom... Hideously so. Unless money is no object you might consider a used one, and buy another used p-car (or have a substantial chunk set aside for it) with the difference.
I'm a fan of all 3 brands mentioned on this page (AM, Porsche, Maserati), and each has their place. Wifey will be getting a Maserati Gran Cabrio the near future.
That said, both are great cars, but yeah, the AM's really drop like a rock once you drive out of the showroom... Hideously so. Unless money is no object you might consider a used one, and buy another used p-car (or have a substantial chunk set aside for it) with the difference.
I'm a fan of all 3 brands mentioned on this page (AM, Porsche, Maserati), and each has their place. Wifey will be getting a Maserati Gran Cabrio the near future.
11-02-2010, 10:57 PM
#45
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I agree than buying a new Vantage would not make financial sense. I am looking for a used Vantage specifically a 09 (4.7 engine), I am planning on visiting the closest dealer to drive a few of thier used vantages. I am willing to accept a loss of performance for the trade-off for a bit quieter and more comfortable car as I have gotten older, my first 911 was in 1981. The 2011 991 maly or may not be more GT like, depending on what you read, but still will not have the look of an Aston.