I'm about to purchase an 05 Vanquish S with very low mileage (1100), I already know the car is in perfect condition with all services and maintenance done at Aston Martin dealership. I owned an 08 Vantage and absolutely loved it. I was wondering how far apart the car were mechanically. More specifically I'd like to know how different the gear boxes are.
I had to get used to the semi auto box of the vantage but ended up enjoying it in manual mode, I'm just wondering how the gear box on the vanquish S will be.
I won't be driving the car daily it will more be of a week end toy.

 

From what I understand, the first Vanq automated manual was really poor, but the transmission in the S is better. That said, both are primitive compared to more modern transmissions. I recall someone describing some sort of procedure that needed to be followed after starting the car but before driving away. Have you driven the car yet?

 

PM Sent

 

I test drove the car today and the transmission appeared much smoother than on my 08V8V. The car felt solid and was a symphony to the ear. I'm gonna think about it over the weekend but I'm very close to make a deal on the car.
I'll post photos if I get it.

 

Gorgeous car, good luck!

 

Vanquish S is a great car. The drive train is very different. 520hp V12, a Tremec 6 speed (same transmission that's on a Viper or ZR1) and standard rear diff. The S had a number of improvements over the standard Vanquish. 520hp vs 460hp, magnets on the trans pickups (solved issues with the transmission, better front seats, stiffer springs, sits lower, rear and front spoilers (all tastefully done.) The Vanquish is the last of the Newport Pagnell cars. Limited production and more aggressive stance than the Gaydon cars.

The Vantage has a Graziano rear transaxle.

Cheers
James Taylor

 

Forgot to mention, always drive the car in manual mode. The automated setting isn't great. You'll love the car.

 

I decided to purchase the car thank you all for your inputs it has been a great help in making a choice.

 

Pics

 

Pics and impressions please. I've always been in love with your Vanq's aggressive grill. My favorite in the modern era. It sets the tone for the rest of the car. Congratulations!

 

Congrats Norman. The Vanquish S is to me, the personification of what an Aston should be. A beast in a Dinner Jacket. Hope it gives you a lot of smiles

 

Congrats on the purchase, great looking car! Would love to know your opinion and how would you compare it with your previous V8V?

 

Thx guys! I'm picking it up later on this week and I'll make sure to give first impressions and also post more pics.

 

Gorgeous car, congrats! The Vanquish was the car that got me hooked on Aston Martin. Looking forward to hearing your impressions!

 

Enjoy your Vanq. They like to be driven through the rev range, e.g. don't shift too early. Also, run the transmission resetting sequence once a year. Very easy and only takes a few moments.