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I just re-read this earlier post - I think it answers most of my questions.
Looks like the alcatara seat inserts and steering wheel are simple n/c choices
Sport suspension is standard
Technology pack is apparently just cruise control and Bluetooth - I would want that!
I was also looking at GTs when I started my search and the black vs traditional AM aluminum gauges were one thing I got a little hung up on. The black definitely looks more sporty, but in the end I do like the traditional aluminum in my car,
As for the center stack, that's another personal preference. My '16 has the newer, "waterfall" stack in piano black. All I can say is that it looks more contemporary. I don't know that I'd get hung up on having it or not unless you really like the look. I drove a couple of pre-16 cars with the older center stack and honestly it didn't really sway me one way or the other. I was way more focused on whether or not I wanted the black vs aluminum gauges since I look at that more than I do the center stack. Again, in my opinion either is fine unless you really like the look of one versus the other.
My car is a roadster so it has the sport suspension by default. Since I was only ever looking at roadsters and only test drove roadsters, I've never driven a Vantage with the comfort suspension. I will say the sport suspension is no problem for me and I have to believe it would probably be a little softer than your 993. I have C5 Corvette with a Z51 suspension and I think the Corvette actually rides harsher than my GTS. The Vantage is plenty stiff for what I use it for without being punishing. IMHO, the Vantage is a sports car so it should be firm.
I was able to locate a whole thread that discussed the changes between 2015 and 2016, including pics of the front instrumentation cluster. Yeah, the 2016 looks cleaner/more modern but I don't think it will hold be back from the right car if it's a 2015...
Now I have a really good handle on the various options (or I think I do!) - that will make it easier to assess the next cars that come up for sale. Condition is always paramount, so along with exterior color(s) may be the deciding factor for me.
Also proximity. I am willing to pick up a car anywhere on the east coast (or west to IL, I suppose), but am avoiding the west coast for now, just that extra bit too far. I would plan to fly in and drive the car back home.
HI Matt.
I have a 2013 vantage. I know it not a GT. But its in great condition with carbon fiber option on exterior. 10k miles. Peddle shift.
im about to post up for sale very soon. Let me know if you're interested. Otherwise good luck on the search.
Thanks for the tip. I am seeing a lot more cars now that I am triangulating Autotrader/Cars.com and Cargurus.
I finally got the Aston buyers guide, it's helpful in filling in the knowledge gaps. A few quick (practical) questions:
I am 'set' on the Vantage GT, but don't want to leave good cars on the table. I assume the Vantage S would be just the same in terms of performance, just more (luxurious)? I don't see many manual S models for sale, I assume they just made less of them due to the price delta vs. a GT? Or S buyers option sportshifts in greater numbers? At only 3,600 cars built a year, you get through the herd pretty quick once you focus on Vantage 8 models, manuals, exclude convertibles and certain colours...