We are looking at either a late 2011/2012 manual DBS or a Vanquish as a first Aston. Which would you recommend and what would be the expected running costs?

 

Vanquish was not available until 2014, manual DBS in 2011-12 is fairly hard to find as most were ZF autos in the end of the DBS run.you may need to focus on 2009-10 ones.

 

Thanks.

Any preference between the DBS and a 2014/15 Vanquish?

 

Vanquish is a bit updated in comparison, but if you want a manual transmission your back to the DBS hunt. Vanquish prices are still coming down. Saw one 2 weeks ago for $105k incredible car but above my $range.

 

Im a big fan of the old school manuals so looks like the DBS will be the choice, Any other models we should consider?

 

2010-12 V12 Vantage. Only offered in manual coupe (usa) basically DBS powertrain and brakes in a small body.

 

That sounds quite interesting...

 

Here’s an example currently for sale
https://www.astonmartinhouston.com/i...ebbcf4bgs00581

 

That's a members car. Not very many in that color you know what I mean.

https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/...2-vantage.html

 

I was thinking it was WG’s, thanks for the confirmation.

 

Vanquish has more interior room and an updated design throughout every facet of the car over the DBS. All carbon fiber body is pretty special and elevates it to the next level. Vanquish if the ultimate, but the style may be a little exaggerated for some.

 

There doesn't seem to be much of a price gap between a manual DBS and a Vanquish. How is the paddle box on the Vanquish?

 

ZF 6-speed same as the DB model but later came the 8-speed. You can't break them and they work just fine. That's why almost every manufacturer has them or has had them in their cars. You really need to drive them back to back, you may just be a Vanquish buyer after all.

 

Are these auto boxes with manual override (ie paddles) or dual clutch systems?

 

The former.