It's the same basic system in that they both use a single-clutch manual gearbox that is operated by electrohydraulics, and both have a manual paddle-shift mode and an automatic mode. However, the Vanquish uses a Tremec 'box while the Vantage uses a Graziano. Also, of course, the Vantage system was developed after they'd learned a few things after developing, evolving and improving the Vanquish system.

 

Every generation of Aston sport shift is better than the one before it, but not by a huge amount. The Vanq SS is no less satisfying than SSIII, in my opinion. It got its bad rep from owners who were told it was an automatic transmission by dealers, and then tried to drive it as such, rather than the manual it is. I would never change it to a stick, it would not be nearly as enjoyable. And BTW, I’ve talked to owners of converted cars who admitted that the result was not that great, due to a suboptimal shift lever placement, a heavy clutch, and the ‘industrial’ nature of the Tremec.

 

I prefer paddles over a manual FWIW. Took a long time to get there.

 

My life would be so much easier if I could get there.

 

It took a few cars with satisfying paddles to get me there. Plenty of cars have paddles, but are worthless using. The rev matching downshifts on paddle cars that have it make it fun. I find them just as engaging as a manual with none of the traffic headaches. The only time I drive the Rapide in Auto is when the engine is really cold and then it's about a 1/4 mile at that.

A friend just bought an Evora GT IPS and those paddles are a hoot to drive too. Way better than I remember it. I test drove one like 8 years ago and hated it. Same transmission now and love it!

 

Not to hijack your thread, lol. I did enjoy the paddle/auto Vantage I drove back in '19 when there were demos. I loved the manual I tested more. This won't be my daily so I'm not concerned about traffic, which I already deal with in my V70R. Perhaps I need to test another auto?

 

Are you still looking at the previous gen Vantage as well? Have driven any of those with the sport shift?

 

I haven't been looking at those. Love their look, but I prefer the fit of the newer car.

 

I enjoy the paddle-shift in my Vanquish. I've had it 7 years. The paddle-shift in my daily Alfa Giulia is excellent. I've had it almost 4 years. I always use the paddles in both cars. I've driven numerous dual-clutch 'boxes, including those in various Porsches, McLarens and Ferraris. I still prefer 3 pedals and a gear lever. By a huge margin -- it's not even close. Even in traffic (and I live in the NY Metro area, so there's a lot) -- it gives you something to do. The better/more perfect the paddle-shift is, the less involving I find it, which is why I enjoy the Vanquish's paddle-shift more than the Alfa's.

 

Manual swapping a Vanquish is one of those things that likely seems like a great idea on theory, but not really worth it it practice.

AM’s are not ultra-performance supercars, never meant to be. They are fast comfortable, extremely well engineered and executed GT cars.

For $40k I can hardly imagine it being worth it, especially given what others have already mentioned about poor ergonomics and the agricultural nature of the Tremec. Sure it can be done, and I’m glad it’s an option. I think I it would be very cool to have one, and would love to drive one to check it out. I wouldn’t want to pay for the conversion though.

I am a driving enthusiast and love to row my own gears—but there is an appropriate time and place for it in my opinion. I would not really want to live with a manual box in my 3-series station-wagon utility car, as much I like the “idea” of swapping it. I was a skeptic about the paddles in my Vantage.

In the end, I’ve come to terms with the reality that the paddle shift configuration really suits the GT nature of an AM.

 

I have found the ss quite engaging to drive..as stated before..you look to get the revs right..has all the characteristics of a manual without your hands leaving the wheel..if mine was manual..I think I’d like it just as much..but certainly not diss interesting to drive smoothly..my only gripe is first and reverse..seems to launch in first..and fight me in reverse…particularly when cold..

 

Vantage in manual is a ***** in reverse as well. Tall reverse gear; easy to stall.

 

I have heard that..

 

Well that is promising and who is doing the work in the USA?

 

please contact me when the conversion is available.
billlear@troonlighting.com

Thanks,
Bill