
Aston Martin DB7 (1994-04)
Production Total: 7,000
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Price New:
In 1994, the new price of an Aston Martin DB7 in the UK was approximately **£78,500** Used Prices - Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/aston-martin/db7/coupe-1994/used-prices/).
£78,500 in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£160,000** today.
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Rivals: In 1994, the new prices of the main rivals of the Aston Martin DB7 in the UK were approximately:
- **Ferrari F355**: £83,000 - Hagerty UK](https://www.hagerty.co.uk/articles/buying-guides/buying-guide-ferrari-f355-1994-99/)
- **Porsche 911 (993)**: £55,000 - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_911_%28993%29)
- **Jaguar XJS**: £40,000
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of the latest data, there are approximately **180 Aston Martin DB7** cars currently licensed and on the road in the UK.
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PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.
Road Tax: In 1994, the road tax for an Aston Martin DB7 in the UK was approximately **£345** per year road tax - Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/aston-martin/db7/coupe-1994/car-tax/).
£345 in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£700** today.
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Petrol: In 1994, the average price of four-star petrol in the UK was approximately **51 pence per litre**.
51 pence per litre in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£1.05 per litre** today.
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Insurance: In 1994, the average price of insurance for an Aston Martin DB7 in the UK was approximately **£700** per year - Insurance - Honest John](https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=62360).
£700 in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£1,430** today.
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1994/COST OF LIVING UK
In 1994, the average annual salary in the UK was approximately **£15,000**.
£15,000 in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£30,600** today.
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In 1994, the average price of a house in the UK was approximately **£51,000**](https://www.propertyinvestmentproject.co.uk/property-statistics/nationwide-average-house-price/).
£51,000 in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£104,000** today.
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In 1994, the average new car price in the UK was approximately **£12,207**.
£12,207 in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£24,900** today.
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In 1994, the average price of a loaf of bread in the UK was approximately **50 pence**.
50 pence in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **£1.02** today.
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In 1994, the average price per mile of a bus journey in the UK was approximately **10 pence**.
10 pence per mile in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **21 pence per mile** today.
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In 1994, the average price per mile of a taxi journey in the UK was approximately **£1.00**.
In 1994, the average price per mile of a taxi journey in the UK was approximately **£1.00**.
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In 1994, the average cost per mile of a railway journey in the UK was approximately **20 pence**](https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/inflationandpriceindices/timeseries/docw/mm23).
20 pence per mile in 1994 is equivalent to approximately **41 pence per mile** today.
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In 2025, the average cost per mile of a railway journey in the UK is approximately **33 pence per mile**.
In 2025, the average cost per mile of a car journey in the UK is approximately **33 pence per mile**.
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In 1994, there were approximately **25 million vehicles** recorded by the DVLA as being on UK roads.
As of 2025, there are approximately **41.4 million vehicles** on UK roads.
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Common Faults
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Aston Martin DB7—a true embodiment of elegance and power. But like any sophisticated beauty, it has its quirks. Let's delve into the world of British grand touring and explore the common hiccups that might crop up when you're behind the wheel of this classic.
1. **Steering Issues**: Picture this: you're elegantly navigating a winding road, feeling like James Bond himself, and suddenly—bam!—you experience some unexpected kicking sensations during high-speed cornering. Not exactly the suave manoeuvre you were going for, right? Well, blame it on the upper wishbone bushes. These little troublemakers can cause steering woes in the DB7 coupe². So, if you're test-driving one, pay attention to how it handles those curves.
2. **Water Leaks**: Now, I know the DB7 isn't a submarine, but sometimes it thinks it is. Water leaks can be an issue, especially around the windshield and rear window seals. It's like the car's whispering, "I'm amphibious, darling!" But trust me, you want your interior to stay dry and cosy, not aquatic. So, check those seals and make sure they're doing their job.
3. **Exhaust Manifold Cracking**: The DB7's exhaust manifold can be a bit dramatic—it likes to crack. Maybe it's trying to express its artistic side? But jokes aside, this can lead to performance issues and an unpleasant exhaust note. Keep an ear out for any suspicious sounds during your test drive. If it's serenading you with a broken tune, consider it a red flag.
4. **Rear Vibration**: Imagine cruising down the motorway, wind in your hair, and suddenly your rear end decides to throw a little dance party. Not the kind of surprise you signed up for, right? Well, the DB7 sometimes suffers from rear vibration. It's like the car's saying, "Hey, let's cha-cha!" But stability is key, so ensure the suspension components are in good shape.
And a bonus tip: Because the DB7 is quite the heavyweight, its brake discs can warp, leading to an unsettling judder when braking. Nobody wants a wobbly stop, especially when pulling up to a posh event. Also, keep an eye on stone chips in the bodywork—they might seem harmless, but if not properly repaired, they can lead to corrosion. And trust me, corrosion isn't chic.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
The Aston Martin DB7—a true embodiment of elegance and power. Let's dive into the world of this British grand tourer and explore its generational journey.
1. **First Generation (1994–2004)**:
- The Aston Martin DB7 made its debut in September 1994 and continued to grace the roads until December 2004. Designed by Ian Callum and Keith Helfet, it came in both coupé and convertible (Volante) body styles. The prototype was ready by November 1992 and wowed the crowds at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1993.
- The initial DB7 model was powered by a six-cylinder engine based on the Jaguar AJ6 platform. It was positioned as an "entry-level" Aston Martin, sitting below the hand-built V8 Virage that had been introduced a few years earlier. Interestingly, this model became the most-produced Aston Martin up to that point, with over 7,000 units built.
- The DB7's platform evolved from the Jaguar XJS, although it underwent significant changes. It was a collaborative effort, drawing resources from Jaguar Cars and benefiting from the financial backing of Ford Motor Company (which owned Aston Martin from 1988 to 2007).
2. **Second Generation (Non-existent)**:
- Aston Martin retired the DB nameplate after the DB6 and didn't revive it until the DB7's launch. Therefore, there isn't a distinct "second generation" of the DB7. Instead, it remained a singular, iconic model throughout its production run.
3. **Successor**:
- The DB7 gracefully handed the baton to its successor—the Aston Martin DB9. The DB9 continued the legacy of elegant grand touring, and it's a story for another day.
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Trim Levels
The Aston Martin DB7—a harmonious blend of power, poise, and a dash of British charm. Let's explore the trim levels that graced this elegant grand tourer, shall we?
1. **Standard Equipment (Because Even James Bond Needs Basics)**:
- The DB7 came with a set of standard features that ensured you didn't feel like you were driving a relic from the Middle Ages. These basics included things like power windows (because cranking them manually would be so unbecoming), air conditioning (because even secret agents sweat), and leather upholstery (because, well, it's an Aston Martin—anything less would be criminal).
2. **Optional Equipment (Where the Real Fun Begins)**:
- Now, here's where the DB7 got interesting. Buyers could sprinkle their own brand of magic by opting for various extras. Picture Q handing you a menu of delightful choices:
- **Alloy Wheels**: Because regular wheels are for mere mortals. The DB7 offered different alloy wheel designs, each whispering, "I'm faster than you think."
- **Upgraded Audio System**: Because when you're cruising through the countryside, you need a soundtrack worthy of your elegance. The upgraded audio system turned every note into a symphony.
- **Wood Veneer Trim**: Because nothing says "refined" like wood accents. Choose from walnut, burr elm, or chestnut—your choice could make or break your MI6 application.
- **Heated Seats**: For those chilly British mornings when you're chasing villains across misty moors. Toasty buns are essential.
- **Satellite Navigation**: Because Bond doesn't ask for directions. He just programs the DB7 to take him to the nearest secret lair.
- **Special Paint Colours**: Forget basic black or silver. How about a shade called "Midnight Obsidian" or "Sapphire Enigma"? It's like naming your martini—shaken, not stirred.
- **Carbon Fibre Interior Trim**: Because sometimes you need to remind yourself that you're not just driving any car; you're piloting a work of art.
3. **The FH Edition (For the Discerning Agent)**:
- Ah, the FH trim—an ode to luxury and exclusivity. Named after Alfred Dunhill, the renowned British luxury brand, this edition was like slipping into a bespoke suit. It featured unique styling cues, sumptuous materials, and an aura of sophistication. Imagine James Bond stepping out of an FH DB7, adjusting his cufflinks, and saying, "The name's Dunhill. Alfred Dunhill."
4. **Vantage (When You Need More Than Elegance)**:
- The Vantage trim wasn't just about sipping martinis; it was about devouring the road. With a more potent engine, sportier suspension, and a soundtrack that made angels weep, the Vantage was for those who wanted their DB7 with an extra shot of adrenaline. It's the trim that said, "Yes, I'll take the hairpin bend at 007 mph, thank you."
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Engines
The heartbeat of the Aston Martin DB7—the symphony that propels elegance down the open road. Let's lift the bonnet (or hood, if you prefer) and peek at the mechanical virtuosos that powered this British grand tourer.
1. **The Straight-Six Serenade**:
- Picture this: nestled within the DB7's graceful curves lies a 3.2-liter straight-six engine, like a maestro tuning up before a performance. This powerplant was no ordinary six-cylinder; it wore an intercooled Eaton supercharger like a tailored tuxedo. With 335 bhp (British horses, of course) at its disposal, it whispered, "I'm refined, but I can still sprint to the next cocktail party."
- The straight-six DB7 was the entry-level model, designed for those who wanted sophistication without the full James Bond package. It was like ordering a martini—shaken, not stirred—because sometimes subtlety is the ultimate weapon.
2. **The V12 Crescendo**:
- But wait, there's more! In 1999, Aston Martin decided to crank up the volume. Enter the DB7 V12 Vantage—a name that sounds like a secret code. This time, they swapped the six strings for a full orchestra: a 5.9-liter, 48-valve, all-alloy V12 engine. Developed by the wizards at Cosworth, it boasted 420 bhp (British horsepower, remember?) and 400 lb⋅ft of torque. That's enough grunt to launch you from 0 to "007 mph" in style.
- Imagine the V12 as the DB7's alter ego—the one that wears sunglasses indoors and orders martinis with extra olives. It growled, "I'm not just a grand tourer; I'm a grand symphony."
3. **Behind the Scenes**:
- Both engines had their quirks. The straight-six occasionally suffered from oil cooler leaks (because even engines need a tissue now and then). And those timing-chain tensioners? Well, they could get a bit dramatic—rattles meant urgent replacement. Imagine them saying, "Darling, I'm feeling a bit loose today. Fix me, won't you?"
- As for the V12, it was like having a charismatic diva in the garage. It demanded attention, but when it hit the high notes, you forgot about everything else.
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Performance
The Aston Martin DB7, introduced in 1994, offered impressive performance for its time. Here are some key performance specifications:
- **Engine**: 3.2-liter inline-six, supercharged
- **Power**: 335 bhp (250 kW)
- **Torque**: 361 lb-ft (490 Nm)
- **Top Speed**: 165 mph (266 km/h)
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: 5.7 seconds
The DB7 was known for its elegant design and powerful performance, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
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Rivals
In 1994, the Aston Martin DB7 faced competition from several high-performance cars. Here are some of its main rivals and their performance specifications:
- **Ferrari F355**: Powered by a 3.5-liter V8 engine, producing 380 bhp. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds and had a top speed of around 183 mph.
- **Porsche 911 (993)**: Equipped with a 3.6-liter flat-six engine, producing 272 bhp. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.3 seconds and had a top speed of around 168 mph used car review - RAC](https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/aston-martin/db7/db7-1994-2004/).
- **Jaguar XJS**: Featured a 4.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 245 bhp. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.6 seconds and had a top speed of around 150 mph used car review - RAC](https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/aston-martin/db7/db7-1994-2004/).
These cars offered a range of performance capabilities, catering to different preferences and budgets of car enthusiasts at the time.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Aston Martin DB7 was designed by **Ian Callum** and **Keith Helfet**.
Here are the dimensions of the Aston Martin DB7:
- **Length**: 4,646 mm (182.9 in)
- **Width**: 1,830 mm (72.0 in)
- **Height**: 1,270 mm (50.0 in)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,591 mm (102.0 in)
- **Kerb Weight**: 1,825 kg (4,023 lb)
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Spares/Specialists NI
1. **Aston Store**:
- The Aston Store, my friend, is like Q's secret workshop for Aston Martin aficionados. Here, you'll find a complete catalogue of DB7 parts—everything from body panels to exhaust components. Imagine it as your own MI6 database, but with fewer gadgets and more gaskets.
- Need a specific part? You've got options:
- **Search by Part Name or Number**: If you know the part number (maybe you've been decoding secret messages), plug it into the search bar on the Aston Store homepage.
- **Browse Part Categories and Diagrams**: They've neatly organized everything—body, brakes, engine, suspension, and more. Each category even has numbered diagrams, like a high-stakes game of "Find the Widget."
- And fear not, they offer both genuine OEM parts (for that original Bond-approved performance) and aftermarket solutions (for when the original gadgets are classified). Just dial 0208 741 8822 during their office hours, and they'll be your trusty quartermasters.
2. **Eurospares**:
- Picture this: you're sipping tea in a cozy British tearoom, and someone whispers, "Eurospares." Suddenly, you're transported to a world of genuine and OEM Aston Martin parts. Their DB7 section is like a well-organized library—part diagrams galore!
- Select your DB7 model, browse those diagrams, and pinpoint precisely the parts you desire. If you're feeling particularly Bond-esque, contact their team of Aston experts—they'll decode schematics faster than you can say "shaken, not stirred."
3. **Autodoc**:
- Autodoc, my friend, is like the friendly mechanic who knows every nut and bolt. They've got a nifty tool: add your vehicle information (DB7, in our case), and voilà! It's like summoning the car parts genie.
- So, whether you need a sleek fender or a mysterious gizmo, Autodoc's got your back. Just don't be surprised if the parts arrive with a subtle British accent. "Good day, sir. I'm your new alternator."
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Specialists NI
Ah, the pursuit of DB7 expertise in the rolling hills of Northern Ireland—a quest worthy of a secret agent! Fear not, my automotive adventurer; I shall guide you to the hidden sanctuaries where Aston Martin DB7s receive their bespoke care.
1. **Andrew Lindsay Specialist Cars**:
- Picture this: nestled amidst the green landscapes of Northern Ireland, you'll find Andrew Lindsay—a well-respected independent Aston Martin and Jaguar specialist. With over 20 years of experience and factory training, Andrew is the whisperer for your DB7. Whether it's the classic DB7 i6 or the V12 Vantage, he knows their secrets. Imagine him adjusting his monocle and saying, "Ah, yes, the DB7. A fine specimen, indeed." You can reach him at **2 Vestry Road, Ballygowan, Newtownards BT23 6HJ** or dial **028 9754 2979**.
2. **Aston Martin Belfast**:
- Now, if you seek the official touch, head to Aston Martin Belfast—the sole authorized dealer on the island of Ireland. They're the real deal, representing the manufacturer with panache. Their showroom on **62 Boucher Rd, Belfast BT12 6LR** is like entering a secret MI6 base. And their service hours? Well, they're open Monday through Thursday, with a dramatic flourish on Thursday evenings until 8:00 PM. Call them at **028 9038 3527** and say, "Bond sent me." Okay, maybe skip the Bond part, but you get the idea.
3. **Bamford Rose** (For the Discerning Agent):
- Now, here's a wildcard: Bamford Rose. They're like Q's workshop for Aston Martins. While not in Northern Ireland, they're worth a mention. These engineers treat every DB7 like a delicate puzzle. Their service checklist? Thorough enough to make Sherlock Holmes nod in approval. Minor services start around £700, and major ones (for the V12) are about £1050. If you're based overseas, they even offer a fly-and-fit service. Just provide a suitable location with a ramp, and they'll upgrade your car wherever you are. Call them at **+44 (0) 1608 663514** and say, "I need my DB7 shaken, not stirred" (okay, maybe not the last part)⁴.
4. **KWE Cars** (Jaguar, Daimler, and Aston Martin Restoration):
- While not exclusively DB7-focused, KWE Cars houses highly trained classic Jaguar technicians. They're like wizards who can whisper to your DB7, "Fear not, old friend; we'll restore your elegance." Check them out—they might just have the magic touch.
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Racing
The Aston Martin DB7—a sleek grand tourer that's graced both boulevards and racetracks. Let's rev up the engines and explore its racing escapades, shall we?
1. **The DB7 GT Prototype**:
- Imagine this: a clandestine agreement signed between Aston Martin and Prodrive. Their mission? Develop a prototype DB7 GT race car. The deadline? The Coys Historic Festival on July 29. Picture the engineers huddled in secret workshops, tweaking aerodynamics and tuning engines. The result? Not one, but **two** DB7 GT race cars—one with a red nose band (courtesy of Prodrive) and the other sporting a yellow nose (crafted at Aston Martin). These beauties were like Bond's gadgets—tailored for speed, precision, and a dash of intrigue².
2. **One-Make Race Series Dreams**:
- The DB7 GTs weren't content with mere track outings. They whispered about a one-make race series—a showdown where DB7s would battle wheel-to-wheel, like duelling secret agents. Alas, fate had other plans. While the dream of a full-fledged DB7 race series didn't materialize, these limited-edition GTs remain legends in the Aston Martin archives. Think of them as the covert agents who never got their own movie but left an indelible mark on the script³.
3. **Origins in Crisis**:
- But let's rewind. The DB7's story begins in the late 1980s—a time when Aston Martin faced financial turbulence. It was like a suspenseful plot twist: crisis, intrigue, and a dash of desperation. The DB7 (also known as Project XX or Project NPX) emerged from these murky waters. Originally conceived as a Jaguar, it found its true identity under Aston Martin's wing. Ian Callum and Keith Helfet—our design maestros—crafted its lines, turning it into a grand tourer worthy of secret missions⁵.
4. **The DB7's Legacy**:
- While it didn't dominate racetracks like a Formula 1 champion, the DB7 left tire marks on our hearts. It was the car that saved Aston Martin, the bridge between eras. And even though it didn't wear a racing suit every day, it carried the spirit of adventure—a touch of Bond, a hint of elegance, and a whole lot of British charm.
Valuation
The value of an Aston Martin DB7 in the UK can vary depending on its condition, history, and specific model. Generally, the price ranges from **£17,000 to £34,000**.
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Clubs
There is an Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) in Northern Ireland. You can find more information about events, contact details for local representatives, and the latest news on their [Area 2 - Northern Ireland page](https://amoc.org/Area2).
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