Aston Martin, one of the oldest sports car brands in the world, boasts a catalog range of enviable iconic road cars and a vast pre- and post-war racing pedigree. Although the company has gone through bankruptcy about seven times, it continues to manufacture top-notch vehicles. Expensive production processes and low volumes are also linked to Aston Martin. Despite it all, Aston Martin did not give up and constantly reinvented itself.

Aston Martin has new families of GT and desirable sports cars that seduce a diverse international clientele. Many who cannot afford the newer ones opt for the used Aston Martin V8 Vantage. Here is a guide to buying a used Aston Martin V8 Vantage.

Guide to buying a used Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Body

These cars have aluminum body panels, which may rust if they come in contact with the steel substructure. Hence, when investing in the used Aston Martin V8 Vantage, watch out for the blistered paint, as that may imply distinguishable metal corrosion. In addition, the door sills are also a common concern, as are the door floors, bottoms, the door pillars where the hinges attach, and the window pillar bottoms. Poor repairs and accident damage are also prevalent issues. The bodywork for the V8 or V8 Vantage demands precision. Hence, it is often expensive. So, if it is a used car, put your hands on the one in the best condition possible. On the exterior, the factory employed twenty hand-sanded lacquer coats. It was a fine-world craftsmanship charm. However, the finish lacks crack resistance and durability of modern urethanes.

Engine and transmission

Aston Martin V8 Vantage’s powertrain is one durable unit. But it demands proper maintenance. Its alternator belts tend to squeal in the cold. However, you can correct it a little using an aftermarket pulley kit or by merely adjusting the belt tensioner. The car’s exhaust features depict butterfly valves that open above 4000rpm to present a somewhat vocal below. So, if you desire a theatrical soundtrack, get rid of fuse #22. It will ensure that the valves stay open from zero RPM. It’s important to note that failed head gasket, excessive oil consumption, low oil pressure, thumps, rattles, and overheating of the engine mount to significant bills.

Interior

In both Roadster and coupe forms, the V8 Vantage is a strict two-seater car and does not claim to be a four-seater one, as is the case with its competitor, Porsche 911. Despite being 335mm shorter than the DB9, it has a pretty roomy cabin. The electrically adjusted seats and stylish upholstery are something you will find in all used Aston Martin V8 Vantage models. Other standard features in all models in the line-up are front and side airbags, a CD stereo, a battery isolator switch, and climate control. The battery isolator can be incredibly beneficial and prevent battery drain, especially if you leave your car standing for longer periods. However, a trickle charger would have been a better inclusion.

Check the boot for damp carpets, indicating water leaks from the open boot or a blocked drain pipe. You can buy fitted luggage to make the most of the Vantage’s 300-litre boot space. But before you buy your used Aston Martin V8 Vantage, examine the cabin. It must show no signs of wear and tear. Door windows may be unfunctional after some time, so demand a new module to be fixed. Before finalizing the deal, check every window button to see if it works as it should. Over time, the AC can also falter, causing you to invest in a new compressor. So, ensure it is pumping out cold air.

Gearbox

The auto gearbox is dependable, but examine for the black oil, kick down, and smooth changes. The manuals suffer worn clutch, synchros, and bearings.

Chassis

The chassis rot behind the front wheel is another prevalent concern. It may be an expensive affair. Fuel lines and brakes run through the outrigger, so remove them before welding.

For a used Aston Martin V8 Vantage, you can expect to pay an average amount of $175,000, but it can oscillate between $110,000 and $210,000. Thus, it does not come cheap. So, take note of the above-listed aspects before buying this beauty.