LOOK TO THE FUTURE: Aston Martin V12 Vanquish could easily follow in the footsteps of its valuable classic-era predecessors
April 3, 2015
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
This exquisite 2004 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish with its hand-formed and fitted aluminum body will be crossing the block at the 13th Annual Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction, April 17-19, 2015, at the South Florida Fairgrounds.
The classic Aston Martin silhouette meets modern technology with the V12 Vanquish.
With classic-era Aston Martins rapidly appreciating in value beyond the seven-digit mark, it’s nice to examine modern-era cars that might someday follow suit. Of course, top-of-the-range “special editions” are always more desirable than their standard-production brethren.
Such is the case with the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish. In the future, collectors undoubtedly will look back upon the Series One Vanquish and heap praise upon its carbon-fiber/aluminum tub and bulging, hand-formed aluminum body panels.
In terms of historical reference, the V12 Vanquish has made its mark as the last car built at Aston Martin’s legendary Newport Pagnell factory. Even bricks from the dismantled structure were later sold for charity and are now considered sought-after collectibles.
Climb in and you’ll immediately appreciate the superior leather craftsmanship (for which Aston Martin has always been known), as well as the paddle-shifted six-speed mechatronic manual transmission.
In many ways the V12 Vanquish marks the beginning of Aston Martin’s present technology-driven era. Classic silhouettes and sumptuous cowhides remain, but traditional powertrains and thinking were left in the dust.
Of course, Aston Martin’s current era really hit its stride when ownership changed hands in March 2007. Prodrive chairman David Richards led the consortium that purchased Aston Martin for US$848 million. The relatively small sum is a reminder that Aston Martin is indeed a small manufacturer, regardless of its iconic brand.
The 2004 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish (Lot #410) crossing the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach block at No Reserve on Saturday, April 18, is a particularly fine example.
This Ian Callum-designed V12 Vanquish speaks for itself – and does so with a loud voice. The 5.9-liter 48-valve V12 produces 460hp and 400 ft/lbs of torque. The 60-degree V12 is one of the best-sounding engines ever produced.
Under-the-hood beauty: the potent V12, hints of the carbon-fiber superstructure and the handsome carbon-fiber strut brace.
Coupled with a paddle-shifted six-speed mechatronic manual transmission and limited slip differential, this V12 Vanquish is capable of 4.5-second 0-60 sprints and 190 mph top speeds. Lift the hood and evidence of the carbon-fiber superstructure abounds.
Additional highlights include Brembo 14” brakes, and 19” forged aluminum seven-spoke wheels. This particular V12 Vanquish has traversed less than 2,500 miles since new, having spent the last seven years in a private collection.
If history is to repeat itself, the V12 Vanquish has the specifications and historical significance to qualify as a sound future collectible. The flagship Brit could be considered a supercar bargain in today’s money.