The Aston Martin DB7 marks a significant chapter in the storied history of the luxury brand.
The story of the Aston Martin DB7 story began in the early 1990s, during a period of uncertainty for Aston Martin. The marque needed a new model that could appeal to a broader market and secure its financial future. The project, initially code-named NPX, was led by Tom Walkinshaw of TWR group and styled by the renowned designer Ian Callum. The goal was to create a more accessible Aston Martin, without diluting the brand’s exclusive image.
The DB7 was unveiled to the public at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1993, with production starting in 1994, receiving acclaim for its elegant design and performance capabilities. It was a significant departure from the more muscular V8 models that preceded it, offering a more refined and sleek aesthetic.
As we celebrate 30 years since the introduction of the DB7 let’s explore the development, impact, and legacy of the DB7, illustrating its importance in the automotive world. Stay connected, follow us on Instagram: @indigoautogroup.
Check out the: 2025 Aston Martin Vantage
DB7 in detail: Engine, top speed, specs, and design
The newly developed Aston Martin DB7 engine by TWR was a lightweight alloy construction, equipped with twin overhead camshafts and a supercharged straight-six configuration, displacing 3,228 cc. It boasted 32 valves and utilized Zytec electronic multi-point fuel injection, alongside a water-cooled Eaton ‘Rootes’ type supercharger. This supercharger was powered by a toothed belt connected to the camshaft, enhancing the engine’s performance and efficiency.
The supercharged 3.2-liter inline-six engine, producing 355 bhp, accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. This performance, along with its two transmission options, a 5-speed gearbox or 4-speed automatic, featured a top speed of 165 mph.
Additionally, a collaborative effort between Aston Martin and Prodrive led to the creation of just two DB7 ‘GT’ race car prototypes, aimed at investigating the potential for a single-model racing series. Prodrive constructed one of these cars, distinguished by its red nose band, while Aston Martin built the second, identifiable by its yellow nose. Although both vehicles were designed with racing in mind, featuring stripped interiors and minimal equipment, they were upholstered in quilted leather to embody the concept of a ‘gentleman’s racer,’ blending performance with luxury.
Specs
- Engine: Straight 6, 3228 cc, 355 bhp @ 5500 rpm 368 lbs-ft @ 3000 rpm
- 0 – 60 mph: 5.8 sec
- Top Speed: 165 mph
- Transmission: 5-speed gearbox or 4-speed automatic
- Weight: 1725 kg
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 4631 x 1820 x 1268 mm
Aston Martin F1: 2024 Australian Grand Prix highlights
Aston Martin DB7 Vantage and Volante
Performance, engine, transmission
In March 1999, the DB7 Vantage and Vantage Volante were unveiled at the Geneva Motorshow, showcasing significant advancements from the inline-6 cylinder DB7. These new versions were equipped with a groundbreaking 6.0-liter V12 engine, delivering 420 horsepower, and offered the flexibility of either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Shortly after their debut, a ‘Touchtronic’ feature was introduced, enhancing the driving experience for those who favored automatic transmissions by providing a more engaging drive.
Specs
- Top Speed: 185 mph (Saloon), 165 mph (Volante)
- 0 – 60 mph in 5 seconds
- 420 bhp
- V12 engine
- Transmission: 6-speed manual with optional 5-speed automatic
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 4666 x 1830 x 1238 mm (Saloon), 4666 x 1830 x 1260 mm (Volante)
You may also like: Aston Martin returns to 24 Hours of Le Mans
Exterior and interior
Alongside the updated powertrain, the Aston Martin DB7 Vantage featured a bolder design, distinguished by an enlarged front grille, updated fog/side/indicator lights, and striking 18-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone S02 tires. The interior was adorned with leather trim meticulously crafted in a dedicated trim shop in Newport Pagnell, complemented by luxurious Wilton Carpet on the floors and the option between wood veneer or carbon fiber facia panels.
To commemorate 30 years of the DB7, Aston Martin commissioned an exquisite V12 Vantage-inspired desktop ornament.
Crafted from an authentic V12 aluminum piston from the DB7 Vantage and adorned with a genuine vehicle inspector’s plate, this special edition memento is poised to captivate both owners and fans of Aston Martin. The polished stainless steel inspector’s plate, like the piston, is an original piece from the DB7, with similar plates being attached to the majority of new DB7 models during their production from 1994 to 2003. A total of 7,117 DB7s were meticulously assembled by hand at the Aston Martin Bloxham facility, making the car the brand’s top-selling model at the time.
The DB7’s legacy is not just limited to its contribution to Aston Martin’s survival and growth. It also set new standards for grand tourers, combining performance, luxury, and design in a way that was unmatched at the time. Today, the DB7 is considered a classic, a testament to its enduring appeal and the pivotal role it played in automotive history. Discover something as innovative and timeless as the Aston Martin DB7 by shopping the latest Aston Martin models at indiGO Auto Group.
