A Ride with the Timeless Charm: Aston Martin Motorcars

Some cars date quickly. The generation of Aston Martins built around the VH platform, the DB9, DBS and V8 Vantage in particular, have done the opposite. Years after they left the showroom they still turn heads in a car park, still sound special at the first press of the starter, and still feel like an occasion every time you open the door. In the workshop we spend most of our time around these cars, and this piece is about why we think they have aged so well and how to personalise one without losing what makes it special.

Why these Astons have lasted

Proportions that do not need explaining

Long bonnet, short rear deck, wheels pushed out to the corners. The DB9 and its relatives were drawn with classic grand touring proportions, and good proportions do not go out of fashion. Even the details that might look fussy on another car, such as the side strakes and the shape of the grille, sit naturally within the overall shape.

Engines with character

The naturally aspirated V12 in the DB9, DBS and Vanquish, and the V8 in the Vantage, belong to an era when engine sound was part of the design brief. They rev cleanly, deliver power progressively and make a noise that owners talk about long after they have driven home. That is a big part of why so many people want to keep these cars rather than trade them in.

Cars you can actually use

These are grand tourers in the proper sense. They are comfortable enough for long journeys, practical enough to take away for a weekend and quick enough to be rewarding on a good road. Owners tend to drive them rather than hide them, which is exactly how it should be.

Upgrading without losing the plot

Because these cars are loved for their original character, the best upgrades tend to sharpen what is already there rather than turn the car into something else. Here is how we suggest approaching it.

Start with what bothers you

Before choosing any parts, write down what you would change if you could. Perhaps the brakes feel tired after a few hard stops, the exhaust is a little muted at low speed, or the wheels look dated. Starting from a real complaint keeps the project focused and the budget sensible.

Prefer bolt-on and reversible changes

Many of the changes owners make to these cars can be undone. Wheels, exhaust sections, brake components and accessories such as side repeaters can all be swapped back if you sell the car or simply change your mind. Our advice is simple:

• Keep the original parts. Store factory wheels, silencers and trim safely. A buyer who wants a standard car will value them.
• Choose parts that use existing mounting points wherever possible, so nothing needs cutting or drilling.
• Record what you change. A simple list with dates and receipts helps with insurance, servicing and resale.

Keep the theme consistent

A car with one clear idea tends to look better than one with a mix of unrelated parts. If you are after a DBS-inspired look on a DB9, for example, the DB9 to DBS front bumper conversion pairs naturally with matching sideskirts and rear bumper. If you prefer a subtle approach, wheels and a well-chosen finish can do a surprising amount on their own.

Tasteful upgrades that suit these cars

Wheels

Nothing changes the stance of a car more quickly. Forged wheels with offsets designed for your model can sit the car properly in its arches without the problems of generic fitments. Browse our forged wheel designs for Aston Martin and think about finish as carefully as design; silver or polished finishes often suit earlier cars and classic colours.

Exhaust

On a V12 or V8 Aston, the exhaust is where many owners start. A valved rear box keeps the car civilised when you want it to be while opening up when you choose. Our valved stainless rear box for DB9, DBS and Vanquish V12 is a good example of a change that adds character without making the car antisocial, and it can be swapped back if needed.

Small details

Small accessories make a difference out of proportion to their price. Clear or smoked side repeaters tidy up the flanks of the car, and they are among the easiest changes to reverse.

Look after the basics first

Upgrades only make sense on a car that is mechanically healthy. Before spending on styling or sound, make sure servicing is up to date, tyres are in good condition and any warning lights are investigated. If you are buying one of these cars, the GOV.UK MOT history checker is a quick way to see past results, recorded mileages and advisories before you commit.

It is also worth telling your insurer about every modification, however small, and checking how any warranty you hold treats aftermarket parts.

Keeping the soul intact

The test we apply to our own cars is straightforward: does the change make us want to drive it more, and does it still feel like the car we fell for? If the answer to both is yes, it is probably the right upgrade. If you would like to talk through ideas for your DB9, DBS or Vantage, send us the model, year and registration and we will happily suggest a plan that suits the way you use it.