ASTON MARTIN DB7 Vantage 1999-2003 Photos, engines & full specs

The Aston Martin DB7 was the rich brother of the Jaguar XK8 and, in 1999, it received a new version named Vantage.

The British brand was famed for staring in James Bond movies. But the DB7 was not chosen for any movie with the famous British spy agent. Strangely, in the 1999 movie "The world is not enough", James Bond drove an Aston Martin DB5. Yet, the DB7 was already launched since 1997 when "Tomorrow never dies" appeared and 007 drove the same, classic, DB5.

The Vantage was considered by many as a more powerful Jaguar XK8 instead of a true thoroughbred Aston Martin. There were many similarities between the two cars, starting with the base platform and with the styling. The curved long hood, shaped headlights, and low beltline. The coupe line was oriented more for a GT vehicle than for a race-oriented one.

Inside the vehicle, there were four seats even though the rear ones were big enough to accommodate a tiny toddler. But the front seats were far more important, and those offered enough comfort for long cruises. The Aston Martin Vantage was a true Gran Tourer with a powerful engine. Its amenities were exclusive and the mix between wood and leather was typical for a British engineered car.

The standard vehicle came with a 6-speed manual transmission, but an option for a 5-speed automatic was available. The manual version was considerably faster but, for a more relaxed drive, the automatic was chosen more often.