The Aston Martin Vanquish: A Legendary Comeback
The iconic Aston Martin Vanquish is making a triumphant return with the unveiling of the new model. After a six-year hiatus, the British brand’s V12-engined flagship is back and ready to reclaim its throne in the super grand tourer segment.
A Powerful Beast
The new Aston Martin Vanquish boasts an impressive 824bhp and 738lb ft of torque, making it a force to be reckoned with. With a stiffer chassis compared to its DBS predecessor, this powerhouse is set to dominate the roads.
Charm and Charisma
While performance and power are important, sometimes a car’s charm and charisma are what truly captivate us. The original Vanquish was a perfect example of this. To remind ourselves of its allure, let’s take a trip back to 2005 when we embarked on a 1000-mile tour across Europe in a Vanquish S.
During this journey, we witnessed Aston Martin’s ongoing revolution and experienced the magic of the Vanquish firsthand. The full feature can be found in the Autocar Archive, where you can explore 129 years of automotive history with just a click.
Reliving the Past
On July 26, 2005, we embarked on an adventure with the Vanquish S. Despite its flaws, including a poor driving position, uncomfortable seats, outdated switchgear, and a map-free satellite navigation system, this car managed to win our hearts.
After 500 miles on the road, the Vanquish S proved its greatness. Covered in mud and bug splatters, it exuded a sense of purpose and beauty that only comes from a true legend. Its appearance after such a journey was a testament to its enduring appeal.
A Journey to Remember
Our journey began in Newport Pagnell, a place deeply intertwined with Aston Martin’s history. From there, we drove to Cologne, where Aston Martin’s engine production now takes place. It was a nostalgic trip, reflecting on the past while embracing the future.
Although the Vanquish will no longer be built in Newport Pagnell after 2008, Aston Martin plans to continue using the facility for service and restoration. This ensures that the craftsmanship and soul of Aston Martin will live on.
Reconnecting with the Vanquish was like meeting an old friend. Despite its flaws, the magic that first drew us to this car remained. Its 520bhp motor and timeless appeal made every mile a joy.
A Legendary Encounter
As we reached the coast, our initial frustrations faded away. The Aston Martin Vanquish proved its worth, surpassing our expectations. Its presence at the legendary Spa circuit, with its rich history and timeless beauty, was a testament to its greatness.
Driving through the Ardennes and experiencing the Vanquish’s power and elegance was a truly unforgettable experience. In moments like these, the right car can make all the difference.
As we continued our journey, the fading light reminded us of the passing time. The navigation system proved useless, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. We set off cross-country, determined to find both Germany and the true spirit of the Vanquish.
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