The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish is, in many respects, a more expensive alternative to the DB9. Both cars offer a similar level of power and performance, but the Vanquish throws an added dash of luxury and style into the mix. This high-end sport coupe joined the Aston Martin lineup in 2002, and the 2005 model is largely the same vehicle as it was then. A Sports Dynamic option, with a sportier suspension and enhanced braking, was introduced in 2004, which is the same year that the high-performance Vanquish S coupe made its debut.
The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish is offered in two rear-drive body styles: a basic two-passenger coupe, and a 2+2 model that includes a small rear seat. It is truly a driver’s vehicle, with its powerful V-12 and expertly crafted interior workings. This is also a car that looks as good as it feels; style-conscious buyers will find as much to be pleased with as pure adventure-minded drivers.
The Range
Body Styles: coupe
Engines: 5.9-liter V-12
Transmissions: six-speed manual
Models: Aston Martin Vanquish, Aston Martin Vanquish S
What's New
The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish coupe continues virtually unchanged.
Exterior
The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish is largely the inspiration of Ian Callum, who also designed the now-retired DB7 Vantage to which the Vanquish bears a close resemblance. It also has much in common with the DB9, although it has a shorter hood and a lower, wider air intake. The finely detailed and deeply sculptured silhouette makes for a bold, athletic personality that’s in perfect suit with its powerful insides. The S features only a few subtle style differences, including a more open and rounded grille. The list of exterior equipment for the 2005 Vanquish includes automatic headlights, fog lights, a front air dam, a rear spoiler, alloy wheels, rain-sensing interval wipers, and a rear window defogger. Power-adjustable mirrors are optional on both models.
Interior
While built essentially as a two-person vehicle, the 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish does provide the option of a small backseat – although few of your passengers are likely to find it a great place to ride. A range of color options is available for the fine Connolly leather upholstery, while white-faced instruments brighten up the front console. A full list of luxury interior features is provided. Standard equipment includes a tachometer, leather tilt-adjustable steering wheel with mounted controls, a tire pressure monitor, a trip computer, air-conditioning, and multi-adjustable power driver and passenger seats. The complete stereo system comes with a radio, CD changer, cassette player, and subwoofer. Additional options include a navigational system, a voice-activated telephone, and heated front seats.
Performance & Handling
Under the hood of the 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish sits an impressive 6.0-liter, V-12 engine. This powerful machine, developed with assistance from Ford, is rated at 460 horsepower (hp) and 400 lb-ft of torque, and runs with a drive-by-wire throttle. The gearbox has both a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and an automatic transmission. Manual gear shifting is done with Formula One-style paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. The limited-edition S houses the same engine, but it’s tuned to reach a stellar 520 hp, which is a full 60 hp above the basic model. It is nothing if not fun to drive. With its smooth handling and racetrack-level speeds, the S is the fastest model ever produced by Aston Martin and drivers will be able to tackle anything from curvy coastal highways to crowded city streets with confidence and excitement. It really is one car that performs as great as it looks.
Safety
The 2005 Aston Martin Vanquish features a long list of standard safety equipment for all trim levels, including power door locks, a vehicle anti-theft system, a first aid kit, and remote locking. A trunk anti-trap device is provided only on the base coupe, while power windows are only included on the Vanquish S. An electronic parking aid comes as an option for both models. No side airbags are included, although anti-lock brakes for either two or four wheels do come standard. Traction control is provided, but not stability control. Crash tests have not been conducted by either the IIHS or the NHTSA.
EPA Fuel Economy
Aston Martin Vanquish: 10/16 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Exclusive, powerful V-12
- Refined interior design
- Precise performance without a stiff ride
You Won't Like
- Lower maximum speed than competitors
- Some low-quality interior materials
- Less eye-catching than some competitors
Sum Up
Exotic performance and English refinement in one sleek package.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Porsche 911
- Ferrari 612
- Mercedes-Benz SLR-Class
- Maserati Coupe
- Bentley Continental GT