Aston Martin Buyer’s Guide

Aston Martin buyers tend to ooze class in anything they do. Thanks to James Bond’s famous DB5 model in Goldfinger, the car brand has become a British cultural icon. The good news for anyone wanting an Aston Martin of their own, affording such an iconic vehicle is not as inconceivable as you may think. 

At Magnitude, we offer affordable finance deals on some of the very best cars on the market today, including Aston Martin. If it’s good enough for Bond, it’s good enough for you. If you’re interested in buying an Aston Martin, particularly with finance, this guide is made for you.

We’ll cover:

• The history of Aston Martin
• An Aston Martin buyers’ market: Why is financing the go-to?
• Which luxury Aston Martins are currently on the market?
• What are the best Aston Martins to finance?
• What to know before buying an Aston Martin
• Is an Aston Martin a good investment?
• Finance packages available
• FAQs for Aston Martin buyers

History of Aston Martin

Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, production didn’t properly start until after the First World War. The twenties were particularly tumultuous, with Bamford having left the company in 1920. Martin would eventually follow him in 1926 when the Abingdon Road Factory was forced to close after bankruptcy in 1924 and failure in 1925.

Following this, Bill Renwick and Augustus Bertelli took control of the business. The cars made during this 1926-37 period were known as Bertelli cars, often consisting of open two-seater sports cars and a small number of long-chassis models. 

The company fell on hard times once more in 1932, this time being rescued by Lance Prideaux Brune, who passed the company onto Sir Arthur Sutherland. The focus now was on producing road cars, with 700 produced prior to the Second World War. 

The company changed hands again in 1947, with Dave Brown Limited stepping in. The first DB2 was announced in 1950, with plenty more iconic models to follow in the next couple of decades. 

James Bond’s iconic DB MkIII would first appear in Goldfinger in 1964, with several other models used in the later Bond films. Despite these iconic vehicles, however, the company hit financial trouble again in 1972, and again in 1974.

The company was rescued in 1975, re-operating as Aston Martin Lagonda Limited. It was modernised with the production of the V8 Vantage in 1977, with the target markets moving more toward successful businessmen. 

Though the company still endures its fair share of financial hardships, it has started branching out even further into foreign markets across the globe. Given how smooth the experience of Aston Martin tends to be, all of this financial turbulence seems uncharacteristic. After a tough century, however, Aston Martin is still valued at £520 million.

Aston Martin buyers’ market: Why is financing the go-to?

Aston Martin’s high value as a whole inevitably stems from its high cost in addition to its popularity as a whole. Such a hefty cost may well put off even the most avid of petrolheads, and this is before we get to the maintenance costs.

That said, it’s incredibly easy to see why so many lean toward this absolute classic brand. After all, who doesn’t want to feel like James Bond behind the wheel of a gorgeous Aston? The expense of the Aston does make perfect sense. You get what you pay for, but at least with Magnitude, you don’t have to pay it all upfront.

Luxury and prestige are probably the first words that spring to mind when you think of the Aston Martin. The high price tag certainly adds credence to this, but financing spreads the cost of owning one of these beauties for yourself. 

Times are even tighter these days with another financial crisis looming, so affordability is something Magnitude is proud to offer through thick and thin.

In fact, you can see just how the rising interest rates may impact your car finance, whether it’s an existing agreement or a planned future arrangement.

Finance offers flexibility and something bespoke to you personally, meaning you would never be subject to unexpected or excessive payments. If you’re unsure, then feel free to take a look at our tips for getting the best out of your car finance agreement for those unfamiliar with finance plans.

Alternatively, you may want to pay a visit to our academy to stay abreast of all the latest developments in the car finance world. Please do be mindful that as with any loan, it will need to be repaid in full, even if your circumstances have changed during the agreement period.

If we look at the 2022 Aston Martin models, you could be paying anything from $139,000 to $3.5 million (that’s around £121,000 to £3.04 million), and that is undoubtedly a huge hit to take for anybody at once. But with financing, you don’t have to take that solitary hit, instead spreading the costs to suit you.

You might be tempted by a second-hand Aston Martin, though even these are likely to cost a pretty penny. 

However, the price tag for a brand new model is well worth it, as Aston Martins tend to hold their value, and, in some cases, even increase in value once deemed ‘vintage’ or ‘collectable’.

While Aston Martins do tend to age better than most cars given their timeless style, it’s no longer a pipedream to have a brand new supercar with a Magnitude plan. With costs rising across the board, perhaps now is the time to strike while the iron is hot.

The Magnitude team are experienced in the luxury car market and can help provide the one-to-one service you need, allowing an understanding as to what kind of Aston Martin model could suit you. After all, your car should reflect your image and personality, as well as be within your financial remit. 

We can assist in planning for the long-term future too, which in these unpredictable times could be hugely beneficial. You may even end up looking to part-exchange or trade in your Aston Martin once you have paid everything off, allowing you to invest in something newer at the end of your contract. 

We have no idea what kind of phenomenal supercars could be on the horizon or in development, but a finance plan with Magnitude allows you to use your Aston Martin as a savings vehicle of sorts. It is an attractive prospect, which actually encourages financial prudence.

To learn more about the Magnitude finance plans that are currently available, you can skip ahead to our finance section below.

Which luxury Aston Martins are currently on the market?

The first stage of deciding on what kind of Aston Martin you could see yourself driving is to know exactly what the market looks like at this moment in time. Given the relative size of the team in contrast to some of the other automotive giants, Aston Martin’s output focuses on quality rather than quantity.

With that in mind, you’ll find four main models in the current market – all of which are part of the ‘second-century’ range having been produced after the company’s century in 2013. 

While Aston Martin is working on two exciting future hybrid sports models at present (the Valkyrie and Valhalla), the second-century range is well worth getting excited about for the here and now. 

The DB11

The natural successor to the iconic DB9, this grand tourer gives both the performance and luxury you’d expect from Aston. Production began in 2016, and this particular model toes the line between sports car and grand tourer, with its long, low and wide body. 

Mercedes now owns 5% of Aston Martin, and the electronic architecture is distinctly Mercedes. The rest of the car, however, is unmistakably Aston Martin, albeit with some modernisation.

The design features of the DB11 include:

• New roof strakes separating the body from the roof.
• A ‘clam-shell’ design bonnet made from a single piece of aluminium.
• A move away from the VH Platform of old, shifting emphasis from extrusions to stampings, allowing more cockpit space.
• A beautiful brogue finish on the leather seats within.

The front and rear track widths have also increased, allowing the DB11 to look more muscly than its DB9 predecessor. As well as design, however, there are also some key performance aspects to consider. For the first time, steering is electrically assisted rather than hydraulically. You also have the joy of a new engine: the 630hp 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12.

With its aerodynamic design, the DB11 also has the speed and guile to match. The vents take high-pressure air from the top of the front wheel arches and feed it out of the vents at the side. The model keeps improving too, as Autocar says in its review of the 2018 DB11, which is a ‘night-and-day improvement over Aston’s original V12 2016 model.’

Though the DB11 marks the beginning of Aston’s new second-century plan, it retains the grace and panache we’ve come to expect from Aston Martin over the last century. All that said, it’s crystal clear that Aston Martin is not just looking to the future, but gliding into it with its inimitably magnificent style.

The DBS Superleggera

The Superleggera began production in 2018 at Gaydon in Warwickshire and is another high-performance grand tourer. The car was unveiled as the V12 flagship grand tourer, but with many modifications that set it apart from the DB11 lineage.

Instead, the DBS serves as the perfect successor to the modern classic Vanquish. The Superleggera moniker is actually a tribute to the Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera – a company that helped Aston develop their lightest grand tourers back in the 1960s and 1970s.

In terms of its design, the DBS has the following features:

• A new front bumper with a large centre grille, meaning improved engine cooling. 
• Air extractors on the sides and vents on the hood also aid in the engine and brake cooling process. 
• An optimised centre of gravity and weight distribution, with the engine located as far back in the chassis as possible.

As for the engine, it’s a 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V-12 engine that allows the Superleggera to accelerate from 0-60mph in an almighty 3.4 seconds, with three driving modes also available – GT, Sport and Sport Plus. Each of these adjusts the car’s responsiveness, noise and feel.

The DBS also appears in the most recent Bond flick, No Time to Die, though in this instance it lacks the usual Bond gadgets. Nevertheless, the fact it’s graced the silver screen might be enough to tip you over the edge of opting for the DBS.

The DBX

Moving away from the grand tourers to a luxury SUV in every sense of the word, the DBX began production in 2020. It’s the first car manufactured at Aston’s new facility in St Athan in South Wales. As for its design choices, the DBX sticks with the general principles and traditions of Aston Martin whilst also having:

• A wheelbase that stretches out as far as possible.
• A low roofline creates the illusion of something smaller. 
• The largest ever grille fitted onto any Aston Martin.
• Swan-hinged doors, unlike a typical SUV.

Much like the DB11, many of its features are borrowed from Mercedes-Benz, particularly the powertrain and infotainment technology. The model itself has a 542hp 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, capable of going from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 181mph.

The vehicle also comes equipped with five driving modes, as opposed to the DBS’s three. These include GT, Sport, Sport Plus, Terrain and Terrain Plus, allowing you the freedom to venture off-road. The adaptive dampers and triple-chamber air springs also offer a significant range of height adjustments. 

As ever with the Aston Martin, the DBX proudly boasts a driver-focused approach, offering some of the finest handling on the market for an SUV. Though it’s a five-seater 2-tonne vehicle, it is incredibly deft and powerful, perhaps surprisingly so. 

Despite its launch only being the most recent in Aston Martin’s impressive catalogue, it already accounts for 50% of Aston Martin’s global sales according to Top Gear magazine. 

Though the world is starting to look to more environmentally friendly hybrid or electric cars, the SUV market is still sizable. Top Gear surmises its review nicely, saying that ‘it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a decent brew.’

Ultimately, the DBX is a car that’s primed for adventure, but it also retains the practicality of an SUV, as well as the traditional Aston Martin class and charm that we know and love. It may not have the look of some of its second-century siblings, but by all accounts, the DBX is just as magnificent.

The Vantage

Launched around the same time as the DBS in 2018, the Vantage is a two-seater sports car and is the natural successor to the outgoing model of the same name.

Its design was inspired by the Vulcan and the purpose-made DB10 from Spectre, with the interior focused more on the styling of a fighter jet cockpit. Everything is very symmetrical in the Vantage, with large central switches and buttons, you really do feel like you’re in some sort of jet. In order to save weight, there is also no glove box in the passenger seat.

The Vantage’s performance is incredible, again using the same powertrain and infotainment technology from Mercedes-Benz. It also uses a Mercedes engine; the 4-litre 503hp twin-turbocharged V8. This is tuned differently from the DB11 which uses the same engine, promoting a much more sporty and aggressive drive.

This allows the Vantage to accelerate from 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 195mph. Much like with the rest of the lineup, the engine is positioned as far back within the chassis as possible, with a front/rear 50/50 weight distribution when the driver is in the car.

The Vantage also handles excellently, with a great sense of agility based on the central centre of gravity that the car is able to effortlessly pivot around. The driver is able to feel more in control than ever.

What are the best Aston Martins to finance?

Taking all of the above into account, only you can truly know what is best for you, though Magnitude’s team have the expertise to assist where needed. Whether you are looking for a family vehicle, something for you and a partner, or just something for yourself to drive to work, the second-century Aston Martin models have versatility in abundance.

The best Aston Martin for families

The DBX is far and away the best option for families, given that it’s a highly spacious five-seater vehicle. The cabin space is also plentiful for passengers in the front and back, with plenty of shoulder, leg and headroom. You’re unlikely to hear any complaints from the kids in the back. 

The boot is also 632 litres, which is more than enough space for the luggage of five passengers. Not only is the DBX practical for those family holidays, it also has the traditional charm of the Aston Martin. It may be an SUV but it packs the same punch as any sports car.

The Rapide is also a fantastic option if you’re more of a fan of the saloon body shape. The Rapide packs 4 seats, huge boot space and the traditional Naturally Aspirated V12 from the Vanquish. A fantastic option on a hire purchase agreement with the rarity of the Rapide ensuring a stable future value.

The best Aston Martin for business and style

The DBS Superleggera is probably the best option for the commute to work, especially if your job involves a lot of travel. Not only can you turn up to meetings in style, but also in comfort. Though the DBS may tempt you to lay down rubber, it does also make an excellent cruiser in its quietest, most comfortable driving mode. 

The DB11 has similar advantages, though you could argue it carries itself with a little more subtlety if that is what you’re looking for in an Aston. 

The best Aston Martin for the environmentally conscious

Sports cars and supercars like Aston Martins aren’t normally known for being the most green. Like many companies, Aston Martin has committed to being net-zero by 2030 though, with the electric-powered and vegan-friendly Lagonda set to be launched very soon. 

The Valhalla and Valkyrie models are both hybrid supercars set to assist in meeting this target in the not-too-distant future. But these are very limited cars, with extremely high price tags, that will more than likely never really see the road that often.

With Mercedes committed to buying a bigger stake in the company, the use of Mercedes electric and hybrid tech ensures that Aston can focus on design, knowing their electric cars of the future will be ready to go before 2030.

The best off-road Aston Martin

Again, the DBX comes out on top here as the ultimate off-road Aston Martin. The all-wheel drive system in particular works very well in slippery off-road conditions. You might see taking such an expensive vehicle off-road as something of a risk, but with the DBX that risk is minimal. 

The intrinsic design principles of the DBX make it perfect for off-roading. With the ride height, the rear-based all-wheel-drive system and the visibility courtesy of the slender pillars and tall glasshouse, off-road conditions in the DBX are child’s play.

The best Aston Martin for the track

The two-seater Vantage is the obvious choice here, with the 2018 model capable of reaching outrageous speeds, with the necessary handling capabilities too. That said, the DBS has its strengths on this front with over 700bhp under the bonnet, while the DB11 is no slouch either.

Even the DBX has its strengths on the track, though as an SUV it hides them well. Vantage’s top speed of 195mph combined with its incredible agility makes it perfect should you wish to take it for a spin around the track.

The choice ultimately depends on what you need, whether you’re buying a car for leisure, business, or something in between. There may be other things you need to know before making the purchase.

What should you know before buying an Aston Martin?

In a crowded field, Aston Martin is still remarkably popular worldwide, primarily due to its iconic nature and association with 007 himself. Customer demand is said to be well ahead of supply according to current executive chairman Lawrence Stroll, and a mere look at the second-century models demonstrates why this is the case.

Things are expected to improve still when the company produces its more eco-friendly range, as more and more consumers look to reduce their carbon footprint.

Above all, the reason for Aston Martin’s popularity goes beyond Bond – it’s the bespoke crafting of their hand-crafted cars, as well as the balanced blend of luxury and sport – business and pleasure if you will. Few car manufacturers have been able to achieve this to the extent of Aston Martin. 

The ultimate appeal, however, is the quintessential Britishness of the Aston Martin brand. It stands as proof that the UK can still make beautiful things, despite the country’s recent troubles and quarrels with the EU and indeed the world more broadly. 

These are cars that have always performed throughout history and also served equally as works of art. Elegance rather than flashiness for someone that knows how to enjoy the finer things.

How much money will an Aston Martin set me back?

Suffice it to say this elegance does not come cheap, meaning that financing your Aston Martin with Magnitude may be the best option if you want to spread that hefty price tag. For the new models, you are likely to be looking over the £100,000 barrier.

The DB11 retails new at around £150,000, with the coupe occasionally breaking the £200,000 barrier. The DBS is even pricier at £240,000+. There’s no escaping the fact that Aston Martins are pricey, but it’s worth keeping in mind this price tag is justified from the sheer amount of working hours go into building each car, and the workmanship that goes into each aspect.

The DBX is similar in price to the DB11, retailing at £162,625. That said, it is also worth keeping in mind that an SUV will carry the additional costs of petrol. According to Auto Express, you’ll ‘need deep pockets to run a super-SUV like the DBX.’

Then we come to the Vantage, which surprisingly retails at just £125,000 – the cheapest of the second-century models. Even a used Aston Martin will cost upwards of £66,570.

The good news, however, is that if you buy carefully, an Aston Martin can actually appreciate in value. Of course, there are no guarantees, but the timeless quality of the Aston Martin makes it a highly valuable asset for collectors.

Is Aston Martin reliable?

There is a danger when it comes to sentiment and tradition that it comes to the detriment of reliability and perhaps even quality. Before the second century range, perhaps this was an issue for Astons. But since 2016, they appear to have become a lot more dependable.

That said, there are still some important issues that you should be made aware of. For instance, parts are expensive to purchase and difficult to find in the event of breakage. They can also take weeks to repair, even for some of the minor breakages. Ultimately when paying for your Aston Martin, it’s important to consider that there will be maintenance costs too.

The average vehicle lifespan in the UK is predicted around 8.4 years, and in the US, you are looking at 12.2 years – but the Aston Martin’s is slightly less than that at around ten years respectively. That being said, of all of the Aston Martins that have been produced over the last 100+ years, over 90% are still around. This shows just how much the brand and its cars are treasured by the community.

Is an Aston Martin a good investment?

Any investment in a supercar is definitely a long game, meaning that the immediate rewards may not always be readily apparent. As stated above, however, some Aston Martins can actually appreciate in value over time.

Astons age like a fine wine more often than not, though this is not always represented in the value. If you see it as an investment, then a classic model from the 1950s to the 1990s is likely to be the best way to invest. After all, the classic Aston Martin models are collector’s items. They are legendary pieces of British motoring history. 

You will essentially be investing in a work of art. As the market for some of the classic models becomes ever scarcer, the likelihood is that the model you own will also become more in demand as the years sail by.

The best way to ensure sound investment in a newer model is to buy a low-mileage car, as these are likely to be more desirable for future sales. Find a model that received positive press, or perhaps even a limited edition model. If the car has a good maintenance record, it indicates the car has been cared for in the right way, which can only be a positive.

Though classic Astons are the soundest investments, the potential to invest in one of the newer models should in no way be discounted immediately.

Aston Martin finance packages to secure your dream car

A finance package really can make your dreams of owning a luxury sports car a reality in so many ways. At Magnitude, we offer the versatility to make an informed decision on the best finance plan for you and your Aston, whichever model you decide to go for.

Our expertise of 30 years in the prestige market means you’re in highly capable hands, choosing what is best for you in terms of model and payment plan. The future is unpredictable, but with our expertise, we can ensure you have a payment plan that alleviates any stress.

Hire Purchase Finance

A Hire Purchase first requires an initial deposit, which is around 10-40% of the car’s purchase price before paying in monthly instalments. These monthly repayments will be made clear at the start of your agreement, allowing you to plan around any payments set to be made in future months.

Hire Purchase is a great way to be flexible and keep an eye on your budget, but we always ask clients to be mindful that monthly repayments may be higher in comparison to other finance options. That said, you can always ask for a no-obligation quote from us.

Hire Purchase with Balloon

Though similar to the standard Hire Purchase, the balloon payment differs at the end of the contract. A certain amount is retained until the end of your finance term, known as the balloon payment. It is used to reduce the amount you pay in monthly instalments.

The Hire Purchase with Balloon offers flexibility for luxury vehicles with strong residual values – collectable models or limited productions for instance. It is important to note, however, that there is no Guaranteed Minimum Future Value when choosing this option. This means the final payment must be paid in full at the end of the agreement.

Balanced Payments

Balanced Payment car finance offers a fixed monthly payment plan, meaning you can reduce the stress of planning your outgoing expenses during the contract term. Unlike Hire Purchase plans, Balances Payments are subject to changes in national interest rates, offering a variable rate.

The Balanced Payment plan is generally a fantastic plan for those with previous experience in investing, especially if you have a good understanding of the risks involved. The low deposit also reduces the upfront costs, meaning you can budget well for both the short-term and long-term future. Best of all, there is always room for flexibility.

Personal Contract Purchase

The Personal Contract Purchase is one of the most popular ways in which our clients broker agreements on their luxury vehicles. It allows cost-effectiveness and flexibility in terms of deposit contributions, whilst allowing the option to keep, trade, or return the vehicle at the end of the contract.

The main difference in terms of investing in this way is that the value is decided at the start of the contract and deferred until the end, meaning no loss in investment should you choose to trade or return the vehicle. With this plan, it’s important to be mindful of its condition by the end of the agreement.

FAQs for Aston Martin Buyers

You may have some questions about Aston Martin, and our team is on hand to answer any more specific queries that you may have. 

That said, we hope to cover some of the more prominent questions below.

Are Aston Martins collectable?

When it comes to collectability, one first needs to consider the age and calibre of the motor. As a general rule of thumb, the older, ‘classic’ Aston Martin models do tend to be denoted as vintage and collectable cars. 

Thus, though it’s difficult to predict how the market will unfold in the coming years and decades, many classic Aston Martins do tend to increase in value over time. 

Whether the current models will become collector’s items in the near future ultimately depends on a great many factors, particularly press reception. The second-century models have received glowing praise, especially the Vantage and DB11. 

Is it worth buying an Aston Martin?

The short answer is yes, of course. Aston Martin makes some phenomenal cars – an Aston Martin is an absolute classic by any motoring standards. It’s an iconic piece of British history and a work of art. 

But the investment is likely to be considerable, and that is something that you should think about. Of course, Magnitude offers a great deal of assistance should the financials be a particular concern.

As mentioned above, a careful investment can pay huge dividends in the long run, but the emphasis must be on this careful investment. Add maintenance into the mix (especially the gas-guzzling DBX), and it’s costly. The difficulty and expense of finding spare parts may also be problematic. Ultimately it depends on your willingness and ability to meet the costs.

How many miles can an Aston Martin last?

A payment plan with Magnitude is likely to have an agreed mileage limit, but on average an Aston can last around 150,000 miles. This is slightly less than ten years on average if used daily. Most will never reach this mileage, with the majority being run more carefully.

This means that an Aston Martin can allow you a prestigious ride on both short and long-distance journeys, throughout what will undoubtedly be the most exciting decade of your life. From family holidays to business trips, and even your daily commute to work, an Aston Martin can do it all. 

Just remember to not exceed the mileage limit set out in your agreement with us here at Magnitude – get in touch with us if you have any worries or queries about your mileage limit. 

Are Aston Martins comfortable?

Each model has its own quirks and benefits – from superior suspension to smooth leather seating. As a prestigious motor, Aston Martins are ergonomically designed with you – the driver and passenger – in mind. The intelligently installed comfortable and well-designed seats provide the perfect back support for even the longest road trips, so this is a resounding yes. 

They are undoubtedly comfortable and are equipped with all the necessary mod cons to effortlessly keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, including complete air conditioning and heating systems. Some models even come in convertible variations so you can enjoy the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you glide down the road. 

Financing your Aston Martin with Magnitude

With their exclusive deals, technologically advanced tools and concierge services, Magnitude are certainly the go-to finance broker when it comes to the luxury and the prestige market. We’ve worked on behalf of some of the biggest names in sport, business, media and beyond to ensure the best rates on the market. 

You may even want to try our Car Finance Calculator to see what your PCP, Hire Purchase or Balanced Payment agreements could amount to, with figures received in under 60 seconds. Alternatively, if you already have an agreement in place, then try our Settlement Calculator. This will calculate the balance of any outstanding loan, assuming all payments are made on time.

If driving a work of iconic British art is something that interests you, then do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team today. We would be more than happy to assist with any queries you may have, whether they be in relation to the Aston Martin, or to the prospective finance on the car you choose. We can be there every step of the way should you need us to be.