| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Average. One of the most beautiful cars in the world, but the DB7 is feeling old next to its space-age Vanquish sister. Grand tourer featuring wonderful V12 engines, enormous performance and astronomical running costs. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
 |
| Roominess |
 |
| Running Costs |
 |
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| Best Models |
| Coupé, manual transmission |
| Worst Models |
| Volante convertible, auto gearboxes |
| Replacement |
| 2004 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| Underneath the gorgeous bodywork the DB 7 owes an alarming amount of its chassis to the long defunct 1970s Jaguar XJ-S. In truth it feels outclassed by more modern rivals thanks to a sometimes less-than-rigid bodyshell and a cramped, under-equipped cabin. Leather and thick carpets come as standard but the switchgear is old, plasticky and confusing. Not that any of this really matters, of course: after five minutes in company with the DB 7's gloriously charismatic V12 engine you would forgive it almost anything. Performance is toweringly huge, but best exploited in wide, open spaces thanks to the sometimes woolly handling. A car that makes no rational sense but presents a compelling emotional case. |
| Positive Points |
- Graceful styling, great heritage
- Hugely powerful V12 engine
- Luxurious traditionally trimmed cabin
|
| Negative Points |
- Mixed DNA: Jag engine and Ford bits
- Limited cabin space for taller occupants
- High running costs, 15 mpg, Group 20 insurance
|
|
