The thing about owning an Aston is that everybody wants to know all about it: "is it expensive to run", "what's it like to drive", "is it reliable?"
Those of you who know a bit about me know that I'm a fuss-pot when it comes to cars. I like them to be practically perfect in every way (like Mary Poppins). My Aston was owned by a pal who likes fast cars but by his own admission, is not an enthusiast. He got the car serviced at Grange Aston Martin - on time every time, bought the right tyres...blah blah blah.
BUT, there were little things that were not right. The gear shift software was all over the place, the suspension geo was horrid, the powder coat was peeling of the mirrors and most of the 'black-work' looked like it need a trip to the dermatologist.
I got cracking with the shift issues first. After a few hours spent on the forum(s), I worked out how to do the gear learning and that improved things no-end. I also learned that you have to lift the gas peddle as you shift (by maybe 50%) to make the shift smooth. Practice makes perfect and it's the only way to do a full throttle shift without smelling clutch. I reckon it's £20 a sniff !!!
The car is now drivable on the idle and I can park and reverse without any problems at all.
So what is it like to drive and own ? in two words, "very special". It's not the last word in driver involvement. It's not super quick. I worry about electrical issues (which haven't actually happened - touch wood) and the satnav is crap BUT- It's an occasion to drive. Simple as that. Another 50 horse power and a more edgy chassis and I would be in heaven.
I'd take it over a Merc SL AMG every day !
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