sp racing: I have owned both. I don't recall any difficulties with pedal spacing in either.
I'm a bit different. I have my '06 Vanquish S and '09 6sp DBS since new and doubt I will ever part with either. Of course, I still have my '95 NSX and '67 Alfa Duetto Spider as well, both of which I've had since new. Different strokes for different folks.
what is the condition of the motor? compression? leakdown? oil pressure? service?
What would it take to put this back to a manual — a 5 or 6 speed, maybe a Tremac?
@yidal8: Wow, you must have lots and lots of railroad tracks where you drive if that's what would keep you from considering a roadster!
yidal8: I can't speak to coupe vs convertible in these cars as both my Astons (Vanquish S and DBS) are coupes. However, from my experience with both open and closed Ferraris I believe this: in modern sports cars, for even vigorous road driving and unless you plan to track the car (not likely in an Aston) there is no discernible difference in open vs. closed cars. Coupes tend to be prettier by and large, though even that distinction is minimal in Astons, but convertibles offer not just the wind in your hair but a much greater enjoyment of the wonderful sounds these cars make. Chocolate and vanilla — both good.
I've had my 1995 NSX-T since new and with over 120K miles on it, it's as good as it was the day I bought it. I choose to drive it as often as I do my Ferrari 430 Spider. As other owners have pointed out, these are absolutely wonderful cars. Interesting, when I drive them both in Scottsdale, it's the NSX folks always stop me in and ask if it's for sale.
@yidal: no it's not. It's balanced in weight with all the other controls. 6sp is the only way to go.
Lap belts? Really? Good grief!
does this run ok on 91 octane pump gas?
@Santi23; I have a '69 911S as well as a '71GTV and a GTAJr. These are very different cars and though both great to drive appeal to very different personalities. The Porsche has significantly more HP and is, of course, rear engined with the predominantly oversteer traits at the limit associated with these early cars. The Alfas are generally neutral handling with some understeer at the limit. They sound different and feel different. In my opinion, one is not "better" than the other, though I personally prefer my Alfas. Best to have one of each!
No. She would be the '06 Vanquish S.
@speedraser: I completely agree. My 2006 Vanquish S is completely stock and I like it fine that way. So is my 2009 DBS with a manual 6speed. Different cars. Similar but different. Both fabulous.
The factory can supply a 6sp conversion. I believe Tom P has done some and there is a fellow in AZ who does as well. If I recall, the cost is about $40K. Not a cheap date.
My lifelong obsession with sports cars began 60 years ago as a 12yo boy when my uncle picked me up in a black MGA roadster. I never recovered and all these many years later, with Ferraris, Maseratis, Lambos, Astons, Alfas, Morgans, etc owned — I've still never forgotten that first and best magical experience as a boy.
My GTAJr. is white with green markings. Looks fabulous!
SLVR1: Ownership is easy; driving is fantastic and it's perfect for a weekend (or weekday) sunny afternoon car. I've owned Alfas all my life and still have the '67 Duetto I bought new in college. I have a GTV, GTAs and race Alfas as well. For comparison, I also have vintage Ferraris, Maseratis, Lamborghinis, Jags, Porsches etc. I love my Alfas! You have to have an Alfa at least once in your life. Che bella machina!
OA5599: or a vintage Ferrari Daytona or a Lamborghini Islero.
This would be perfect for the Copperstate 1000 or equivalent.
@rick: I'm referring to the quality of his work, not "concours correctness" with which I have limited interest.