Right Now in TX: 1998 Aston Martin DB7

Ah, Aston Martin – a brand very near and dear to my heart.

So esteemed, so heralded, so lauded, an Aston is almost never found south of $50k – regardless of year or model. The one exception to this general rule of thumb is the underdog of the famed “DB” series: the DB7.

But, this 1998 DB7 currently up for sale in Texas is a beautiful example of the iconic carmaker’s beloved coupes. Dark gray over tan leather with contrast stitching, this DB7 is clean.

If you are going to go used for an Aston Martin, I’m willing to go as far as to say that you should skip right over the turn-of-the-century Vanquish – which might be your first impulse – with its awkwardly boxy rear fender flares and over-priced MSRP. Instead head straight for a well-kept DB7, not unlike the one seen here.

The Allure

Aston Martin is, of course, the preferred motorcar of James Bond 007 in numerous film outings. If that doesn’t say enough, let’s just confirm that ownership of the pompously expensive cars is an elite club reserved, generally, only for the wealthiest of the wealthy. Driving an Aston has been described as “knowing something that other driver’s don’t know,” and that seems to be a fitting description.

Despite being the underdog in the Aston lineup, the DB7 is every bit the hand built, sexy beast that one would expect from the marque. Even while being a V6!

At the time of its design, the DB7 benefited from parts from Jaguar thanks to ownership of both companies by Ford. In fact, the DB7 is derived from the Jaguar XJS. As a result, the DB7 closely resembles its cousin, the Jaguar XK-8 made around the same time in the late 1990s.

The DB7 is the only Aston to feature steel construction (also pooled from Jaguar) and the line made its debut in North America in 1996. The line was eventually discontinued and replaced with the current DB9 series. Nevertheless, due to its V6 engine and similarity to cheaper Jags of the time, a DB7 can be had for a steal.

The Disclaimer

The biggest caution with purchasing an Aston Martin is:

If it breaks, you are screwed.

Only Aston Martin dealers are qualified to make repairs, and parts are costly. So, don’t let that stop you – just be sure that you a) can feasibly get to one of the rare Aston dealer/repair centers in North America, and b) can afford to shell out an arm and a leg for even the most minute of parts.

The Conclusion

The selling point of any Aston Martin is its beauty. The DB7, like most Astons, is one of the most attractive cars made during its respective time.

Consider an Aston Martin an investment in your undeniable coolness, and forget about economics or practicality. You’ll enjoy driving it as much as receiving compliments every time it leaves your garage.

At just $39,500, this DB7 for sale in Texas is, in the world of Aston Martins, a deal on wheels.