Aston Martin Vanquish (2013)

The case for the Vanquish (2013)

The 2013 Vanquish is the pinnacle of the VH-platform era: a 565 bhp version of the 6.0-litre V12, a full carbon-fibre body and styling that many consider the most beautiful of any modern Aston Martin. It is faster, more focused and more dramatic than the DB9, and it remains one of the most desirable cars the company has ever built.

As a used buy, the Vanquish offers the ultimate expression of the classic Aston formula: a naturally aspirated V12, a gorgeous shape and genuine GT usability. It is now firmly in modern-classic territory and values have been strong.

What it costs to run

Budget £1,000 to £1,500 for annual specialist servicing. The V12 is robust, and the Touchtronic III eight-speed automatic is well proven. Tyres and brakes are premium items. Fuel economy is 15 to 18 mpg. The carbon-fibre body is a specific consideration: panels are expensive to repair or replace, and any damage needs specialist attention.

Known weak points

The Vanquish shares the VH platform's known issues: electrical gremlins, dated infotainment and interior wear on neglected cars. The carbon-fibre body panels require careful inspection for damage and repair quality. Front coil springs can corrode. Brake disc corrosion affects stored cars. The low front splitter is vulnerable to damage. As with all VH cars, battery condition and storage practices matter.

What to check before buying

Full Aston Martin history is essential. Inspect the carbon bodywork carefully for damage and repair quality. Check the structure, springs and suspension mounting points. Verify all electrical functions and campaign completion. Look for evidence of regular use and proper maintenance. A specialist inspection is strongly recommended, with particular attention to the carbon panels.

Market and depreciation

Vanquish values have been strong and are appreciating as the car gains modern-classic status. Coupes now range from around £90,000 to £130,000, with the best low-mileage cars and Volantes above that. The Vanquish's status as the ultimate VH Aston and its beautiful styling give it a durable position in the market.

Who it suits

The enthusiast who wants the most beautiful and most powerful VH-platform Aston. The Vanquish is a modern classic that can be driven and enjoyed, and it is one of the safest used-Aston buys in terms of long-term desirability.

Alternatives

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, Lamborghini Aventador, or a DBS V12 at lower cost.

The 2013 Vanquish represented the pinnacle of the VH-platform era: a carbon-fibre body over the bonded-aluminium structure, a 565hp 6.0-litre V12, and styling that remains one of the most beautiful of any modern Aston. It was a genuine flagship, combining grand touring usability with supercar presence, and the carbon bodywork gives it a rigidity and lightness advantage over the DB9 it sat above.

On the road the Vanquish delivers exactly what a flagship Aston should: effortless V12 pace, a supple but controlled ride, and a sense of occasion that justifies the price. The carbon body requires careful inspection for damage, as repairs are specialist work, and the VH-platform checks for fluid leaks, suspension condition and electrical function all apply. The interior, with its distinctive centre stack, wears well but should be checked for full functionality.

Values have firmed considerably as the market has recognised the 2013 Vanquish as the peak of the classical Aston era. It sits between the DB9's accessibility and the true exotica, offering genuine flagship experience at a price that now looks increasingly reasonable. Buy the best-documented car with verified carbon-body condition, and prioritise specialist maintenance history. This is a future classic that can be used and enjoyed.

The styling drew heavily on the One-77 hypercar, and the result is one of the most beautiful cars Aston Martin has produced. The carbon-fibre body gives the Vanquish a visual and structural distinctiveness over the DB9, and the interior's material quality is a step above. The Volante convertible version offers the same experience with open-air drama, and its values track the coupe.

The 2013 Vanquish occupies a sweet spot in the range: more special than the DB9, more usable than the true exotica, and with a beauty that has aged exceptionally well. The market has recognised this, and values have firmed as a result. For the buyer seeking the peak of the VH-era Aston Martin, the Vanquish is the answer. Buy the best-documented car with verified carbon-body condition, and it will provide a genuinely flagship Aston experience with strong long-term appeal.

The Volante convertible offers the same experience with open-air drama, and its values track the coupe. The 2013 Vanquish occupies a sweet spot in the range: more special than the DB9, more usable than the true exotica, and with a beauty that has aged exceptionally well. The market has recognised this, and values have firmed. Buy the best-documented car with verified carbon-body condition, and it will provide a genuinely flagship Aston experience with strong long-term appeal.

The 2013 Vanquish's beauty, its carbon-fibre body and its position as the VH-platform flagship have made it one of the most appreciated modern Astons. The market has recognised this, and values have firmed accordingly. For the buyer seeking the peak of the classical Aston Martin era, the Vanquish is the answer. Buy the best-documented car with verified carbon-body condition, and it will provide a genuinely flagship Aston experience with strong long-term appeal. The car's place in the marque's history is secure.

How this review was compiled

Research-based ownership review using Aston Martin specifications, independent buying guides and owner reports. We have not driven this car. Verify condition, service history and carbon-panel integrity for any individual car before purchase.