The Ian Callum designed DB7 that arrived on our shores was and still is to me, one of the most beautiful GTs I have ever set eyes on. Its long elegant shape is simultaneously sensual, elegant and athletic, invoking the memory of a more romantic bygone era, the one where men were men and woman were their conquests - Oh, James! Its powerful presence gives off the sophistication of a Rolls-Royce, albeit with the legs of Ferrari.
And it has legs. It is powered by a 3,239 cc inline 6-cylinder engine, similar to Bond's original. It's Eaton supercharged 335-hp output was altogether more powerful mind you, making this new car capable of 0 to 60 mph (96.6 km/h) in only 5.7 seconds despite its substantial 1,775 kg (3,913 lb) curb weight. Keep your right foot planted and 165 mph (266 km/h) was attainable in top gear.
The car that came to Canada was already revised from the initial 1993 model. In 1996 Aston Martin added dual front airbags plus new higher quality switchgear, better seats, quicker response steering, modified brakes and a reconfigured suspension.
Along with the coupe came a convertible model named Volante, in true A-M tradition. Launched at both Los Angeles and the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January of 1996, the new model made a splash. Designed with the North American market in mind, the Volante looks stunning whether its roof is up or down. Safety considerations led to additional strengthening in the rear bulkhead to compensate for the lack of torsional rigidity now that the coupe's roof had been removed, plus the A-pillars and crossbar over the windshield were beefed up for improved rollover protection.
While the powertrain remained unchanged performance of the Volante is a little hampered due to its increased curb weight and additional aerodynamic drag. Zero to 60 mph (96.6 km/h) takes 6.0 seconds while its top speed is only 155 mph for 6-speed manual transmission equipped cars. Yes a 5-speed automatic was available, speaking much of its luxury GT mission.