Aston Martin DB7 GT | Global Auto Index

Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. has issued the following press release:

Today the International Birmingham Motor Show witnessed the launch of the most powerful Aston Martin DB7 model ever made – the all-new DB7 GT.

Created in less than one year, this addition to the existing Aston Martin line-up has been developed in conjunction with customers who wanted a car that had a little more performance, increased driver involvement and improved road handling.

Based on the current DB7 Vantage Coupe, the DB7 GT incorporates a number of dynamic elements, which have been finely engineered to offer a new dimension to the Aston Martin DB7 driving experience. There will be two versions available; a six-speed manual Coupe (DB7 GT) and a five-speed automatic Coupe (GTA), both will be offered alongside the existing DB7 Vantage Coupe and Volante models.

Dr Ulrich Bez, CEO of Aston Martin, said: “A number of our customers wanted a different approach to the current DB7 Vantage and the result is the new DB7 GT – a sportier approach to the current car but incorporating all of the elements that have made the DB7 so successful for us.”

Launched in 1993, the DB7 is the backbone of the company. It’s international success has meant that it has become the most successful Aston Martin model of all time – exceeding the combined production of the classic DB4, DB5 and DB6. — Audi A4 Coupe Cabrio Concept.

Exterior Changes

Recognised as one of the world’s most beautiful cars, the DB7 GT has received subtle but effective changes to complement the elegant, yet classic body design that since 1993 has epitomised the pedigree, heritage and tradition of Aston Martin.

Special attention has been paid to the aerodynamic balance for high speed stability with the adoption of additional upsweeps to the undertray, wheel arch liner extensions and a revised bootlid which emphasises the new look. These additions have helped to reduce lift by almost 50%

Under bonnet air-flow management is assisted by the addition of two distinctive bonnet vents, which also help dissipate heat. Instantly visible from the exterior are new 5-spoke 18″ alloy wheels, which equipped with 245/35 front, 265/30 rear low profile Bridgestone tyres that provide optimum levels of performance and grip.

There is also a unique anodised wire mesh radiator grille and lower air intake, subtle indicators to onlookers to differentiate the car as either a DB7 GT or GTA derivative.

Dynamic Changes

Further development of Aston Martin’s low emissions, all alloy, twin-overhead camshaft, 48 valve, 6.0-litre V12 engine has generated an increase in power from 420 bhp (DB7 Vantage) to 435 bhp. — BMW M5's performance-focused approach.

This increased power together with a revised final drive ratio and active sports exhaust system – both unique to the DB7 GT – not only provides noticeable improvement in mid-range power, but also additional torque – up from 400 lb/ft (DB7 Vantage) to 410 lb/ft, giving a faster accelerating, more responsive drive.

The revised quick-shift gear lever and racing twin-plate clutch fitted to the DB7 GT enables the driver to maximise use of the increase in power and torque and offers a faster gear change. Changes made to the powertrain and driveline are as follows:

– Full Load recalibration for fuel and ignition.
– Power increase from 420bhp on the DB7 Vantage to 435bhp on the DB7 GT.
– Torque has been increased from 400 lb ft to 410 lb ft.

Ratio change from 3:77 to 4:09 (DB7 GT only)
In gear acceleration significantly improved.

-AP twin plate racing clutch (228mm) replace single plate clutch (293mm – DB7 Vantage).
-Smaller diaphragm provides 22% reduction in pedal effort.
-Friction pad area is 24% greater.
-Aluminium cover improves heat dissipation.

-Quickshift gear change (DB7 GT only).
-Higher fulcrum point provides with a more positive gearstick movement; reduction in shift displacement of 16%. (DB7 GT only)

Exhaust System

Active sports system with rear muffler by- pass valves (as used on the V12 Vanquish) provide the DB7 GT/GTA with a distinctive exhaust tone. Low backpressure at high rpm helps improve performance at the top end of the rev range. (The system is closed between 1500 and 3500 rpm)

Brakes, Suspension and Steering

A combination of racing-style grooved 355mm (front) and 330mm (rear) Brembo disc brakes and uprated Pagid RS 42-1 front pads provide the DB7 GT/GTA with better sustained performance, with improved resistance to judder and fade, particularly at high speed. An uprated brake booster unit – as used on the V12 Vanquish – assists in providing the driver with progressive braking and a firmer and more consistent pedal feel. Silver brake calipers – unique to the GT and GTA models – assist in emphasising the engineering refinements found on the car.

Many changes to the DB7GT/GTA have been introduced under the body. In an effort to provide superior and sharper handling, improved body control – without any loss in ride comfort – and a more direct response from the car, Aston Martin engineers have made several changes to the chassis set-up. These include: — BMW Concept CS design philosophy.

Revised damper settings and new front damper top mounts.
Change from linear to digressive damping provides the DB7 GT/GTA with improved body control.

Front lower wishbone

Improved location of the front lower wishbone delivers better lateral control/handling.

Front sub frame

Improved location of the front sub frame provides better lateral control/handling.

Bump stop lowered by 3mm.
Increased wheel movement improves the ride quality.

Addition of lateral snubber washers.
Improved rack location provides an increase in positive steering in-put and feedback

Rear lower wishbone

An additional brace has been added to the rear lower suspension offering increased stability by reducing toe out under braking.

In conclusion

The Aston Martin DB7 GT/GTA models offer a new option to existing clients and will also attract new customers to the marque who may not have considered Aston Martin before.

The DB7 ranks as the most significant Aston Martin of all time and this addition to the 2003 model line-up gives the world’s most prestigious sports car manufacturer the opportunity to provide an even more focused DB7 than ever before