Marking the return of the six-cylinder Aston Martin, the DB7 was launched in March 1993 at the Geneva Motor Show. Six years later, Aston Martin squeezed its first production 12-cylinder engine into the DB7 to create the potent Vantage. For the first time since the DB6 Mk II, the marque announced the coupe and the convertible Volante simultaneously, made possible by increased production capabilities at the new factory in Bloxham.

The DB7 Vantage Volante, as offered here, was largely similar to the coupe. The newly designed body was transformed with a larger nose intake, a modified grille and lamps, and a new rear bumper. In order to take the weight and power of the larger V-12 engine, the chassis was strengthened with stiffer springs; new front wishbones and uprights were included, and a cruciform brace at the rear reduced axle tramp under hard acceleration. Equipped with an all-aluminum alloy V-12 engine married to a six-speed manual transmission, the car has an electronically limited top speed of 165 mph, with a maximum power output at a whopping 420 horsepower. At the time, the DB7 Vantage Volante was Aston Martin’s fastest open-top vehicle, with a dash to 60 mph taking just 5.1 seconds. Only 2,046 examples were produced, though the chassis offered here is truly a one-off creation replete with an exclusive color combination.

This 2003 DB7 Vantage Volante is a custom-specified example which was ordered new by a prominent businessman from Illinois via Aston Martin of Atlanta. It is clad in a stunning Cream exterior over a two-tone Light Tan leather cabin completed with matching Wilton carpets. The car’s unique color combination is continued on the power-operated convertible soft top, which is executed in Cream fabric and paired to a boot cover done in contrasting Light Tan leather. Additional factory specifications include heated seats, bronze brake calipers, birdseye maple wood veneers, premium sound system, 19-inch wheels, and six-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, the front fascia is enhanced by the fitment of the optional “sport” mesh grilles rendered in polished stainless steel.

This stand-alone DB7 Vantage Volante remained with its original owner until quite recently, and was acquired by the consignor in July 2021. Now indicating fewer than 7,250 miles at time of cataloguing, this unique example of Aston Martin’s potent open-air model would surely be a splendid inclusion to any collection.