As the owner of a Škoda Rapid (no e), I can assure you it’s not worth spending the extra for the Aston. When the Skoda is doing 70mph, it can easily overtake the Aston when it’s doing 60mph.🤣
I get that with my Triumph T100 too. At 65mph (why go any faster) it can pass a 'Blade parked at the pub as if it's standing still. Which reminds me. I once knew a bloke who removed all his mirrors - he's never looked back since 😉
That’s the valet key, the real key is beautiful and all metal and crystal So when you push it in the slot it looks the same as the slot and you get the same crystal Aston-Martin display I’m guessing the previous owner kept it as a memory and a lovely paper weight on your desk A genuine replacement, which is essential is not cheap !!!
I think that key might be the valet one. The original key was s crystal looking one I believe. Great sound from the V12 though, but I think cars like the M5 are a more, well rounded package. Great review as always.
That's the valet key. The real key is made of crystal. Drop it and it'll cost you more than a thousand pound. And the Rapide is meant to be a DB9 that's family friendly, not executive limo like the Quattroporte or Panamera. It's for young kids, and not fat adults.
Great review as always. If you ask me, i love the variety that you keep in your channel, reviewing cars from 4000 pounds to 40 000 pounds, cars that most people can afford in their lifetime. Also, i love the fact that your videos are not all strictly about reviewing cars, but taking trips, fixing cars, your car collection and so on. It makes it interesting to watch and at the same time its not a look at me i can drive around a track like an idiot, scream, do burnouts and quarter mile runs. Its civilized, genuine and watcher-friendly. Keep it up and i hope for a lot more success.
Great review Matt, I've worked with Aston Martin cars now for 10+ year's & in my opinion they are very reliable & surprisingly for a high end premium brand parts are well priced, the V12 suffers ignition coil failure from time to time but are aprrox £30 each, O2 sensors are another item, but again we'll priced at approx £100 each, but these failures are mostly due to the lack of use, most Aston's are used sparingly & generally parked up over the winter, would be my choice over an Italian product any day, now what you really need to try is a full fat version, something like a Vanquish S now that will definitely make you speechless. ATB
Joe King...right? These cars are not for the light-of-pocket. It's going to be worth FA if not maintained by Aston Martin. THAT is why there are so many cheap ones on the market......they are iffy. Let me say that again.....Plenty of cheap ones....for a very good reason.
Great video. Almost everything you mentioned applies to Lexus LC500. It doesn’t seem competent enough until you understand what it is. It’s not super fast but is built well, looks like a concept car and has one of the greatest NA V8 engines. It is a Japanese Aston.
@@Tracertme I've a Lexus sc430 and am wondering if I have a sports exhaust rear section fitted (it'll need one soon anyway) it'd sound something approaching that?
are astons built well though? whenever i see an aston martin review , the common theme that i keep hearing is : don’t expect a toyota … garage it, and only drive on holidays
As a David Brown Tractors Apprentice we were brought up on Aston winning at Le Mans in our small cinema,my dream car ever since & im proud we can design the best looking cars in the world. Thanks for that,made my day.
It’s a grand tourer, not a sports car…people need to understand the difference. Also, a later model with the eight speed box makes a lot more sense. I will be buying one!
In the voice of the late, great, Sean Connery… ‘Ahhh, Miss Moneypenny, smoke me a kipper, I’ll be back for breakfast’ Another great video and I love the Rapide S but without question, it has to be the DBS, in my opinion the best looking car ever made… apart from the Aston Martin Zagato… 🤤
You sir are a man of exquisite taste! A fellow L405 Range Rover owner, my plan is the second my loan to buy my SDV8 Vogue SE is cleared I am off DB9 shopping. Love the channel, dry humour and honest reviews, proper.
Nothing sounds like a V12 and no modern V12 sounds as good as an Aston V12. Quite possibly the most beautiful 4 door ever made. Only the doorskin mounted mirrors let the side down for me. Best video yet Matt!
I believe the crystal key was know as an ECU which stood for Emotional Control Unit, quite possibly the most corny thing the marketing department could come up with.
@@geecars6263 Hey, if the Italians can get away with marketing their cars with "passion" & not a lot else then I'll give Aston Martin a pass with that.
Sometimes I heavily doubt British engineering (Jaguar Land Rover) but then I look at brands like Aston and think British engineering really is something magnificent
@@HighPeakAutos yes matt,we definitely do.rolls royce,bentley,aston martin,jaguar range rover,.morgan,rover and many others over the years.just a shame they arnt all still british owned anymore.
Thats one of the best cars you have showcased pal. I'm fully with you on the fact that coupes should not have four doors; the A5 coupe and the Porsche Panamera for example, however in Astons case I would make an exception. Sheer automotive beauty, I would love one.
At least the A5 is available as a proper coupé. Whilst I agree they don’t work aesthetically they obviously work from a sales point of view. Manufacturers don’t want to miss out on the buyer who has kids to put in the back, unfortunately that then means those of us without kids miss out on the better looking car, most modern hot hatches now come with the wrong number of doors for instance.
Sounds like a beast ! If I had the itch to own something fast+luxury for a year or two to get it out of my system, this is the one I'd go for. It would mean doing the "Please Don't Let Anything Expensive Break" dance once a month in the garage, but with that much depreciation, you'd probably would only lose as much on a re-sale as something much less entertaining to own at a lower price point.
Very perceptive Cz. I have owned a few 'nice' cars, amongst them two Bentley's and a 5.0L Jaguar XK. All fantastic cars until they go wrong...then it's "take a deep breath" time. Eventually the "god I hope the engine warning light doesn't come on" becomes more and more overbearing, until ultimately you sell it before it does come on and bankrupts you.....
You NEVER get whims and obsessions out of your system! Although I don't currently have one, I crave another Triumph GT6, having had a few over the years, but I doubt my 81 year old hips and knees would propel me out of it in quite the same way! You have to be pragmatic about some things!
The sound and the looks are amazing! But with that small back seat, I don't see the point of choosing it instead of the DB9, which is even more gorgeous.
@Georgi: Wrong. The rear seats are far more usable than you might think. I've had 4 adults on a trip and the rear ones loved it. Unless the driver and front passenger are well over 6ft there's plenty of room for normal size adults and children in the rear. And the luggage space is far more than DB9. There's plenty of opinion (not just mine) preferring the looks of the Rapide too, so not a hands down win to the DB9, by any stretch.
@@gregspark9845 Looks are subjective, so to each his own. But you must've had some extended wheelbase version of the car, because I found the back seat really tight and I'm not a basketball player. And the read door opening is an absolute joke.
A friend had an early Rapide. He cracked the rear valence early on doing something, which turned out to be a £5k part. A wonderful thing, he asked if I'd like to co-drive it on a flying visit to France to wine country, but I had to sort my own insurance and go halves on fuel so I passed as just too wearing and expensive a trip. Not ideal in the lanes of Dartmoor either! Nice review though!
I drove a manual 4.7 V8 Vantage from Bristol to Boroughbrige and you’ve just verbalised exactly what I came away with at the end of that journey. Not the most exotic but completely got under my skin for all the right reasons.
Enjoyed the review Matt. I can never make my mind up about the Rapide. In one of my previous lives I got asked by Aston to help with Rapide as the sales numbers were somewhat painfully low. I’ll be honest, I (and the team) were a bit stumped. Not long afterwards they started to convert them to electric. The size worked well with that. Kicked myself for not thinking of that at the time myself!
If you’re not the best car reviewer in the game ....you’re not far off at all. Been enjoying your humour and the mix of affordable vehicles and dream cars. Can you get an S5 on here? 2017 on
Lovely review mate , you'd love the car park at our Golf club where I have worked for around 6 years. Aston Martins, Porches, Ferraris and many other lovely brands vintage ones, the oldest one a Bentley six which makes an appearance every summer I love seeing it. I look forward to going to work and looking which nice cars we have in the car park that day ☺️
Great review. Aston Martin is a good car to own, just for the sound of the engine and the puns. Now, where is that lottery ticket? After all, "You only live twice."😜
Glad to see someone obeying the laws of cars on TH-cam. If it is a V12 you must MUST do at least ONE start-up! Thanks a million for doing more than one and of the exhaust note! I am sure others have already pointed it out, but that is not the main key. I think the main key was called an ECU, emotional control unit and was made of glass and cost a fortune if it needs replacing. In my cinical nature, I suspect that someone who's hands that car has past through has decided to keep it as a momento or sell it on ebay. I am sure it is coincidence that there is a glass key for sale on ebay at the moment. Great video.
As an apprentice, I got the job of unloading the companies owners new car,yes it came on a lorry direct from the factory with a mechanic to complete final set up. A silver DB 3 which after suitable grovelling, I got to go on its test run before the boss signed it off. Earlier I told you I was not a Porsche fan , now you know why
I'd go for the DB9. I get to drive one regularly for a Wedding company i work for, usually to pick up the Groom... It's a great car. A bit cramped, but I'm with you.. The engine noise...incredible! It puts a massive smile on my face. The DB9 has the start button without the key jutting out of it. The key on the DB9 is awful too, I'm told its from a Volvo.
Tried one at an Aston dealership several years ago. Like you, it felt very cramped inside and unfortunately the glorious sound of the V12 wasn't enough to drown out the rattles from the interior trim.
Well said on reliability. For the DB9, alternator comes out of a Ford along with the ignition coils, port injected cylinders so no silly carbon build up like with direct injection, can't go wrong with a naturally aspirated V12 and ZF 6hp.
Great review again, but no mention of the vantage which can also come in V12 format. Incidentally I own a 2008 vantage roadster V8 and love it, all your comments re feeling special and the attention it gets are bang on.
Good video! You can understand why they stopped making the Rapide - it's basically a less capable Porsche Panamera or Bentley Continental (both of which retailed for less money, and hence sold more units), which means thanks to their accelerated depreciation curve makes them even better value than the Rapide today. Personally I would have an Audi A7 over any of them in 5door configuration, but the 2door Bemtley wins the race - Good Luck! NB: nice overtake on the Golf Diesel, but were you REALLY over taken by a Citroen Berlingo Campervan at 06:02? You will never make James May, let alone James Bond ;)
Son bought me a run round Elvington Airfield in Yorks in a DB9 about ten years ago - agree re hemmed in driving position and certainly agree re engine noise. I feel one would be pricey new, but the used prices are on the better side of reasonable. Oh, and on the airfield run, straight line, went like the brown stuff off a shovel!!
The proper key has a crystal endpiece with the Aston logo etched into it and is called an ECU. Emotional Control Unit. As long as this car is they needed to make it 3 inches longer so the rear seats could be more practical. To buttress my point, When Aston turned this same chassis into the £1million Taraf. They stretched a Rapide by about 5 inches to make it a proper limo
I'm thinking of selling my S6 avant and getting a four door coupe thing. Personally I like Panameras, but I do have a search open for Rapides... But seriously, the cost of any parts is going to be bonkers isn't it. The cost of relativity simple stuff on my Audi is nuts. Still though, I've not deleted my search...
Do it, I have the RS6 Avant and the Rapide S, and I can guarantee you in the long run the Rapide is going to be the one that lasts. It's just so simple and analogue.
I have a 2016 vantage, spares are not cheap but not too pricey either. Insurance very reasonable also. Servicing not much dearer than audi or BMW. Road tax is bad though
Thanks for the encouraging replies fellas. Very tempting. But realistically it's a fantasy car for me. The boot is too small for me to pass this as a family car. If we can't go for a week driving holiday what is the point? Plus I live in a snowy country and I winter drive my car so RWD is not ideal.
Excellent review, I had one for three weeks in 2019 when my business partner needed to use my Range Rover, on Friday drive home I thought why would anyone want one. Saturday I had to drive from Cotswolds to North Wales with my 17year old Son...six hours later I wanted a V12 in my life, absolutely spot on about public perception, in the end I got a 2016 DB9 I recommend Bamford Rose to sort out clutch/Exhaust/damping ...I will not be parting with V12 anytime soon
Great review - Agree that Rapide is too long which spoils those classic Aston Martin lines but the sound of that engine and the pleasure of driving the car kind of makes up for it!. Think there will always be the Aston Martin/James Bond connection, but what's amazing is that in 'Goldfinger' the first film to feature a DB5, Aston Martin had to be persuaded to provide the film company with the cars - probably the best decision they ever made!
As others have said - that’s the valet key. The metal and glass one was standard and not optional. A leather key pouch with a key ring however, was an option.
From any angle I think the styling is right on the money. Well proportioned and retains a definite sporting look. For me, a Rapide would be a better choice over the DB9. That V12 and standard auto will still function long after the DSG and the like ever will. I believe that Aston Martin hold a record for having the largest percentage of cars still on the road (there are Lies, damn lie, and then there are Statistics). Probably the most refurbishable car available.
Omg that sounds like Satan gargling nails , glorious. I think it's time to take my phone to bed. Automotive porn. Thanks again Matt for making my day 👍
Yet to watch the video and the answer is YES! Edit: From my knowledge that seems to be the valet key, and not the one for the owner. The original jey is all metal and crystal/glass, heavy and is expensive. It feels expensive. And despite your earlier preamble, I did notice a few puns and I'm not complaining.
Owned an 03 Vanquish V12 6.OL, driven many miles with few problems. Used to start it in the garage with exhaust 2 feet from wall just to, well, you know, cross your legs and... . OMy effing G, what a sound. I sold it in 2010 and am currently still in therapy but told I will get over the loss.... eventually.
The sill is high because of crash regs, similarly the B pillars are located closer to you shoulder than you’d expect for that reason. This is not meant to rival something you’d take on a family touring holiday, like a Range Rover. Having driven one I have to say it’s an epic car, has the best NVH suppression of any Aston and as a result you can hear the V12 better, more of the time. Get one with a light interior. Used they are a bargain because they don’t have the emotion of the 2 door cars, or the looks, but they are a beautiful way to let you kids enjoy Aston ownership too!
'Never meet your heroes'... I was lucky enough to buy a black 2009 Vantage N400, back in 2010. On collecting in, the dealer handed me a bunch of keys/fobs - all separate [2009 models didn't have the crystal integrated version]. I hadn't even thought to look at keys when test driving - I found out these were old Volvo parts. As was the satnav, which wasn't great. Neither was the gear selection - particularly reverse. Turning the key produce a glorious noise [not quite the V12 soundtrack here, of course]. It was such an incredible car to look at. Opening the swan door was an experience in itself. And a beautiful place to sit. Once it got into its stride, it felt fast and the noise was awesome. I was sold on the looks/noise/brand. But to drive on a regular basis, it wasn't as good as I expected. Not close. And driving is what most of us buy cars for, after all. I stuck with a V8 and bought an E93 M3 a few months later. Which was fabulous in all aspects!
I currently drives a Maserati Gran Turismo Sport, 4.7 NA engine. Great sound and practical. For the next car, I am thinking about a V12. It is difficult to choose between a Rapide and a Ferrari FF. FF is definitely more engaging and sounds awesome and it has more presence on the road being a Ferrari. But it is very costly to maintain and repair, not to mention the fragile transmissions (yeah, the s is accurate). Rapide is more subtle (relatively) and maybe a bit too under the radar. But it is definitely more reliable compared to FF and less expensive to repair. And it is about 50% cheaper to buy used. The wise version of me tells me to get the Rapide. But my heart tells me that if I get the Rapide, I would still think about getting a V12 Ferrari in the future.
As a surviving and ex owner of a 1972 Wartburg Knight I was filled with nostalgia watching this. I also experienced that special feeling, that thrill through the spine as the two stroke motor clawed its way to 40mph down a country road. I am ashamed to reveal how many women that car pulled. They don’t make cars of that depth of character anymore.
The best car I’ve ever owned. However you have the wrong key, the correct key is a Glass Key that is ridiculously tactile, once it’s in your hand you will never want to put it down. One of the greatest days of my life - being handed my Rapide key by Stratstone.
That is the Valet key. I bought a Rapide back in January and was given the beautiful glass key, valet key and an emergency door key. I love starting up my car, I get goosebumps every time. I have had a few niggles, like petrol filler cap sticking, windows not working, loose door struts and now wing mirrors not closing back when locking the car. All covered by the Timeless Warranty which has been invaluable, my dealership has been brilliant though. Shout out to #AstonMartinCambridge
I have to add that you make the most entertaining car review videos. You and Harry - with his garage - are all I need to keep me informed on cars. English delivery beats the Americans every time - and we Aussies don't give Brits compliments very readily.....ha ha
I really appreciate the l/100km! Thank you! Love what you do with your channel and I really like your style. I've bingewatched your videos and I didn't find one that I didn't like! But the l/100 km is a really nice touch that I like!
You have been given the valet key mate The glass crystal key must be with the owner! But yes there is no other car as cool as an Aston Martin Great review!
Just come across this review. The key you have is the Valet Key, it's there to protect the nice looking Emotional Control Unit or Glass Key. Later versions have a superb 8 speed box that really kicks down (and up) quicker than it really should. It looks best in any other colour than the one you are driving. I like the black one. Also the last two years (or so) of manufacture have CarPlay and Android Auto. The key also came in a leather pouch with a key ring attachment. Nice review.
Good morning, great video as usual, I do loved Aston Martin particulier DB9 that one don't look a bit too long a bit ungainly but in your video its still comes across as a fantastic car...cheers Phil
Your views and opinions 90% of the time mirror mine on all your reviews of cars I have driven as well. Your opening of the Aston Martin about the seating hemmed in is like verbatim what I said when I first sat in one last year. I was not as impressed as I thought I would be. Another review well done 👍
Hi Matt, the disappointment with the key is because you have the ‘Valet’ key. The actual key is actually a crystal key with the logo, which is sadly called the ‘Emotional Control Unit’ (ECU) and they are VERY expensive to replace and can be damaged quite easily, hence you having the valet key
The cheap key you have is the valet key, they come with two keys, the other one, the main one is the ‘emotional control unit’ key which is made of crystal and very expensive.
I’ve recently got from a Continental GT Speed to a DB9. Definitely agree with everything you have said. It’s not the same. It looks & sounds lovely but as a car I preferred the GT.
First person to correctly work out how many James Bond references made their way into this video wins a FREE HIGH PEAK T-Shirt. Answers below 👇🏼
I'd prefer a spin in the Aston lol
7
8
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1
As the owner of a Škoda Rapid (no e), I can assure you it’s not worth spending the extra for the Aston. When the Skoda is doing 70mph, it can easily overtake the Aston when it’s doing 60mph.🤣
😂
I get that with my Triumph T100 too. At 65mph (why go any faster) it can pass a 'Blade parked at the pub as if it's standing still.
Which reminds me. I once knew a bloke who removed all his mirrors - he's never looked back since 😉
LOL, totally missing the point, and stick to your Skoda, it's more you 😂. But I saw what you did there 👍
I can see *_why_* you ended up with a Skoda...
On a good day yeah!
That’s the valet key, the real key is beautiful and all metal and crystal
So when you push it in the slot it looks the same as the slot and you get the same crystal Aston-Martin display
I’m guessing the previous owner kept it as a memory and a lovely paper weight on your desk
A genuine replacement, which is essential is not cheap !!!
I think that key might be the valet one. The original key was s crystal looking one I believe. Great sound from the V12 though, but I think cars like the M5 are a more, well rounded package. Great review as always.
Correct. That’s what my valet key looks like. The master key is swarovski crystal and metal.
Saw a David Brown tractor on the road a couple of days ago and even that brought a smile to my face.
That's the valet key. The real key is made of crystal. Drop it and it'll cost you more than a thousand pound.
And the Rapide is meant to be a DB9 that's family friendly, not executive limo like the Quattroporte or Panamera. It's for young kids, and not fat adults.
My mate threw his to me and shouted "don't drop it, they cost a grand" Hahaha. Never made sure I caught something so quickly in my life.
Yep valet key.
Sorry but it isn't. It can't be. The market for "fat adults with cash" is 10^837 times bigger than the market for "loaded 'cool' young kids"
@@j.chiari he’s talking about the back seats being for young kids instead of fat adults
@@dhilansingh oh thanks. That makes sense
Sort of car I wish my neighbor owned.
So I could enjoy hearing and seeing it,without any worries of ownership costs. 👍
Great review as always. If you ask me, i love the variety that you keep in your channel, reviewing cars from 4000 pounds to 40 000 pounds, cars that most people can afford in their lifetime. Also, i love the fact that your videos are not all strictly about reviewing cars, but taking trips, fixing cars, your car collection and so on. It makes it interesting to watch and at the same time its not a look at me i can drive around a track like an idiot, scream, do burnouts and quarter mile runs. Its civilized, genuine and watcher-friendly. Keep it up and i hope for a lot more success.
There aren’t many channels that can make an Aston Martin review sound so ordinary! That’s a compliment by the way. Great video as always
Thanks for watching!
Great review Matt, I've worked with Aston Martin cars now for 10+ year's & in my opinion they are very reliable & surprisingly for a high end premium brand parts are well priced, the V12 suffers ignition coil failure from time to time but are aprrox £30 each, O2 sensors are another item, but again we'll priced at approx £100 each, but these failures are mostly due to the lack of use, most Aston's are used sparingly & generally parked up over the winter, would be my choice over an Italian product any day, now what you really need to try is a full fat version, something like a Vanquish S now that will definitely make you speechless. ATB
Thanks for the info
Joe King...right? These cars are not for the light-of-pocket. It's going to be worth FA if not maintained by Aston Martin. THAT is why there are so many cheap ones on the market......they are iffy. Let me say that again.....Plenty of cheap ones....for a very good reason.
Great video. Almost everything you mentioned applies to Lexus LC500. It doesn’t seem competent enough until you understand what it is. It’s not super fast but is built well, looks like a concept car and has one of the greatest NA V8 engines. It is a Japanese Aston.
I think you will find the Lexus rather better build.. unfortunately…
I love the LC500
@@Tracertme I've a Lexus sc430 and am wondering if I have a sports exhaust rear section fitted (it'll need one soon anyway) it'd sound something approaching that?
are astons built well though? whenever i see an aston martin review , the common theme that i keep hearing is : don’t expect a toyota … garage it, and only drive on holidays
SIMPLY !!!!!!!!!!!!! The best-used car reviewer on TH-cam ( Period ) 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Wow, thanks!
@@HighPeakAutosYou underestimate yourself mate 🙏🙏
That startup sound gave me a tingling sensation in my nether regions…
Okay, i wasn`t ready for this! :) Second hand review of this car? Your channel is absolutely a masterpiece, honestly. Thank you! :)
Thank you!
As a David Brown Tractors Apprentice we were brought up on Aston winning at Le Mans in our small cinema,my dream car ever since & im proud we can design the best looking cars in the world.
Thanks for that,made my day.
Hang on to that licence, you're killing it!
It’s a grand tourer, not a sports car…people need to understand the difference. Also, a later model with the eight speed box makes a lot more sense. I will be buying one!
As usual after one of your reviews, I’m on autotrader!!!! Great review as usual.
Thanks for watching!
I see you got dressed up for the Aston. Gone are the shorts and t-shirt. A man of discernment.
Can't beat the sound of V10s and V12s.
In the voice of the late, great, Sean Connery… ‘Ahhh, Miss Moneypenny, smoke me a kipper, I’ll be back for breakfast’
Another great video and I love the Rapide S but without question, it has to be the DBS, in my opinion the best looking car ever made… apart from the Aston Martin Zagato… 🤤
I agree with you
Surely you meant "Shmoke me a kipper"?
You sir are a man of exquisite taste! A fellow L405 Range Rover owner, my plan is the second my loan to buy my SDV8 Vogue SE is cleared I am off DB9 shopping.
Love the channel, dry humour and honest reviews, proper.
Personally I think the sides look incredible
Nothing sounds like a V12 and no modern V12 sounds as good as an Aston V12. Quite possibly the most beautiful 4 door ever made. Only the doorskin mounted mirrors let the side down for me. Best video yet Matt!
Its either an option or you haven’t been given the glass key, the one you have is like a spare or valet key hence why its cheapish
They're both like this. I think the glass key was an option
@@HighPeakAutos Nope, you get one crystal and two valet fobs, a buyer is going to want all three, and the crystal one is a grand to replace...
I believe the crystal key was know as an ECU which stood for Emotional Control Unit, quite possibly the most corny thing the marketing department could come up with.
@@Zerofightervi No, the “Power, Beauty, Soul” startup screen takes that crown 😂
@@geecars6263 Hey, if the Italians can get away with marketing their cars with "passion" & not a lot else then I'll give Aston Martin a pass with that.
Sometimes I heavily doubt British engineering (Jaguar Land Rover) but then I look at brands like Aston and think British engineering really is something magnificent
I think we make the most desirable cars in the world
@@HighPeakAutos yes matt,we definitely do.rolls royce,bentley,aston martin,jaguar range rover,.morgan,rover and many others over the years.just a shame they arnt all still british owned anymore.
Thats one of the best cars you have showcased pal. I'm fully with you on the fact that coupes should not have four doors; the A5 coupe and the Porsche Panamera for example, however in Astons case I would make an exception. Sheer automotive beauty, I would love one.
At least the A5 is available as a proper coupé. Whilst I agree they don’t work aesthetically they obviously work from a sales point of view. Manufacturers don’t want to miss out on the buyer who has kids to put in the back, unfortunately that then means those of us without kids miss out on the better looking car, most modern hot hatches now come with the wrong number of doors for instance.
"Thankfully the gods of depreciation have showered us with these sorts of gifts". Sir, you have a lovely turn of phrase. Love your channel.
Thank you
Lol I never expected to see the words Aston Martin in one of your videos, I hope more of this kind of content is to come :)
Sounds like a beast ! If I had the itch to own something fast+luxury for a year or two to get it out of my system, this is the one I'd go for. It would mean doing the "Please Don't Let Anything Expensive Break" dance once a month in the garage, but with that much depreciation, you'd probably would only lose as much on a re-sale as something much less entertaining to own at a lower price point.
Hahaha that dance is important I believe
Very perceptive Cz. I have owned a few 'nice' cars, amongst them two Bentley's and a 5.0L Jaguar XK. All fantastic cars until they go wrong...then it's "take a deep breath" time. Eventually the "god I hope the engine warning light doesn't come on" becomes more and more overbearing, until ultimately you sell it before it does come on and bankrupts you.....
You NEVER get whims and obsessions out of your system! Although I don't currently have one, I crave another Triumph GT6, having had a few over the years, but I doubt my 81 year old hips and knees would propel me out of it in quite the same way! You have to be pragmatic about some things!
@@royfearn4345 Sure you're only 81 years young my friend !
The sound and the looks are amazing! But with that small back seat, I don't see the point of choosing it instead of the DB9, which is even more gorgeous.
I agree. This is a bit more than a 2+2 (like a DB9) but it's not a spacious 4 seater either
Perfect for taking the wife and the dog away for the weekend though 😉
Don’t overlook the hatchback - quite a bit of space when rear divider folded down!!
@Georgi: Wrong. The rear seats are far more usable than you might think. I've had 4 adults on a trip and the rear ones loved it. Unless the driver and front passenger are well over 6ft there's plenty of room for normal size adults and children in the rear. And the luggage space is far more than DB9. There's plenty of opinion (not just mine) preferring the looks of the Rapide too, so not a hands down win to the DB9, by any stretch.
@@gregspark9845 Looks are subjective, so to each his own. But you must've had some extended wheelbase version of the car, because I found the back seat really tight and I'm not a basketball player. And the read door opening is an absolute joke.
The point you make about sat navs is so true!
A friend had an early Rapide. He cracked the rear valence early on doing something, which turned out to be a £5k part. A wonderful thing, he asked if I'd like to co-drive it on a flying visit to France to wine country, but I had to sort my own insurance and go halves on fuel so I passed as just too wearing and expensive a trip. Not ideal in the lanes of Dartmoor either! Nice review though!
Missed out on a great adventure geezer.
I drove a manual 4.7 V8 Vantage from Bristol to Boroughbrige and you’ve just verbalised exactly what I came away with at the end of that journey.
Not the most exotic but completely got under my skin for all the right reasons.
Enjoyed the review Matt. I can never make my mind up about the Rapide. In one of my previous lives I got asked by Aston to help with Rapide as the sales numbers were somewhat painfully low. I’ll be honest, I (and the team) were a bit stumped. Not long afterwards they started to convert them to electric. The size worked well with that. Kicked myself for not thinking of that at the time myself!
If you’re not the best car reviewer in the game ....you’re not far off at all. Been enjoying your humour and the mix of affordable vehicles and dream cars. Can you get an S5 on here? 2017 on
Thank you! I need to get an S5 on the channel for sure
The Vanquish has always been my favourite of the Aston Martin line up. Would love to have a go in one someday...
Lovely review mate , you'd love the car park at our Golf club where I have worked for around 6 years. Aston Martins, Porches, Ferraris and many other lovely brands vintage ones, the oldest one a Bentley six which makes an appearance every summer I love seeing it. I look forward to going to work and looking which nice cars we have in the car park that day ☺️
Great review. Aston Martin is a good car to own, just for the sound of the engine and the puns. Now, where is that lottery ticket? After all, "You only live twice."😜
Haha absolutely
Glad to see someone obeying the laws of cars on TH-cam. If it is a V12 you must MUST do at least ONE start-up! Thanks a million for doing more than one and of the exhaust note! I am sure others have already pointed it out, but that is not the main key. I think the main key was called an ECU, emotional control unit and was made of glass and cost a fortune if it needs replacing. In my cinical nature, I suspect that someone who's hands that car has past through has decided to keep it as a momento or sell it on ebay. I am sure it is coincidence that there is a glass key for sale on ebay at the moment. Great video.
This bloke is off the scale. Please give him a thumbs up 🙏🙏🙏
Cheers!
As an apprentice, I got the job of unloading the companies owners new car,yes it came on a lorry direct from the factory with a mechanic to complete final set up. A silver DB 3 which after suitable grovelling, I got to go on its test run before the boss signed it off. Earlier I told you I was not a Porsche fan , now you know why
Just a stunning car, no other words for it!
I'd go for the DB9. I get to drive one regularly for a Wedding company i work for, usually to pick up the Groom... It's a great car. A bit cramped, but I'm with you.. The engine noise...incredible! It puts a massive smile on my face. The DB9 has the start button without the key jutting out of it. The key on the DB9 is awful too, I'm told its from a Volvo.
Tried one at an Aston dealership several years ago. Like you, it felt very cramped inside and unfortunately the glorious sound of the V12 wasn't enough to drown out the rattles from the interior trim.
Yes you should. Any other questions? Great video as always
Thanks for watching!
As a dad with young kids, I’d have this over any other 4-door sports car like the Panamera. Too bad about the Mondeo vents and climate switchgear.
Well said on reliability. For the DB9, alternator comes out of a Ford along with the ignition coils, port injected cylinders so no silly carbon build up like with direct injection, can't go wrong with a naturally aspirated V12 and ZF 6hp.
Totally agree. The main ingredients are quite straightforward
The shaken not stirred pun made me hit the like button (I would have done so anyway to be fair) great review, stunning car.
Great review again, but no mention of the vantage which can also come in V12 format.
Incidentally I own a 2008 vantage roadster V8 and love it, all your comments re feeling special and the attention it gets are bang on.
Good video! You can understand why they stopped making the Rapide - it's basically a less capable Porsche Panamera or Bentley Continental (both of which retailed for less money, and hence sold more units), which means thanks to their accelerated depreciation curve makes them even better value than the Rapide today. Personally I would have an Audi A7 over any of them in 5door configuration, but the 2door Bemtley wins the race - Good Luck!
NB: nice overtake on the Golf Diesel, but were you REALLY over taken by a Citroen Berlingo Campervan at 06:02? You will never make James May, let alone James Bond ;)
Hahah yes thats right
Son bought me a run round Elvington Airfield in Yorks in a DB9 about ten years ago - agree re hemmed in driving position and certainly agree re engine noise. I feel one would be pricey new, but the used prices are on the better side of reasonable.
Oh, and on the airfield run, straight line, went like the brown stuff off a shovel!!
Sorry but can't get past the first minute Matt, just keeping it on repeat, Thank you..👍🏻😄
Hahah fair enough
The proper key has a crystal endpiece with the Aston logo etched into it and is called an ECU. Emotional Control Unit. As long as this car is they needed to make it 3 inches longer so the rear seats could be more practical. To buttress my point, When Aston turned this same chassis into the £1million Taraf. They stretched a Rapide by about 5 inches to make it a proper limo
I'm thinking of selling my S6 avant and getting a four door coupe thing. Personally I like Panameras, but I do have a search open for Rapides... But seriously, the cost of any parts is going to be bonkers isn't it. The cost of relativity simple stuff on my Audi is nuts. Still though, I've not deleted my search...
Do it, I have the RS6 Avant and the Rapide S, and I can guarantee you in the long run the Rapide is going to be the one that lasts. It's just so simple and analogue.
@@BobbyAngmalaysia Yeah, sure you just conveniently have both of those vehicles. 💩
I have a 2016 vantage, spares are not cheap but not too pricey either. Insurance very reasonable also. Servicing not much dearer than audi or BMW. Road tax is bad though
Thanks for the encouraging replies fellas. Very tempting. But realistically it's a fantasy car for me. The boot is too small for me to pass this as a family car. If we can't go for a week driving holiday what is the point? Plus I live in a snowy country and I winter drive my car so RWD is not ideal.
Audi isnt any less expensive than AM however you don’t get that D-bag stigma of a German car…
Just agreed to a buy a 2015 Rapide S! Thank you for your review. You inspired me. I hope this "does things to me" when I take delivery. :)
Oh it will do! Congrats. Enjoy it
Thanks for the litres per 100km figures on the screen.
No problem 👍
Excellent review, I had one for three weeks in 2019 when my business partner needed to use my Range Rover, on Friday drive home I thought why would anyone want one. Saturday I had to drive from Cotswolds to North Wales with my 17year old Son...six hours later I wanted a V12 in my life, absolutely spot on about public perception, in the end I got a 2016 DB9 I recommend Bamford Rose to sort out clutch/Exhaust/damping ...I will not be parting with V12 anytime soon
Thats really interesting to hear. It sounds a lot like my experience. Is the 2016 a good year for a DB9? Is it better than going for an early one?
DB7 as an investment what's your thoughts especially with the price rises on them.
I think the right time to buy the DB7 was probably 5 years ago. They were below £20k at one point
@@HighPeakAutos
Cheers Matt crying into my tea now.
Great review - Agree that Rapide is too long which spoils those classic Aston Martin lines but the sound of that engine and the pleasure of driving the car kind of makes up for it!. Think there will always be the Aston Martin/James Bond connection, but what's amazing is that in 'Goldfinger' the first film to feature a DB5, Aston Martin had to be persuaded to provide the film company with the cars - probably the best decision they ever made!
I actually think that’s one of the most beautiful sedans made.
As others have said - that’s the valet key. The metal and glass one was standard and not optional. A leather key pouch with a key ring however, was an option.
So you don't like the Volvo key ? 🤣
Gotta say the car suits you sir, even though it didn't quite live up to your expectations.
From any angle I think the styling is right on the money. Well proportioned and retains a definite sporting look. For me, a Rapide would be a better choice over the DB9. That V12 and standard auto will still function long after the DSG and the like ever will.
I believe that Aston Martin hold a record for having the largest percentage of cars still on the road (there are Lies, damn lie, and then there are Statistics). Probably the most refurbishable car available.
Omg that sounds like Satan gargling nails , glorious. I think it's time to take my phone to bed. Automotive porn. Thanks again Matt for making my day 👍
Hahha thanks for watching!
Yet to watch the video and the answer is YES!
Edit: From my knowledge that seems to be the valet key, and not the one for the owner. The original jey is all metal and crystal/glass, heavy and is expensive. It feels expensive. And despite your earlier preamble, I did notice a few puns and I'm not complaining.
Thanks for the info!
You scared The Living Daylights out of those cyclists.
Thats one I missed haha
Owned an 03 Vanquish V12 6.OL, driven many miles with few problems. Used to start it in the garage with exhaust 2 feet from wall just to, well, you know, cross your legs and... . OMy effing G, what a sound. I sold it in 2010 and am currently still in therapy but told I will get over the loss.... eventually.
Aston Martins are sub zero!
Glad you said road noise was neglegable, because in the video, it sounds rather loud.
Yeah its my stupid mic. It would make a library sound like Piccadilly station at rush hour
I had the pleasure of driving a DB9 recently and I know exactly what you meant, that sound on start up is amazing!
The sill is high because of crash regs, similarly the B pillars are located closer to you shoulder than you’d expect for that reason. This is not meant to rival something you’d take on a family touring holiday, like a Range Rover. Having driven one I have to say it’s an epic car, has the best NVH suppression of any Aston and as a result you can hear the V12 better, more of the time. Get one with a light interior. Used they are a bargain because they don’t have the emotion of the 2 door cars, or the looks, but they are a beautiful way to let you kids enjoy Aston ownership too!
'Never meet your heroes'... I was lucky enough to buy a black 2009 Vantage N400, back in 2010. On collecting in, the dealer handed me a bunch of keys/fobs - all separate [2009 models didn't have the crystal integrated version]. I hadn't even thought to look at keys when test driving - I found out these were old Volvo parts. As was the satnav, which wasn't great. Neither was the gear selection - particularly reverse. Turning the key produce a glorious noise [not quite the V12 soundtrack here, of course]. It was such an incredible car to look at. Opening the swan door was an experience in itself. And a beautiful place to sit. Once it got into its stride, it felt fast and the noise was awesome. I was sold on the looks/noise/brand. But to drive on a regular basis, it wasn't as good as I expected. Not close. And driving is what most of us buy cars for, after all. I stuck with a V8 and bought an E93 M3 a few months later. Which was fabulous in all aspects!
I currently drives a Maserati Gran Turismo Sport, 4.7 NA engine. Great sound and practical. For the next car, I am thinking about a V12. It is difficult to choose between a Rapide and a Ferrari FF. FF is definitely more engaging and sounds awesome and it has more presence on the road being a Ferrari. But it is very costly to maintain and repair, not to mention the fragile transmissions (yeah, the s is accurate). Rapide is more subtle (relatively) and maybe a bit too under the radar. But it is definitely more reliable compared to FF and less expensive to repair. And it is about 50% cheaper to buy used. The wise version of me tells me to get the Rapide. But my heart tells me that if I get the Rapide, I would still think about getting a V12 Ferrari in the future.
Exterior design is drop-dead gorgeous. Very clean lines. Favorite part is the very clean front. Downside is the interior.
As a surviving and ex owner of a 1972 Wartburg Knight I was filled with nostalgia watching this. I also experienced that special feeling, that thrill through the spine as the two stroke motor clawed its way to 40mph down a country road. I am ashamed to reveal how many women that car pulled. They don’t make cars of that depth of character anymore.
Great honest review again . Now we know way we all think about 1 . But its put to a tee by this review . Brill review .
Phwwrr that car is epic!! Absolutely stunning. The car key looks like a cassette as you inserted it and stuff opened, so cool.
The best car I’ve ever owned. However you have the wrong key, the correct key is a Glass Key that is ridiculously tactile, once it’s in your hand you will never want to put it down. One of the greatest days of my life - being handed my Rapide key by Stratstone.
I absolutely love your reviews no matter the car. I got my 5 series after watching your review of it.
Glad you like them! Good choice with the 5 series, they're great cars
That is the Valet key. I bought a Rapide back in January and was given the beautiful glass key, valet key and an emergency door key. I love starting up my car, I get goosebumps every time. I have had a few niggles, like petrol filler cap sticking, windows not working, loose door struts and now wing mirrors not closing back when locking the car. All covered by the Timeless Warranty which has been invaluable, my dealership has been brilliant though. Shout out to #AstonMartinCambridge
Excellent as always Vmt
I think you have one of the spare keys mate....the original key has a glas "head" thing with the Aston logo ingraved in the glass....its super cool
I have to add that you make the most entertaining car review videos. You and Harry - with his garage - are all I need to keep me informed on cars. English delivery beats the Americans every time - and we Aussies don't give Brits compliments very readily.....ha ha
I really appreciate the l/100km! Thank you! Love what you do with your channel and I really like your style. I've bingewatched your videos and I didn't find one that I didn't like! But the l/100 km is a really nice touch that I like!
Thanks for watching
You have been given the valet key mate
The glass crystal key must be with the owner!
But yes there is no other car as cool as an Aston Martin
Great review!
Thanks for watching. Both keys are like this
@@HighPeakAutos no way!!!
The owner has been fobbed off!
Just come across this review. The key you have is the Valet Key, it's there to protect the nice looking Emotional Control Unit or Glass Key. Later versions have a superb 8 speed box that really kicks down (and up) quicker than it really should. It looks best in any other colour than the one you are driving. I like the black one. Also the last two years (or so) of manufacture have CarPlay and Android Auto. The key also came in a leather pouch with a key ring attachment. Nice review.
Thanks
Totally love your reviews, you're so honest and straight. It's a rare breed to have an honest second hand car dealer well done,, total respect matt👏👏👏
Good morning, great video as usual, I do loved Aston Martin particulier DB9 that one don't look a bit too long a bit ungainly but in your video its still comes across as a fantastic car...cheers Phil
Great review. I'd want to own one just to say I owned a Rapide. The best car name ever.
Good choice! Much better than the Skoda Rapid(no e)
And don't forget, you could also buy a Rapido campervan - although, it has to be said, there is not much rapido about them.
Your views and opinions 90% of the time mirror mine on all your reviews of cars I have driven as well.
Your opening of the Aston Martin about the seating hemmed in is like verbatim what I said when I first sat in one last year. I was not as impressed as I thought I would be.
Another review well done 👍
Thanks for watching
Great report Matt. You could say "Nobody does it better" and the landscape was "A View to Kill" for!
Haha I should've thought of that
This is a relevant video with answers to the questions. Would've been nice to see the classy crystal AM key fob.
"...that noise - it does things to me..." 🤣
I love the sound of V12 starters. They sound like aircraft engine starters. Also the DB9 is the best looking Aston Martin. I'd love to have one.
They do! I love that noise
Hi Matt, the disappointment with the key is because you have the ‘Valet’ key. The actual key is actually a crystal key with the logo, which is sadly called the ‘Emotional Control Unit’ (ECU) and they are VERY expensive to replace and can be damaged quite easily, hence you having the valet key
Both the keys on this were the plastic keys disappointingly
The cheap key you have is the valet key, they come with two keys, the other one, the main one is the ‘emotional control unit’ key which is made of crystal and very expensive.
I’ve recently got from a Continental GT Speed to a DB9. Definitely agree with everything you have said. It’s not the same. It looks & sounds lovely but as a car I preferred the GT.
That answers the question for me too
What a honest review, cheers mate saves me some ag
Best video you’ve ever done ! Loved it , who wouldn’t want a Rapide now…
Amazing review lad, can't agree more with every single world you just said. Even personal opinions so clever !