Aston Martin makes some of the most visually stunning automobiles in the world. The brand carries an air of sophistication and exclusivity that even Ferrari and Lamborghini do not quite replicate. Buying an Aston Martin is a deeply personal decision: these are rare, expensive to maintain, and intensely rewarding to own when purchased correctly. This Aston Martin buying guide covers the current lineup, pre-owned considerations, maintenance cost realities, rarity factors, and why a broker is particularly valuable in this market.
The Aston Martin Lineup: Know Before You Buy
Aston Martin currently produces four core models. Each has a distinct character and buyer profile, and the differences matter significantly when it comes to long-term ownership satisfaction and cost.
Aston Martin DB12
The DB12 is Aston Martin’s most important model right now: the successor to the DB11 and the first car to use the new AMG-sourced twin-turbo V8 in its most refined form, producing 671 horsepower. It is faster, sharper, and more dynamically capable than the DB11 it replaced, while retaining the effortlessly elegant grand touring character that defines the DB lineage. The DB12 is the accessible entry point into the current Aston Martin family and it is arguably the most complete car the brand has made in the modern era. If you want one Aston Martin, this is the one to seriously consider.
Aston Martin Vantage
The new Vantage received a complete powertrain and chassis overhaul for its latest generation. The same AMG-sourced twin-turbo V8 now produces 665 horsepower in the Vantage, combined with a significantly revised suspension setup and a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The result is an Aston Martin that can genuinely compete with the Porsche 911 Turbo S and Ferrari Roma for driving engagement, while offering a visual drama that neither competitor approaches. The Vantage Roadster opens the roof; the Vantage GT3 takes things to a serious performance level for track-focused buyers.
Aston Martin DBX
The DBX is Aston Martin’s entry into the luxury performance SUV market and it represents a major financial pillar for the brand. The DBX 707 is the current top variant, producing 707 horsepower from the AMG-sourced V8 and making it one of the fastest and most capable luxury SUVs available. For buyers in the Coachella Valley who want an Aston Martin with genuine everyday usability, the DBX 707 is the obvious answer. It is also the model with the most accessible used prices as inventory has grown since launch.
Aston Martin DBS
The DBS is the grand tourer at the top of the range: a twin-turbo V12-powered 715-horsepower machine that emphasizes power, presence, and luxury over outright driver sport. It sits above the DB12 in the hierarchy as the flagship V12 model. The DBS Superleggera and DBS Volante (convertible) are among the most commanding Aston Martins available. V12 variants hold particular collector interest and values on well-specified examples remain strong.
Pre-Owned Aston Martin: Opportunities and Risks
The pre-owned Aston Martin market is genuinely interesting for informed buyers. Older DB11 V8 models can be acquired at substantial discounts from original MSRPs that exceeded $200,000, often for under $100,000 for earlier examples in good condition. The key variable is maintenance history, and this matters more for Aston Martin than perhaps any other brand in this guide.
Aston Martins that have been properly serviced by authorized Aston Martin centers represent solid long-term ownership propositions. Those with spotty records or deferred maintenance can become very expensive, very quickly. A pre-purchase inspection from an Aston Martin-qualified technician is not optional: it is essential. Our detailed breakdown of the real cost to maintain an Aston Martin will give you the full picture of what to budget annually.
Rarity, Collectibility, and Maintenance Costs
Aston Martin’s production volumes are among the smallest of any major luxury brand. Annual global production rarely exceeds 7,000 vehicles, which means a well-specified, low-mileage example in a desirable color and specification retains value better than raw depreciation tables suggest.
Limited editions, special series models, and Aston Martin Q-division personalized vehicles carry particular collector interest. If you are buying with any investment perspective in mind, specification matters: desirable exterior colors, correct interior choices, and original paint are all factors that affect long-term value.
Maintenance costs are genuine and should be planned for. Annual service at an authorized center typically runs $1,500 to $3,000 for routine maintenance. Major service intervals including cambelt replacement on V12 models are more significant. Budget honestly and the ownership experience is extremely rewarding. Ignore the maintenance reality and the car will remind you of it.
What to Inspect Before Buying
Key inspection items for any pre-owned Aston Martin include the following:
- Cambelt or timing chain service: V12 models have cam belt intervals; verify they are current. This is one of the most critical checks for older V12 Aston Martins.
- Full service history: Look for an unbroken service record at authorized Aston Martin centers. Private or non-specialist service is acceptable only if documentation is thorough.
- Paint condition and accident history: Run a vehicle history report and use a paint depth gauge. Aston Martin paint is thin and original paint condition matters for value.
- Electronics and infotainment: Older models used Mercedes-sourced COMAND systems that can develop faults. Current AMG-era models use better-supported electronics.
- Suspension and bushings: Aston Martin suspension geometry is precise and bushings can wear. Listen for clunks and assess alignment.
- Cooling system: Check coolant condition and look for any signs of overheating history, particularly on V12 models.
The Broker Advantage for Aston Martin Buyers
Aston Martin’s low production volumes, limited dealer network, and significant variation in pre-owned quality make broker expertise especially valuable here. Desert Exotic Cars sources Aston Martins for clients throughout Palm Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, and the greater Coachella Valley. We have 18 years of experience navigating the luxury and exotic car market, a state broker license, a Montana dealer license, and the nationwide connections to find the right car at the right price.
We handle sourcing, inspection coordination, title and registration, and personal delivery to your home or office. No dealership visits required. For reference on the current Aston Martin lineup, Aston Martin’s official models page is the best starting point.
You can also explore our broader luxury car services for the Coachella Valley on our Ferrari services page to understand the level of expertise we bring to every acquisition.
Own an Aston Martin in the Coachella Valley
Aston Martin ownership is genuinely special: a combination of British craftsmanship, driving character, and visual drama that few other brands can match. With the right broker guiding your purchase, you get the car you want at a fair price, with full confidence in its history and condition.
Contact our VIP exotic car broker service today and let us find your perfect Aston Martin.