Congrats to your dad, hope he enjoys it.

Not sure what you're talking about in regards to the transmission though: AFAIK there's no change from any of the current automated AM transmissions?

 

The Rapide is an amazing car, when you drive it hard you completely forget there are 2 seats and doors behind you. Everyone I have spoken to says it's a better drivers car than the DB9. It's at least comparable which is an impressive feat.

The interiors are beautiful, I prefer the Vantages but only because of the carbon bucket seats, they really make the car. Thing's are slightly different button wise which might take some getting used to but with 2 of the nicest interiors around no one can complain.

The only thing I would say that I've previously said is as they are so simular inside and out it might take away from that 'special' feeling you get with them. Which is why I'm having 2nd thoughts about a V12 Vantage. Walking out to 3 Astons would take away the wow factor for me.

Thank, it's actually my mums car though. As for the transmission they are different. Rapide uses Touchtronic 2 system and the Vantage uses the Sports Shift.

Touchtronic 2 is auto with manual options, Sports Shift is automated manual, for example Sports Shirt has no 'park' feature, you put it into neutral like a regular manual. It has no hill start support, it doesn't lurch forward when in gear etc.

Touchtronic has park, hill start etc like a normal automatic box.

 

Had the car booked in for a full detail and front protective wrap.

Full write up is here for anyone who is interested:

Aston Martin V8V - New car detail by Auto Finesse - Detailing World

And a few of the finished shots:

 

Beautiful pictures, I like the colour.