2010 Aston Martin Rapide

Highlights

• With a mileage reading of 41,200, this Titanium silver over black example has been carefully and lovingly used
• Serviced and maintained by marque specialists, ensuring top condition
• Over £8,000 spent on maintenance under current ownership, highlighting meticulous care, including its careful garaging and battery maintenance with a trickle charger
• This Rapide comes with Aston Martin’s much-loved crystal key and a spare
• HPI clear

General Description

The Aston Martin Rapide, unveiled in September 2009 at the 63rd Frankfurt Motor Show, marked a significant milestone for the brand as its first production four-door car since the AM Lagonda, which ceased production in 1989. Production began shortly after the unveiling, with early models arriving at dealerships in spring 2010, and the first customer deliveries taking place in April 2010.

The Rapide is a true successor to both the DB4-based Lagonda Rapide of the 1960s and the V8-powered Lagonda of the 1970s and 80s. Although not officially badged as a Lagonda, its lineage is unmistakable. Following the positive reception of the Rapide concept, Aston Martin announced in 2007 that the car would enter production by late 2009. During the two-year development period, prototypes were frequently spotted testing around Gaydon and on the Nürburgring, generating much anticipation.

Notably, the Rapide began its production journey as the first Aston Martin model to be manufactured outside of the UK. A deal with Magna Steyr led to its assembly at a specialist facility in Graz, Austria, known as the Aston Martin Rapide Plant (AMRP). Despite the facility's capability to produce around 2000 units annually, production numbers never reached these heights.

The production version of the Rapide evolved significantly from its concept form, establishing a unique identity rather than being merely a stretched DB9. None of the body panels were shared with the DB9. The Rapide featured larger headlights that extended further along the wings and incorporated V8 Vantage-style LED indicators. A distinctive crease line ran along the doors, starting at the side strakes, reminiscent of the V8 Vantage's design.

Initially, the Rapide was produced in Austria, but due to a recession and a decrease in overall production, Aston Martin had spare capacity in the UK. Consequently, production of the Rapide was moved to Gaydon in the autumn of 2012. Regular production of the Rapide ended in early 2013 with the introduction of the Rapide S. In total, 2872 examples of the regular Rapide were completed, making the UK-built Rapide a particularly rare model.

About this specific vehicle

The 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is a luxurious and high-performance grand tourer, with a current odometer reading of 41,200 miles on the clock. This Rapide is finished in an elegant titanium silver exterior and features a refined black interior, and most notably has been specced without the red brake callipers or rear tinted windows. Other notable amenities include cooled seats for both front and rear passengers, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a rear entertainment system, and a piano black fascia, enhancing the vehicle's luxurious appeal.

Under the bonnet, the Rapide is powered by a 5.9-litre V12 engine coupled with an automatic transmission, delivering the powerful and smooth performance expected from Aston Martin. Purchased by its current owner from marque specialists McGurk Performance Cars, it has since been regularly maintained by other Aston Martin specialists. Initially, it underwent a full service at McGurk, which included wheel refurbishment and the fitting of new Michelin Pilot Sport tyres.

Primarily used for long European road trips, this Rapide excels as a grand tourer, comfortably accommodating luggage and equipment, including a bicycle, thanks to a custom-made hard foam protective cover for the rear seats. The car has mostly covered motorway miles, contributing to its current mileage.

The vehicle has been serviced twice by Aston Service London since the initial service at McGurk’s, with extensive maintenance performed to ensure it remains in top condition. This includes changing the differential oil, fitting new air and pollen filters, applying Lanoguard underbody protection, replacing the battery, and changing the gearbox oil. Over £8,000 has been spent on upkeep under the current ownership.

While there are minor blemishes from regular use, the vehicle remains in excellent condition. It has been kept in a heated garage on trickle charge, preserving its pristine state. 

In summary, this 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is a beautifully maintained vehicle that delivers an exceptional driving experience. It offers luxury, performance, and the capacity to carry three passengers comfortably, making it an ideal grand tourer. Sold alongside its crystal key and a spare, this vehicle continues to bring joy and positive comments, and it stands as one of the best GT cars for covering miles with ease.