The seller of this Nice Price or No Dice DB7 claims it is one of only 26 special U.S. market editions created to mark Queen Elizabeth's Golden Jubilee. The question is whether that rarity justifies the substantial asking price.

Common wisdom holds that inner qualities matter most, an idea with ancient roots. Yet the prior day's 1978 Mazda RX-7 GS demonstrated that exterior condition often drives value more than hidden flaws. Its attractive body hid damaged interior trim and a cracked dash, issues that contributed to a decisive rejection of the $11,799 price.

A Royal Connection

A loose link exists between that Mazda and today's 2003 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage Jubilee Edition. Both marques had ties to Ford at the time, allowing Aston Martin to borrow components such as Mazda 323F taillights and Ford Scorpio mirror switches. On this particular car, numbered 13 of the 26 U.S. examples, those shared parts are overshadowed by distinctive luxury upgrades commissioned by Stratstone Aston Martin of Mayfair.

The cars wear exclusive Jubilee Blue metallic paint, magnolia and navy leather upholstery, silver-faced instruments and pedals, Italian walnut trim, and special 19-inch wheels. Combined with 24 additional examples for Britain and Europe, the edition stands out for its scarcity.

Performance Details

Every Jubilee model pairs a ZF five-speed automatic transmission, complete with steering-wheel controls, to Aston Martin's 5.9-liter 48-valve V12. Producing 420 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, the engine delivers strong performance beneath the long hood. The ad lists 64,615 miles but provides limited condition information beyond basic service items and a view of one brake caliper showing ample pad life.

Condition Assessment

Outside, the body and paint appear excellent, though the chrome mirror caps stand out as a personal choice. The alloy wheels show no curb rash and retain their original Aston Martin centers. As a California car, corrosion is not a concern. Inside, the leather and walnut surfaces remain in good shape with no visible sun damage or sticky switches, aside from aftermarket blue lighting added around the wood trim.

Market Considerations

The car carries a clean title and current registration. Its limited-production status adds appeal within an already uncommon model line of roughly 7,000 units. Still, the mileage is relatively high, and the Jubilee package does not alter the driving experience. Comparable examples from the same era show wide price variation, leaving the $38,500 figure open to debate. Does the combination of rarity and presentation support the cost, or does it seem excessive?