2016 Aston Martin Rapide 5.9L Petrol · N88 JFD

As a 5.9-litre V12 petrol grand tourer, fuel economy is realistically in the 15-20 mpg range under normal driving and can drop below 10 mpg when driven enthusiastically, so expect to spend considerably more on fuel than a conventional saloon. Road tax on a vehicle of this engine size registered after April 2017 would fall into the top band, but this October 2016 example is just above the threshold and may sit in a high VED bracket — confirm the current rate with the DVLA before purchase. Insurance will be substantial: the Rapide typically sits in a high insurance group due to its performance, value and parts costs, so obtain quotes before viewing.

Annual servicing should be entrusted to an Aston Martin specialist or main agent, with major services easily reaching £2,000-£4,000 depending on what is required. The V12 engine, while robust when maintained, can produce eye-watering repair bills if neglected — think £10,000+ for major clutch or transmission work, and four-figure sums for brake and suspension component replacements. Setting aside a realistic £4,000-£6,000 per year for maintenance, depreciation and unexpected repairs is sensible, and many owners instead purchase a monthly warranty or service plan to smooth these out. Total realistic annual running cost including fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance is likely to sit in the £7,000-£10,000 range.

Despite the clean MOT record, this Rapide warrants particular scrutiny of items the MOT does not fully cover. The MOT failure data across 936 Rapides shows headlamp issues as the top cause of failure — physically check both headlamp units for condensation, alignment and operation, and ensure adaptive or self-levelling functions work. The second most common failure reason is tyres; although the car has covered very few miles, the tyres will still age and should be inspected for cracking, uneven wear and correct specification, as correct Aston Martin-rated tyres are expensive.

The V12 engine bay deserves a careful visual inspection for oil leaks from the sump, cam covers and the notoriously complex rear of the engine, plus a check of coolant colour and condition. Listen for any timing chain rattle on cold start, which can indicate stretched chains — an expensive repair on this engine. Inspect the underside of the car (a ramp inspection is essential) for signs of corrosion, exhaust system condition, and any leaks from the transmission or differential. The transmission itself, whether the single-clutch Touchtronic or manual variant, should be operated through all gears to confirm smooth changes.

Inside the cabin, check all electric seat movements, seat heaters, infotainment and climate functions, as these are complex and costly to repair. The boot and storage areas should be inspected for completeness of tool kits and inflation kits, and the panoramic roof (if fitted) should be checked for smooth operation and any water ingress staining on the headlining. Finally, the engine MIL or warning lights mentioned as a common MOT failure category should be confirmed clear before test, and a diagnostic scan with an Aston Martin-capable tool is highly recommended.