The Aston Martin AM38 is a 5,935 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features a 60° V12 configuration, DOHC valvetrain, and Bosch Motronic ME7.1.1 port fuel injection, delivering 368 kW (500 PS) and 570 Nm of torque. Its naturally aspirated design and high — revving character were engineered for grand touring performance, with a redline of 6,500 rpm.
Fitted to the DB7 Vantage, Vanquish, and V12 Vanquish, this engine was designed to deliver refined, effo…
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Aston Martin AM38 is a 5,935 cc naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine developed for grand touring applications (2000–2005). It features a 60° V12 layout with dual overhead camshafts per bank and sequential port fuel injection, delivering smooth power progression and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances traditional refinement with modern engine management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,935 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
Power output | 368 kW (500 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 570 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.1.1 sequential port injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted, 120,000 km interval) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 5W-50 | |
Dry weight | 266 kg |
The Aston Martin AM38 was used in the DB and V platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed under in-house engineering. This engine received platform-specific tuning—optimized intake manifolds in the Vanquish and revised exhaust headers in facelifted variants—and from 2003 the updated V12 Vanquish adopted a higher-lift cam profile and modified ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The AM38's primary reliability risk is camshaft phaser solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2002 indicated a measurable number of pre-2003 engines requiring solenoid replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows VVT-related faults in vehicles with poor oil maintenance. Extended idling and infrequent servicing increase thermal stress and oil degradation, making high-quality oil and strict maintenance intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2000–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001–2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AM38 offers exceptional refinement and performance, but requires meticulous maintenance. Early models (2000–2002) had cam phaser solenoid issues, and all variants are sensitive to timing chain neglect. With strict adherence to service intervals and use of high-octane fuel, these engines can achieve 140,000 km reliability. Regular inspections and proactive part replacement are essential for longevity.
Key issues include camshaft phaser solenoid failure, timing chain tensioner wear, intake vacuum leaks, and fuel injector clogging. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins. Preventive maintenance—especially timely solenoid inspection and oil changes—significantly reduces risk of major repairs.
The AM38 powers the DB7 Vantage (2000–2005), Vanquish (2001–2005), and V12 Vanquish (2003–2005). It is longitudinally mounted and tuned for grand touring performance. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented. This engine was succeeded by the RCR V12 in later Vanquish models.
Yes, though tuning is limited by the naturally aspirated design. ECU remapping and performance camshafts can yield +30–50 kW. Upgraded exhausts, intake systems, and lightweight components enhance responsiveness. Tuning must preserve valve timing and thermal management limits to avoid reliability issues. Classic specialists offer bespoke tuning packages.
In combined driving, expect ~16.2 L/100km (17.4 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~11.8 L/100km (23.9 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 19 L/100km (15.0 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style, fuel quality, and vehicle condition.
Yes. The AM38 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, piston-to-valve contact will cause catastrophic internal damage. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing chains at 120,000 km or 8 years is critical to prevent costly engine rebuilds.
Aston Martin specifies M-spec 5W-50 synthetic oil. Change intervals are 12,000 km or annually. Using correct oil ensures proper camshaft, chain, and VVT system lubrication, reducing wear and maintaining performance. Extended drain intervals risk chain slippage and bearing wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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