The Aston Martin Cosworth 7.3L V12 is a 7,301 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine developed in collaboration with Cosworth Engineering between 1992 and 2000. It features a 60° V12 configuration, DOHC valvetrain, and sequential fuel injection, producing 386 kW (525 PS) and 530 Nm of torque. Its high — revving character and smooth power delivery were engineered for grand touring performance, with a redline of 6,800 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the DB7 V12 and later the D…
Production years 1992–1996 meet Euro 2 standards; 1997–2000 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Aston Martin Cosworth 7.3L V12 is a 7,301 cc naturally aspirated petrol engine co-developed with Cosworth Engineering (1992–2000). It features a 60° V12 layout with dual overhead camshafts per bank and sequential fuel injection, delivering high-revving performance and linear power progression. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances traditional grand touring refinement with modern engine management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 7,301 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
Power output | 386 kW (525 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 530 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Siemens sequential port fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-1997); Euro 3 (1997–2000) | |
Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Dual belt (front-mounted, requires strict interval maintenance) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 10W-60 | |
Dry weight | 285 kg |
The Aston Martin Cosworth 7.3L V12 was used in the DB7 platform with longitudinal mounting and developed under joint Aston Martin-Cosworth engineering. This engine received platform-specific tuning—optimized intake manifolds in the DB7 Vantage and revised exhaust headers in facelifted variants—and from 1999 the updated DB7 V12 Vantage adopted a higher-lift cam profile and modified ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Cosworth 7.3L V12's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 1998 indicated a measurable number of pre-1999 engines suffering belt degradation before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows ECU-related faults in vehicles with poor harness 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 (1992–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2005). 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 Cosworth 7.3L V12 offers exceptional refinement and performance, but requires meticulous maintenance. Early models (1992–1998) had wiring harness issues, and all variants are sensitive to timing belt neglect. With strict adherence to service intervals and use of high-octane fuel, these engines can achieve 150,000 km reliability. Regular inspections and proactive part replacement are essential for longevity.
Key issues include wiring harness insulation degradation, timing belt failure, intake vacuum leaks, and fuel injector clogging. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins. Preventive maintenance—especially timely belt replacement and harness inspection—significantly reduces risk of major repairs.
The Cosworth 7.3L V12 powers the DB7 V12 (1992–1999) and DB7 Vantage (1999–2000). It is longitudinally mounted and tuned for grand touring performance. No cross-manufacturer applications are documented. This engine was succeeded by the Ford-derived 5.9L and later 6.0L V12 units.
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 ~18.5 L/100km (15.3 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~14.0 L/100km (20.2 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 22 L/100km (12.9 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style, fuel quality, and vehicle condition.
Yes. The Cosworth 7.3L V12 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, piston-to-valve contact will cause catastrophic internal damage. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing belts at 96 months or 120,000 km is critical to prevent costly engine rebuilds.
Aston Martin specifies M-spec 10W-60 synthetic oil. Change intervals are 12,000 km or annually. Using correct oil ensures proper camshaft, belt, and VVT system lubrication, reducing wear and maintaining performance. Extended drain intervals risk belt slippage and bearing wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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