News & Events
Aston Martin of Dallas Experience: Ownership Has Its Privileges
2009-02-20
By Austin Spencer
Many automakers position their vehicles as lifestyle changing. Aston Martin is among the few that truly deliver on that promise. Much of that “transformation” is due to superb dealers like Aston Martin of Dallas, which understands the distinctive needs of their clientele. From delivery of an Aston to events designed to enhance ownership, Aston Martin of Dallas truly creates a lifestyle that simply can’t be matched by any other marque.
The differences begin the moment that an individual steps into the dealership. Travertine marble floors, hewn from the same quarry that supplied those gracing Aston’s headquarters in Gaydon, adorn the floor. Glass abounds to provide unfettered adoration of the Astons parked discreetly inside. As much museum as showroom, it’s a shrine to the most beautiful cars in the world.
“Our goal was to create a place that would be as refined and sophisticated as the people who come here to select their car,” explained Kurt Fegraeus, managing partner at Aston Martin of Dallas. “We value elegant and understated. I believe it makes the pedigreed first impression that is befitting an Aston Martin.
While the dealership is primarily focused on the sales and service of current Aston Martins, occasionally a very, very special classic can be found inside its hallowed halls. Recently, Aston Martin of Dallas acquired a stunning 1964 DB5 and offered it to discriminating vintage enthusiasts seeking a crown jewel for their collection. Famous as the sports car piloted by James Bond in films such as Goldfinger and Casino Royale, the DB5 is a rare treat whenever it is spotted. Certainly the opportunity to glimpse this pristine Aston Racing Green car justifies even the most casual visit to the dealership.
“This particular car was one of only 40 left-hand drive DB5s made for the United States,” noted Fegraeus. “After a total restoration, it’s as wonderful to drive as it is to simply feast your eyes upon. And it’s easy to see how the DB5’s lines are still incorporated into the current lineup.
And as beautiful as the facility is, the cars certainly steal the show, especially the new DBS that will once again grace the big screen in the next Bond movie. The exciting DBS is both menacing and elegant. With its race-inspired carbon fiber hood and screaming V12 engine, this Aston is a super car in every aspect. But as with all Astons, it’s as suave and sophisticated as a London banker.
“Only a handful of these cars are being built and few will come to this country,” stated Cade Mannetti, Aston Martin of Dallas Sales Specialist. Actually, that can be said of most Astons, which is important to our customers who crave exclusivity.”
The dealership usually keeps a small group of V8 Vantages and DB9s on hand, as well as an occasional DB7. However, the inventory is typically very small. Exclusivity is at the core of the Aston Martin of Dallas ownership experience. This allows the dealership staff to become well acquainted with their clientele; they also facilitate small gatherings and occasions for owners in an informal “club” manner.
“Purchasing an Aston here is similar to joining an exclusive club, but without dues, bureaucracy or pressure,” added Fegraeus. “We built an exclusive club facility inside our location that can only be accessed by a special card, which each owner receives upon delivery of their car.”
The Aston Martin of Dallas “club” is an elegant affair with a fully stocked bar, hi-def plasma TVs, modern furniture and intimate nooks for private tetes or moments of solitude. From the libations to the entertainment, everything is gratis.
The heart of the club is a fantastic glass walled enclosure that resembles a finely wrought jewel box. It is here that each owner receives his or her Aston Martin.
“Some new owners even bring their friends and family to celebrate such an important moment,” noted Mannetti. “And we often host select parties in the club for clients on special occasions.”
Special occasions are part of the very fabric of Aston ownership in North Texas. The dealership has refined swaraees a couple of times each year. At those moments, guest sip champagne as live musical entertainment soothes their hearts. Stunning women with their dashing men mingle next to cascades of diamonds and ice sculptures.
But ownership of an Aston is not simply a string of parties. Many of the owners enjoy exercising their cars through the countryside.
For example, Aston Martin of Dallas has facilitated a handful of wonderful rallies with dinners at beautiful places such as Rough Creek Lodge. The group has enjoyed brisk jaunts on spectacular roads that really let owners admire the balance and handling of their Aston.
Keeping these Astons in top condition usually falls to the Aston Martin of Dallas service department. And it’s a job the staff relishes.
“Because these are hand built cars that are usually specified out by their owners, no two are exactly the same,” commented James Beal, service director at Aston Martin of Dallas. “So maintaining them is like enjoying an old friend again. They are fantastic pieces of modern machinery that feature luxurious cabins. It’s wonderful to care for cars built from the finest materials by craftsmen who combine old world expertise with contemporary conveniences.”
And the service department also offers a variety of special parts to allow an owner to tailor their car to their taste, even if it is a year after their initial purchase.
“A new set of wheels, some carbon fiber bits or a more sporting exhaust are nice ways to freshen the DB9 or V8 Vantage,” stated Fegraeus. “And any of these customizations, which can be changed back instantly, are covered by the factory warranty if done here at the dealership.”
Choosing a car is never easy, especially when its one in the ultra-rare segment populated by Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and of course, Aston Martin. But unlike the purchase of a more pedestrian vehicle, the ownership experience at Aston Martin of Dallas continues well beyond that initial acquisition. Choosing a DBS, DB9 or V8 Vantage there is an experience unlike any other.
“We refuse to pressure anyone in anyway,” concluded Fegraeus. “Our clients understand what the brand stands for and have a pretty good idea of the car they want when they walk through our doors. The cars truly speak for themselves, so most of our efforts are spent helping clients choose their colors and options. Then, they can be part of an adventure that includes events and activities that cater to their personal tastes and passions, if they wish. Getting the keys to their Aston is just the beginning.”
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