Unsurprisingly I've grown especially fond of the DB7 GT, but I'm not blind to its faults, particularly its cramped cockpit, uninspiring instruments and interior detailing, and perhaps most niggling of all, its high-set driving position. It might sound callous to point out my good friend's shortcomings, but if it was perfect there'd be no need for the DB9, so it was especially gratifying to experience the new car's bang-up-to-date interior ambience, jewel-like instruments, classy switchgear and low-slung seating position. Far from sitting on the car, as you feel you do when you're driving the DB7, you're well and truly in the DB9, sunk between sturdy sill and transmission tunnel, part of the machine. As the new car promises equally momentous progress in terms of structural rigidity and all-round dynamics, it should be a spectacularly good car.

Since my glimpse into the future, the DB7 has been worked harder than ever, spending a great deal of time on the UK's motorway network, including a Barker-guided foray into north Wales. I can't reveal what we were doing just yet - you'll find out in a future issue - but judging by the look on JB's face as he blearily shuffled into the bar, rolled a fag and sank a well-deserved pint, the GT's 'relaxed' traction control had commanded his full and undivided attention in all gears lower than fifth. Suffice to say that, when it rains, all that power and torque asks rather more from the chassis than it's ready to answer.

Save for the regular fill-ups with Optimax and a modest top-up of oil and and a little coolant, the Aston has needed no attention. I've tried running on vanilla unleaded, but the V12 pinked its disapproval under wide throttle openings, so I've gone back to the hard stuff. Even the Bridgestones are wearing well, thanks to the GT's poise and clean-cut demeanour. You can kick the tail out if you're brutal, but frankly the old girl deserves better treatment, so you tend to keep things neat and revel in the grippy neutrality. With TFU due to be snatched from my clutches very soon, I've got a special farewell trip planned next month.