Well - I'm 2 years into my PTT which I believe is the best 4 door in the world - but I'm bored and want a new car.

The Maserati QP is still 6 months away in the US and I don't feel like stretching for a FF. So I think I am going to swap for a Rapide.

I know the Rapide is way slower, way less useful, way less practical in the rear seats - but there is something that intrigues me about this car as a daily driver.

Any thoughts here? Am I missing something to consider? I have 2 small kids 4 and 7 and need a useful backseat but they are my only passengers.

 

No sunroof in the Rapide, I believe when you move up the money scale, you should get more features and not less. The Aston Rapide is probably the only luxury 4-door car that does not have a sunroof.

 

I'd say go for it, though the performance might not be parallel with the PTT however, the sound is intoxicating. It will put a smile on ur face and ur family's.

 

No way would I make that switch! The PTT is a much better vehicle in my opinion. Superlatives of the PTT versus the Rapide include performance, handling, comfort, and appearance. Fit and finish are better on the Porshe as well. BTW, I would visit the Maseratti forums if I were considering any of those cars. Gorgeous, yes; but, from what little I know about them based on reviewers, they have a reputation for mechanical and electrical system unreliability. There's a good reason why 70% of Porsches ever made are still on the road...I don't think either AM or Maseratti can claim anything close to such a feat.

 

I echo this comment. I think the Rapide def looks awesome/unique on the road, but I would never want one for these reasons. How about switching out for a Panny GTS....IMHO< a completely different car from the PTT.

 

Its a cool car do it.

 

For me the coolness and nice exhaust note would wear off after 1 week tops. I would soon be wishing for a useable amenities which the panny is excellent and the astons are still dreadful in comparison. Maybe try something other than a sporty sedan with four doors to quench your boordem.
New RRSC does 60mph in 4.6sec
Audi S6 3.7sec or S8 3.5sec
Alpina B7
MB G63

A fast sporty SUV would be something totally different and fun and usable.

 

I was very close to making this same switch about 2 mos ago. The backseat is ok for kids, but it is really difficult to get in and out of. But, seriously, it would not get used often for me and that was a non factor.

The looks and sound of the Rapide are amazing and I disagree that they will get old.

The other thing with the Rapide is that you don't see them coming and going all the time. It's a much rarer auto.

That being said, I didn't pull the trigger because a) I just felt the cost was out of line with the performance and b) the depreciation curve was breathtaking

I really loved the Rapide, but I just couldn't pull the trigger and still gave my 2010 4S.

 

Where did you get those times for the Audi's? Audi's numbers are significantly slower.

 

I vaguely recall seeing similar numbers for the Audis. If they are slower, I don't expect to be by a noticeable difference. They are very quick now with the dual clutch S-tronic.

 

Not bad, will take a second look at these cars in the future.

 

Motortrend and Car and Driver mags

 

To say they are very rare is not a good thing always, you kind of answered why its so rare at the end of your post.

 

Yup. The Phaeton was a rare car as well...

 

youtube the topgear show with the panamera and rapid