Just found this site. I was the guy who told you about the VIC. The Virage is somewhat unloved by the Aston community. Change is never universally accepted. Reliability is relative with the older Astons. Head gaskets were a minor problem early on and most have been fixed or you put up with slight leaks. The VIC can be a problem, but mine is fine, although some days it doesn't want to wake up. I believe I drove Club Sportiva's Virage before they bought it and it wasn't a happy car. But what do you expect for a 12 year old car with 14K miles? They need to be used. Realize they are aging and things wear out from age OR use. I got mine in August 2004 and put about 5500miles on it. I've replaced the vacuum hoses,a cam cover seal, gearbox and diff fluids, rebuilt the water pump, alternator and power steeriing rack, and went to larger rims to use cheaper tires( Avons are stupidly expensive)I just drove it 600 miles in one day and got about 22mpg. They are an aquired taste, and not everyone likes the looks. That's OK. They are great cars, I love mine, but to each their own.
BTW I've always heard there were 14 5 speeds in the U.S. Very heavy clutch but way more fun.