Well, we must remember that a Ferrari is a Fiat. Given the choice between a Fiat or a Ford, which would you take? When did Daimler-Chrysler last build a real Mercedes for that matter, mid-90s I would say, although many 113 lovers might end it there.
There is certainly some Ford in a DB7, although much that is pure Aston. The engine is mainly Cosworth, although now being built in a dedicated Aston German plant (part of the Ford complex). Many DB7s were painted by Rolls Royce, pending a new paint shop.
The DB9 Volante is prettier than the DB7 Volante; not so the coupe in my (and other) opinions. Too much Vanquish influence from the now-gone Dane, what's his name; the DB7 is a Cullum car.
Gee, these cars are fun. I love my 280SL too and I could comfortably drive it in central London.