2012 Aston Martin Vantage Review| The V8 Vantage coupe and roadster carry a 4.2-liter V8 engine that generates 420 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque mated to a either a 6-speed manual or Sportshift automated manual transmission. The 6-liter V12 engine makes 510 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, and it only comes with a 6-speed manual. A V8 Vantage S model is new for 2012, tuned to 430 hp and 361 lb-ft of torque, and features faster acceleration and a higher top speed thanks to the all-new 7-speed Sportshift II automatic. The V8 and V12 Vantages are rear-wheel drive with the engine mounted under the hood, just behind the front axle. |Walkaround| Performance is more than respectable in the V8 coupe and roadster, with a top speed of 175 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds, with the S just a bit faster. The V12, of course, goes a bit further, to a maximum of 190 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds - nearly a full second faster over the V8 model. The V12 also upgrades its brakes to the carbon ceramic variety. Owners of V8 Vantage S and V12 Vantage models get an additional sport button, which modifies throttle response and exhaust tuning for performance driving. The new S also gets a quicker steering ratio than the standard V8 model, as well as a recalibrated suspension system and new 6-piston front disc brakes. Wider wheels and wider tires complete the S package. |Summary| All Vantages have anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic braking, electronic brake assist, tire pressure monitoring and dynamic stability control. DSC in the V12 includes track mode for a stiffer, more responsive ride during performance driving. The Vantage also features what Aston Martin calls the Emotion Control Unit, which starts the car when a special key fob is pushed into a slot on the dash. Everything you'd expect in a 2-seater, touring car retailing in the 6-figure range is here, including a 160-watt sound system, automatic temperature control, navigation system, electrically adjustable seats, rear parking sensors, airbags. The stereo can be upgraded to a powerful 700-watt system, and the interior surfaces can be had in finishes like Piano Black and personalized sill plaques can be added. A special edition package known as the N420 is offered on the V8 roadster for 2012, consisting of a sport suspension, unique wheels, lightweight exhaust, carbon fiber trim pieces, power folding mirrors, clear taillamp lenses, parking sensors, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and sport seats. Special paint colors include Kermit Green, Rose Yellow, Elwood Blue, Aston Martin Racing Green and Asia Cup White and Black.
