advices between vantage 4.7 and 4.7S

[evil chevy]

I'm looking to get a vantage, I live in California and want a convertible, the V12 is over my budget so I'm trying to decide between 4.7 and 4.7S.
I've been driving corvette for the last 10 years, had Z06 when I used to live in London, driving a 2010 corvette grand sport conv, time to change and as I dont like the Stingray, time to get what i always wanted.... and aston....
the S is about $20K more than the 4.7 over here, is it worth it?
I would rather have a stick shift but would consider a flappy paddle if I have to.
I like to drive hard, go on road trip as soon as I can, drive in canyon, deserts and enjoy curvy road... driving experience is really important to me.
whats is your experience?? did you own both?
I went to test drive both as well as a V12, but couldnt take them outside town, so I didnt really feel how they behave on long drive.
The V12 obviously got more guts and if I could go for it, I would, but my budget at the moment doesnt make it an option.
all advices welcome....
Thank you

[Jon39]

I think you have answered your own question Jimmy.
If you prefer your stick shift, then the 4.7 will do you proud.
The Sportshift gear change is often shown on this forum to be a 'Marmite' subject. Some love it, some don't.

I have driven a V12VS with paddles, but not a V8VS.
The V8VS has some improvements over the 4.7, but perhaps they are not important to you.

I have owned my manual 4.7 for four years, and enjoy it as much now as on the first day.
Great cars and such a beautiful timeless design.

Edited by Jon39 on Wednesday 23 December 00:10

[AstonFizz]

Work harder get a V12. Buying a baby Aston is like having a V6 Mustang. You will get an Aston but it won't feel right.

[Montana107]

I tested all V8s - v8 Manual, v8 with paddles and went with the V8VS. The suspension is more performance oriented and the exhaust is a bit louder, etc. As I tell my friends it's just one notch up on performance than the standard Vantage. I originally thought I wanted a manual Aston... but after driving the V8VS Sportshift 2 in sport mode with the DSC in track mode and felt the suspension difference I was in Love! - I would agree with most that the drive function of this gearbox is useless at best. The only way I drive the car is in sport and always using the paddles.

Now I am off modifying mine because I can't seem to leave a car stock...

If you want one more sport oriented go with the S. If you want one more GT oriented go with the Vanatge -

Enjoy!

[petop]

AstonFizz said:

Work harder get a V12. Buying a baby Aston is like having a V6 Mustang. You will get an Aston but it won't feel right.

V6 Mustang, yes it wont feel right but your analogy with a V8 Vantage is incorrect. Of course ALL owners of V8's would like to have a V12 but they dont sit in the 4-cylinder-less car and think its the worse decision ever buying it.





Of course you should also not test drive a V12!

[AstonFizz]

petop said:

V6 Mustang, yes it wont feel right but your analogy with a V8 Vantage is incorrect. Of course ALL owners of V8's would like to have a V12 but they dont sit in the 4-cylinder-less car and think its the worse decision ever buying it.





Of course you should also not test drive a V12!

However, I do feel I made a wrong decision about not getting the V12v in the first place and end up having 2 vantages. Since I got the V12vs, I havent been driving the baby Aston for months. It's a rather personal thing, I guess. And to be honest, I did feel cylinder-less and powerless in V8 than in a V12 Aston, but it made me work harder.

Edited by AstonFizz on Wednesday 23 December 06:44

[V8V Pete]

Almost too many variables here as the Vantage has changed a lot over 10 years. First question therefore is are you buying new or used? I went used as follows:

My first Vantage that I bought 2 years ago was a 5 year old manual 4.7 coupe (with Sports Pack). Great car but then I started driving newer better ones and its fate was sealed!

First up was a Sportshift V8VS with lightweight seats (which I'm afraid aren't available in the USA). Immediately noticeable big difference was the improved chassis, particularly the faster steering rack and improved damping. Much improved exhaust note and minor power increase also nice but I didn't want Sportshift.

Next was a 2013 V12V and I very nearly bought this car. Front end nearly as good (but not quite) as the V8VS. Lots more power and torque which is very nice (if totally unnecessary) accompanied by a soundtrack that is virtually second to none and linked to a great 6-speed manual box. Alcantara Lightweight seats (like the V8VS that I drove) that totally compliment the character of the car.

Then drove a 2014 V12VS which is fantastic but Sportshift again and somewhat over my budget.

Then a 2013 MANUAL V8VS with a great spec including Alcantara Lightweight seats came up and I bought it immediately. For me it is the Vantage sweet spot at present. It has many of the things I like about the V12V, handles a tiny bit better and for what it cost me I would have been getting a high mileage 2009 V12. It also doesn't carry the liability of the stupidly expensive carbon ceramic brakes.

So I'm very happy with the choice I made. Then someone told me he'd seen a 7-speed manual V12VS in development/production at the factory last week. Oh no, this can only end one way ……………..

[evil chevy]

thank you all for the inputs....
I would buy used, 2009/10 for the 4.7 or 2012 for the S.
thats a difference of about 20 or 25K$ between 4.7 and S, thats why I want to know if its really worth it...

the V12 in US used start in Gallardo territory, so its over my budget at the moment and if it was I would probably go with the lambo...

[cookin ez]

Go with the V8VS. The set up is more sporty with the extra horses, tighter suspension and steering, and increadible exhaust note. I'm in Northern California so if you are in my area take a ride in my V8VS roadster and you can see what you think.

[Murph7355]

AstonFizz said:

However, I do feel I made a wrong decision about not getting the V12v in the first place and end up having 2 vantages. Since I got the V12vs, I havent been driving the baby Aston for months. It's a rather personal thing, I guess. And to be honest, I did feel cylinder-less and powerless in V8 than in a V12 Aston, but it made me work harder.

I don't get why anyone would want a V12 and a V8 one at the same time at all. Waaaaaay too similar in practically every way that matters. Still, each to their own.

I may be in a minority of one, but when I test drove the V12V I didn't think it justified the extra outlay in any way (and I have a very peasant like manual 4.3). The main interior change was the gear lever (on manual cars) which is not, IMO, a positive change. It's the sort of thing Terminator would choose if visiting Anne Summers.

Externally there are more changes, but I remain one of those Luddites stuck in the mindset that the original, unadulterated shape was the high point for the physically (a bit) smaller Aston.

Dynamically...the V12 has a lot of grunt. On public roads in the UK this is largely moot. Point to point down b-roads it would be barely quicker than its little brother. The noise is better (slightly - I like V8s but V12s are top notch) and there's amusement to be had with the right foot a good bit more willingly than in the V8. But, again, on damp British roads that can be a mixed blessing. The V8 is, was and always has been a very nicely balanced car.

At around the 100k mark a V12VS makes an interesting proposition and if buying a used car I would be seriously tempted (despite the above ). But if a prospective purchaser doesn't have the cash (and let's face it, 20k-30k premium over, let's say, a 4.7S is still a 30%+ premium) they are in no way being short changed. The car was designed to have a V8 up front and as mentioned in most real world circumstances the V8 model won't be easy to shake off by a V12 (if at all).

[Jon39]

Surprised to see so many posts today. After a good lunch and a few drinks, some here are now dozing.

Murph7355 said:

Dynamically...the V12 has a lot of grunt. On public roads in the UK this is largely moot.

Slightly off original topic, but the V12 does make the Vantage a brilliant car, and the V12V appears now to be priced above the low point.

Whether it is more fun on UK public roads than a V8V, must be debatable.
I can only use just a few seconds of full throttle in a 4.7.
With a V12, it would have to be less than those few seconds, before backing off.

[V8V Pete]

evil chevy said:

I would buy used, 2009/10 for the 4.7 or 2012 for the S.
thats a difference of about 20 or 25K$ between 4.7 and S, thats why I want to know if its really worth it...

Well if that's the case then, personally, I would definitely go with the S. Big difference between a 2009/10 standard Vantage and an S out on the road. Surely if your serious about buying one then they will let you test drive them properly.

[Speedraser]

I don't think an S is worth the extra money over a standard 4.7. I have an '09 Sports Pack manual coupe. I drove the S when it came out, and it's great, and if you wanted a Sportshift, the 7-spd SS 'box in the S is better than the earlier 6-spd SS. But, if you like a manual, unless you can find a rare manual S, IMO the choice is clear -- get a manual 4.7 with the Sports Pack. The quicker steering of the S is nice, but the ride is significantly harder, and the handling only a little sharper than the '09 - '12.25 Sports Pack 4.7. I prefer the ride-handling balance of the Sports Pack. Moreover, the small increase in power and torque is just that -- small, and just not noticeable IMO (10 hp added to 420 is an increase of just over 2%). I find the '09 - '12.25 Sports Pack 4.7 to be a real sweet spot in the Vantage range -- fast, great handling, firmer ride than standard but not as firm as the S, the original and best (IMO) aesthetics. Don't get me wrong, the S is a fantastic car, but I don't think it's better, and IMO certainly not for the extra $20-25K -- especially if you prefer a manual 'box.

[V8Staffie]

I drove the V8 Vantage with the SS1 gear box and opted for a 911 for 15 months. Drove the V8 Vantage roadster with a SS2 gearbox and had improved significantly albeit with a few quirks like curling your big toe when shifting and coasting in traffic but this was more about clutch preservation. I had the experience in another V8 Vantage of coming out of FOS Goodwood a few years ago in traffic slight up hill roof down. Looking around me at all the other cars thinking what tt has cooked his clutch? Yep it was me you live and learn as they say!
I agree with the V8 I could not justify the extra 20k at the time for an S or being honest I did not have the 20k so it was a no brainier for me. I had a sports muffler and it was a quick V8 Vantage with fuse 15 out it sounded fantastic. It is for sale at Aston Cambridge still I believe about the£78k mark. I am not a manual traditionalist so manual cars have never interested me. Nor as I have found over the years does depreciation come into it for me anymore. It ruled my head for years and took away the whole enjoyment out of car ownership for me. As long as my other investment choices out strip my car choices I am a winner. A nice place to be I know but life is an honest programme for me these days!
I do struggle though when I read people comparing V8 with a V12 as for me they are totally different beasts in handling, acceleration, breaking and impact in general. For me any Aston is an amazing car new or old V8 or V12 2 door or 4 door. Vantage DB Vanquish Rapide or Vulcan. I am just gutted I left it as long as i did but here now.

The clincher for me is how does it make you feel? Right now my Vantage V12 S Roadster makes me feel damn fking good. I was lucky enough to have a Vanquish Volante for a few weeks in between vehicles and guess what that had the same effect. Some cracking events coming up in 2016 the highlight of which will be Burghley and can't wait. I love this forum some cracking points of view and amazing knowledge. Whatever you choose will be the right decision and look forward to the pictures when the deal is sealed.

[Grant3]

evil chevy said:

thank you all for the inputs....
I would buy used, 2009/10 for the 4.7 or 2012 for the S.
thats a difference of about 20 or 25K$ between 4.7 and S, thats why I want to know if its really worth it...

If those figures are right you are getting the following extra for your extra $25k..... (a rough list only but it gives you an idea)

2 year younger car with various updates like the new Beru tyre pressure system, enhanced Bluetooth and optional nav was upgraded to Garmin during the 12MY.

Latest styling with V12 look wide side sills, carbon fibre front and rear splitter (expensive!), clear rear lenses, enhanced aerodynamics.

Extra 10bhp and 15Ib-ft, + around 20kg lighter!

Sportshift II transmission with different ratios combining with the uprated V8 to create a more free revving dynamic feel, longer 7th to enhance economy. Takes getting used to but suits the S really well with fast changes increasing the oerformance gap between S and standard V8.

Sport button, with a more aggressive throttle map and extra exhaust noise + Track mode option for the DSC.

Fantastic sports exhaust system

More direct steering.

Larger front brakes with 6-piston calipers and new module featuring hill start and hydraulic brake assist.

New V-spoke alloys with wider tyres

Sport suspension for more involving handling.

Uprated interior with folded leather/three track stitching on doors/seats/ front lower console and S logos - looks fab!

Higher base spec.

It's down to personal opinion but I prefer the V8S Roadster to the original V12 Roadster, it's simply a sweeter more balanced package, although the new V12SR is better still ... if you can afford one!

Test drive both and see what you think..

[CSK1]

Grant3 said:

The new V12SR is better still ... if you can afford one!

I couldn't agree more! :-)

[evil chevy]

Thank you for all the reply, this really helped me to get more info between each model.
As much as I would like a S, I think I would prefer a manual.
I'll have to test drive the 2009 and 2012 and see by myself, so far I only tried the paddle version...
going from a Corvette grand sport and few Z06 I am a bit worried to miss the power, but getting behind the wheel of an aston should replace that...
so know have to find a test drive in Los Angeles.

[V8 Vantage GT]

Why not try and find a GT.? It has the S 430 horsepower and sport exhaust, and also comes in a manual 6 speed.

[V8 Vantage GT]

I would have loved to get the V12, but for and extra $50,000! No way, I work too hard for my money. Some of these post give me the impression the V8 should be looked down upon. How f****ing arrogant.

Edited by V8 Vantage GT on Saturday 16th January 04:53

[J12KJR]

V8 Vantage GT said:

I would have loved to get the V12, but for and extra $50,000! No way, I work too hard for my money. Some of these post give me the impression the V8 should be looked down upon. How f****ing arrogant.

Edited by V8 Vantage GT on Saturday 16th January 04:53

I do think that at times you have to read between the lines here on Pistonheads. There is a lot of banter especially among some of the UK members about training bras and junior versions when it comes to the Vantage. For the most part it is meant in fun although I am sure you will find the odd person who means it, they exist in all walks of life.
If you are lucky enough to own any Vantage you have done well and own a lovely car but there are different versions and they suit different drivers.
Depending on your driving style will dictate whether you want something you need to rev to get the best out of 4.3 V8 or if you prefer to ride along on a wave of torque 5.9 V12. Both lovely in their own way but at vastly different cost.
Grants detailing of the differences probably sums things up between 4.7 to 4.7S best, a lot of minor changes that either make the car for you or don't.
Personally I preferred my S to my 4.7 Sport Pack, it just felt like a nicer drive to me but I preferred the V12S I was loaned to both of them.
Was it better than them I don't really know but it made me feel good (or at least better) than the other two.

So upshot is don't take exception to peoples writings, I don't think they are being arrogant.

By the way lovely car you have there Mr GT, my second choice should I be lucky enough to rejoin the ownership experience just behind the V12.

Edited by J12KJR on Saturday 16th January 09:10