Aston Martin V12 Vantage: Spotted
An atmospheric V12 encased in one of the prettiest sports car to make production? Where do we sign?!
The previous-generation Aston Martin Vantage hasn’t aged well at all because, er, it hasn’t aged. Much in the same way you might confuse a youthful parent for someone’s sibling, the old Vantage’s gorgeous, taut proportions mean it looks as fresh as it did when the first version arrived in 2005. Whisper this: to some eyes, it’s prettier than the new car…
It is also the last Vantage to drink its air directly from the atmosphere, rather than be force fed it via a couple of turbochargers. And, more significantly, it looks set to remain the final Vantage to have come with a V12 engine, because Aston is apparently less keen to integrate its latest 5.2-litre blown 12 into the current Vantage so as not to hamper its keen handling. The lighter AMG-made V8 option is a better match, the brand reckons.
This leaves the V12 version of the previous car in a very desirable position, particularly when equipped with a manual gearbox. It offers, as it did when new, a truly analogue experience. There’s instantaneous throttle response from the old naturally aspirated 5.9-litre engine, and it needs to be worked hard to produce its 510hp, which comes at 6,500rpm.
That being said, torque peaks at 420lb ft so there was plenty of mid-range to lean on, and using the six-speed manual gearbox (which was eventually discontinued) is a joy - further encouraging those in love with the glorious sound of that 12 cylinder (absolutely everyone) to send the engine singing towards its red line. In this case, the car’s pace is swift, with the 0-62mp dash taking 4.2sec, while top speed is 190mph.
This is not just a vocally talented straight-line sprinter, though, because the V12 Vantage – even with its weightier power source – is a deliciously balanced machine. Its short wheelbase means the Vantage feels agile and very throttle adjustable, while the car’s hydraulically assisted steering pours information into your fingertips so you’re always a step ahead. The damping is excellent so the car is as refined as it is nimble and, well, as package, it helps to make this car a keen driver’s dream.
Prices for used V12 models haven’t fallen as sharply as V8 versions, which is of little surprise, but that shouldn’t deter a buyer from opting for the larger capacity model; their comparable rarity means they're likely to remain the more desirable option.
Take this one we’ve found with 17,000 miles on the clock from eight years of life. It looks to fit the bill perfectly with just two former keepers, the latest of which appears to have maintained it with no expenses spared and garage storage. It comes finished in discreet silver with 19-inch diamond cut wheels and a black leather interior.
At nearly £90k it’s not cheap, but this cherished example stands out among the crowd. Plus, this is the last of a very lovely breed of atmospheric V12 British sports car - one we'll no doubt miss in the future, and therefore well deserving of anyone's cash in 2018.
SPECIFICATION - ASTON MARTIN V12 VANTAGE
Engine: 5,935cc V12
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 510@6,500
Torque (lb ft): 420@5750rpm
0-62mph: 4.2sec
Top speed: 190mph
Weight: 1,695kg
MPG: 17.2
CO2: 388g/km
First registered: 2012
Recorded mileage: 26,000
Price now: £89,995
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