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Aston Martin Vantage V8 and V12 (Gen 1) Buyers Guide

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The unveiling of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage in 2005 signified an important moment for the storied British luxury sports car brand, marking its bold entry into a more compact, performance-focused segment. This move was aimed at broadening its appeal and competing directly with established sports cars from marques like Porsche and Ferrari.

The V8 Vantage, often referred to as the ‘baby Aston’ due to its more smaller size compared to its V12 siblings, quickly rose to popularity, living up to and often exceeding the high expectations set by its previous lineage.

The V8 Vantage’s design was a big hit, with a sleek look that combined classic Aston Martin style with a modern twist. It had sharp lines and a shape that made it look fast even when it was standing still. This design wasn’t just about looking good; it also helped the car cut through the air better, making it more fun to drive.

Positioned as a more accessible yet equally exciting alternative to the larger flagship Aston Martin DB9, the V8 Vantage struck a fine balance between elegance and performance. Under its beautifully sculpted hood lay a 4.3-liter V8 engine, designed for both robust performance and an amazing soundtrack, quintessential of the Aston Martin heritage.

With its engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics and a 6-speed manual transmission, it offered an unfiltered, hands-on driving experience that appealed to purists and enthusiasts alike, making the V8 Vantage not just a high-performer, but also a true driver’s car.

Inside, the V8 Vantage was a mix of luxury and performance-oriented design. The cabin was a testament to Aston Martin’s commitment to craftsmanship, where comfort met functionality in a seamless blend. Advanced technology was integrated with an ergonomic layout, ensuring that the V8 Vantage was as much a pleasure to drive on daily commutes as it was on spirited weekend jaunts or exhilarating track days.

When it came to competition, the V8 Vantage went up against some serious sports cars. Its rivals included the Porsche 911, Ferrari F430, and the Audi R8. Each of these cars was great in its own way, but the V8 Vantage stood out with its unique mix of British luxury and sports car fun.

One of the best things about the V8 Vantage was its commitment to a classic V8 engine in an era where others were moving to turbocharged engines. This not only gave it a great sound but also made it a standout choice for those who loved traditional sports cars. The V8 Vantage wasn’t just fast,  it was a car with a lot of character, making it a memorable part of the sports car market.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2006 Aston Martin Vantage

The 2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage marked the first full year of production for this remarkable model, following its highly anticipated reveal in 2005. This year was significant as it saw the V8 Vantage not just as a concept or a promise, but as a true sports car available to enthusiasts worldwide.

At its heart, the 2006 V8 Vantage featured a robust 4.3L V8 engine, capable of delivering a potent 380hp. This power was not just impressive but also the distinctive, exhilarating exhaust note that Aston Martin is renowned for was impressive.

The car’s design with its low-slung, sleek profile was more than just visually striking, it also contributed to the car’s presence on the road. With its unique blend of classic Aston Martin styling cues and contemporary design elements, the V8 Vantage stood out in any setting.

In terms of pricing, the 2006 V8 Vantage had a starting base price of around $110,000. This competitive pricing positioned it effectively in the market, pitting it against rivals like the Porsche 911, Ferrari F430, and the Audi R8. The V8 Vantage was not just a car; it was a statement of luxury and performance, accessible to a broader audience than some of its more exorbitantly priced competitors.

In addition, 2006.5 marked a subtle yet noteworthy update for the V8 Vantage. Shortly after the car went on sale, Aston Martin implemented changes in its early production versions. Initially, the center of the instrument panel featured yellow LED readouts, but these were soon replaced with white LEDs. This change enhanced visibility and added a modern touch to the dashboard.

The white readouts, showcasing this update, were visible in the 2006 model year brochure, indicating Aston Martin’s commitment to continuous improvement and attention to detail, even shortly after a model’s launch.

2007 Aston Martin Vantage

In 2007, Aston Martin made a significant update to the V8 Vantage by introducing the “Sportshift” transmission. This new six-speed automated manual gearbox, developed by the renowned British motorsports and engineering group Prodrive, offered a unique driving experience. It combined the feel of a manual transmission, having a clutch but no third pedal, with the convenience of automatic shifting.

Drivers could use paddles for manual control or simply leave the selector in Drive for automatic operation. Aston Martin boasted that the Sportshift enabled gear changes in a mere 0.2 seconds, enhancing the V8 Vantage’s performance credentials.

The year 2007 also brought a revision in seat upholstery patterns, adding a fresh touch to the interior. 

The base price of the 2007 Aston Martin V8 Vantage was approximately $110,000.

2008 Aston Martin Vantage

In May 2008, Aston Martin rolled out substantial updates for the V8 Vantage. The engine received a notable upgrade to a 4.7-liter capacity, providing enhanced performance. This new engine featured several improvements, including pressed-in cylinder liners, a new forged steel crankshaft with reduced mass, and larger intake valves. These changes not only increased power but also refined the engine’s responsiveness.

Both the manual and Sportshift transmissions were refined, with adjustments to the clutch and flywheel, and improved shift mapping for the Sportshift. These tweaks resulted in smoother and more engaging gear changes.

The suspension system was also overhauled. Aston Martin introduced Bilstein dampers, adjusted spring rates for better handling, and stiffer front lower suspension arm bushings to enhance steering response. These changes significantly improved the car’s dynamics, making it more agile and responsive on the road.

Aesthetically, the 2008 V8 Vantage maintained its stunning exterior design. However, it did receive new 20-spoke, 19-inch alloy wheels, available in either silver or graphite, adding a fresh flair to its appearance. Inside, a new center console made of die-cast zinc alloy with a graphite silver finish added a touch of modern sophistication.

Post the 2008 refresh, subsequent annual updates to the V8 Vantage were minimal, focusing mainly on the introduction of special edition variants. These updates ensured the V8 Vantage remained a compelling choice in the luxury sports car segment.

2009 Aston Martin Vantage

In 2009, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage lineup saw significant enhancements and an exciting expansion with the introduction of new variants, including the much-anticipated V12 Vantage. 

The entire V8 Vantage range was now powered by the upgraded 4.7-liter V8 engine, first introduced in the 2008 models. This engine, replacing the original 4.3-liter version, produced a robust 420 horsepower, offering a noticeable increase in performance, including sharper acceleration and more responsive handling.

Complementing these engine improvements were refinements to both the manual and Sportshift transmissions, ensuring a smoother and more engaging driving experience.

2009 also marked the debut of the V12 Vantage, a highly anticipated addition that brought a new level of power and prestige to the Vantage lineup. The V12 Vantage was equipped with a 5.9-liter, 510hp V12 engine, borrowed from the larger DBS, making it one of the most powerful models in the Vantage series.

This engine significantly boosted performance, turning the V12 Vantage into a true supercar contender. Alongside its impressive powertrain, the V12 Vantage featured unique styling cues and performance upgrades, including enhanced aerodynamics and a sportier suspension setup, distinguishing it from its V8 siblings. The base price was about $180,000 for the V12 Vantage. 

The introduction of new variants like the V12 Vantage, combined with the ongoing enhancements to the V8 models, ensured that the 2009 Aston Martin Vantage range offered something for every sports car enthusiast. From the heightened luxury and performance of the V8 versions to the raw power and exclusivity of the V12, the Vantage continued to be a symbol of automotive excellence and desirability.

2010 Aston Martin Vantage

For the year 2010, there were no updates made on the V8 and V12 Vantage. 

2011 Aston Martin Vantage

In 2011, the Aston Martin Vantage lineup continued its evolution with updates and the introduction of exciting new variants, further enhancing its appeal in the luxury sports car market.

A significant development in 2011 was the introduction of the V8 Vantage S, a more performance-oriented version of the standard V8 Vantage. The V8 Vantage S was equipped with an upgraded 4.7-liter V8 engine, now tuned to deliver 430hp and 361 lb-ft of torque, representing a substantial increase over the standard V8 model.

This variant was designed to offer a more dynamic and engaging driving experience, featuring sharper handling, an enhanced Sportshift II seven-speed transmission, and a more aggressive exterior styling that included a new front bumper with a larger air intake, side sills, and a distinctive rear diffuser. The base price for the V8 Vantage S started at $138,000.

Another highlight of the year was the V12 Vantage Carbon Black Edition. This special edition model was a tribute to Aston Martin’s racing heritage and craftsmanship. The Carbon Black Edition stood out with its bespoke Carbon Black paint finish, carbon fiber details, and a luxurious interior that featured hand-stitched leather and unique trim.

The car also came with enhanced performance characteristics, including a lightweight exhaust system and modified suspension, making it not just a visual standout but also a more potent performer on the road. The base price for the V12 Vantage Carbon Black Edition was $190,000.

2012 Aston Martin Vantage

For the year 2012, there were no updates made on the V8 and V12 Vantage. 

2013 Aston Martin Vantage

A major highlight of 2013 was the launch of the V12 Vantage S. The V12 Vantage S was powered by an upgraded 5.9-liter V12 engine, now producing 565hp, making it the most powerful Vantage ever produced. This increase in power was complemented by a new Sportshift III AMT (automated manual transmission), providing quicker and more responsive gear changes.

The V12 Vantage S also featured distinctive design elements like a new grille inspired by the CC100 Speedster Concept, adding to its aggressive and sporty demeanor.

In addition to performance upgrades, the V12 Vantage S received enhancements to its chassis and suspension. These improvements included a new three-stage adaptive damping system that allowed drivers to choose between Normal, Sport, and Track modes, tailoring the car’s handling to different driving conditions and preferences.

Coupled with an improved braking system and aerodynamic tweaks, the V12 Vantage S was not just faster but also more agile and capable on both road and track. 

The base price for the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S was around $184,995.

The 2013 updates also extended to the V8 Vantage models. These received subtle styling updates and technical improvements. The V8 Vantage’s 4.7-liter engine continued to deliver impressive performance, while the handling and ride quality were further refined to enhance the overall driving experience. The interior of the V8 models also saw updates, with new trim and finish options.

2014 Aston Martin Vantage

For the year 2014, there were no updates made on the V8 and V12 Vantage. 

2015 Aston Martin Vantage

Aston Martin unveiled the V8 Vantage GT, essentially the American counterpart to the N430 variant already available in other markets. This model showcased the 430-horsepower AJ37 V-8 engine, coupled with suspension upgrades from the V8 Vantage S, and boasted several distinctive styling elements. 

The V8 Vantage GT was made available in both Coupe and Roadster body styles, offering a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and the seven-speed Sportshift II transmission. This launch represented Aston Martin’s commitment to providing a dynamic and visually unique driving experience tailored to the U.S. market.

2016 Aston Martin Vantage

For the year 2016, there were no updates made on the V8 and V12 Vantage. 

2017 Aston Martin Vantage

In 2017, Aston Martin introduced the V8 Vantage GTS, which had the familiar 430-horsepower AJ37 engine, available with either a six-speed manual or the seven-speed Sportshift II transmission. The GTS was offered in two distinct trims: Sport and Lux.

The Sport trim emphasized performance with features like the Sport suspension, carbon-fiber exterior accents, and an interior finished in leather and Alcantara, complemented by an enhanced audio system. 

On the other hand, the Lux trim focused on luxury, showcasing piano black interior accents, polished exterior details, and a new Comfort suspension setting for a smoother ride. Aston Martin limited the V8 Vantage GTS production to just 100 units, all destined for the United States market. The base price for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTS was approximately $137,000.

Aston Martin Vantage Common Problems

The Aston Martin Vantage is a high-performance sports car. It’s built to deliver top performance, so it’s really important to keep it well-maintained. This means it should be taken care of by a professional who is up-to-date with the latest knowledge and uses the newest tools. 

It is essential to keep in mind that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Clutch and Gearbox Issues: The manual transmission models, particularly the earlier ones, often face premature clutch wear. This is partly due to the high performance nature of the car which puts more strain on the clutch. The Sportshift automated manual gearbox in some V8 Vantage models is known for its less-than-smooth operation, with jerky shifts and occasional reluctance to engage gears properly. These gearboxes can be expensive to repair or replace, and regular maintenance is crucial to prolong their life.

Suspension and Bushings: The suspension system, including shocks, struts, and bushings, can wear out over time. This wear can lead to a decrease in handling precision and ride comfort. The bushings, in particular, can crack or soften, leading to excessive movement in suspension components. Regular checks are important, especially for cars that are driven hard or have high mileage.

Electrical Problems: Electrical issues can range from minor annoyances to major inconveniences. Common problems include battery drain, issues with the tire pressure monitoring system, and glitches in the infotainment system. Given the complexity of the car’s electrical system, diagnosing and fixing these issues can sometimes be time-consuming and costly.

Leaking Differentials: Differential leaks are a concern, as they can lead to reduced efficiency and potential damage to other components if the differential fluid runs low. This issue often requires immediate attention to prevent more significant problems down the road.

Water Ingress: Some Vantage models suffer from water leaks, which can cause damage to the interior, including upholstery and electrical systems. The source of these leaks can be varied, including door seals, window seals, or even the bodywork itself. Fixing these leaks is crucial to prevent long-term damage, especially to sensitive electrical components.

Door Creaks and Rattles: Due to the design of the frameless windows and doors, creaks and rattles can develop, particularly in older models or those that have been exposed to rougher road conditions. This issue is more of a nuisance than a serious problem, but it can detract from the luxury experience expected from an Aston Martin.

Exhaust and Catalytic Converter Issues: The exhaust systems, including catalytic converters, can face issues due to age and the high-performance nature of the car. Problems can range from simple wear and tear to more serious issues like clogging or internal damage to the catalytic converter, leading to decreased performance and potential failure of emissions tests.

High Running Costs: Ownership of a high-end sports car like the V8 or V12 Vantage comes with high running costs. This includes routine maintenance such as oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire changes, all of which can be significantly more expensive than for a standard vehicle. Additionally, parts and labor costs for repairs can be high due to the specialized nature of the car.

Timing Chain Wear: In the V8 models, especially, the timing chain tensioners can wear out prematurely. This is a critical issue as a failure in the timing chain system can lead to severe engine damage. Regular inspection and prompt replacement of worn components are essential to avoid costly engine repairs. 

Recalls

2009-2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Coupe vehicles

Tires: Pressure monitoring and regulating systems (Recall no. 12V480000)

Underinflated tires can result in tire overloading and overheating, which could lead to tire failure and a possible crash.

Suspension: Front: Control arm: Lower arm (Recall no. 10V449000)

The front bottom suspension arm cam bolt could crack along its shank allowing the lower control arm to move.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage and V12 Vantage vehicles manufactured from May 14, 2012, through April 10, 2013

Vehicle speed control (Recall no. 13V228000)

Due to a manufacturing error, the throttle pedal arm may break.

2011-2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage vehicles

Electrical system, powertrain (Recall no. 17V389000)

Vehicles received updated transmission and engine control software which may conflict with the pre-existing clutch settings and may cause the transmission to shift to neutral, or enable clutch protection mode which give abrupt gear shifts.

2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage vehicles

Powertrain (Recall no. 17V390000)

Vehicles equipped with 6-speed Auto-Shift Manual (ASM) transmissions. A connector for the transmission fluid lines may break resulting in a hydraulic fluid leak. 

2011-2014 Aston Martin V8 Vantage vehicles

Powertrain (Recall no. 17V391000)

Vehicles equipped with 7-speed Auto-Shift Manual (ASM) “SportShift II” transmissions. A connector for the clutch fluid line may break, resulting in a hydraulic fluid leak.

2010-2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage and 2011-2016 V12 Vantage vehicles

Latches/locks/linkages (Recall no. 15V846000)

The affected vehicles are equipped with interior door unlocking mechanisms that may not function when the vehicle has been locked from the outside. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, “Door Locks and Door Retention Components.”. 

Aston Martin V12 Vantage and V8 Vantage vehicles manufactured July 3, 2006, to November 5, 2014

Seats: Front assembly: Seat heater/cooler (Recall no. 14V753000)

In the affected vehicles, the electronic control module for the driver and front passenger seat heaters may fail, preventing the seat heaters from being able to be turned off.

2011-2012 Aston Martin V12 Vantage and 2011-2014 V8 Vantage S vehicles

Vehicle speed control: Accelerator pedal (Recall no. 14V010000)

Due to a manufacturing error, the accelerator pedal arm may break.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Owning an Aston Martin Vantage, whether it’s the V8 or V12 model, is a unique experience that combines luxury and performance. 

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here is the suggested service schedule and intervals per Aston Martin:

1 YEAR or 9,000 MILES

Engine Oil and Filter: Replace the engine oil and filter at least once a year to ensure optimal engine health.

Comprehensive Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection according to factory specifications, including checks on the engine, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and more.

Complete Factory Diagnostics: Utilize factory diagnostics to check for any system errors or issues that need addressing.

2 YEARS or 18,000 MILES

Engine Coolant: Replace the engine coolant to maintain efficient engine temperature control.

Spark Plugs: Inspect and replace spark plugs if needed to ensure efficient engine performance.

Engine Oil and Filter: Replace again as part of regular maintenance.

V-belt and Tensioner: Inspect and, if necessary, replace the V-belt and tensioner to ensure proper engine and accessory operation.

Pollen Filters: Replace the pollen filters to maintain air quality inside the vehicle.

Brake Fluid: Replace the brake fluid to ensure optimal braking performance and safety.

3 YEARS or 27,000 MILES

Engine Oil and Filter: Continue with the regular replacement of engine oil and filter.

Gearbox Oil: Replace the gearbox oil to ensure the transmission operates smoothly and efficiently.

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Aston Martin Vantage:

Oil Change – For an independent mechanic, the cost can be as low as $300, while dealers may charge around $600. The price variation is due to the specialized oil and filter that Aston Martins require.

Minor Service – This usually includes an oil change, cabin filters, and engine air filters. Expect to pay about $1,200 at an independent shop and around $2,000 at a dealer.

Major Service – This comprehensive service typically includes everything in a minor service plus spark plugs, brake fluid flush, and transmission fluid flush. The cost for this service at a dealer can be around $3,000.

Tires – A set of high-performance tires suitable for the Vantage, such as the Pirelli P-Zeros, can cost around $1,500 to $2,500 depending on specifications and retailer.

Brakes – The brake pads for the Aston Martin Vantage can cost about $1,000 for a full set of OE equivalent aftermarket pads. While the rotors on these vehicles are durable, if replacement is needed, it can be quite costly, sometimes exceeding $2,000 per rotor.

Clutch – For models with a traditional manual transmission, a clutch replacement can be a significant expense, potentially around $3,000 to $5,000 when including parts and labor. The Sportshift automated manual transmission’s clutch may also require servicing or replacement over the vehicle’s lifetime, with costs in a similar range.

These costs are estimates and can vary based on location, the specific model year of the Vantage, and the choice of service provider. It’s also worth noting that Aston Martins, like all high-performance vehicles, require specialized care, and using qualified technicians or authorized dealers is always recommended to maintain vehicle integrity and value.

Options List

The Aston Martin Vantage offers a wide range of options for both V8 and V12 models, enabling extensive customization. For exterior options, there are bespoke paint colors including metallic, pearlescent, and matte finishes, and various wheel designs in sizes up to 20 inches with different finishes such as gloss black, diamond-turned, and satin.

The carbon fiber exterior pack adds side strakes, a front grille, mirror caps, and a rear diffuser, while an aero kit provides a front splitter, rear wing, and side skirts for improved aerodynamics.

Interior options include a vast selection of high-quality leather upholstery in various colors, with options for contrast stitching and embroidered headrests.

The carbon fiber interior pack brings carbon fiber accents to the dashboard, door inserts, and center console. The Alcantara package offers Alcantara upholstery for seats, steering wheel, and headliner, and the luxury pack enhances the interior with upgraded carpeting, a premium audio system, and ambient lighting. Heated and ventilated seats are also available.

Performance and handling can be enhanced with options like sports suspension, carbon ceramic brakes, and upgraded exhaust systems, including lightweight titanium systems. Engine tuning options are available for increased horsepower and torque.

Technology and safety features can be upgraded with advanced navigation systems, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, enhanced audio systems, parking sensors, rearview cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. A vehicle tracking system is also an option for added security.

The ‘Q by Aston Martin’ service provides bespoke customization, allowing for unique colors, materials, and finishes. Special edition packages offer limited edition models and trims with unique styling cues and features. These options are designed to tailor the Aston Martin Vantage to the specific tastes and requirements of each owner.

Because of the strict approval requirements, cars that went through the Q by Aston Martin program are considered highly desirable. 

These cars usually command a higher premium in the market due to their exclusivity and uniqueness. 

Here are some examples of window stickers:

Some of the more desirable options to look for include:

Manual Transmission

Carbon Ceramic Brakes

Sport Exhaust System

Interior Luxury Pack (Upgraded features like premium audio systems, ambient lighting, and superior quality carpeting for enhanced comfort and luxury inside the cabin.)

Q by Aston Martin (Rare)

Aston Martin V8 Vantage S Ordering Guide

Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Ordering Guide

(Gen 1) Aston Martin V8 Vantage and V12 Vantage Price and Values

The Best Aston Martin Vantage to Buy

When considering the purchase of an Aston Martin Vantage, certain models and variants stand out for their potential to maintain or even appreciate in value. These models combine performance, rarity, and sought-after features that appeal to enthusiasts and collectors.

Vantage V12

The Vantage V12 is a standout choice for its sheer power and performance. With a 5.9-liter V12 engine, it offers an exhilarating driving experience that is hard to match. This model is particularly appealing to those who value the traditional, high-power engine in an era increasingly dominated by downsized and turbocharged units. Its rarity and performance credentials make it a likely candidate for future appreciation, especially the ones that was optioned with the manual transmission.

Vantage S

The Vantage S, available in both V8 and V12 variants, offers an enhanced performance package over the standard models. With more power, improved handling, and distinctive styling cues, the Vantage S strikes a balance between a luxury sports car and a high-performance machine. The V12 version, in particular, with its more powerful engine and sportier setup, is a desirable option for collectors.

V8 Vantage GT

The V8 Vantage GT brings a more accessible yet equally thrilling option to the table. It stands out for its sporty aesthetics and the balanced performance it offers. The GT model combines elements of luxury and sportiness in a unique package that is attractive to a wide range of buyers. Its position as a more budget-friendly entry into the Aston Martin world could make it a sought-after model in the future.

V8 Vantage GTS

The V8 Vantage GTS, especially in the Sport Edition, is another model to consider. It offers a combination of performance enhancements and luxury features. Limited production numbers and the choice between Sport and Lux editions add to its exclusivity. The Sport Edition, with its focus on dynamic performance, is particularly appealing for its driving experience and potential collectability.

Manual Transmission Models

Across all variants, models equipped with a manual transmission are increasingly sought after. In a market moving towards automatics, manual Vantages stand out for their driver engagement and appeal to purists. They offer a more connected driving experience, which is highly prized among enthusiasts.

In summary, the best Aston Martin Vantage to buy is one that aligns with your preferences for performance, exclusivity, and driving experience. Models like the Vantage V12, Vantage S, V8 Vantage GT, and V8 Vantage GTS, especially those with manual transmissions, are not only enjoyable to own and drive but also stand a good chance of holding their value over time.

When choosing a Vantage, considering these aspects can lead to a rewarding investment in both a financial and an automotive sense.

It’s important to do your research, compare prices, and look for well-maintained cars if you are considering purchasing a Huracan with the goal of not losing any money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, starting at around ($90,000+) for the V8 and climbing higher for the V12, the Aston Martin Vantage is an excellent choice for those looking for a distinguished blend of luxury, elegance, and performance in a sports car.

Amidst its competition, the V8 Vantage competes with sports cars like the Porsche 911, Ferrari F430, and the Audi R8. While each of these rivals has its own merits, the V8 Vantage carves out a unique niche with its distinct blend of British elegance, luxury, and driving enjoyment. It’s not just about raw performance; the Vantage brings a level of refinement and character that sets it apart in the crowded sports car market.

In summary, for anyone considering a high-end sports car, the Aston Martin Vantage stands out as a top choice. It delivers an unmatched combination of style, luxury, and performance, making it a car that’s not only a joy to drive but also a symbol of automotive sophistication. 

Car Hacking Shortcuts

Manual transmission vantages will be most desirable and retain the most value.

V12 Vantage, Vantage S, V8 Vantage GT, and V8 Vantage GTS will be future collectibles.

Spec matters: Look for any Vantage’s that were spec’d through Q by Aston Martin.

Look for well-maintained, low-mile Vantage.

The post Aston Martin Vantage V8 and V12 (Gen 1) Buyers Guide first appeared on Exotic Car Hacks.

The post Aston Martin Vantage V8 and V12 (Gen 1) Buyers Guide appeared first on Exotic Car Hacks.

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