Aston Martin Vantage in detail
- > Engine, gearbox and tech specs – Muscular V8 isn’t as vocal as you’d expect, yet it’s a potent performer. Smooth and responsive eight-speed auto lacks the slickness of the best twin-clutch units
- > Performance and 0-60 time – Traction is an issue off the line but once rolling the Mercedes-engined Aston punches hard
- > Ride and handling – Firm low speed ride aside the Aston is surprisingly supple, while handling is engaging and agile, if a little ragged when pushed hard.
- > MPG and running costs – Adoption of the Mercedes engine means better than expected efficiency, although it’ll still melt your wallet when performance is uncorked.
- > Interior and tech – Boldly styled and spacious interior is packed with tech, but there are some concerns over inconsistent quality.
- > Design – Bold Aston looks great in profile and from the rear, but nose treatment is a little bland.
Prices, specs and rivals
With a starting price of £120,900 the Aston Martin Vantage is far more expensive than its predecessor. In terms of performance, technology and desirability the higher price is arguably justified, but it also puts the Aston on a collision course with some supremely talented rivals.
Take the Audi R8, for instance. For starters it looks stunning, while in £128,200, 562bhp V10 quattro guise it’s got the Vantage covered for driving dynamics and just beaten for sound and fury – that howling V10 is one of the great internal combustion engines. With its mid-engined layout, all-wheel drive and that Audi badge it’s a very different proposition to the Vantage, but well worthy of your attention.
As is the Porsche 911. Porsche hasn’t yet furnished us with details of the 911 Turbo version of the latest 992, but the last car put up a strong fight to an admittedly dynamically-hobbled Vantage. The regular 992 is already a polished product, but does lack one aspect the Vantage has in spades: character. It’ll be fascinating to get the pair together.
Even Britain itself can field a Vantage rival, though like the R8 it’s cut from a very different cloth. Next to Sennas and Speedtails the McLaren 570GT doesn’t generate many headlines, but its huge performance and flowing ride quality mean it’s as much a cruiser as a B-road thriller. Like the Aston the cabin is imperfect and despite its GT badge luggage space is still limited for touring, but at £154,000 it’s another worth considering.
Article from 
www.evo.co.uk
30 Apr 2020
