No time to die
Aston Martin calls it quits on the Vantage lineup after 15 years with one last hurrah
THIS IS IT. THE LAST V12-ENGINED Aston Martin is a limited-run model that produces 690bhp from its 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12. This makes it the most powerful Vantage yet, with power up by 187bhp compared to the V8. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a ZF 8-speed automatic ’box through a mechanical limited slip diff at the rear. Aston Martin claims a 0-100kmph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 322kmph, and since this is the last V12-engined Vantage, the demand for it is immense. But with the production run of 333 units already sold out, even the Quartermaster will have to scour the classifieds to find one for a certain 007. The Vantage continues to look like a stunner, with the long-hood and short tail silhouette made of carbonfibre and composite materials to keep weight in check, just like the GT3 racer it is inspired by. There is an increased emphasis on aero, with a full width front splitter and integrated diffuser at the rear, the rear wing providing 204kg of maximum downforce at top speed. The widebody design also means the track of the Vantage is wider by 40mm. The suspension spring rates have been increased too (50 per cent up front and 40 per cent at the rear) along with increased stiffness to aid the dynamics further.
Inside, the layout is identical to the current model but with the addition of a sportier seat, though there’s also a carbonfibre performance version with an exposed twill carbonfibre shell that saves 7.3kg. These are part of a lightweight package which also include the 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot 4S rubber. Enthusiasts will surely miss it. ⌧