Aston Martin Vantage: The V12 Ad-Vantage

July 13, 11:22 AMAutomotive ExaminerKyle Busch

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The limited edition Aston Martin V12 Vantage is a sports car that inspirers
its pilot to drive hard and it rewards you with an exceptional motoring
experience.

One look at its heavily vented hood and you know something special is
under the hood. Past Vantages have been powered by V8 engines, however,
this Aston Martin has a V12 in the engine bay providing 512 hp and a top
speed of 190 mph.

It has the menacing air of a track car, but settle into the optional one-piece
carbon fiber seat, grip the Alcantara-clad steering wheel, and it is a very
civilized performance car. That is until you press the start button and the
V12 bursts into action. When on full boil, the engine sounds like the DBR9s
screaming down the pit straight at Le Mans.

A firm hand is needed to shift the 6-speed manual transmission. The steering
provides good feedback and linearity. The 51% front and 49% rear weight
distribution provides balanced handling aided by 0.6 lower suspension and
45% stiffer springs as compared to the regular Vantage offering.

Press the Sport button and a quicker throttle response makes the car feel
as if it has after burners. At the other end, the carbon fiber discs at the
four corners lowers the speed quickly.

The price of the V12 Vantage has not been announced. Unfortunately, the
car is made for drivers who do not need to ask about the price. Expect this
supercar to possibly be in U.S. showrooms in 2011 or 2012.

Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price…” He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
www.DriveTheBestBook.com. 

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