It is the end of the road for the compact British sportscar, but thanks to its huge engine, it will be the fastest version yet. This is the Aston Martin V12 Vantage.

Thanks to electrification, supercar companies are having to rethink things and develop new platforms and new powertrains. Unfortunately this means that many current models are being put out to pasture. The Aston Martin Vantage is one such vehicle. However, before its retired, the British carmaker has given it an enormous engine, special aerodynamics and other enhancements.

This is the Aston Martin V12 Vantage and it is powered by a 5.2-litre V12 with twin-turbochargers. A colossal 515 kW and 753 Nm are on tap, which is 140 kW / 68 Nm more than the standard V8 Vantage. Performance is quick, with a 0-100 kph dispatched in a claimed 3.4 seconds. A top speed of 322 kph puts it amongst supercar royalty.

It’s not just about a large engine, as the Aston Martin V12 Vantage has been put on a diet in order to maximise its power-to-weight ratio and improve handling. There’s extensive use of carbon fibre, a lightweight battery and a lightweight twin exhaust setup mounted centrally. This exhaust alone is 7.2 kg lighter than the standard plumbing.

Power goes to the rear wheels via the same 8-speed automatic that is found in the V12 Speedster, with Aston Martin claiming this transmission is calibrated to be responsive yet more refined than a dual-clutch setup. An adaptive damping suspension has been fitted, which should allow for both comfort and direct handling.

The suspension has also received a makeover with stiffer springs at the front and rear, stiffer anti-roll bars and body stiffness increased by 8%. A limited-slip diff, revised steering setup, carbon-ceramic brakes and trick aerodynamics further enhance its dynamic abilities.

So, can you get one? The Aston Martin V12 Vantage will be limited to just 333 units, but the company says demand for the vehicle has been astronomical with every unit already reserved. There’s a waiting list too, and there’s hope that Aston Martin may make a few more to satisfy demand. Customers should be receiving their cars from the 2nd quarter of 2022.

Further Reading

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