Special edition a farewell to the line
But what a farewell, thanks to a 690 hp twin-turbo V12
The V12 Vantage is Back. Aston Martin has packed its biggest engine into its smallest car once again, giving the model what it calls a “spectacular finale.” The car’s numbers are impressive, but what’s even more impressive is that they sold out before even going on sale.
In its previous iteration, the 5.9L Aston Martin V12 Vantage and its heavily louvred bonnet was the hot rod of the lineup. While it disappeared with the second-gen Vantage in 2017, Aston Martin teased what it could do with the highly limited Speedster V12 in 2020. Now, it’s time for the standard V12 Vantage, and it is glorious.
The 5.2L twin-turbo V12 makes 690 hp and 555 lb-ft of torque, with its peak torque on tap from 1,800 through 6,000 rpm. That’s a serious hike over the standard Vantage and its V8, but Aston has done even more to make the 2023 V12 Vantage even quicker. Aston’s eight-speed auto gets programming from the V12 Speedster and Vantage F1 that make it quicker, more responsive, and more refined.
Tweaks like a new carbon fibre front bumper and clamshell hood. No louvres this time, but it’s no less dramatic than its predecessor. The rear bumper and trunk lid are also made from composite materials, while a stainless steel exhaust and a lighter battery help trim even more.
Aston Martin has stretched the fenders 40 mm, helping fit massive 315-wide Michelin rubber in the rear. Inside those 21-inch wheels are carbon-ceramic brakes that slash another 23 kg compared with their iron counterparts. Stiffer springs, mounts, and a stiffer front roll bar help batten down the chassis, with a 41 percent softer rear bar and rear tender spring helping the ride comfort.
The cabin is equally special, offering a Sports Plus seat trimmed in semi-aniline leather or an optional exposed carbon performance seat. Q by Aston Martin, the brand’s custom service, can also dress out the car with almost anything you can dream of.
Just 333 of the Aston Martin V12 Vantage models will be built, but Aston says the order books are already closed. The company cites “unprecedented demand” and “an oversubscribed register of interest.” At least buyers won’t have to wait long to see their cars. Aston says deliveries should start in Q2 of this year.
