Aston Martin brings its most potent sports car to North America for 2011 with the V12 Vantage, a 510-horsepower version of its low-slung two-seater that tops the V-8 Vantage by 90 hp. While the V-8 Vantage is available as a hardtop coupe or convertible with a choice of automatic or manual transmissions, the V-12 version is coupe only and manual transmission only. The V8 Vantage is covered in a separate report in the Cars.com Research section.
A Carbon Black special edition has unique metallic paint created by hand, carbon fiber side strakes, black 10-spoke wheels, black leather upholstery and black interior trim.
Exterior The V12 Vantage’s frame replaces welding with advanced adhesives for better vibration damping, and aluminum and magnesium components reduce weight throughout the chassis. Exterior features include:
High-intensity-discharge headlights
Flared front fenders are trailed by inset side vents
Integrated deck lid spoiler and twin exhaust pipes
19-inch wheels
LED taillights
Interior A dizzying array of interior choices means each V12 Vantage can be personalized by its buyer. Premium materials line the aluminum-trimmed dashboard, which includes a ringed push-button ignition above the radio controls. Interior features include:
10-way power seats feature twin lumbar adjustment and memory function
Optional dual-stage heated seats
Standard Bluetooth connectivity
Standard navigation system
Automatic climate control
Analog clock, stitched dashboard seams and machined instrument dials are among the upscale touches
Carbon fiber door handles
Under the Hood The 6.0-liter V-12 makes 510 hp in the rear-drive Vantage. The engine has Normal and Sport modes engaged by a button, and Sport delivers sharper throttle response and a sportier exhaust note. Mechanical features include:
510-hp, 6.0-liter V-12
Rear-mounted six-speed manual transmission
Zero to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds
Top speed of 190 mph
Safety Safety features include:
Antilock brakes
Electronic brake force distribution
Emergency braking assist
Traction control
Electronic stability system
Side-impact airbags are standard; seats incorporate head-protection airbags
