A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.8
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
3
Practicality
3.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a sports car that combines British craftsmanship with heart-stopping performance? The Aston Martin Vantage might be exactly what you’re dreaming of. This stunning grand tourer represents the entry point into Aston Martin ownership, delivering genuine supercar thrills with surprising everyday usability. The Vantage stands apart in the luxury sports car segment with its handcrafted interior, thunderous V8 engine, and that unmistakable Aston Martin presence that turns heads wherever you go.
Unlike mass-produced sports cars, the Vantage offers an exclusive ownership experience that rivals like the Porsche 911 or BMW M4 simply can’t match. Every Vantage is assembled by hand at Aston Martin’s Gaydon facility, ensuring exceptional build quality and attention to detail. The current generation features a Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that produces 503 bhp, launching you from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Yet despite this performance, the Vantage remains surprisingly civilised for daily driving, with a refined ride quality and practical boot space.
The Vantage appeals to drivers who want something truly special rather than just fast. Yes, it costs significantly more than mainstream sports cars, but you’re buying into a piece of automotive heritage and exclusivity. Whether you’re seeking a weekend escape machine or a daily driver that makes every journey memorable, the Aston Martin Vantage delivers an emotional connection that few cars can provide. For those considering car finance, the Vantage represents a sound investment in driving pleasure and British automotive excellence.
How Does the Aston Martin Vantage Drive?
The Aston Martin Vantage is all about thrilling performance. The heart of the car is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine borrowed from Mercedes-AMG, producing 503 horsepower. This mighty powerplant launches the Vantage from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, accompanied by a soundtrack that will make your spine tingle. The eight-speed automatic gearbox shifts smoothly in comfort mode but snaps through gears aggressively when you select Sport or Track modes.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
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Power Output
503 bhp
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0-60 mph
3.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
23 mpg
- Boot Space
- 350 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Aston Martin Vantage: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Vantage and you’re immediately surrounded by luxury and craftsmanship. The interior design perfectly balances modern technology with traditional British elegance. Premium leather covers almost every surface, with beautiful contrast stitching and metal details throughout. The sports seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys. Everything from the engine start button to the gear selector feels special and purposeful.
The Aston Martin Vantage is a masterclass in British grand touring, blending handcrafted luxury with exhilarating performance. Its twin-turbo V8 delivers 503 hp, catapulting it to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The interior marries opulence with precision, though running costs and practicality lag. While not a daily driver, it’s a compelling choice for those craving raw power and timeless elegance.
Is the Aston Martin Vantage Expensive to Run?
As you’d expect from a hand-built British sports car, the Vantage comes with premium running costs. Fuel economy averages around 23 mpg in mixed driving, though this can drop significantly if you enjoy the performance regularly. Insurance costs are high due to the car’s value and performance, typically falling into the highest groups. Servicing must be carried out by Aston Martin specialists, with annual costs often reaching several thousand pounds.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Aston Martin Vantage
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Porsche 911 Turbo
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BMW M8
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £120,000 | £115,000 | £118,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 3.8L Twin-Turbo F6 | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Power | 503 bhp | 572 bhp | 617 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.5 seconds | 2.7 seconds | 3.2 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 23 mpg | 29 mpg | 25 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 350 litres | 132 litres | 420 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Stunning design, V8 soundtrack, British craftsmanship | Ultimate performance, All-weather capability, Daily usability | Grand touring comfort, Advanced tech, Powerful engine |
Aston Martin Vantage Practicality & Boot Space
For a sports car, the Vantage offers reasonable practicality for two people. The 350-litre boot is surprisingly generous, easily accommodating weekend luggage or several bags of shopping. The opening is wide and the space is well-shaped, making loading easier than in many rivals. Inside the cabin, storage is limited but thoughtfully designed. There are cup holders, door pockets, and a small glovebox for essentials.
Absolutely stunning car that never fails to put a smile on my face. The engine note is incredible and the handling is so engaging. Yes, it’s expensive to run, but the experience is worth every penny for a proper sports car enthusiast.
The Aston Martin Vantage stands out in the competitive sports car market by offering genuine emotion and character. It packages stunning design, thrilling performance, and British craftsmanship into a surprisingly usable package. While it may not be the most practical or economical choice in its class, it excels in the areas that matter most to driving enthusiasts: beauty, performance, and exclusivity.