The Aston Martin Vantage is a true gem in the world of sports cars. It may not be the loudest or most aggressive car on the road, but it offers a perfect balance of power and refinement for everyday driving. With a fuel efficiency of around 25mpg on the motorway, it can easily skip every other service station on a long journey.
Enthusiasts will appreciate the seven-speed manual transmission, which offers a tactile and engaging driving experience. While they may be hard to come by, the manual Vantage is a true driver’s car that pairs perfectly with the V8 engine. If you can’t find a manual, the automatic version is still a great option at a lower cost.
Despite its stiff suspension, the Vantage offers a surprisingly comfortable ride on long trips, making it a great grand tourer. However, when you take it on a twisty mountain road, the Vantage truly comes alive. With precise steering, excellent body control, and adaptive dampers, it handles like a dream and can easily switch from a relaxed GT to a track-ready supercar with the push of a button.
For those looking for an even more track-focused experience, the F1 Edition offers stiffer suspension, more power, and improved aerodynamics. While it comes at a higher price point, it delivers even sharper handling on the track, making it a true performance machine.
Inside the Vantage, the cockpit is well-designed with plenty of physical controls, storage space, and a comfortable driving position. The infotainment system may be a bit outdated, but there are options to upgrade it with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a more modern experience.
Overall, the Aston Martin Vantage may lack some modern features, but it more than makes up for it with its fun, characterful driving experience. It’s a true bargain among Aston Martin’s lineup, offering a perfect blend of performance and luxury.