Aston Martin DBS vs Vantage: Which One Should You Choose?
When you’re in the market for an Aston Martin, it’s no easy decision to pick between the DBS and Vantage. Both offer incredible performance, stylish design, and the unmistakable flair of the Aston Martin brand. But these two cars cater to different types of drivers with their own strengths and flaws. So let’s dive deep into what makes each car special and help you decide which one might suit your needs better.
Overview: The DBS and Vantage at a Glance
Both the Aston Martin DBS and Vantage are beautiful beasts, but they appeal to distinct drivers. The DBS is a grand tourer (GT) that prioritizes long-distance comfort without sacrificing high performance. On the other hand, the Vantage is all about pure agility and driver-focused experience. If the DBS is a suit tailored for long cruises, the Vantage feels more like a racing jacket designed for weekend sprints.
- DBS: 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12, 715 hp
- Vantage: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, 503 hp (Standard) / 700 hp (V12 variant)
- Price: DBS starts around $330,000, Vantage at $150,000
Now let’s explore how these models stand apart across important categories like performance, design, comfort, and more.
Performance: Power vs Precision
The difference in engine choices tells you a lot about what each car is made for.
DBS: A Beast with a Big Heart
The Aston Martin DBS is powered by a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 that roars with 715 horsepower. With a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds, it’s not just fast; it’s a luxury missile on wheels. You can really feel the immense torque (664 lb-ft) pulling you forward at any speed.
- Top Speed: 211 mph
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive
“Driving the DBS feels like you are in charge of a rocket with leather seats” says Alex Collantes, a long-time Aston Martin enthusiast.
Drawbacks:
The downside? The DBS is heavy. Weighing in at over 4,000 pounds, it doesn’t feel as nimble around tight corners as you’d expect. Plus the rear-wheel-drive setup can be a handful on wet roads. If you are looking for a sharp track weapon, this might not hit the spot.
Vantage: Precision Perfected
On the flip side, the Vantage is designed for the driver who loves handling and feedback. It comes standard with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 503 horsepower. That may sound less powerful, but thanks to a lighter frame, the Vantage feels incredibly agile and engaging.
- Top Speed: 195 mph
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic or 7-speed manual (AMR edition)
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive (AWD available on V12 version)
The Vantage V12, which pushes 700 hp, is the ultimate evolution of the Vantage, rivaling the DBS in straight-line power. Yet, even in its standard V8 form, it corners like it’s on rails and offers more control than the DBS ever could.
Drawbacks:
“The Vantage’s smaller engine doesn’t have the same theatrical sound as the DBS. It’s fast but not always as exciting on long highway runs,” Alex adds. The ride is stiffer than the DBS and space is limited inside, making it a little less friendly for long road trips.
Exterior Design: Aggression vs Elegance
Both cars are head-turners but with very different personalities.
DBS: A Statement of Sophistication
The DBS is long, low, and wide with a design that screams opulence and speed. Its carbon-fiber elements blend seamlessly with a sleek silhouette. The aggressive front grille and sculpted sides remind you this is no ordinary grand tourer.
- 21-inch wheels
- Carbon ceramic brakes
- Unique Aeroblade technology improves downforce
Potential Drawback: While the design is elegant, some might find the DBS a little too grand or flashy, especially in louder color choices like Cosmos Orange or Q by Aston Martin custom finishes. It’s a car that makes a statement whether you want it or not.
Vantage: Built for the Bold
The Vantage takes a sportier and more aggressive approach. The shorter wheelbase and wide stance give it a playful yet intimidating presence. It looks like it belongs on the racetrack with its sharp lines, wide grille, and optional fixed rear wing.
- 20-inch wheels
- Optional carbon-fiber roof
- Lightweight sports exhaust available
One area where the Vantage has the edge over the DBS is in customization. You can opt for bold choices like matte finishes or unique body kits. However, the standard model’s exhaust note doesn’t always match its looks, especially compared to the DBS V12’s growl.
Interior: Comfort or Minimalism?
When it comes to the interior experience, the DBS and Vantage could not be more different.
DBS: Lavish and Comfortable
Inside the DBS, expect leather, Alcantara, and top-tier craftsmanship everywhere you look. The seats are supportive and comfortable for long distances, making this a perfect grand tourer. The infotainment system, though functional, is still based on older Mercedes tech, which might feel outdated for some.
- 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Heated and ventilated seats
- 8-inch display with navigation
Drawbacks: The tech feels behind rivals like Porsche and Ferrari. Also, the rear seats are more of a symbolic gesture than a practical option for passengers.
Vantage: Focused and Driver-Oriented
The interior of the Vantage is more focused on the driver, with minimal distractions. It offers plenty of sporty touches like optional carbon-fiber trim and contrast stitching. The seats hug you tight, which is great for spirited drives but might become tiring on longer journeys.
- Optional Sport Plus seats
- Smaller display focused on essential controls
- No rear seats
“The Vantage cabin feels purpose-built for fun but not necessarily for comfort,” says Alex Collantes. Storage space is limited, and the interior can feel a bit tight, especially for taller drivers.
Driving Experience: Which One Is More Fun?
Both cars excel in their own ways, so the “fun factor” comes down to what kind of driving you prefer.
- For Long-Distance Touring: The DBS is your best friend with its comfortable ride and massive power reserves.
- For Track Days and Back Roads: The Vantage provides better handling and more feedback at the wheel.
- Sound: The DBS V12 wins this category with its thunderous exhaust note.
- Gearbox Options: The Vantage offers a manual option, which is rare these days and adds a lot to the driving experience.
Price and Value
- Aston Martin DBS: Starts at $330,000
- Aston Martin Vantage: Starts at $150,000
With nearly double the starting price, the DBS offers more exclusivity and power. However, the Vantage provides better value for drivers who want a sports car that’s usable both on the road and on the track. The V12 Vantage sits in between these two models, offering a compromise in power and exclusivity.
Potential Drawback: Both cars come with high maintenance costs and insurance premiums. Neither option will be cheap to own long term.
Conclusion: Which Aston Martin Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Aston Martin DBS and Vantage depends on what you prioritize in a car.
- Choose the DBS if you want a powerful grand tourer that exudes luxury and can cross continents comfortably.
- Choose the Vantage if you value sharp handling, agility, and a more connected driving experience.
Both cars are incredible machines with their own set of pros and cons. The DBS offers more power and comfort but feels heavier and less agile. The Vantage delivers better handling but sacrifices some comfort along the way.
As Alex Collantes puts it “The DBS feels like a personal jet on the road but the Vantage is the one you want when the road gets twisty. It’s hard to go wrong with either one”
Ultimately both models capture the spirit of Aston Martin. Whether you opt for the opulent DBS or the focused Vantage you’ll be getting a car that turns heads and puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.
Final Tip: If budget allows, test drive both. It’s hard to really appreciate what these cars offer until you experience them firsthand.