Aston Martin Vantage vs DB12: Which One Is Right for You?
Aston Martin is known for making some of the most beautiful and powerful sports cars on the planet. The Vantage and DB12 are two of the standout models in their current lineup, each offering their own unique flair. But which one should you pick? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down both cars in detail, covering performance, design, features, and even potential drawbacks. We’ll also explore some expert opinions, including insights from automotive enthusiast Alex Collantes, who shares his personal thoughts on the two models.
Overview: Two Cars with Distinct Personalities
The Aston Martin Vantage and the Aston Martin DB12 represent different aspects of the brand’s DNA. The Vantage is sharp and aggressive, designed for those who want a thrilling driving experience, while the DB12 carries the legacy of grand touring excellence. But beneath their differences lies the same luxury touch and attention to detail that Aston Martin is famous for.
Design and Styling
Vantage: Compact and Ready for Action
The Vantage has a low, wide stance that gives it a muscular and aggressive look. It's a car built to turn heads, with bold lines that emphasize speed. The front grille is large, the LED headlights are sleek, and the rear diffuser hints at the car’s performance capability. You’ll get a variety of colors and customization options too, letting you shape your Vantage to reflect your style.
DB12: Elegant Yet Commanding
The DB12 brings a more mature and refined aesthetic. It is larger than the Vantage, with an elongated front hood and a more flowing design. It still exudes sportiness but with a touch of elegance. The new DB12 also introduced sharper lines compared to its predecessor, the DB11, giving it a more modern and aggressive feel without compromising its grand touring charm.
Performance: Speed or Comfort?
Vantage Performance
The Vantage comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 503 hp and 505 lb-ft of torque. It can hit 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, making it one of the most nimble and fast-handling sports cars in its segment. The steering is quick, the car feels planted on corners, and the exhaust note is raw and exciting. However, it’s not all sunshine. The stiff ride can be tiring for long trips, and the Vantage’s smaller size means you sacrifice some practicality.
Alex Collantes’ Take:
“The Vantage is an absolute blast to drive. It feels like the car just sticks to the road. But, I have to admit, the firm suspension is not ideal for everyday use. I’d probably avoid it for long highway drives unless you love feeling every bump.”
DB12 Performance
The DB12 replaces the old V12 with a revised version of Aston’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, now tuned to produce 671 hp. Despite its grand tourer character, it can sprint from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, slightly faster than the Vantage. However, the DB12’s suspension is more forgiving, offering a smoother ride for long distances. It's a perfect blend of performance and comfort, though its larger size makes it feel less agile than the Vantage on tight corners.
Alex Collantes’ Take:
“The DB12 delivers the best of both worlds. It has the power when you need it but it doesn't compromise comfort. It’s a great road trip car. If I’m being picky though it doesn't feel as sharp as the Vantage on twisty roads.”
Interior and Technology
Vantage Interior: Driver-Focused but Compact
The Vantage’s cabin is focused on the driving experience. Everything is centered around the driver, with snug sport seats and a relatively minimal layout. It features an 8-inch infotainment screen but the tech can feel a bit outdated compared to newer luxury cars. Storage space is limited too so don’t expect to carry much more than a weekend bag.
DB12 Interior: Luxury Meets Technology
The DB12 takes things up a notch with a more luxurious and spacious interior. You get leather everywhere, high-quality materials, and more advanced tech. The new infotainment system is vastly improved with a larger touchscreen and better connectivity features. The DB12 also offers more legroom, making it ideal for long trips.
Pricing and Value
- Vantage: Starts at around $150,000
- DB12: Starts at approximately $250,000
While both cars are undoubtedly expensive, the Vantage is more accessible for those looking for a high-performance sports car. The DB12, on the other hand, comes at a premium, reflecting its grand touring focus and luxury features.
Pros and Cons of Each Model
Vantage: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Aggressive styling
- Quick acceleration
- Fun to drive on twisty roads
- More affordable than the DB12
Cons
- Stiff suspension
- Limited interior space
- Infotainment feels outdated
DB12: Pros and Cons
Pros
- More power and smoother performance
- Luxurious and spacious interior
- Better for long trips
- Advanced tech compared to Vantage
Cons
- More expensive
- Larger size can feel less nimble
- Lacks the character of a naturally aspirated V12
Which One Should You Buy?
Both the Vantage and DB12 offer incredible driving experiences, but they cater to different needs. The Vantage is for those who want a thrilling sports car that makes every drive exciting. It’s compact, powerful, and offers a connection to the road that few cars can match. But the trade-off is a stiffer ride and limited practicality.
The DB12 is for those who want luxury with performance. It’s the perfect grand tourer for long trips with its comfortable ride and tech-rich cabin. However, it doesn’t feel as agile as the Vantage, and the high price may put it out of reach for some buyers.
Final Verdict
If you want a car that makes you feel alive every time you hit the gas, the Aston Martin Vantage is the way to go. But if you prefer to combine speed with comfort and luxury, the Aston Martin DB12 will suit you better. Each model offers something unique and appealing—there’s no wrong choice between the two.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is the Aston Martin Vantage a good daily driver?
It depends. While it’s fun to drive, the stiff suspension can make it uncomfortable for everyday use. -
Does the DB12 still have a V12 engine?
No. Aston Martin replaced the V12 with a tuned twin-turbo V8. -
Which car is faster: Vantage or DB12?
The DB12 is slightly faster with a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds compared to the Vantage’s 3.6 seconds.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Aston Martin Vantage and the Aston Martin DB12 is no easy task since both are fantastic in their own right. Each car offers its own set of advantages and drawbacks but the real question is what kind of driving experience you value most. Whether you opt for the sporty Vantage or the luxurious DB12 you’ll be getting a piece of automotive excellence.
Alex Collantes summed it up perfectly saying “Both cars have their quirks but at the end of the day you’re still driving an Aston. It doesn't get better than that.”
Additional Resources
- Visit Aston Martin’s official site for the latest details and configurations
- Check out expert reviews from top automotive journalists to help make your decision
- Compare other luxury sports cars like the Porsche 911 and Ferrari Roma to see how they stack up