Best Car Reviews - 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Introduction

The 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a striking embodiment of luxury and performance, tailor-made for car enthusiasts and luxury sports car aficionados. Released in 2012, this model continues the legacy of the V8 Vantage lineup, offering a thrilling yet refined driving experience. Designed with a focus on exclusivity, performance, and aesthetics, what makes this model stand out is its powerful V8 engine combined with the elegance synonymous with Aston Martin.

Design and Exterior Features

The V8 Vantage showcases an iconic sports car silhouette with a muscular stance that reflects its powerful capabilities. The car is compact, yet its bold lines and aerodynamic curves convey a sense of speed and agility even when stationary. The signature Aston Martin grille, sharp headlights, and sculpted hood create a timelessly elegant front facade.

• Distinctive Aston Martin grille
• Aerodynamic body design
• LED taillights
• Sleek 19-inch alloy wheels
• Optional carbon fiber side mirrors

Interior and Comfort

Inside the V8 Vantage, luxury and craftsmanship take center stage. High-quality leather wraps the seats, offering a blend of comfort and sportiness. The cabin layout ensures the driver feels connected to the car while providing a plush environment for passengers.

• Hand-stitched leather upholstery
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob
• Heated seats for extra comfort
• Premium audio system for a superior sound experience

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage boasts a dynamic 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower. This beast accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4.7 seconds, delivering exhilarating performance on both city streets and highways.

On smooth highways, the V8 Vantage rides like a dream, and thanks to its Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) configuration, it offers agile handling around corners and an engaging driving experience. Fuel efficiency is reasonable for its class with an average consumption of 18.594375 l/100 km, making it a feasible choice for both leisure drives and daily commutes.

• 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds
• Adaptive suspension for a smooth ride
• Responsive handling and steering
• Balanced weight distribution via rear-wheel drive
• Capable braking system for enhanced control

Technology and Connectivity

The infotainment and connectivity features in the V8 Vantage remain in line with luxury sports car standards for its time. While not the most cutting-edge, it offers sufficient tech to keep drivers connected and entertained.

• 7-inch infotainment display
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Built-in GPS navigation system
• Premium sound system by Aston Martin
• USB and auxiliary audio inputs

Safety Features

Safety has not been overlooked in the V8 Vantage. While there may not be many high-tech driver aids as standard, the basics ensure peace of mind during every drive.

• Dual-stage driver and passenger airbags
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is approximately $118,370 USD. While there are no major variants, optional packages offer personalization opportunities to suit individual preferences. When compared to competitors, it stands at the higher end of the price spectrum, reflecting its luxurious nature and exclusivity.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Iconic design that turns heads
• Engaging and thrilling driving experience
• Luxurious interior materials and craftsmanship
• Strong brand prestige associated with Aston Martin
• Excellent engine performance with responsive acceleration

Cons

• Limited cargo space
• Higher maintenance and running costs
• Somewhat outdated tech features by current standards
• Fuel consumption could be more efficient
• Premium price point compared to some rivals

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a V8 Vantage requires a meticulous maintenance schedule, with annual costs potentially reaching into the thousands due to its luxury nature.

• Oil leaks
• Clutch-related issues
• Electrical system troubles
• Brake wear
• Suspension problems

Rating

Overall, the 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage garners an impressive 8.5/10 rating, broken down as follows:

• Design: 9/10
• Comfort: 8/10
• Performance: 9/10
• Technology: 7/10
• Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

Current owners frequently praise the aesthetic beauty and performance of the V8 Vantage, though some note its high maintenance costs and limited cargo space.

1. "It's a joy to drive—unmatched performance and luxury."
2. "The sound of the engine is music to my ears!"
3. "A bit hard on the wallet, but worth every penny for the thrill it provides."
4. "Could use some updated tech features."
5. "Turning heads everywhere I go—love the attention!"

Best cars in this category

• 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera
• 2012 Jaguar XK
• 2012 BMW Z4
• 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
• 2012 Chevrolet Corvette

Summary

The 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is best suited for those who value luxurious design and thrilling performance in an exclusive package. While it may pinch the pocket for upkeep and lacks some modern technology, its sheer driving pleasure and iconic status make it a standout choice. Ultimately, it encapsulates what makes a sports car desirable: power, elegance, and prestige.