Aston Martin: Unleashing the Beast - The V12 Vantage Roadster
With the global unveiling of the V12 Vantage Roadster, Aston Martin pulls back the curtain on a new breed of sports cars that promises to blend untamed power with the refined art of open-top driving. However, the question remains if it can live up to the towering expectations.
A Package of Unmatched Potency
Proclaimed as the most powerful of the open-top Vantage range, the V12 Vantage Roadster is no mere stroll in the park. Its naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, exudes a staggering 517 PS at 6,500 rpm and a substantial 570 Nm of torque at 5,750 rpm. Yet, despite the brute force, the car promises to deliver a flexible, refined driving experience, capable of 0-62 mph in an exhilarating 4.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 190 mph.
Considered Design for Engaging Dynamics
While it shares its DNA with the V12 Vantage Coupe, the Roadster model has been recalibrated to maximize the open-top driving experience. Unique chassis revisions, a redesigned rear boot lid, lower front air intake, modified rear damper setup, and a new rear spring design are incorporated to maintain a level of dynamic performance commensurate with the Coupe.
Aesthetically Assertive
Underlining its sporty demeanour, the V12 Vantage Roadster features carbon fibre side strakes, a carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser, carbon fibre mirror caps, and rear lamp infills. The enhanced boot lid, more pronounced 'flip', and the large tail-pipe finishers add to the visual drama, ensuring that this car is as stunning to observe as it is to drive. As with any Aston Martin, the hand-made carbon fibre rear diffuser reflects the brand's commitment to superior craftsmanship.
Revolutionary Interiors
Inside the cabin, the V12 Vantage Roadster aims to stand apart from its siblings in the Vantage lineup. The use of glass switches in the lower centre stack, along with an option for an interior trim package comprising carbon fibre facia and gearshift surround, elevate the luxurious ambience in the cabin. Adding to the driver-centric approach is the “Sport” mode button, exclusive to the V12 Vantage models, allowing drivers to toggle between two different powertrain modes - a progressive 'Normal' mode for everyday driving and a more aggressive 'Sport' mode for those seeking a sharper, sportier response.
Astounding Affordability?
Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez posits the V12 Vantage models as “driver’s cars” providing an exceptional “sensory overload.” As for its market position, the new Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster comes with a hefty price tag of £150,000 RRP in the UK. Whether or not this potent package justifies its price tag in a competitive market segment will surely be a point of interest for prospective buyers.
An Eclectic Mixture of Thrills and Prestige
The new Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster is an ambitious blend of raw power, aesthetic appeal, and open-top driving thrill. It combines the prestige of the Vantage lineage with a daring approach to open-top sports cars. Whether it can effectively capitalize on its assets while handling the challenges of its fierce competition is a narrative that will unfold in due course.
-Ed
2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
