We head to MotoVillage in Tokai to sample what is arguably one of the most exiting modern-classic Aston Martins, the Vantage V12 – equipped with a manual transmission.
Words and images: Wilhelm Lutjeharms
Aston Martin is well-known for its gorgeous sports cars. It's a brand we immediately associate with James Bond as well as a strong racing pedigree. So, desirability is certainly strong. It can be argued, however, that most of the marque's offerings fall more in the GT / tourer category than being thrilling, engaging driver's cars (excluding the likes of the super-exclusive Valour and Valkyrie, of course).
There are exceptions, though. If you're looking for a fairly modern Aston Martin sportscar that is both good to look at and thrilling to drive, then the Vantage V12, introduced in 2009, must rank at, or near the top of the list. Besides... when last did you experience a V12 mated with a manual transmission?
The Details
Being the V12, this model is equipped with a number of additional body-specific features. Look for instance at the carbon fibre louvred bonnet - an example of functional design as it allows excess heat to dissipate. There are also the beautiful model-specific alloy wheels and the small front splitter to name a few other eye-catching details. It is not "over-the-top", however, and is still immediately recognisable as a Vantage.
The doors swing marginally upwards for added drama, revealing a cabin that is, in this instance, still in a pristine condition. This car has done less than 10 000 kilometres, and the result is that the leather is still in a great condition and so are the Alcantara inserts.
Have a seat, and you are greeted by an anti-clockwise analogue rev counter and the clockwise speedometer behind the thick-rimmed steering wheel. To your left is the most notable feature in the cabin, the big, shiny, metal-capped gear lever. This shiny bit of jewellery gives you access to the car's party piece, a six-speed manual gearbox. Next, slot the crystal glass key fob into the dashboard. Press it and the 6.0-litre, V12 engine erupts with a very welcoming deep burble from the exhaust pipes at the back.
Behind the wheel
Whether you are parking or pulling into traffic at slow speed, the Vantage V12 feels relatively compact at all times. Yes, the bonnet stretching out in front of you is pronounced, but at no time does it feel like a large cumbersome GT.
In the bottom half of the rev range you can make use of the available torque whether it's at 2 000 or 3 000 rpm. It is from here onwards that the engine really comes alive though. Push it past 6 000 rpm and it feels like a true sports car in every way, accompanied by a magnificent sound.
Heading towards Kalk Bay along Boyes Drive there is ample performance and you can't help but smile at the experience from behind the wheel. With 380 kW and 570 N.m, you quickly run out of road to experience all the performance that is on offer.
The Vantage V12 is a fast car, make no mistake. The claimed 0-100kph time is 3.9 seconds, but you'll need to spend time with the car to learn how to best launch it. Top speed is 305kph...
The steering wheel provides enough feedback while the carbon ceramic brakes work perfectly to lower your speed. The faster you begin to drive the Vantage, the more compact the car begins to feel. The ride is firm but thankfully not crashy at all.
You can also count on the available grip, but should the situation allow, and you're skilled behind the wheel, I can sense that braking traction will be easy (and fun), even with the front tyres being 255/35 ZR19 in size and at the rear a more substantial 295/30 ZR19.
If you haven't driven a serious, manual-gearbox sports car in a while, the clutch action might come as a surprise. It is certainly on the heavy side, but after a few minutes you forget about it and are simply absorbed in the experience.
Summary
This Aston Martin has a split personality. I can easily see how you can spend a good few hours behind the wheel covering vast distances in relative comfort. At the same time it's a proper sports car offering an exhilarating experience, even it is only for a dash to the shops. Being a modern classic don't forget to pack your CDs from a decade ago if you need a soundtrack for your drives, but for most enthusiasts I suspect the V12 sound will more than suffice.
Trading at more than double the price of a Vantage V8 manual from the same era, a Vantage V8 in a great condition might still be the true bargain. However if you want the ultimate in the shape of the V12 and be completely engaged in the process it is hard to fault the Vantage V12 manual.
Apart from the gorgeous looks, the combination of the performance and the practicality of being able to take it on the open road with some luggage in the boot, makes it a great proposition. Relative rarity should ensure values remain strong in the long term, too.
* This car was sourced and sold by MotoVillage outside Cape Town.
Specifications:
Model: Aston Martin Vantage V12
Engine: 6.0-litre, V12, petrol
Power: 380 kW at 6 500 rpm
Torque: 570 N.m at 5 750 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Weight: 1 680 kg
0-100 km/h: 3.9 seconds (claimed)
0-100 km/h: 4,34 seconds (tested by CAR magazine)
Top Speed: 305 km/h