Aston Martin Vantage
2018-2024
The Vantage is Aston Martin's most accessible and modern sports car, combining stunning British design with reliable German engineering. It represents a perfect marriage of performance, luxury, and everyday usability that makes exotic car ownership genuinely practical.
Quick Take
The 2018-2024 Aston Martin Vantage represents a complete reimagining of Aston's entry-level sports car, featuring a Mercedes-AMG sourced twin-turbo V8 and modern electronics. It delivers exceptional performance with supercar-level acceleration while maintaining the brand's signature grand touring comfort. The Vantage strikes an ideal balance between everyday usability and track capability.
Best For
Key Strength
AMG V8 Excellence
Watch For
Interior Shortcomings
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
The Vantage nameplate dates back to 1977 as Aston Martin's high-performance variant designation. This generation marks a complete departure from previous naturally aspirated engines, embracing forced induction for the first time in the model's history while maintaining the classic front-engine, rear-drive layout.
Design Philosophy
The design blends classic Aston Martin proportions with aggressive modern aerodynamics and functional cooling requirements. Every curve serves both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes, from the prominent side strakes to the integrated rear spoiler. The interior focuses on driver-centric luxury with premium materials and intuitive controls.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The Mercedes-AMG derived 4.0L twin-turbo V8 delivers immediate, crushing torque from low RPM with a linear power delivery that builds to a thrilling crescendo. Despite being turbocharged, it maintains excellent throttle response and provides the dramatic acceleration expected from a modern Aston Martin. The engine's character is more aggressive and urgent than previous naturally aspirated Aston engines.
Chassis Dynamics
The Vantage features adaptive dampers, electronic differential, and multiple driving modes that transform its character from comfortable grand tourer to focused track weapon. The chassis is exceptionally well-balanced with precise steering and progressive breakaway characteristics. The electronic systems enhance rather than mask the driving experience, providing confidence-inspiring control.
Sound Signature
The twin-turbo V8 produces a distinctive blend of AMG aggression and Aston Martin refinement, with active exhaust valves creating dramatic sound changes between comfort and sport modes.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0L twin-turbo V8 delivers 503hp and 505 lb-ft with intoxicating sound and linear power delivery. This engine provides supercar performance with surprising refinement for daily driving.
The chassis strikes an excellent balance between comfort and performance with adaptive dampers and precise steering. The car feels planted and confidence-inspiring whether cruising or attacking corners.
Honest Tradeoffs
While stylish, the interior uses some cheaper materials and the infotainment system feels dated compared to German rivals. Build quality, while improved, still doesn't match Porsche standards.
Early models suffered from various electrical gremlins and some mechanical issues. While later years improved significantly, maintenance costs remain high and finding qualified technicians can be challenging.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for enthusiasts who want exotic car performance and presence with modern reliability and technology. Ideal for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship but demand contemporary conveniences and track-ready capability.