2010 Aston Martin Vantage

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The V8 Vantage coupe and roadster carry a 4.2-liter V8 engine that generates 420 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque mated to a either a 6-speed manual or Sportshift automated manual transmission. The 6-liter V12 engine makes 517 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, and it only comes with a 6-speed manual. The V8 and V12 Vantages are rear-wheel drive with the engine mounted under the hood, just behind the front axle.

Performance is more than respectable in the V8 coupe and roadster, with a top speed of 175 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. The V12, of course, goes a bit further, to a maximum of 190 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds -- nearly a full second faster over the V8 model. The V12 also upgrades its brakes to the carbon ceramic variety.

All Vantages have anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic braking, electronic brake assist, tire pressure monitoring, and dynamic stability control. DSC in the V12 includes track mode for a stiffer, more responsive ride during performance driving. The Vantage also features what Aston Martin calls the "Emotion Control Unit", which starts the car when a special key fob is pushed into a slot on the dash.

Everything you'd expect in a 2-seater, 6-figure touring car is here, including a 160-watt sound system, automatic temperature control, navigation system, electrically adjustable seats, rear parking sensors, airbags -- the works. The stereo can be upgraded to a powerful 700-watt system, and the interior surfaces can be had in finishes like Piano Black and personalized sill plaques can be added.
While the V8 Vantage coupe and roadster remain largely unchanged for 2010, a new V12 Vantage coupe has been added to the lineup. In addition to the much larger, more powerful engine, the V12 Vantage has a "Sport" button that changes engine, throttle and exhaust settings to high-performance positions.
Power and panache; luxurious interior; high-performance engine
The entry-level V8 Vantage may start in the low six figures, but with it comes the heritage and exclusivity of the Aston Martin brand. Even the lowliest 4.7-liter V8 puts out an amazing 420 horsepower, while the new 6-liter V12 puts out 517 hp for plenty of horsepower either way. Luxury appointments like leather seats and a navigation system are standard, while options at this level include an umbrella fitted in the trunk.