Aston Martin Vantage V12

The case for the V12 Vantage (2009)

The original V12 Vantage, launched in 2009, was one of the most outrageous cars Aston Martin ever made: the 5.9-litre V12 from the DBS squeezed into the smallest body in the range. With 510 bhp, a stripped interior and aggressive styling, it was a genuine muscle car in a hand-built British package.

The V12 Vantage is now a modern classic: raw, dramatic and one of the most exciting cars of its era. It is the car that proved Aston Martin still had a rebellious streak, and it remains one of the most desirable used Astons.

What it costs to run

Budget £1,000 to £1,500 for annual specialist servicing. The V12 is robust, but the car's age means that suspension bushes, dampers and cooling components are entering the service schedule. Most cars use the six-speed manual, which is strong; the rare Sportshift automated manual has the known clutch-wear issue. Tyres and brakes are premium items. Fuel economy is 15 to 18 mpg.

Known weak points

The V12 Vantage shares the VH platform's known issues: electrical gremlins, dated infotainment, front coil spring corrosion and interior wear. The carbon-fibre bonnet and other panels are expensive to repair. The low front splitter is vulnerable. On Sportshift cars, check the clutch wear. Age-related suspension and cooling issues are now relevant.

What to check before buying

Full Aston Martin history is essential. Inspect the carbon panels, the structure, springs and suspension mounting points. Verify all electrical functions and campaign completion. On Sportshift cars, obtain the clutch wear figure. Look for evidence of regular use and proper maintenance. A specialist inspection is strongly recommended.

Market and depreciation

The original V12 Vantage is a modern classic with appreciating values. Coupes now range from around £70,000 to £110,000, with the best low-mileage cars and manuals commanding premiums. The car's rarity, drama and status as one of the last great naturally aspirated Astons support its long-term position.

Who it suits

The enthusiast who wants one of the most exciting and characterful modern Astons and is prepared for the costs of V12 ownership. It is a car that rewards commitment and delivers one of the great driving experiences.

Alternatives

Porsche 911 GT3 (997), Ferrari 430 Scuderia, or a V8 Vantage at much lower cost.

The 2009 V12 Vantage was a glorious exercise in excess: Aston Martin's 510hp 6.0-litre V12 installed in the smallest body in the range. The result was one of the most exciting and challenging cars the company has ever built, with a character defined by that huge engine in a compact chassis. Most were built with the six-speed manual, though the Sportshift automated manual was also offered.

The Sportshift clutch is the primary inspection point on cars so equipped: request wear data and evidence of any replacement. Beyond that, the engine works hard in the small body, so cooling-system condition and service history are critical. Check suspension components and brakes carefully, as the performance level stresses these items. The carbon-fibre exterior details on later cars should be inspected for damage.

Values have appreciated strongly as the market has recognised the V12 Vantage as one of the great analogue driver's cars. Manuals command a significant premium and are the most sought-after. The buying priorities are gearbox health, cooling-system condition and documentation. This is a car for the committed enthusiast who understands its nature; it is not refined or easy, but it is one of the most rewarding Astons ever made.

The manual cars are the ones the market prizes most highly, and their premium over the Sportshift cars is significant and growing. The manual transforms the experience, creating a connection between driver and car that the automated manual cannot match. For the buyer seeking the purest V12 Vantage experience, the manual is the only choice, and its collectability is well established.

The V12 Vantage's appreciation reflects the market's recognition of it as one of the great analogue driver's cars. The combination of the big V12 in the compact body, the manual option and the car's uncompromising character have made it a genuine modern classic. Values have risen accordingly, and the buying priorities are gearbox health, cooling-system condition and documentation. For the committed enthusiast who understands its nature, the V12 Vantage is one of the most rewarding cars Aston Martin has ever built, and its place in the marque's history is secure.

The manual's premium over the Sportshift cars is significant and growing, reflecting the market's preference for the purest experience. The buying priorities are gearbox health, cooling-system condition and documentation. The V12 Vantage's appreciation reflects its recognition as one of the great analogue driver's cars. For the committed enthusiast who understands its nature, it is one of the most rewarding Astons ever built. Buy the best-documented manual and maintain it through the specialist network.

The V12 Vantage's appreciation reflects its recognition as one of the great analogue driver's cars, and the manual cars are the most sought-after. The buying priorities are gearbox health, cooling-system condition and documentation. For the committed enthusiast who understands its nature, the V12 Vantage is one of the most rewarding cars Aston Martin has ever built, and its place in the marque's history is secure. Buy the best-documented manual and maintain it through the specialist network for the best ownership experience.

How this review was compiled

Research-based ownership review using Aston Martin specifications, independent buying guides and owner reports. We have not driven this car. Verify condition, service history and clutch wear for any individual car before purchase.