Few automotive brands capture the imagination and stir the soul quite like Aston Martin, and even fewer cars encapsulate the essence of its racing heritage quite like the Vantage. We recently welcomed the newcomer to South Africa at the auspicious Franschhoek Motor Museum.
Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, the marque quickly earned a reputation for blending refined British craftsmanship with exhilarating performance. Over a century, Aston Martin has become synonymous with timeless elegance, thrilling speed, and an undeniable presence on and off the track. Its cars have become cultural icons, with none more recognisable than those driven by the legendary James Bond. From the DB5 to the Valkyrie, Aston Martin’s portfolio is a testament to engineering excellence and design artistry.
Among Aston Martin’s illustrious line-up, the Vantage holds a special place. Introduced in 1950 as a performance-enhanced version of the DB2, the Vantage nameplate has since become a symbol of power, agility, and sophistication. By 1964, the Vantage had established itself as a standalone model, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Over the decades, it has evolved while retaining the core characteristics that define an Aston Martin: beauty, soul, and performance.
THE NEW VANTAGE IN FRANSCHHOEK
I recently had the privilege of experiencing the latest iteration of the Vantage at an exclusive launch event held at the prestigious Franschhoek Motor Museum. Set against South Africa’s stunning Winelands backdrop, the museum provided the perfect venue to celebrate a car with such a storied lineage. Adding to the allure was the opportunity to test the Vantage on “Plaaspad,” a privately owned track known for its challenging curves and picturesque scenery.
At first glance, it was clear that Aston Martin had elevated the Vantage to new heights. The car’s design is a masterclass in muscular elegance. Its wide stance and aggressive front end, featuring a 38% larger grille for enhanced cooling, hint at the power beneath the hood. Flanking the grille are all-new Matrix LED headlamps, which improve visibility and add to the car’s commanding presence.
Although my time behind the wheel was limited, the impression the Vantage left was anything but fleeting. The drive revealed a machine that flawlessly blends power and finesse, beauty and brutishness. The Vantage feels just as at home cruising scenic wine routes as it does devouring the sharp corners of Plaaspad. Every acceleration, turn, and braking moment is an experience in precision and control.
PERFORMANCE AND DYNAMICS
This wasn’t my first encounter with the Vantage. Six years ago, I drove the first iteration of the current Vantage at Portugal’s Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. The progress made since that reveal in March 2018 is remarkable. The latest Vantage boasts a heavily reworked 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine delivering an astonishing 489 kW and 800 Nm of torque. This powertrain propels the car from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 325 km/h.
What stands out most about the new Vantage is how it delivers this performance. The chassis and powertrain tuning ensure that raw power is never intimidating. Industry-leading features such as Active Vehicle Dynamics, Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, and an Electronic Rear Differential (E-diff) work harmoniously to provide a thrilling and confidence-inspiring driving experience. The steering is razor-sharp, offering granular feedback that makes the Vantage feel alive and responsive on any road surface.
FORM MEETS FUNCTION
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, attended the Franschhoek event to discuss the evolution of Vantage’s design. Reichman explained how the new model draws inspiration from Aston Martin’s motorsport heritage and the iconic One-77 supercar. The car’s design balances aggression with elegance. Its broader stance and recontoured bodywork give it a formidable presence, while details such as frameless door mirrors and presenting door handles add a modern, refined touch.
The Vantage’s cabin perfectly complements its dynamic capabilities. It is a sanctuary of luxury and technology, featuring bespoke materials, state-of-the-art infotainment, and ergonomically designed controls. The 10.25″ Pure Black touchscreen system provides seamless connectivity, while the meticulously crafted seats ensure comfort even during spirited driving.
LAST WORD
Driving the Vantage on Plaaspad revealed its dual personality. On one hand, it’s a comfortable and refined cruiser, ideal for long drives through South Africa’s scenic landscapes. On the other, it’s a precision instrument on the track, offering sharp handling and explosive acceleration. The Vantage’s adaptive drive modes – Wet, Sport, Sports Plus, Track, and Individual – allow the driver to tailor the car’s character to their mood and the road ahead.
While my time with the new Vantage was short, its impact was profound. The car’s ability to combine elegance with aggression, and sophistication with raw power, leaves a lasting impression.
THE RETURN OF THE VANQUISH
While the Vantage took centre stage, the new Aston Martin Vanquish, also unveiled at the Franschhoek event, was equally captivating. This legendary nameplate makes a dramatic return, now powered by a 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine producing a monumental 614 kW and 1,000 Nm of torque. The Vanquish claims the highest top speed of any Aston Martin series production car to date at 345 km/h, accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds.
The Vanquish is built on a bonded aluminium body structure with carbon fibre panels, making it as light as it is strong. Its 80-mm-wide wheelbase enhances stability and strengthens its commanding road presence. The Vanquish features a full-length panoramic glass roof and a bespoke infotainment system, offering unparalleled space and luxury.
Dynamics are at the heart of the new Vanquish. Equipped with Bilstein DTX dampers, an electronic rear limited-slip differential, and bespoke 21″ Pirelli P ZERO™ tyres, the Vanquish delivers a driving experience that combines supercar performance with grand tourer comfort. The sound from its quad tailpipes is a melodic V12 howl that perfectly complements its aggressive stance and fluid curves.
With production limited to under 1,000 units annually, the Vanquish remains a symbol of ultra-luxury exclusivity. First deliveries are expected in the fourth quarter of 2024, ensuring this icon will reign supreme for years.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © DAYTONA
