ASTON MARTIN V8 Vantage Roadster 2008-2012 Photos, engines & full specs

It was the last Aston Martin launched under Ford's management and enjoyed the success of new technologies found outside its owner.

The V8 Vantage always was a thrilling vehicle, and Aston Martin didn't want to lose that. While the motorsports purists said that a convertible is heavier and not as stiff as a coupe, the marketing department knew it was a much-needed car. Half of the V8 Vantages were sold as Volante or Roadster.

From the outside, the carmaker didn't feel the need to change anything. It was the same car, but it was available with the new standard and optional 20-spoke 19" light-alloy wheels. Its roof was power-operated and could disappear in 23 seconds at speeds of up to 48 kph (30 mph).

The interior was heavily modified and resembled its bigger brother, the DBS. It featured a new center stack with a slot for the key. It provided an unusual starting procedure of plug-in and push system. More uncommon than that was the use of Ford buttons and stacks on a luxurious GT.

But the real changes happened under the bodywork. Aston Martin increased the engine size from 4.3-liters to 4.7-liters by increasing the bore. It produced 11% more power than its predecessor and was paired to a standard six-speed manual produced by Graziano. A six-speed automated was on the options list. Magneti-Marelli developed the gearbox's controlling system, and unlike its predecessor, it could offer smooth gear changes.