Everybody agrees that Aston Martins are cool, especially when they are of the V12 variety. But starting with the DB11, their notoriously sweet engine sound is being diluted by a couple of turbos and reduced displacement.
It's no big deal, just like the fact that the AMG C63 isn't a naturally aspirated 6.3-liter car anymore. But if you're a 10/10 kind of guy you will appreciate that Aston is sending the atmospheric V12 off with a distinctive car.
This is the Vanquish S. Yes, it's still a grand tourer, but it's also been improved to the point where it and Superman share more than just the letter S.
The V12 engine is the primary focus of the official video that Aston Martin released a few hours ago. It produces 600 PS (592bhp), a number which drops to 580 hp (588 PS) if you order one in the US.
This big slice of luxury also treats you to the 8-speed Touchtronic III automatic transmission and is good for 0 to 100 clicks per hour in 3.5 seconds. To give the car more sporting character, the suspension received new damper internals and spring rates and revised anti-roll bar bushings.
No, we don't think it's as gorgeous as the newer DB11, but the curb appeal of the Vanquish S has been increased in significant ways by using lots of aero parts. The front splitter made from carbon fiber is the first thing you'll notice. However, the entire rear valence is made only from carbon, making it the stand-out feature of the car. We cannot think of a better frame for the fruity quad exhaust system.
Aston also throws in graphics packs, five-spoke alloys with a two-tone finish and carbon vents for the hood. As for the interior, Aston offers Satin Chopped Carbon Fiber. It looks a lot like what Lamborghini offers on its Skunk Works projects and concepts.
The 2018 Aston Martin Vanquish S arrives in time for Christmas, with the coupe priced starting at $294,950 and the drop-top Volante starting at $312,950.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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