2008 Aston Martin Vantage

Power on the 2008 Aston Martin Vantage is provided by a 380-horsepower, 4.3L V8 with dry-sump lubrication--for more consistent oil distribution in high-performance track driving--and variable inlet cam timing. With the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the Vantage can race to 60 miles per hour in a respectable 5.0 seconds, reaching a top speed of 175 mph, and the engine revs up to a raucous 7,300 rpm.

There's also an optional SportShift transmission, which brings magnesium paddle shifters alongside the steering wheel to command quick upshifts or downshifts. It has a "creep" feature that allows the vehicle to behave like a conventional automatic when you lift off the brake pedal unlike several competing systems.

Handling is an especially strong suit for the Vantage. The gearbox is rear-mounted, for a more even weight distribution, the engine's dry-sump configuration allows it to be mounted low, and the wishbone suspension helps manage the power and weight well on tight, curvy roads. The two-seat Vantage is somewhat heavy for a small sports car yet quite light for a V8 tourer. Thanks to the extensive use of aluminum components, it weighs less than 3,600 pounds.

The interior is laid out with tight, cockpit-like accommodations for two yet has materials and conveniences as commonly offered in luxury cars. The Vantage is available in a wide range of trims, including mahogany, bamboo, walnut, and Piano Black finishings. Platinum silver fittings are also available.

Side air bags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes are also standard. Key options include xenon headlamps, a navigation system, Bluetooth, a heated windshield, heated seats, and parking sensors.
After being completely redesigned for 2006, Aston Martin's Vantage continues into 2008 largely unchanged. The center armrest has been redesigned to incorporate more storage nooks, and the sun visors have been slightly redesigned as well. Bluetooth is newly available across the model line.
Taut handling; image and exclusivity.
The two-seat 2008 Vantage is more of a sports car than the larger, heavier 2+2 models from Aston Martin, and the Vantage ranks as the most affordable vehicle in the British automaker's exclusive model line. It's a direct competitor to the Porsche 911, and possibly the Jaguar XKR and the Audi R8.