2009 Aston Martin Vantage

The rear-wheel drive Aston Martin Vantage is a reviewer favorite because it's suitable for both the race track and neighborhood streets.

• "The 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage isn't just an exceedingly pretty face. Although it can't quite keep pace with a 911 or R8, this baby Aston has the performance and handling to make it the envy of not only your neighbors, but driving enthusiasts alike." -- Edmunds

Acceleration and Power

Though the Vantage isn't the fastest vehicle in its class, test drivers are still pleased with its powerful engine and quick-shifting gears. Both the Vantage coupe and roadster feature a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 420 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque. While the Vantage's engine is front mid-mounted, its gearbox is rear mid-mounted -- giving it a 49/51 weight distribution. Drivers can choose between a traditional six-speed manual transmission and an electronically shifting Sportshift transmission.

According to Aston Martin, the Vantage has a maximum speed of 180 mph and a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.7 seconds. The EPA rates the manual's city/highway fuel ecocnomy at 12/19 mpg. The automatic achieves 13/20 mpg.

• "Its 4.3-liter V8 is a visceral yet viable piece of machinery, offering performance more accessible than its $115K price point might suggest." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Though based loosely on Jaguar's AJ-V8 engine architecture, this engine is unique to Aston Martin and features race-style dry-sump lubrication, which enables it to be mounted low in the chassis for an improved centre of gravity." -- AutoMiddleEast.com
• "Under hard acceleration, we found power came on a little bit slower than with a 911 Turbo, perhaps no surprise comparing the normally aspirated Aston with Porsche's blower. But it would be hard to complain about performance unless you're comparing the two cars at a stoplight." -- BusinessWeek
• "[R]unning the V8 Vantage's glorious engine through the gears is still one of the best aural pleasures around." -- Automobile Magazine

• +"Aston's automated manual is better than BMW's sequential manual gearbox, but it's not as good as Audi's DSG. Even with this tranny's built-in downshift throttle blips, it's not as smooth or as satisfying as when you row your own. The traditional six-speed manual is one of the best gearboxes extant." -- Motor Trend

Handling and Braking

The Vantage impresses test drivers on both the road and track. In fact, many even claim that it's comfortable enough to use as a daily driver. However, don't be fooled -- the Vantage is still a serious sports car.

Several components contribute to the Vantage's superior handling dynamics. Among them is a rack-and-pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system. The Vantage also features an independent double wishbone suspension in the front and rear, as well as ventilated and grooved steel disc brakes. Among other technologies, Dynamic Stability Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and Traction Control help enhance its overall performance.

• "As Aston suggests, the driving characteristics are perfect for both track days and shopping treks, helped in no small part by precise shifting, reasonable visibility and accurate rack-and-pinion steering. The multi-link suspension is well controlled, and supplies prodigious grip and adequate comfort even on the pock-marked pavement of our urban test. " -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Steering was as good as it gets, turn-in quick and precise, the Vantage comparing favorably to the Ferrari F430 we had driven just a week prior. ... Braking proved equally impressive, the oversized rotors and discs firmly and confidently scrubbing off speed in an instant. " -- BusinessWeek
• "[L]ike all Aston Martins, it offers a surprisingly comfortable ride and is easy to drive, making it a plausible choice for road trips and the daily grind. It certainly makes sitting in traffic a happier experience." -- Edmunds
• "On rough roads, where a 911 would pitch itself into a frenzy, this British roadster is impressively compliant. While it doesn't float over the obstacles, it soaks them up with skill, surefootedness, and self-assurance. With the exception of light lateral deflections through very quick corners, this car knows how to carve an accurate yet effortless flight path." -- Automobile Magazine