When you think a car already has enough power, Aston Martin proves you wrong. The British manufacturer has just unveiled the Vantage S, and it’s absolutely mental in the best possible way. This isn’t just another incremental update – it’s a statement piece that shows what happens when engineers decide “enough” simply isn’t enough.
What Makes the Vantage S Special?
The heart of this beast remains the AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, but Aston Martin’s engineers have worked their magic to extract an additional 15 horsepower. That might sound modest, but when you’re already working with 656bhp, every additional horse counts. The result? A staggering 671 horsepower that arrives at 6,000 rpm, paired with 590 lb-ft of torque available between 3,000 and 6,000 rpm.
What’s truly impressive isn’t just the raw numbers – it’s how Aston Martin has refined the entire driving experience. The throttle mapping has been tweaked, pedal weights adjusted, and launch control optimized. These might seem like small changes, but they transform how the car responds to your inputs.
Performance That Defies Logic
Acceleration and Speed
The numbers speak for themselves, but they don’t tell the whole story. Sure, the Vantage S rockets from 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds (a tenth faster than before), but it’s the way it builds that speed that matters. The acceleration feels relentless, almost violent in its delivery, yet perfectly controlled.
The 0-124 mph sprint takes just 10.1 seconds, which puts it in serious supercar territory. Top speed remains at 202 mph – not because the engine couldn’t push further, but because that’s where the balance between performance and real-world usability makes sense.
Handling Improvements
Aston Martin hasn’t just focused on straight-line speed. The suspension setup has received significant attention, with Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers fine-tuned for better front-end feel and response. The rear spring rates have been adjusted to improve low-speed ride quality – because what good is all that power if you can’t live with the car daily?
The gearbox mounting stiffness has been reduced by 10%, and the rear subframes now mount directly to the aluminum body instead of using rubber bushes. These changes might sound technical, but they translate to a car that feels more connected and responsive to your inputs.
Visual Drama That Matches the Performance
Exterior Enhancements
The Vantage S isn’t subtle about its intentions. Central bonnet blades announce its arrival, while ‘S’ badging ensures everyone knows this isn’t the regular Vantage. The full-width rear spoiler isn’t just for show – it generates an additional 44kg of downforce at top speed.
Underbody updates contribute to a total of 111kg of downforce at maximum velocity, helping keep this powerful machine planted when you’re exploring its upper reaches.
Interior Luxury
Inside, Alcantara and leather create an environment that’s both luxurious and purposeful. Carbon fiber inlays remind you of the car’s serious intentions, while embroidered ‘S’ logos and Aston Martin wings ensure you never forget what you’re driving. The rotary drive control can be finished in red or silver anodized coating, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Power Output | 671 bhp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 590 lb-ft (3,000-6,000 rpm) |
| 0-60 mph | 3.3 seconds |
| 0-124 mph | 10.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 202 mph |
| Wheels | 21-inch special alloys |
| Price | From £170,000 |
Why This Matters for Car Enthusiasts
The Vantage S represents something special in today’s automotive landscape. While many manufacturers are moving toward electrification, Aston Martin continues to perfect the internal combustion engine. This isn’t about being stubborn – it’s about delivering an experience that electric motors, despite their instant torque, can’t quite replicate.
The sound, the vibration through the steering wheel, the way the engine builds power – these are sensations that connect you to the machine in ways that go beyond mere transportation. The Vantage S amplifies all of these experiences while adding modern refinement and capability.
The Competition Challenge
At around £170,000, the Vantage S positions itself squarely against established players like the Ferrari Roma and other high-performance grand tourers. However, with 671 horsepower on tap, it’s making a compelling argument that British engineering can deliver both the drama and the sophistication that buyers in this segment demand.
The combination of increased power, improved handling, and distinctive styling makes the Vantage S more than just an engine upgrade – it’s a comprehensive evolution of what a modern sports car should be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much more powerful is the Vantage S compared to the regular Vantage?
A: The Vantage S produces 671bhp compared to the regular Vantage’s 656bhp – a 15 horsepower increase that contributes to improved acceleration times.
Q: What’s the price difference between the regular Vantage and the S version?
A: The Vantage S starts from around £170,000, representing a premium over the standard model for the additional performance and exclusive features.
Q: Can the Vantage S be used as a daily driver?
A: Yes, Aston Martin has specifically tuned the suspension for improved low-speed ride quality, making it more suitable for everyday driving despite its track-focused capabilities.
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