Note: The Aston Martin Vanquish has two main generations. The first, produced from 2001-2007, was a legendary model. A second generation, often referred to as the Vanquish S, was produced from 2012-2018. A new generation of the Vanquish is also set to be released in the future. This article will focus on the second-generation Vanquish, which is the most widely recognized modern iteration, while also touching on the legacy of the original.
The Return of the King: A Review of the Aston Martin Vanquish
In the pantheon of British grand tourers, few names command as much reverence as the Aston Martin Vanquish. It's a nameplate synonymous with power, elegance, and a sense of occasion. When the second-generation Aston Martin Vanquish was unveiled in 2012, it had a monumental task: to not only replace the iconic DBS but also to recapture the magic of the original Vanquish, a car that had become a legend in its own right. What emerged was a true "super GT"—a car that combined the blistering performance of a supercar with the refinement and luxuriousness of a grand tourer, all wrapped in a stunning, handcrafted body.
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| The Return of the King: A Review of the Aston Martin Vanquish |
Design: A Sculpted Masterpiece
The design of the Vanquish is a breathtaking blend of classic Aston Martin cues and a bold, modern vision. It's a car that looks both muscular and sleek, with every line and curve serving a purpose. The familiar, gaping Aston Martin grille is present, flanked by the elegant LED daytime running lights. The long, sweeping bonnet flows back to the raked windscreen, creating a sense of dynamic motion even at a standstill. The most distinctive feature is arguably the use of exposed carbon fiber, a first for a series-production Aston Martin, which adorns the front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser, hinting at the car's high-performance intentions.
The rear of the car is a work of art. The full-width LED light bar, which would later be a hallmark of the new Vantage and DB11, made its debut here, giving the Vanquish a unique and unforgettable signature. The design is not just for show; the "Aero Duct" on the trunk lid, for example, channels air to reduce lift and increase stability at high speeds. This is a car where every single component has been meticulously thought out, a testament to Aston Martin's commitment to both beauty and function.
The Heart of the Beast: The Naturally Aspirated V12
What truly sets the second-generation Vanquish apart is its magnificent engine. Unlike the more recent turbocharged offerings from Aston Martin, the Vanquish is powered by a magnificent 5.9-liter naturally aspirated V12. This engine, a development of the legendary "AM28" unit, is a masterpiece of a bygone era. In its original form, it produced 565 horsepower, and in the later Vanquish S, this was boosted to 595 horsepower.
The performance figures are impressive (0-60 mph in around 4.1 seconds and a top speed of over 180 mph), but the raw numbers don't tell the whole story. The sound of this V12 is an auditory symphony. It starts with a low, rumbling idle and swells into a glorious, metallic roar as the revs climb towards the 7,000 RPM redline. There is no turbo lag, just a seamless, linear surge of power that builds with an addictive intensity. Paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain is a perfect blend of old-school V12 drama and modern-day usability.
The Drive: A Perfect Blend of Comfort and Performance
The Vanquish's driving experience is the very definition of a grand tourer. It’s a car that is equally at home on a long motorway cruise as it is tackling a challenging mountain pass. The chassis is incredibly rigid, giving the car a sense of solidity and composure. The steering is beautifully weighted, offering excellent feedback and precision. While not as nimble as a dedicated sports car, the Vanquish handles with a grace and confidence that belies its size and weight.
The different driving modes—Normal, Sport, and Track—transform the car's character. In Normal mode, the ride is supple and compliant, making it a comfortable and effortless cruiser. Switch to Sport or Track, and the suspension stiffens, the throttle response sharpens, and the exhaust valve opens, unleashing the full fury of the V12. The Vanquish is a car that encourages you to drive, to explore its limits, and to revel in the magnificent sound and feel of that engine.
Interior: A Handcrafted Sanctuary
Inside, the Vanquish is a testament to Aston Martin’s legendary craftsmanship. The cabin is an opulent mix of hand-stitched leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber. Every surface is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The seats are supportive and comfortable, perfect for long-distance journeys.
The infotainment system, while a significant improvement over previous Aston Martin models, can feel a little outdated compared to some of its rivals. However, the sheer beauty of the interior and the quality of the materials more than make up for it. The cabin feels special, like a bespoke suit tailored just for you. It's a place where you can relax and enjoy the journey, whether you're listening to the fantastic Bang & Olufsen sound system or, more likely, the intoxicating sound of the V12 engine.
The Verdict: A Modern Classic
The Aston Martin Vanquish is a car that appeals to the heart as much as the head. It's not just a means of transportation; it’s an experience. It’s a car that embodies the best of British automotive craftsmanship and a powerful farewell to the naturally aspirated V12 era. It is a car with a soul, a grand tourer that can be both ferocious and elegant. For those who seek a blend of stunning design, exhilarating performance, and an unmatched sense of occasion, the Aston Martin Vanquish is the pinnacle. It is a modern classic, a car that will be cherished and admired for generations to come.
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