2017 ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE

“It’s fantastic. It’s wonderful, wonderful, wonderful” are the words of none other than Jeremy Clarkson when summing up the V12 Vantage, in what became one of Top Gear’s most memorable and passionate automotive videos ever created.

Since its launch in 2009, the V12 Vantage combined Aston Martin’s most powerful V12 engine with the lightest and smallest body in the range. In May 2013 Aston Martin introduced the V12 Vantage S. Lighter, more powerful, and more extreme, it became the most sporting series-production Aston Martin built at the time.

In 2013 the V12 Vantage S was the fastest series-production Aston Martin yet, reaching 205 mph with 0–60 mph achieved in 3.5 seconds. Power came from the AM28 5.9-litre V12, rated at 565 bhp, 55 bhp more than the earlier V12 Vantage. Of more practical importance was the improved torque delivery: an additional 70 Nm was available from just 1000 rpm compared to the previous engine. This was managed by a new Bosch engine management system, unique to the V12 Vantage S. The car was fitted with Adaptive Damping with three stages (normal, sport, track). Aerodynamic efficiency was also improved, with a new carbon fibre front grille with vertical spars inspired by the CC100 Concept Car, designed to maximise cooling and balance.

First registered in February 2017, this example comes from the final year of V12 Vantage S production and is equipped with the later 7-speed Sportshift III gearbox, which delivers near seamless gearchanges at high engine speeds. This transmission allows the V12 to perform at its full potential and is a notable improvement over the earlier conventional manual, which was not offered at all during the first three years of V12 Vantage S production. The car has covered only 20,000 miles from new and is finished in the striking combination of Onyx Black with an Obsidian Black leather interior, Silver contrast stitching, and matching Obsidian Black carpets.

Other options fitted to this car include the exterior carbon pack (mirror caps and side strakes), matte black side window surrounds, Aston Martin premium audio system, reversing camera, Heated Seats, Black Anodised Sports Pedals, Dark Anodised brake callipers, carbon fibre bonnet louvres, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, matt black tailpipe finishers, auto-dimming rear view mirror, glass switches, piano black interior trim, carbon fibre front grille, and Satin Black lightweight 19-inch ten-spoke wheels.

This specification added nearly £12,000 to the list price when new. The car also benefits from a fitted indoor Aston Martin car cover, full service history at Aston Martin and Specialists and faultless MOT history.

This 2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S stands as one of the very last and most desirable examples of the model. It represents the final expression of analogue driving. Exceptional condition, and full Aston Martin and specialist service history make it ready to enjoy, while its specification ensures strong long-term appeal. A thrilling and authentic driver’s car.

Available now for viewing and demonstration at Pendine’s Bicester Motion showroom.