The Grand Tour-Season 2, Episode 6: The 2019 Aston Martin Vantage
I’m going to come out and say it right away; there might be faster and more powerful cars out there, but I’m fairly certain there is no more beautiful car out there than an Aston Martin. Sure it’s all a matter of taste, but if you were to ask me what my top 5 most beautiful cars of all time, the list might very well be comprised solely of Astons.
The new 2019 Vantage was announced late last year and it looks like Aston Martin is continuing the trend of good looks. The new Vantage is not just about being pretty, however. This time, Aston is taking the fight to the Porsche 911 much more seriously.
To start with, the Vantage sits on the new DB11 platform that has been shortened by four inches. The rear end is completely new with a repositioned gas tank and solidly mounted subframe. Also a first is the inclusion of an e-diff.
Powering all this is an AMG developed 4.0L twin-turbo V8 developing 503 HP, the same one in the DB11. In another 911-esque move, the engine is positioned low and far back to help deliver 50:50 weight distribution.
The new Vantage comes in at 3,400 LBS and can go from 0-60 MPH in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 195 MPH. Lead dynamic development engineer Paul Fleming says:
“This is our Porsche 911 fighter. When you jump in it, it feels like a sports car, but it’s usable, like a 911…The Vantage is not going to be the plushest car in the world, but it’s comfortable enough, and if you drive it quickly it’s going to give you the control you need.”
