After introducing the V8 Vantage in 2006, venerable British automaker Aston Martin made two significant additions to the front-engined, two-passenger exotic sports car for 2007. The first was the introduction of a V8 Vantage Roadster, a convertible model with a three-layer fabric top that retracted in just 18 seconds at the touch of a button and at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. The second addition was a new six-speed Sportshift automatic transmission.

Like the V8 Vantage Coupe, the V8 Vantage Roadster is hand-crafted and features the distinctive Aston Martin mesh grille, as well as the sleek exterior and swept-back lines that typify all of Aston Martin's sports cars. The fabric roof stows neatly under a metal tonneau cover, opening up the leather-lined interior to the great outdoors. It's equipped with a heated rear glass window.

The electro-hydraulic Sportshift automatic transmission provides improved shift points and the option to shift manually using magnesium paddle shifters mounted on the steering column. Drivers can also choose a Comfort shift mode for a "more relaxed" driving experience, according to the automaker.

Exterior design elements for the coupe and roadster include a low stance, minimal front and rear overhangs, a skin of lightweight alloy and advanced composites, stylish side strakes, halogen projector headlights, LED rear lights, and a long hood with the Aston Martin wings emblem near the nose.

Under the hood of both trims is a 4.3-liter V8 engine that produces 380 horsepower. The engine sits behind the front axle but ahead of the passenger cabin (officially a front mid-engine layout), providing the V8 Vantage with unique sports-car balance, handling, and stability. With its V8, the Vantage can leap from 0 to 60 in about five seconds.

Interior features include hand-stitched leather seats, an aluminum instrument panel with three-dimensional gauges, an organic electroluminescent (OEL) central message display, a glass starter button, power-adjustable front seats, a premium stereo system with a six-disc CD changer, and automatic climate control.

The V8 Vantage also comes with a full range of safety features, including traction control, electronic stability control, and dual-stage front airbags, as well as side airbags. Another nice feature is a full set of luggage, which fits neatly into the rear cargo space of the coupe, accessible via the car's rear hatchback.