2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Introduced in 2006, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage is, quite simply, one of the most desirable cars in the world. Hand-crafted from the ground...

Introduced in 2006, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage is, quite simply, one of the most desirable cars in the world. Hand-crafted from the ground up and with a price tag somewhere north of $100,000, the two-seat exotic sports car was built in a limited number of just 2,000 in its first year, ensuring its exclusivity. Those lucky enough to get their hands on one will no doubt be master of the road, thanks to a muscular, smooth-skinned, ultra-sleek exterior design and a luxury interior befitting one of the world's finest cars.

As far as its design is concerned, the V8 Vantage borrowed styling elements from the iconic DB9, but if anything the V8 Vantage is sleeker and even more dynamic than the DB9. Exterior design elements include a low stance, minimal front and rear overhangs, a skin of lightweight alloy and advanced composites, the distinctive Aston Martin metal mesh grille, stylish side strakes, and a long hood with the Aston Martin wings emblem near the nose.

Under that hood is the soul of the V8 Vantage, 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 just over 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.

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