The Aston Martin V8 Vantage was introduced in concept form at the 2003 North American International Auto Show and made its production debut at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, entering production for the 2006 model year as a new entry-level model aimed at broadening the brand’s appeal. Penned by Henrik Fisker, the design drew acclaim for its compact proportions, muscular haunches, and classic Aston Martin grille. Built on the company’s VH (Vertical/Horizontal) platform, the Vantage featured a front-mid engine layout and a bonded aluminum structure, offering balanced handling and a lightweight feel. At launch, it was powered by a 4.3-liter V8 derived from Jaguar-sourced architecture, later upgraded to a more powerful 4.7-liter V8, paired with either a six-speed manual or Sportshift automated manual gearbox.
The V12 Vantage, introduced in 2009, elevated the model to supercar status. By fitting the 5.9-liter naturally aspirated V12 from the DB9 into the smaller Vantage chassis, Aston Martin created a raw and powerful machine with 510 horsepower, a six-speed manual transmission, and aggressive styling enhancements such as a vented carbon fiber hood and wider track. Later V12 Vantage S models added more power (up to 565 hp), a Sportshift III automated manual option, and adaptive damping, enhancing both speed and drivability. The V12 Vantage quickly became a fan favorite for its unapologetic character, limited production, and pure, analog performance.
Over its twelve-year production run, the Vantage evolved into a diverse lineup of performance-focused and special-edition variants. These included the standard V8 Coupe and Roadster, the track-focused Vantage N24 and Vantage GT4 for motorsport, and road-going tributes like the V8 Vantage N400, N420, and N430. Later, the Vantage GT, GT8, and GT12 further pushed the limits of the platform, emphasizing lightweight materials, improved aerodynamics, and motorsport influence. These variants catered to both purist drivers and collectors, keeping the Vantage fresh throughout its lifecycle while highlighting Aston Martin’s racing pedigree.
Among the rarest of the breed was the Vantage GT12, a 2015 limited-edition track-inspired model originally announced as the “Vantage GT3.” Featuring extensive carbon fiber bodywork, a titanium exhaust, and a 600-hp version of the V12 engine, it was the most extreme Vantage ever built. However, due to a legal dispute with Porsche over use of the “GT3” name—closely associated with its own 911 GT3—Aston Martin was forced to rename the car “GT12.” Only 100 units were produced, making it one of the most exclusive and collectible Vantages, and wearing highly bespoke specifications according to each customer’s wishes.
This particular example is Gulf specification in literal and figurative sense —a GCC spec, it also wears the iconic racing colours of the Gulf racing team. With just over 100 kilometers on the odometer, this exotic Aston looks, feels and runs as new.
