Announced just two weeks in advance of the 2012 Geneva Salon, the 'entry level' V8 Vantage 4.7 received the most comprehensive programme of enhancements since the introduction of the 4.7-litre engine in 2008. The much-revised car featured a raft of improvements first seen with the V8 Vantage S introduced a few months previously. The engine remained the same 4.7 litres 420 bhp V8 as before but the optional six-speed Sportshift automated manual transmission was replaced with the exclusive to Aston Martin, seven-speed Sportshift II designed by Prodrive.
Further dynamic enhancements centre on the V8 Vantage’s chassis, which features more developments from the V8 Vantage S. The steering was quickened and the brakes were the same as fitted to the ‘S’ with new 380mm two-piece ventilated cast-iron front discs and six-piston callipers. A neat and useful new feature was Hill Start Assist (HSA) for more precise control on steep inclines. The V8 Vantage MY2012.25 also came fitted with tyres from the ‘S’ that was 10mm wider than fitted previously.
The exterior of the car is almost impossible to distinguish from the higher-powered V8 Vantage S, especially if the ‘V-spoke’ wheels are fitted instead of the standard-fit forged 10 spoke items. The car has received the N420 style sills although these are not quite as pronounced as those on the ‘S’ and have a noticeable curve ahead of the rear wheel arch. The aerodynamic splitter and rear diffuser are similar to those on the ‘S’. They were made of high-quality black plastic although the carbon fibre items from the S were available as a cost option, making identification between the two models potentially even more difficult, making these examples an astute choice.
