John Eagle European in Austin, Dallas, Texas

Driving the 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

2009-01-19

By Austin Spencer

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is considered by many to be the most beautiful production car in the world today. So it might seem impossible for Aston to even think about changing this exquisite sports car. How could something so perfect become even better?

One drive in the 2009 V8 Vantage and its clear that he brilliant team at Aston has found a way to make a fine automobile even finer. It’s as if a bottle of 1990 Domaine de la Romanée Conti La Tâche Grand Cru somehow became even better.

Launched officially in 2005, this “baby Aston” melds traditional British attributes of style, craftsmanship and handling with world class engineering and dependability. The taut, sensuous body continues to win accolades for its beauty while its magnificent 4-cam V8 and sophisticated chassis astonished the world press.

The 2009 model improves on the car’s attributes with significant technical enhancements that reaffirm the car’s position as one of the world’s most exhilarating sports cars. While the stunning and award-winning shape is retained, the car benefits from a number of changes. These tasty bits include significantly up-rated engine performance from a new 4.7 liter engine, revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power, improved Sportshift™ transmission software and a new sports suspension option.

Inside, the changes include a new centre console and revised switchgear and the introduction of an ECU replacing the previous key. Externally, the acclaimed V8 Vantage design appearance is enhanced with a range of new standard and optional alloy wheels.

According to Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez, “With the new 4.7 liter engine and associated changes, we have taken the V8 Vantage to new levels of performance to produce an even more desirable sports car. The V8 Vantage is now the most successful Aston Martin in our history and we are confident these changes will continue its appeal and driving enjoyment for both new and existing customers.”

Available only as a coupe our roadster, the V8 Vantage completed the Aston Martin line of British sports cars, which includes the DB9 and DBS. The V8 Vantage is a rare jewel nicely loaded at around $120,000. With only 3,000 cars built each year, this Aston tops the “most wanted” list for motorists worldwide.

“The V8 Vantage is an elegant sports car that stands apart from the rest of the field,” said Aston Martin of Dallas managing partner Kurt Fegraeus. “The V8 Vantage features superb British design, finish and charm with the dependability traditionally associated with fine machinery from Germany. With all of the new enhancements, the 2009 model is simply in a class all its own.”

Looks to Kill
Aston Martin knew better than to fiddle with perfection. Thus, the V8 Vantage is simply one of the most beautiful cars in the world. Henrik Fisker penned a long bonnet and sleek stance, minimal front and rear overhangs and wide track. The uncluttered lines flow through to a distinctive tail with rear haunches that are wide and curvaceous.

Although the award-winning exterior design of the V8 Vantage is largely unchanged, a new 20-spoke 19’’ alloy wheel is now standard, with either diamond turned silver or graphite finishes available as options. A 5-spoke lightweight aluminum wheel is part of the delicious new Sports Pack option.

A Solid Foundation
The V8 Vantage was the second model to use Aston Martin’s VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture, which underpins the DB9 and now DBS. The unique architecture provides an excellent backbone, while Aston used a combination of aluminum, steel and advanced composite exterior panels to keep the car svelte. With a radical bonded frame, the V8 Vantage is one of the most sophisticated and advanced sports cars in the world.

A series of improvements were introduced to the V8 Vantage chassis and suspension setup to deliver improved body control and low speed ride quality, as well as enabling a driver to take full advantage of the increased performance potential. A number of the improved components originally introduced on the Vantage Roadster are now carried over to the Coupe, including revised upper damper mountings and bump stops. Additionally, the front spring rates are stiffened by 11% at the front and 5% at the rear.

Steering geometry is also modified to improve steering feel, while the front lower suspension arm compliance bushes are stiffened by 22% to provide enhanced steering response and handling. The 2009 Vantage now benefits from standard low-friction Bilstein dampers that improve the dynamic capabilities and further improve the ride quality.

Heart of a Lion
Improvements in performance have been achieved through a number of carefully developed changes to Aston Martin’s acclaimed V8 engine. First, Aston bumped the size of the engine from 4.3 to 4.7-liter. The increase in cylinder bore is facilitated by a move to cylinder liners that are pressed into the pre-machined aluminum alloy block, allowing a thinner liner than was possible with the cast-in design of the 4.3 liter engine. The new forged steel crankshaft provides the 91mm stroke and incorporates new holes in the counter weights for reduced rotating mass and improved inter-bay breathing. New forged steel con-rods and cast aluminum pistons are also part of the package.

Other key changes include efficiency improvements to the dry sump lubrication system, including a new sump casting with oil pick-up points moved from the front and rear to the sides of the sump. The cylinder heads are modified with a new intake port and bigger inlet valve. The intake manifold was modified to match the new port for optimal air flow.

“The V8 engine is an extremely potent power plant,” said James Beal, service director for Aston Martin of Dallas. “It now develops 420 horsepower and 347 lb-ft. of torque. Even though the car is more powerful, combined fuel economy and emissions are also significantly improved.”

The V8 Vantage transmissions have also undergone changes to improve performance and to handle the increased power. Both the standard six-speed manual gearbox and the optional Sportshift transmission benefit from a modified clutch and flywheel, reducing clutch pedal efforts, slicing weight and reducing the rotating masses within the powertrain to increase engine responsiveness. Aston Martin’s Sportshift transmission has undergone a series of specific changes to offer enhanced comfort and convenience with sporting capabilities.

The Perfect Balance
Driving any Aston is a special experience and the V8 is an entirely exotic indulgence. The Aston appears surprisingly small in person; to put it in perspective, the V8 Vantage is three inches shorter than a Porsche 911 on a wheelbase that is ten inches longer and a track three inches wider.

Slipping inside, the Aston has a roomy driving position with ample adjustment for the deep buckets and stylish steering wheel. The gauges, start button and switchgear are as elegant as the exterior. Offered in a broad combination of leathers, contemporary fabrics and aluminum, one can choose from an extensive choice of colors for the sumptuous interior as well as the sensuous body.

A pure two-seater, it has a hatchback for access to the luggage compartment, much like the legendary DB4. It has enough space for a set of golf clubs or skis in a roomy rear luggage area that is an impressive 10.6 cubic feet of cargo room. This makes it equally suitable for daily commutes to the office or weekend trips to the coast.

The car sports a new center console constructed from die cast zinc alloy with a graphite silver finish along with a new ECU that was introduced in the DBS. The ECU � constructed from glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate - replaces the key used previously for the V8 Vantage. The revised car also includes a new Hard Disk Drive Navigation System offering faster route processing, additional features and improved graphics. Full ipod/MP3 integration is retained as standard equipment.

The value of the V8’s taut, compact dimensions is apparent once under way. The ride is comfortable and not nearly as stiff as expected from a pure sports car. And though this is officially the most sporting model offered by Aston, it actually rides as well as a DB9.

Once the gear box is properly warmed up, it is a joy to row through the gears. Push the car hard and it always feels composed with a neutral, sweetly balanced feel. While the car does not have the grunt of a DBS, the pleasure of its poised handling, responsive engine and thrilling exhaust note stirs the soul more and more as the miles accumulate. And with 420 tractable horsepower, it will move into high speed with just a tip of the throttle or idle in the worst traffic.

With the manual gearbox, the 2008 V8 Vantage zipped from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and hit 170 mph. The 2009 model has more mid-range performance that drops the 0-60mph time to 4.7 seconds and improves top speed to 180mph.

As the V8 uses a transaxle in the rear of the car, the front mid-mounted engine is connected to the transmission via a cast aluminum torque tube and carbon fiber prop-shaft. This results in a 49:51 weight distribution for outstanding handling.

That balance is apparent at every corner. The Vantage turns in crisply with an agility that demonstrates the hours of testing at the ‘Ring that went into develop the marvelous new suspension. The nicely weighted steering is exceptionally communicative and linear; it never feels heavy or disconnected on the road.

While it seems that electronics too often disconnect the driver from their car, Aston Martin nicely integrated its traction- and skid-control systems. While they can be turned off, it’s rarely necessary as Aston dialed in enough leeway to break the tail and counter steer a bit before the engine controls cut in, even with the electronics engaged.

This particular V8 Vantage sports nineteen-inch rims wearing 235/40ZR19 (front) and 275/35ZR19 (rear) Bridgestone Potenza tires. The brakes, with four four-piston calipers and vented, grooved steel discs bring the car to a stop in an instant and are easy to modulate. While these components are individually impressive, they contribute to the handling prowess and stopping power that make the car a pleasure to pilot in any condition.

“For 2009, a new Sports Pack option is available for both Coupes and Roadsters,” explained Fegraeus. “The package includes forged lightweight alloy wheels that slice the unsprung mass, re-tuned Bilstein dampers with improved dynamic response, up-rated springs and a revised rear anti-roll bar in the coupe. The Sports Pack offers greater agility, high speed body control and precision for the most enthusiastic drivers.”




The Ownership Experience
Those who purchase a V8 Vantage are treated to extraordinary customer service. From deliveries in the dealership’s “jewel box” to complimentary pick and delivery, Aston Martin of Dallas has perfected the ownership experience.

That includes access to the dealership’s luxurious private club. Available for owners twenty-four hours a day, it is far more than complimentary refreshments; the club allows members to enjoy Internet access, satellite TV on plasma screens, a full kitchen and a private conference area.

Aston Martin of Dallas also arranges group outings to give owners the opportunity to exercise their car. From overnight rallies at exotic locations to track days, these adventures are designed for maximize driving pleasure.

The Verdict
Did Aston really improve the V8 Vantage, an absolutely smashing car, for 2009? Absolutely. The beautiful car is even more refined, powerful and fun to drive.

“The Vantage is the best total package in the world,” explained Fegraeus. “The engine is strong in any gear, the chassis is responsive, the brakes are like anchors and the exhaust note is perfect. Its a balanced car that is equally suited for motoring from Fort Worth to Dallas, touring the Texas Hill Country, slipping to a jazz concert or slicing through the corners of Motor Sport Ranch.”

The 2009 model Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a rare gem that is destined to take its place as an automotive icon.