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| DRIVING RATING: |
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Astons have seldom struggled for straight-line speed, but this talent has rarely if ever been matched by a similar enthusiasm for corners. No longer. Use the Vantage as a point-and-squirt machine and you’ll be missing out on at least half the fun. Here, despite using the same double wishbone suspension as the DB9, the Vantage has a massive advantage over its more powerful sister.
Not only is the Vantage the thick end of 200kg lighter than the DB9 (meaning that the all-important power-to-weight ratio is almost identical), it also has a considerably shorter wheelbase, which makes it an inherently more nimble car. In addition, the V8 is so short it fits under the bonnet entirely behind the front axle line, making the car effectively mid-engined, unlike the DB9. Finally, the Vantage’s suspension has been given a much more sports-oriented tune, while its light weight means Aston does not need to use the speed-sensitive power steering employed on the DB9, giving better response at the helm, too.
The result is a car with exquisite handling. Grip levels are predictably prodigious but its real talent is in tackling really difficult B-roads without ever being upset by their undulations, bumps, camber and surface changes. And even if you turn off its stability control and really throw it around, it remains doggedly faithful and fun to drive.
Only the brakes are a mite disappointing. There’s no doubting their awesome strength but there’s a slightly dead feeling at the top of the pedal’s travel that harms the feel of the pedal. Aston is aware of the issue and working on it.
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