V12 Vantage S Roadster: 116 Units, 565Bhp Open-Top GT
Discover the thrilling performance and stunning design of Aston Martin's ultimate open-top supercar, blending raw V12 power with refined roadster elegance.
V12 Vantage S Roadster: The Pinnacle of Open-Top Performance
The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster stands as a testament to British engineering excellence, merging breathtaking aesthetics with ferocious power delivery. This convertible supercar delivers 565 brake horsepower from its naturally aspirated V12 engine, propelling it from 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds and onto a top speed of 201mph, making it one of the quickest drop-tops ever produced. Despite its substantial 1820kg curb weight, it exhibits surprising agility, turning heads with its sleek lines and rewarding drivers with an engaging experience on twisty roads.
Striking Design and Aerodynamic Mastery
From every angle, the V12 Vantage S Roadster captivates with its muscular yet elegant proportions. Wide and low-slung, it features a sculpted body that emphasizes athleticism, complete with distinctive carbon fiber bonnet vents to aid engine cooling under hard driving. The three-layer fabric roof deploys in 14 seconds at speeds up to 30mph, preserving structural integrity without compromising the coupe’s rigidity—a feat that ensures no loss in handling sharpness.
Rear lighting clusters add a modern flair, paired with an understated spoiler that enhances high-speed stability. The model-specific 10-spoke lightweight alloy wheels shod in high-performance tires frame massive carbon-ceramic brakes—398mm front discs and 360mm rears—promising immense stopping power. This design not only turns it into a visual pin-up but also optimizes airflow for better downforce and cooling.
- Key Exterior Highlights:
- Sleek fabric roof for open-air freedom
- Carbon fiber elements for weight savings
- Aggressive front splitter and diffuser
- Quad exhaust tips amplifying the V12 symphony
Powertrain: A Naturally Aspirated Masterpiece
At the heart lies Aston Martin’s legendary 6.0-liter V12, hand-built and naturally aspirated for 565bhp and 457lb ft of torque. This engine thrives in the upper rev range, delivering a linear surge that builds progressively rather than explosively, offering controllable yet monstrous acceleration. Power routes exclusively to the rear wheels via a seven-speed Sportshift III automated manual transmission, which shines during high-speed upshifts above 100mph but can feel less refined in traffic.
Unlike modern turbocharged rivals, the V12 provides effortless torque from low revs, evoking a sense of opulence and excess. It powers through gears with a glorious wail, peaking in a high-pitched crescendo that defines supercar auditory bliss. For the S Roadster variant, this setup claims the title of Aston’s fastest convertible, outpacing predecessors and many closed-roof competitors.
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| 0-62mph | 3.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 201mph |
| Power | 565bhp |
| Torque | 457lb ft |
| Weight | 1820kg |
Chassis Dynamics and Handling Precision
Defying its front-mounted V12 and roadster configuration, the V12 Vantage S Roadster handles with poise and precision. Stiffer springs—50% firmer at the front and 40% at the rear compared to V8 models—team with adaptive dampers to deliver a compliant ride over imperfections while maintaining composure in corners. Steering is linear with progressive heft, allowing pinpoint nose placement on technical routes.
The conventional plate-type limited-slip differential manages rear-wheel torque effectively, though it demands more driver input than active systems for mid-corner rotation. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires provide impeccable grip, enabling playful oversteer in permissive Sport mode without excessive intervention. Despite the weight bias, turn-in feels light and eager, masking the mass for nimble responses.
On winding backroads, it flows effortlessly, rewarding smooth inputs with flat cornering and strong mid-range punch. Track work reveals limits—it’s no dedicated racer—but shines as a grand tourer that invites enthusiastic driving.
Luxurious Cabin Crafted for Thrills
Inside, premium materials envelop occupants in Aston tradition. Leather-wrapped surfaces, Alcantara accents, and metallic trims create a cockpit worthy of James Bond. The driver-focused layout includes intuitive analog gauges, a central touchscreen for infotainment, and supportive sports seats that hold firm during aggressive maneuvers.
With the roof stowed, wind buffeting remains minimal up to highway speeds, enhancing open-top enjoyment. Rear seats are vestigial, prioritizing cargo space for weekend escapes. Build quality impresses, though some electronics lag behind rivals—a charming quirk in this analog enthusiast’s machine.
- Interior Standouts:
- Hand-stitched leather throughout
- Bespoke audio system with V12 soundtrack
- Customizable drive modes
- Ergonomic controls for track and tour
Everyday Usability and Grand Touring Prowess
Beyond the racetrack, the Roadster excels as a usable supercar. Its pliant suspension soaks up urban potholes, while the V12 idles smoothly for city jaunts. Fuel economy hovers around 15-20mpg combined—par for the course—but the automated manual aids relaxed cruising despite occasional low-speed hesitations.
For long hauls, it offers comfort akin to a luxury GT, with the convertible top enabling al fresco adventures. Compared to the coupe, rigidity holds firm, preserving dynamics without coupe-like isolation. It’s nimble in tight spaces, belying its dimensions for surprising maneuverability.
Rivals and Market Positioning
In a field dominated by turbo V8s and hybrids, the V12 Vantage S Roadster carves a niche with its atmospheric engine. Against the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, it trades all-wheel-drive security for purer rear-drive thrills. Ferrari Portofino rivals offer similar pace but less character; McLaren 720S Spider prioritizes track focus over GT comfort.
| Competitor | Power | 0-62mph | Price (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabrio | 640bhp | 2.7s | $230k |
| Ferrari Portofino | 591bhp | 3.5s | $220k |
| McLaren 720S Spider | 710bhp | 2.9s | $320k |
| Aston V12 Vantage S Roadster | 565bhp | 3.9s | $250k+ |
Priced around $250,000-$300,000 depending on spec, it commands a premium for rarity—one of only 116 units globally.
Potential Drawbacks and Ownership Considerations
No car is flawless. The Sportshift III gearbox falters in stop-start traffic, with jerky shifts contrasting its high-rev prowess. Maintenance for a hand-built V12 demands deep pockets, and fuel thirst limits efficiency. While reliable by supercar standards, parts scarcity could extend downtime.
Still, for collectors and enthusiasts, the sensory rewards—sight, sound, feel—outweigh quirks, cementing its status as a modern classic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the V12 Vantage S Roadster as stiff as the coupe?
Yes, the fabric roof maintains near-identical rigidity, preserving handling without compromises.
How does the V12 engine sound?
It delivers a glorious, high-revving wail with deep burble at idle—one of the best exhaust notes available.
What’s the top speed and acceleration?
201mph top speed and 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds, powered by 565bhp.
Is it suitable for daily driving?
Surprisingly yes, with compliant ride and usable features, though best for spirited outings.
How many were produced?
Limited to 116 worldwide, enhancing exclusivity.
References
- Aston Martin Vantage Roadster 2025 review – Evo — Evo. 2025. https://www.evo.co.uk/aston-martin/vantage/roadster
- The Things I Love And Hate About The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster — CarThrottle. N/A. https://www.carthrottle.com/features/things-i-love-and-hate-about-aston-martin-v12-vantage-s-roadster
- 2023 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Fires on All Cylinders — Car and Driver. 2023. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a39957259/2023-aston-martin-v12-vantage-drive/
- Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster Review — YouTube/CarThrottle. N/A. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzogOAz4ZHo
- 2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster Review — YouTube. 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0NOWSeknBU
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