V12 Vantage S
The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S, produced from 2013 to 2018, represents ultimate naturally aspirated Vantage variant featuring 6.0-liter AM28 V12 engine producing 565-576 horsepower at 6,750 rpm and 457-465 lb-ft torque at 5,750 rpm with Sport-Plus Pack increasing output to 576 PS (568 horsepower). Initial production offered Sportshift III automated manual transmission with seven-speed conventional manual gearbox introduced 2017 featuring classic dog-leg first gear position. Performance achieves 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.9 seconds with top speed of 205 mph while curb weight reaches 3,670 pounds. Limited run of 100 manual-equipped V12 Vantage S models offered for United States market at 99,995 sold out immediately demonstrating collector interest in final manual V12 sports cars.
The V12 Vantage S represents culmination of Aston Martin front-engine naturally aspirated V12 sports car development before transition to turbocharged AMG-sourced powertrains in subsequent models. DOHC 48-valve V12 with aluminum block and heads displacing 362 cubic inches delivers characteristic high-revving naturally aspirated performance with linear power delivery and distinctive exhaust note. Seven-speed manual transmission availability preserves traditional sports car driving engagement increasingly rare in modern supercar segment. The combination of powerful 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine producing 565-576 horsepower, available seven-speed manual transmission appealing to driving purists, front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout with transaxle providing excellent weight distribution, and limited production establishing collectibility makes V12 Vantage S final expression of traditional Aston Martin naturally aspirated V12 sports car philosophy offering analog driving experience with modern performance representing end of era before industry transition to forced induction.