There's something magical about the rumble of an Aston Martin engine. The Aston Martin Vantage represents everything we love about British sports cars: elegant design, thrilling performance, and that unmistakable James Bond appeal. But buying a used Aston Martin Vantage requires more than just falling in love with its gorgeous curves.
Whether you're drawn to the raw power of a V8 or the symphony of a V12, finding the right used Aston Martin Vantage for sale can feel overwhelming. From understanding different generations to spotting potential issues, there's a lot to consider when investing in one of Britain's most iconic sports cars.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a used Aston Martin Vantage, helping you make an informed decision that'll have you grinning every time you turn the key.
Why Buy a Used Aston Martin Vantage?
Imagine pulling into your local coffee shop and watching heads turn as you step out of your Vantage. That's the reality of owning one of the most beautiful sports cars ever made. But beyond the undeniable cool factor, there are compelling reasons to choose a used Aston Martin Vantage.
The depreciation curve works in your favour with luxury sports cars. A new Vantage loses significant value in its first few years, meaning you can access that premium Aston Martin experience at a fraction of the original price. You're getting hand-built British craftsmanship, premium leather interiors, and performance that'll make your daily commute feel like a track day.
The Vantage also strikes the perfect balance between everyday usability and weekend thrills. Unlike some supercars that feel awkward in town, the Vantage is surprisingly comfortable for daily driving whilst still delivering spine-tingling performance when you want it.
Aston Martin Vantage Overview
The Vantage nameplate has been Aston Martin's entry-level sports car since 2005, though it carries the DNA of decades of British automotive excellence. Built at Aston Martin's Gaydon facility, each Vantage represents hundreds of hours of skilled craftsmanship.
The current generation launched in 2018 with a Mercedes-AMG derived 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, producing 503bhp. This marked a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines of previous generations, but the turbocharged unit delivers impressive performance with better fuel economy.
Design-wise, the Vantage maintains Aston Martin's timeless elegance whilst incorporating modern aerodynamic elements. The interior blends traditional British luxury with contemporary technology, featuring premium leather, real wood veneers, and an intuitive infotainment system.
Generations Breakdown
First Generation (2005-2018)
The original modern Vantage launched with a 4.3-litre V8, later upgraded to a 4.7-litre unit. This generation also spawned the magnificent V12 Vantage, which used a 5.9-litre naturally aspirated engine producing 565bhp.
Key variants include the standard V8, the more powerful V8 S, and the range-topping V12 models. The manual gearbox was available throughout most of the production run, appealing to purists who wanted complete control over the driving experience.
Common updates during this generation included interior refreshes, improved infotainment systems, and subtle exterior styling changes. The later models generally offer better reliability and more modern features.
Current Generation (2018-Present)
The current Aston Martin Vantage represents a complete reimagining of the model. The Mercedes-AMG sourced V8 delivers explosive performance, while the interior features modern technology and improved ergonomics.
This generation only offers an 8-speed automatic transmission, focusing on delivering seamless performance rather than manual engagement. The electronic differential and adaptive dampers provide excellent handling characteristics across different driving conditions.
Body Style Comparison
The Vantage has primarily been offered as a two-door coupe, though a convertible Roadster variant is available in the current generation. The coupe offers the purest driving experience with maximum structural rigidity, while the Roadster provides open-air motoring for those special summer drives.
The coupe's fixed roof contributes to better handling dynamics and reduced weight, making it the preferred choice for track enthusiasts. However, the Roadster's folding soft-top operates quickly and doesn't significantly compromise boot space when stowed.
What to Look for When Buying
Service History
Aston Martin servicing is expensive but essential. Look for complete service records from authorised dealers or recognised Aston Martin specialists. Annual services typically cost £1,000-£2,000, while major services can exceed £3,000.
Common Issues
Early V8 models can suffer from clutch problems if driven aggressively in traffic. The automated manual gearbox in older models can be jerky and may require expensive software updates. Check for smooth operation during your test drive.
Interior wear is common, particularly on the leather seats and dashboard. Stone chips on the front end are inevitable but check for more serious paint damage that might indicate accident history.
Test Drive Checklist
Listen for any unusual noises from the engine or transmission. The V8 should sound smooth and powerful, while gear changes should be seamless. Check that all electrical systems work correctly, including the infotainment system and climate control.
Pay attention to the steering feel and brake performance. Any vibrations or unusual noises could indicate expensive repairs ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a used Aston Martin Vantage cost in the UK?
Used Aston Martin Vantage prices vary significantly based on age, mileage, and condition. Early V8 models can be found from around £35,000, whilst current generation examples typically start from £90,000. V12 models command premium prices due to their rarity and performance.
At Cazoo, we work with trusted partners to offer competitive pricing on quality examples. Market values have remained relatively stable, making the Vantage a sensible choice for those wanting to minimise depreciation.
What is the difference between the Aston Martin V8 and V12 models?
The V8 Vantage offers excellent performance with better fuel economy and lower running costs. The V12 Vantage provides more dramatic acceleration and an unforgettable soundtrack but drinks fuel accordingly.
V12 models are significantly rarer, making them more collectible but potentially more expensive to maintain. The V8 strikes the better balance for most buyers, offering 90% of the thrills at a more manageable running cost.
How reliable is a used Aston Martin Vantage?
Modern Aston Martins are far more reliable than their reputation suggests, though they still require careful maintenance. Well-maintained examples with full service history are generally dependable, but neglected cars can be expensive to rectify.
The current generation benefits from Mercedes-Benz components, improving reliability compared to earlier models. However, all Vantages should be viewed as weekend toys rather than daily drivers unless you're prepared for higher maintenance costs.
What should I look for when inspecting a used Aston Martin Vantage?
Focus on service history first – this is crucial with any luxury sports car. Check for signs of track use or aggressive driving, including worn brake discs, stretched tyres, or interior damage.
Inspect the paintwork carefully for stone chips, parking damage, or accident repairs. The interior should show wear consistent with the mileage, and all electrical systems should operate correctly.
