Aston Martin is a prestigious automaker with a multifarious array of sports cars and GT cars on its historic portfolio. Amidst that diverse array, the Vantage is one of the most stirring nameplates associated with the iconic British brand. Offered exclusively for the American and Australian markets, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT was a relatively affordable yet vehement sports car. This untrammeled Vantage model is powered by a naturally aspirated V8 with a 430-hp higher state-of-tune, borrowed from the more expensive Vantage S of the time. With a starting MSRP of $102,725, the Vantage GT was the most affordable trim of the car when it was launched in 2015. Furthermore, this wicked Aston Martin stands out among the elite Vantage crowd with its exuberant styling and lively customization options. In this all-encompassing Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT review formulated by Exotic Car Trader, we have elaborately covered each and every aspect of the one-of-a-kind European sports car.
For the past 74 years, the Vantage moniker has been an integral part of Aston Martin’s illustrious history. The Vantage nameplate was incepted back in 1950, as a flagship trim of the Aston Martin DB2. It was only in the early 1970s, that the Vantage became an independent model. After being replaced by the Aston Martin Virage in its third generation and later being supplanted by the Vanquish in 2001, the Vantage finally returned in 2005. This time, the Vantage arrived as an entry-level model and became the first modern car to bear the Vantage nameplate. For the first time, the Vantage was also made available with a V12 engine along with the V8. During its 12-year-long production run before being completely redesigned in 2019, this generation Vantage was upgraded and augmented multiple times. Over the years, a slew of special editions and trims were also introduced, some even exclusive to certain markets. All of these models were produced at the Aston Martin headquarters and main production facility in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England. A more potent version of the 4.7-liter V8-powered Vantage, named Vantage V8 S was introduced in 2011, with a 430-hp higher state of tune. Followed by the S, in 2014, Aston Martin introduced the Vantage N430, exclusive to the European market. Although based on the regular Vantage V8, the N430 was endowed with the Vantage S’ stronger motor. The car in discussion, the Aston Martin Vantage GT, didn’t arrive until 2015. It was essentially a rebadged version of the European-spec N430 Vantage, rebranded and sold exclusively in the U.S. and Australian markets. According to pistonheads.com, only less than 500 units of the Vantage GT were produced, out of which 365 were coupes and 131 roadsters.
Under the hood of the Aston Martin Vantage GT resides a euphonic 4.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 borrowed from the Vantage V8 S, spinning the rear wheels. Tuned to crank out 430 horses and 361 lb-ft of torque, the GT is a notch above the regular V8 Vantage. Two transmission choices were offered, a slick-shifting standard 6-speed manual and an optional 7-speed single-clutch SportShift II automated manual. The manual is indubitably the enthusiast’s choice, delivering crisp shifts and better reliability. A sports suspension tuned for performance was the default spec, while a comfort suspension setup was an optional extra, exclusive to the coupe. 0-60 takes 4.6 seconds, which isn’t mindblowing but definitely fast. Furthermore, the fact that this acceleration is accompanied by a thunderous exhaust note, makes it an enticing driving experience. The car weighs 3,549 lbs and its top speed is limited to 190 MPH. If you’re concerned about fuel efficiency, the Vantage GT returns an EPA-rated combined fuel economy of 15 MPG.
Aston Martin has sprinkled some unique charisma inside the cabin of the Vantage GT. A GT badge is embroidered onto the seats while Aston also offered the option to replace it with the brand’s “wings” logo. As standard, the interior gets a graphite trim, accentuated with a satin chrome center console, whereas a carbon fiber + black combo was optional. Electronically adjustable sports seats with side airbags were standard, but heating and memory function were optional features. These seats came shrouded in supple full-grain leather in “Obsidian Black” or “Argento Grey”, with a choice of four accent colors - yellow, black, gray, and red. However, the coupe was exclusively offered with an optional Alcantara upholstery. The steering wheel which comes wrapped in leather could also be sheathed in Alcantara, again only inside the coupe. Other optional components inside the Vantage GT include black magnesium paddle-shifts, glass switches and carbon-fiber interior door handles. Overall, the Vantage GT flaunts an extravagant cabin crafted out of world-class materials.
The exterior of the Aston Martin Vantage GT is bedecked with even more distinctive embellishments. A lot of exterior elements are dark-themed, including black headlamp bezels, exterior meshes, side window surrounds, and textured tailpipe finishers. The front grille has a platinum finish as standard but blacking it out was also an option. The optional GT graphics pack glamorizes the car by applying a contrasting “lipstick” shade to the front grille while also painting the mirror caps, A-pillars, and rear diffuser with the same hue. The side profile is adorned with a livery, which was offered in five shades, along with an optional GT badging. The standard 19-inch V-spoke graphite-painted alloy wheels with a diamond-turned finish look stunning, but the optional 10-spoke forged alloy graphite-painted wheels have a unique flare to them. Aston also offered the option to equip the GT with a lot of carbon fiber components, including the front splitter, rear diffuser, and mirror caps. The GT also flaunts a special edition engine bay inspection plaque, depicting the car’s exclusivity and rarity. Altogether, the GT is one of the flashiest, most flamboyant versions of the Vantage, which however, doesn’t compromise its innate elegance.
Although not enriched with cutting-edge tech features, the Aston Martin Vantage GT is equipped with basic infotainment features of the time period. A satellite navigation system, rear parking sensors, and rear parking assist camera were standard whereas front parking sensors were optional. Surprisingly, Bluetooth connectivity wasn’t standard but packed into the optional technology pack along with cruise control and satellite radio. The standard audio system was a 160W Aston Martin audio system with a six-CD autochanger. However, buyers were given the option to upgrade to a 700W premium audio system or a super-premium 1000W Bang & Olufsen setup featuring distinctive speaker grilles and lens detailing. As evident from the specs, the Vantage GT isn’t the most feature-packed car in terms of infotainment technology. However, it undoubtedly holds a reputed rank among all the driver-focused Aston Martins listed for sale on Exotic Car Trader.
Of course, it is a car worth collecting, as only around 500 units were produced. When new, the 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT commanded a base price of $102,725 for the coupe and $117,225 for the roadster. This price tag was around $18,000 cheaper than the regular V8 Vantage of the time, which made it an excellent deal. As of now, according to Classic.com, the Vantage GT has an average market value of $70,401. The lowest recorded sale price is $55,000 while the highest recorded number is $86,509. If you intend to get your hands on one of these magnificent Aston Martins, you can expect to spend around this ballpark. However, keep in mind that acquiring an exotic sports car isn’t a tedious task anymore. Exotic Car Trader has now exceptionally simplified the high-end automotive trading process to an unparalleled level of ease. Head on to Exotic Car Trader now to explore a world of exotics including classics, sports cars, luxury machines, and much more.
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT is a singular iteration of the Vantage, exemplified by its spirited motor and unique design elements. When driven enthusiastically, its 4.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine emits a mellifluous soundtrack, sure to please a discerning aficionado. The Vantage GT’s cabin is constructed intricately and laden with exquisite materials. Everything looks and feels premium, as it should. On the infotainment front, this sports car isn’t extremely appealing, but it will do the job. With around 500 units produced, the Vantage GT can also be considered a collector’s car. Fret not about finding and acquiring your dream car anymore. Exotic Car Trader is the one-stop solution for all things exotic. Buying or selling exotics are now simpler than ever as we have streamlined the trade process to an unequaled level of convenience. The Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT is a sprightly sports car, that is sure to fascinate you with the driving experience and indulge you in an auditory euphoria. If you’re looking for a zestful and opulent rear-wheel-drive sports car that stands out from the crowd, the Vantage GT is an excellent choice.
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