Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

ON THE ROAD

Performance
The Vantage is powered by a 4.3-litre V8 that generates 380bhp - enough for 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. However, mid-range response is a little disappointing, so be prepared to rev it. Buyers can choose between a six-speed paddle-operated gearbox and a conventional six-speed manual.

Ride & handling
The Vantage has lost some body rigidity with its roof, but wobbles are kept to a minimum and it handles well. The ride is surprisingly supple, yet the car seems to sit down as the speed rises, feeling agile and composed. The steering is weighty and accurate, too, but the manual car's heavy clutch can be tiring in town.

Refinement
A big part of the Vantage coupe's appeal is the noise it makes, and the Roadster sounds even better when the hood is down. The engine is quite subdued when cruising, but crack open the throttle and there's a glorious growl that you won't be able to resist provoking. Road and wind noise are well contained, although there's a bit of buffeting with the roof down

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
The Vantage is meant to be an everyday supercar, like the Porsche 911 - albeit a more exclusive one - so Aston Martin promises maintenance bills will be similar. It costs more than the Porsche to buy, though, and drinks fuel at a greater rate. Resale values will be strong.

Quality & reliability
If the V8 Vantage is to succeed, buyers need to be confident it won't let them down. Aston promises that has all been taken care of, but our reader reviews suggest there can be problems. The cabin looks great, although some of the switchgear is borrowed from Ford Group products.

Safety & security
The Vantage comes with stability control, electronic brakeforce distribution and twin front and side airbags, but it's slightly disappointing that there are no curtain airbags. A tracking system to help trace the car if it is stolen is optional.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
The seats are powered and grip you tightly, and the steering wheel moves two ways, so it's easy enough to make yourself comfortable. However, forward visibility is a bit restricted. If you load your Vantage up with options, there are lots of small switches that are hard to tell apart at a glance.

Space & practicality
The Vantage is a two-seater that gives occupants plenty of leg- and shoulder room, but there isn't much space for oddments in the cabin. Some practicality has been sacrificed with the roof, too, because the boot is half the size of the coupe's. There's space for a couple of soft bags, but anything more is a struggle.

Equipment
Leather upholstery, climate control, a six-disc CD multichanger, 18-inch alloy wheels and a fully electric roof all come as standard. However, satellite-navigation, an in-car telephone, cruise control and bigger wheels will cost you extra. Essentially, you can personalise the Vantage however you want and Aston Martin will make it in any colour you can think of.