ASTON Martin's desirability as a brand is matched by the success of models such as its latest Vantage.
The 'baby' Aston Martin represents all that the brand stands for in terms of design, build, materials and performance.
Launched at the Geneva motor show in 2005, it went on sale that summer and returned the company to a segment of the market it had left some years ago.
From the original coupe it has now developed into a four model range with a choice of manual or automatic transmission but they share a common lightweight aluminium chassis and combination of lightweight steel and composite panelled bodywork fixed with advanced bonding and rivetting techniques.
As a result it weighs in at just over 1.5 tonnes and performance benefits from the leanness in terms of handling and outright speed.
A 4.3-litre V8 engine delivers immense smooth power from tickover and with the slick moving six-speed box it gives the Vantage awesome acceleration at the flick of a wrist and twitch of a toe. You could order the automatic Sportshift version with wheel paddles for fingertip changes which make it faster than the standard manual.
Immensely powerful but delightfully weighted brakes and a sharp rack and pinion steering combine with the independent suspension to deliver exceptional agility and ability to hang onto the road irrespective of surface.
The responsiveness of the Aston Martin Vantage is matched to a remarkably strong chassis and body so there are no rattles or shakes to detract from the refinement.
A strict two-seater coupe, the limited space behind the seats is a useful addition to the 300 litres boot if you need to store soft items or a slim folder or briefcase.
You have to be reasonably fit to drop into the seats or climb out but once inside the deep padding and carefully sculptured support of the seats makes them very comfortable for a long journey.
Adjustment is good and combined with the movement of the column a driver can fine-tune his or her desired position, surrounded by the finest leather, aluminium and cloth detailing.
For a sports coupe the ride quality is very good considering it has to cope with all manner of roads and a potential maximum speed over 170mph. It is firm but not uncomfortable although you can hear how hard the suspension is coping with bumps as the tyre and linkage noise is ever present.
Wind and engine noises are very low unless you really push the Vantage through the gears and then that beautiful engine note floods your ears with a deep roar and raw energy which instantly brings a smile to the face.
The Aston Martin Vantage is competing with the best coupes from Germany and Italy and while it cannot match some in terms of absolute technology or absolute power, it delivers an exceptional experience at the price and in a package which is probably more practical and pleasing to the eye.
It is no surprise that Aston Martin cars have been described as the 'coolest' on the block and that the brand could be worth over $1billion when it comes up for sale this year. Buying a Vantage could make you a member of a very important family.
FAST FACTS
Aston Martin Vantage V8
Price: £82,800
Mechanical: 380bhp, 4,280cc, 8cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 175mph
0-62mph: 4.9 secs
Combined mpg: 18.8
Insurance group: 20
CO2 emissions: 358g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage