The latest creation from Aston Martin marks a significant evolution in the Vantage lineage, celebrating 75 years of open-top heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern engineering. Engineering teams have achieved what many thought impossible – a convertible that matches its hard-top counterpart blow for blow, while adding an entirely new dimension to the driving experience.
Developed alongside the coupe rather than as an afterthought, this new roadster emerges as a fully-formed character in its own right. The numbers tell a compelling story: 665PS, 800Nm of torque, 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, and a top speed of 202mph. Yet statistics alone fail to capture the essence of what makes this car special.
Performance prowess
The beating heart of this British thoroughbred is an extensively modified 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine. Power output has increased by an astounding 155PS compared to its predecessor, thanks to larger turbochargers, revised camshaft profiles and optimised compression ratios. The eight-speed paddle-shift transmission channels this prodigious power through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, delivering explosive acceleration while maintaining precise control.
The perfect weight distribution of 49:51 front to rear provides an ideal platform for the race-inspired suspension setup. Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, specifically tuned for roadster duty, work in harmony with unequal length double wishbones up front and a sophisticated multi-link rear axle. The result is a chassis that remains poised and precise, regardless of road conditions.
Engineering excellence
Convertible sports cars traditionally suffer from additional weight and reduced rigidity – compromises the engineering team refused to accept. Through innovative use of weight-optimised shear panels and strategic structural reinforcements, the roadster actually exceeds the coupe’s lateral stiffness in certain areas. The entire conversion adds just 60kg to the overall weight – a remarkable achievement in this category.
The Z-fold roof mechanism exemplifies the attention to detail lavished on this car. Operating in just 6.8 seconds at speeds up to 31mph, it stands as the fastest fully automatic convertible roof currently available. Eight levels of insulation ensure that with the roof up, occupants enjoy refinement levels comparable to the coupe.
Design mastery
The Vantage Roadster’s aesthetics demonstrate that beauty need not be compromised by function. The dramatically angled windscreen flows seamlessly into high waistlines, creating classic sports car proportions that look equally striking with the roof up or down. The enlarged signature grille increases airflow to the powerful engine by almost 30 percent, while contributing to the car’s predatory presence.
Three new paint options join the palette: Iridescent Sapphire, Satin Iridescent Sapphire and Bronze Flare. The convertible roof itself offers customisation through Black, Red, Blue or Black and Silver options. Twenty-one complementary colours are available for painted liveries, while four distinct 21-inch wheel designs can be specified with various finishes.
Technology integration
The cabin showcases Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment system, developed entirely in-house. A 10.25-inch Pure Black touchscreen takes centre stage, offering full online connectivity and intuitive gesture control. Critical functions retain physical switches, ensuring drivers can maintain focus on the road ahead. The standard 390w 11-speaker audio system delivers an impressive acoustic experience, while audiophiles can opt for a bespoke Bowers & Wilkins upgrade.
Dynamic capability
The Vantage Roadster’s performance credentials extend beyond straight-line speed. Massive 410mm front carbon ceramic brake discs, gripped by six-piston monoblock calipers, provide fade-resistant stopping power. Bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tyres, specifically developed for this application, deliver exceptional grip while maintaining steering feel and progressive handling characteristics.
Sophisticated electronic systems monitor the car’s behaviour through six-axis sensors, allowing the ESP system to optimise its responses to both road conditions and driving style. An innovative Advanced Traction Control system offers eight distinct settings, providing drivers with the confidence to explore the car’s considerable capabilities safely.
The new Vantage Roadster, available from Q2 2025, combines raw performance with refined luxury in a package that celebrates the joy of open-air motoring. Through meticulous engineering and unwavering attention to detail, Aston Martin has created a convertible that demands no compromises while delivering an unforgettable driving experience.