Limited-Edition 2023 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Marks the End of an Era

• This marks the last time a V12 will be equipped in a Vantage.
• With 690 hp, this is the fastest and most powerful Vantage ever.
• Limited run of 333 examples is already sold out.

The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which Aston says is tuned for quicker shifts compared to the V8's transmission. It sends power to the rear wheels and features a mechanical limited-slip differential. The V12 Vantage also makes use of lightweight carbon-ceramic brakes, plus carbon fiber throughout the vehicle — including the front bumper, hood and front fender — to offset weight of the larger engine. 

Unlike previous generations of the V12 Vantage, this one will only be available as a coupe, with a run of only 333 examples. The distinctive hood style is an homage to the Vantage GT12, which was built to be a tribute to the Vantage GT3 race car. Aston Martin has gone all out with the exterior, from aggressive aerodynamic improvements to the wing out back, and it's all functional. With or without the wing, the V12 Vantage has been designed to have high-speed stability.

Inside the cabin, the V12 Vantage isn't extraordinarily different from the V8 model, though the automaker is encouraging buyers to take advantage of its Q by Aston Martin personalization service. Though possible, Aston Martin said it's likely that no two V12 Vantages will be exactly alike given all the color and material choices available.

Don't get your hopes up if you like what you're seeing

Here's the bad news: By the time Aston officially announced production of the V12 Vantage, it had already sold the entire run. Aston Martin added that despite selling out, the automaker also had an "oversubscribed register of interest eagerly waiting in the wings" for anyone who has to back out of an order.

Though they've all been spoken for, the idea of getting behind the wheel of the V12 Vantage still plucks at the heartstrings. The sound of a 12-cylinder really is something special, and Aston Martin is one of the few manufacturers who makes one. Though we're excited about a more electrified future overall, the loss of yet another V12 stings.

Edmunds says

Aston Martin introduces then cruelly takes away all hope of a full-scale V12 Vantage revival. The 333 lucky buyers of this limited-run Vantage will own a piece of history, as this will be the last time a V12 is fitted to a Vantage from the factory.