Models · Aston Martin
Aston Martin Vantage buying guide
The current-generation Vantage arrived in 2018 with a bonded aluminium structure and a Mercedes-AMG twin-turbo 4.0 V8, as a coupé, a Roadster from 2020 and with a manual option from 2020.
The versions
- 4.0 twin-turbo V8 (Mercedes-AMG), 510hp; F1 Edition (2021), 535hp (as given in hp by PistonHeads)
- Eight-speed ZF automatic, or seven-speed dog-leg manual (2020 on, AMR first) with a mechanical differential
- Coupé, and Roadster from 2020
- AMR (2019), 007 Edition (2020) and F1 Edition (2021) special models
What to check on a Vantage
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Misfires and coil packs
What to look for: Check that the engine management light goes out after starting and stays out. On the drive, feel for a misfire or uneven running, particularly after rain or washing. Ask whether any coil packs have been replaced.
Why it matters: Coil pack failure is common on the AMG engine because water gets inside the pack itself. It shows with the engine management light, and replacement has typically been done under warranty. The engine otherwise has little evidence of major problems.
Whine at motorway speeds
What to look for: On a faster road, hold a steady cruising speed and listen for a whine from the back of the car.
Why it matters: A whine when cruising at motorway speed is typically caused by the electronic rear differential, which most dealers have replaced under warranty. Paperwork showing it was done is useful.
Gearbox servicing and software
What to look for: On a manual, check the history for a transaxle oil change at 40,000 miles. On an automatic, accelerate gently through the gears and then slow down, noting any jerky or hesitant shifts or slow downshifts, and ask whether the gearbox software is up to date.
Why it matters: The transaxle oil on manual cars is due for a change at 40,000 miles. The eight-speed ZF automatic is a smooth torque converter gearbox, so jerky or hesitant shifts are a warning sign; sluggish downshifts may be a software matter.
Also in the full guide
- Infotainment and electronics
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Vantage
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Aston Martin.