
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
In an effort to widen its appeal to a younger market, Aston Martin's new $99,900 'budget' coupé - based on the V8 Vantage entry level model - arrives with more power than its predecessors and, in a move that will have fan boys drooling, a proper 6-speed manual. The GT brings output up to 430 horsepower (translation: 0-60 in 4.6 seconds) coupled with a new exhaust and brakes, not to mention a stiffer sport suspension and quicker steering rack. Visually, the vehicle is identified via a graphics package that puts contrasting colours on the side view mirrors, diffuser, A-pillar and around the front grille. While it harkens back to Aston's racing liveries from the 1950s, for those who find the trim a bit too intrusive, the 'lipstick' grille can remain black.