Aston Martin's first V12

Available in both the DB7 Vantage Coupe and Volante, the flexible all-alloy engine delivers 85% of its peak torque at just 1500 rpm.

At the 1999 Geneva Motor Show, a Aantage model of the Aston Martin DB7 made its debut powered by a new 6.0-L V12 engine. The Vantage name has been used by Aston Martin since 1950 to identify the highest performance model in a particular range. The name was first introduced used on the Aston Martin DB2 and was applied to the 89-kW (120-hp) derivatives of this model's 2.6-L six-cylinder engine; the “regular” version developed 78 kW (105 hp). Unlike present-day Aston Martin Vantage models, the only change to the regular specification of the DB2 was the increase in engine power output. Since the DBS model of 1972, a Vantage derivative has included changes to the specification of the brakes, steering, and suspension to match the improved performance.

The new V12 engine can power the DB7 Vantage to a maximum speed in excess of 290 km/h (180 mph), while accelerating the vehicle to 96 km/h (60 mph) in less than 5.0 s. The DB7 Vantage, available in both Coupe and Volante body styles, is the first Aston Martin to be powered by a 12-cylinder engine. The new engine was designed and developed in close cooperation with the Ford Research and Vehicle Technology Group and Cosworth Technology - as part of a long-term program to research and develop new designs, materials, and manufacturing techniques.