While the universally distinctive and award-winning shape of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage is retained, the car benefits from a number of technical changes which include significantly up-rated engine performance from a new 4.7 litre power unit in both Coupe and Roadster variants. Other changes include revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power and torque availability.
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![2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster Facing](http://image.automobilemag.com/f/features/lists/6695857+w440/0704_z+2008_aston_martin_v8_vantage_roadster+facing.jpg)
The Vantage roadster is powered by a 4.3-liter V-8 that produces 380 hp. That's a comparatively modest figure, but you forget about that when you push it past the 4000-rpm mark and hear the sharp exhaust bark that is reminiscent of a Lamborghini Gallardo's. A six-speed manual and a SportShift automated manual transmission are available; both are exceedingly capable, but we prefer the SportShift with its column-mounted paddles.