- Aston Martin first introduced the Vanquish name in 2001.
- The Vanquish functions as a super GT, combining incredible performance with supreme comfort and style.
- Aston Martin has installed a V12 engine in every version of its Vanquish, including the current generation model.
In 2001, Aston Martin dropped the V12 bomb on the GT car segment. The Vanquish made its debut and set new benchmarks as a brilliant Super GT.
Fast forward to today, and Aston Martin looks back at 25 years of the Vanquish nameplate. These cars always had V12 power, serious looks and attractive body lines. And right now, the current Vanquish delivers on everything its predecessor promised.
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Source: Aston Martin
When the V12 Vanquish was launched in 2001, it was an extraordinary event. This car marked Aston Martin’s move into the modern era as it was the last model built at the old Newport Pagnell headquarters. But it featured new technology such as drive-by-wire throttle control.
Photo by: Aston Martin
Aston Martin stuffed its 6.0-liter V12 into the engine bay. Output is estimated at around 460 horsepower, and the gearbox is an automated manual with paddle shifting. In 2004, the Vanquish S arrived with a significant increase in power, up to 520 hp.
Aston Martin refined and updated the styling when it reintroduced the Vanquish for the 2012 model year. There were lines taken from the wild One-77 while the body panels were made from carbon fiber.
The power is now much greater than the previous version, with an output of 565 hp and 475 pound-feet of torque. The best upgrade, however, is the move to a ZF transaxle. This results in a higher top speed, quicker 0-60 mph speed, and a major improvement in overall ride quality.
Photo by: Aston Martin
Aston Martin launched the current Vanquish in 2024. The car takes the design language of its predecessors and translates it for the modern age. You have the familiar grille made larger to allow for greater airflow, while the lines of the bonnet flow towards the nose.
Power is now channeled through a 5.2 liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. The output is simply incredible—824 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Today’s Vanquish is almost like a supercar only wearing a bespoke suit.
When first launched, the Vanquish is currently the fastest Aston Martin series production car ever built. Top speed was recorded at 214 mph.
Aston Martin historian Steve Waddingham said, “Look up the word ‘conquer,’ and in my opinion, it has one of the best dictionary definitions in the English language. Terms like ‘conquer’ and ‘overwhelm’ appear as synonyms and, in general, that is what the first Aston Martin to bear that legendary name sought to do; both in relation to its competitors, and in the hearts and minds of buyers.”
Motor Pickup1: The Vanquish has long been a bright spot in Aston Martin’s lineup. We’re excited to celebrate the last 25 years of this car and look forward to what the next 25 years will bring.
Just never put a name on an SUV, and we’ll all be happy.
