2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster

Aston Martin launched its new V8 Vantage Roadster at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show, about one year after the production introduction of the successful coupe, and began selling it as a 2008 model. While the convertible is 200 lbs heavier than the coupe, Aston promises identical performance numbers, at least in the benchmark acceleration tests.

The roadster uses the same mechanicals as the coupe, which means a dry-sump 380-horsepower 4.3-liter V8 driving the rear wheels via a choice of six-speed transaxles. There is a traditional, three-pedal manual or an optional Prodrive-developed automated manual with paddles swapping cogs or a fully automatic mode.

Aston Martin claims the car will reach 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with the standard transmission. Another timed performance Aston quotes for its canvas-topped product is the time of its roof operation: 18 seconds and at speeds of up to 30 mph. The cloth top does feature a heated glass rear window, and as the coupe is a two-seater anyhow, the only thing it takes away from is cargo capacity.

Standard equipment is generous, with the expected alphabet soup of electronic driving aids such as ABS, EBD, EBA and DSC. Traction control is likewise fitted, though a limited slip differential offers a mechanical way of maximizing grip.

As one would expect of the brand, even the smallest Aston Martin comes luxuriously equipped and includes full grain leather seating surfaces with alcantara inserts and headliner, electronic climate control, tire pressure monitoring system, and a 160W six-disc audio system capable of playing audio from mobile devices thanks to an iPod interface and USB connection. There is an optional 700W Aston Martin premium audio system with Dolby® Pro Logic II support for those for whom the sound of that V8 engine is not enough.

Other major options comprise 19-inch wheels (up from 18s), a navigation system, satellite radio, Bluetooth communication interface, and HID headlights.