Aston Martin's 'S' suffix returns after a multi-year hiatus, applied to two vehicles sharing a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 yet diverging in mission. The Vantage S delivers 670 hp in a chassis tuned for track aggression. The DB12 S extracts 690 hp within a grand tourer body designed for continent-crossing speed. Both honour a 72-year lineage of extracting maximum performance through surgical engineering - not brute force. For Quebec enthusiasts weighing raw agility against refined versatility, this comparison reveals how identical engines produce opposite characters.
Powertrain: Shared DNA, Opposite Calibrations
Both models use Aston Martin's 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with hot-V turbocharger configuration. The Vantage S generates 670 hp at 6,000 rpm with 590 lb-ft of torque between 3,000 - 6,000 rpm. Launch Control delivers 0 - 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Top speed: 202 mph.
The DB12 S extracts 690 hp from the same architecture, delivering 590 lb-ft across a broader 2,750 - 6,000 rpm range. This lower torque threshold provides effortless mid-range acceleration. Launch Control propels the Coupe to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds (Volante: 3.5 seconds). Both reach 202 mph maximum velocity.
Key Differences:
- Vantage S: Higher-rev focus, tighter torque band (3,000 - 6,000 rpm), rapid-fire shifts for track use
- DB12 S: Broader torque delivery (2,750 - 6,000 rpm), 50% faster shift times while maintaining refinement, quad-tailpipe stainless exhaust (optional titanium saves 11.7 kg, adds 1.5 dB)
Chassis: Agility vs. Grand Touring Poise
The Vantage S received extensive hardware modifications: Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers recalibrated for front-end feel, reduced rear spring aid stiffness, 10% softer transmission mounts. The rear subframe now mounts directly to the body (no rubber bushes), sharpening steering connection. Suspension geometry - camber, toe, caster - was refined to improve front-end grip under high lateral loads.
The DB12 S takes a software-first approach. Damper tuning improves roll and pitch control, working with a stiffer rear anti-roll bar and refined geometry. Standard carbon ceramic brakes (410 mm front, 360 mm rear) save 27 kg of unsprung weight while delivering thermal capacity for repeated hard stops. Next-generation corner braking control (CBC) with predictive trail braking optimization allows later braking into corners while maintaining stability.
Aerodynamics:
- Vantage S: Generates 111 kg of downforce at maximum velocity (front-biased for turn-in response), full-width decklid spoiler adds 44 kg rear downforce
- DB12 S: Fixed rear spoiler and dual-element front splitter prioritize high-speed stability over raw downforce
Design: Sculpture vs. Statement
The Vantage S announces its intentions through centrally-mounted bonnet blades (gloss black or 2x2 twill carbon fibre) that extract hot air while adding visual aggression. Hand-made brass-forged 'S' badges on front fenders feature red glass enamel infill. Optional 21-inch Y-spoke wheels in satin black pair with bronze-painted brake callipers.
The DB12 S takes a refined approach. Dual-element front splitter and bonnet louvres serve functional aerodynamic purposes. Gloss black sill additions enhance the ground-hugging stance. The rear design makes its boldest statement: a fixed spoiler adds drama, while a new diffuser frames stacked quad exhaust tailpipes within a broader rear bumper.
Physical Presence:
- Vantage S: Compact sports car proportions, tighter turning radius, driver-focused cockpit
- DB12 S Coupe: Extended dimensions (4,725 mm length, 2,805 mm wheelbase) provide greater interior space and planted highway demeanour
Interior: Driver Focus vs. Touring Luxury
The Vantage S cockpit communicates purpose. Standard 'Accelerate' interior pairs Alcantara and leather with satin 2x2 twill carbon fibre trim. Colour-matched embroidered 'S' logos adorn seat upper shoulder panels - each requiring almost 2,500 individual stitches and over 16 metres of thread. Aston Martin wings appear on headrests through an industry-first embossing/debossing technique applying 1.5 tonnes of pressure and heat. A red or silver anodised knurled metal drive mode rotary creates a bold cockpit centrepiece.
The DB12 S offers three interior environments: Accelerate leather and Alcantara, Inspire S semi-aniline leather and Alcantara, or Inspire S full semi-aniline leather. Both Inspire S packages include S Herringbone quilting with micro-perforations and Alcantara headlining. Standard 16-way Sport Plus electric front seats provide exceptional support. A red anodised drive mode rotary informs the colour of seatbelts, contrast seat welts, contrast stitching, and headrest embroidery.
Practicality:
- Vantage S: 2-seat sports car layout, minimal cargo capacity
- DB12 S Coupe: 2+2 seating, 262 litres boot volume (206 litres in Volante with roof up)
Driving Character: Track Weapon vs. Continental Express
On challenging roads, the Vantage S delivers immediate feedback through the steering wheel, telegraphing surface changes with clarity. Front-biased aerodynamic balance generates exceptional turn-in response. The chassis breathes with the road, absorbing imperfections while maintaining composure under high lateral loads. Launch Control delivers explosive acceleration, with the eight-speed automatic executing rapid-fire upshifts.
The DB12 S provides effortless acceleration from any speed, with the chassis maintaining composure whether negotiating tight switchbacks or settling into a 200 km/h cruise. CBC allows later braking into corners while maintaining stability. Dynamic Torque Vectoring across the rear axle provides predictable, precise cornering behaviour. Carbon ceramic brakes deliver exceptional stopping power with linear pedal feel and fade resistance.
Dynamic Summary:
- Vantage S: Immediate, communicative, track-ready - rewards committed driving with visceral engagement
- DB12 S: Refined, confidence-inspiring, versatile - delivers supercar performance within grand touring refinement
Both offer five drive modes (Wet, GT, Sport, Sport+, Individual) tailoring drivetrain, steering, and chassis calibrations.
Production & Availability
- Vantage S: Deliveries commenced Q4 2025, available in Coupe and Roadster
- DB12 S: Deliveries begin Q1 2026, offered in Coupe and Volante (convertible)
- Craftsmanship: Hand-built at Gaydon (UK), over 200 hours of assembly per vehicle
- Customization: Q by Aston Martin personalization allows virtually unlimited specification
Choosing Your 'S'
The Vantage S is a driver's machine engineered for maximum engagement through corners, immediate response to inputs, and visceral connection. Its lighter weight and track-focused calibrations reward committed driving with intensity few front-engine sports cars match.
The DB12 S provides supercar acceleration and cornering capability within a package comfortable enough for daily use and transcontinental journeys. The 2+2 seating and greater cargo capacity add practical versatility without diluting dynamic excellence.
Both deliver the 'S' philosophy through distinct interpretations of British automotive excellence. Whether you prioritize the Vantage S's razor-sharp agility or the DB12 S's versatile grand touring capability, you're acquiring a hand-built masterpiece honouring 72 years of performance heritage.
Reserve your Vantage S or DB12 S at Aston Martin Montréal today.
