Few engines in automotive history carry the prestige and presence of a naturally aspirated V12. Fewer still wear the winged badge of Aston Martin. For over two decades, the British marque has celebrated the V12 as a cornerstone of grand touring excellence—combining raw power, refined craftsmanship, and timeless design in machines that continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world, including here in Montréal.
From the DB7's renaissance in the late 1990s to the radical aerodynamics of the Valkyrie, Aston Martin's V12 lineage tells a story of elegance, innovation, and performance artistry. Whether you're drawn to the sweeping curves of Ian Callum's work or the sculptural aggression of modern hypercars, these ten models stand as the most beautiful examples of V12 design in Aston Martin's storied catalogue.
1. Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage (1999–2003)
The DB7 V12 Vantage marked a turning point for Aston Martin. After years of uncertainty, this model saved the brand and introduced a new generation to the magic of British grand tourers. Ian Callum's timeless lines—smooth, purposeful, elegant—combined with muscular refinement to create a car that felt both classic and contemporary.
Under the bonnet, the 6.0-litre V12 delivered 420 hp and transformed the DB7 into a serious performance machine. The design struck a perfect balance: understated yet athletic, refined yet thrilling. For many, the DB7 V12 Vantage represents the beginning of Aston Martin's modern era.
2. Aston Martin V12 Vanquish (2001–2007)
The original Vanquish arrived as an early-2000s icon. Built with a carbon fibre and aluminium structure, it showcased advanced engineering wrapped in Ian Callum's signature curves. The muscular haunches, long bonnet, and low roofline created a powerful presence that felt instantly recognizable.
Its association with James Bond in Die Another Day only amplified its legendary status. The Vanquish proved that Aston Martin could deliver cutting-edge performance without sacrificing beauty. Even today, its proportions remain a masterclass in grand tourer design.
3. Aston Martin DB9 (2004–2016)
If one car defines the modern Aston Martin aesthetic, it's the DB9. Designed by Ian Callum and Henrik Fisker, this grand tourer achieved perfect proportions—long, low, and purposeful. The DB9's elegance became a textbook reference for automotive designers worldwide.
Inside and out, the DB9 represented British luxury at its finest. The cabin featured hand-stitched leather and polished wood, while the exterior showcased flowing lines that aged gracefully over its 12-year production run. For many enthusiasts in Montréal and beyond, the DB9 remains the quintessential V12 Aston Martin.
4. Aston Martin DBS (2007–2012)
Based on the DB9 but sharpened for performance, the DBS struck a perfect balance between athletic aggression and refined elegance. Carbon fibre body panels, a more aggressive front grille, and functional aerodynamic elements gave the DBS a purposeful stance that commanded attention.
Daniel Craig's James Bond drove the DBS in Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, cementing its place in popular culture. With 510 hp from its 5.9-litre V12, the DBS delivered supercar performance wrapped in grand tourer sophistication.
5. Aston Martin One-77 (2009–2012)
The One-77 stands as one of the most exclusive hypercars ever built. Limited to just 77 examples, this masterpiece featured a carbon fibre monocoque chassis and a hand-built 7.3-litre naturally aspirated V12 producing 750 hp.
Every surface of the One-77 was sculpted with purpose. Its flowing lines, aggressive stance, and meticulous attention to detail made it a rolling piece of art. Even among Aston Martin's greatest creations, the One-77 remains a pinnacle of design and engineering ambition.
6. Aston Martin Virage V12 (2011–2012)
The Virage may have had a short production run, but its beauty deserves recognition. Positioned between the DB9 and DBS, the Virage offered subtle sophistication with a 490-hp V12 under the bonnet.
Its design refined the grand tourer formula with understated elegance. While it didn't attract the same attention as its siblings, the Virage represented Aston Martin's commitment to creating cars that balanced performance, luxury, and visual harmony.
7. Aston Martin V12 Vantage (2009–2018)
The V12 Vantage answered a simple question: what happens when you fit Aston Martin's biggest engine into its smallest chassis? The result was bold, aggressive, and unforgettable.
Compact proportions, a dramatic bonnet bulge, and muscular rear haunches gave the V12 Vantage an athletic stance that set it apart from its V8 sibling. The design celebrated raw performance while maintaining the elegance expected from Aston Martin. It proved that beauty doesn't always require restraint.
8. Aston Martin Vanquish S (2012–2018)
The second-generation Vanquish S evolved the original's drama into a more refined package. Flowing lines, sharp creases, and a purposeful stance created a modern grand tourer that honoured its predecessor's legacy.
With 568 hp from its naturally aspirated 5.9-litre V12, the Vanquish S delivered thrilling performance alongside sophisticated style. Its design represented the maturation of Aston Martin's modern design language—confident, elegant, and unmistakably British.
9. Aston Martin Valkyrie (2021–Present)
The Valkyrie pushed boundaries in every direction. Co-developed with Red Bull Racing, this hypercar combined Le Mans aerodynamics with otherworldly design. Every surface, vent, and curve serves a functional purpose, creating a technological sculpture that challenges traditional automotive aesthetics.
At its heart sits a 6.5-litre Cosworth V12 that revs to 11,100 rpm. The Valkyrie represents Aston Martin's most ambitious vision—a car that blurs the line between racing prototype and road-legal hypercar. Its radical design will influence automotive styling for years to come.
10. Aston Martin Valour (2023)
The Valour celebrates Aston Martin's 110th anniversary by blending vintage cues with modern aggression. Its design pays homage to the brand's racing heritage while incorporating contemporary performance elements.
Under the bonnet, a 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 produces 705 hp, paired with a six-speed manual transmission—a rarity in today's hypercar landscape. The Valour appeals to purists who appreciate mechanical engagement wrapped in beautiful, historically inspired design.
The V12 Legacy Lives On
Aston Martin's V12 models represent more than engineering achievements. They embody a philosophy that prioritizes beauty alongside performance, craftsmanship alongside innovation. Each car tells a story about British automotive excellence and the pursuit of design perfection.
Whether you admire the classic curves of the DB9 or the radical form of the Valkyrie, these ten models showcase the artistry possible when passion, engineering, and design converge. For enthusiasts in Québec who appreciate automotive heritage, Aston Martin's V12 lineage offers timeless inspiration.
Discover the legacy of Aston Martin craftsmanship at Aston Martin Montréal, where the tradition of British grand touring excellence continues today.
