2021 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster: A Luxurious Convertible Experience
The 2021 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster may not possess a license to kill, but it certainly has the style to stand out in the luxury sports car market. Like its coupe counterpart, this dynamic drop-top is poised to compete against formidable contenders like the Mercedes-AMG GT and the Porsche 911.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Vantage Roadster boasts a robust 503 horsepower courtesy of its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine. This configuration effectively narrows the performance gap between the entry-level 469-hp Mercedes-AMG GT and the more powerful 550-hp GT C. Unlike the Mercedes, which utilizes a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the Aston Martin channels its impressive power to the rear wheels through a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission.
Acceleration and Speed
As expected, the Vantage Roadster delivers stellar performance. Aston Martin reports that this convertible can soar to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 190 mph. However, achieving this velocity requires keeping the roof closed. Comparatively, the Vantage coupe is slightly quicker, clocking 0-60 mph in an estimated 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 195 mph.
Innovative Folding Roof Design
One of the Vantage Roadster’s standout features is its power-operated soft top, which can be lowered in just 6.7 seconds and raised in 6.8 seconds—both at speeds of up to 31 mph. Moreover, the compact design of the roof provides a practical 7.0-cubic-foot trunk, outpacing the trunk capacities of its rivals: the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster and Porsche 911 Cabriolet, which offer 5.8 and 4.6 cubic feet, respectively.
Pricing and Availability
Of course, such luxury and performance do come with a price. The Vantage Roadster starts at $164,086, including delivery charges. This price tag is approximately $30,000 more than the similarly performing Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster and the Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet. Ultimately, whether the Aston Martin’s sleek design justifies its cost is subjective, as it caters to a niche of discerning auto enthusiasts. The 2021 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster is expected to see deliveries begin toward the end of the year, making it a highly anticipated addition to the luxury convertible market.
