For some, nothing but a V-12 will suffice. The twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 in the DB12, with its 671 horsepower and superb sound, is deemed insufficient due to its fewer cylinders. This is why Aston Martin is resurrecting one of the most iconic names in the automotive world with a V-12: Vanquish. After a six-year hiatus and a failed attempt at a mid-engine supercar, the Aston Martin Vanquish returns to its roots. This is a grand, powerful, and luxurious GT car, featuring a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V-12 producing 824 horsepower and a top speed of 214 mph. Aston Martin plans to produce no more than 1,000 units annually, with a base price of $420,000.

The engine shares its basic dimensions with the previous Aston V-12 but has been significantly revised. To boost both power and torque—an impressive 738 pound-feet—while complying with stricter emissions regulations, the V-12 has undergone extensive modifications, including a new block, heads, ports, camshafts, connecting rods, turbochargers, fuel injectors, and relocated spark plugs. Aston Martin claims the engine is 'unrecognizable' from its predecessor. Paired with a rear-mounted eight-speed automatic gearbox, the engine also features an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, similar to the new Vantage and DB12. A new feature called Boost Reserve can increase boost pressure beyond partial throttle requirements, ensuring immediate power when needed.

The Vanquish boasts a bonded and extruded aluminum monocoque chassis, but unlike the DB12 and Vantage, it features mostly carbon-fiber bodywork. With a dry weight of 3,911 pounds in its lightest form, the Vanquish surpasses the 4,000-pound mark when fully loaded. It rides on bespoke Pirelli P-Zero tires, measuring 275/35 front and 325/30 rear, and comes standard with forged wheels and carbon-ceramic brakes. Advanced chassis technology includes Bilstein DTX dampers and a six-axis inertial measurement unit for precise control of the dampers, electronic differential, and traction/stability systems. A new Corner Braking system enhances rear-end stability during trail braking.

Inside, the Vanquish resembles other current Aston Martin models, with a new center console filled with physical controls and a bespoke infotainment system. The Vanquish is longer, wider, and lower than the DB12, with a wheelbase extended by just over 3.0 inches, an overall length increased by 6.5 inches, and a width expanded by 2.4 inches. The reduction in height makes it 0.2 inches shorter. The design features a more sculptural hood and larger rear haunches, with a unique Kamm tail inspired by the company's Le Mans racers of the 1960s. This is only the third time Aston Martin has used the Vanquish nameplate, and the new model has much to live up to, given the legacy of its predecessors.