This insanely loud V8 icon can be yours for Miata money
Winter isn’t exactly the ideal time for roadster fun: you’ll spend more time bundled up than enjoying the breeze. But that’s also when smart buyers can score a deal, since prices fall when demand cools.
If you’re looking for an all-new convertible, the Mazda MX-5 is hard to beat: fun to drive, affordable, and easy to live with.
If you want a little more style, the second-hand market is full of real gems. One of the most notable models is a British cruiser that not only turns heads, but also sings like no other engine you’ve heard.
In order to provide you with the most current and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article comes from Aston Martin and other authoritative sources, including AutoTempest and Classic.com.
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The V8 Vantage is Aston’s little powerhouse
If this sounds like your kind of driving, the 2007-2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster might be right for you.
The V8 Vantage debuted in 2005 as Aston’s entry-level model, succeeding the lavish Virage of the ’90s. It sat just below the DB9 and later the DBS, equipped with a naturally aspirated V8 instead of the V12 found in its larger siblings.
True to Aston form, the V8 Vantage combines luxury and sporty driving, with the V8 mounted up front like a classic GT. This configuration sets it apart from rivals like the mid-engined Audi R8 or the rear-engined Porsche 911.
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Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster 2007-2008 |
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|---|---|
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Engine |
4.3-liter naturally aspirated V8 |
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Transmission |
Six-speed automatic / six-speed manual |
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Power |
374 hp |
|
Couple |
302 lb-ft |
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0 to 60 mph |
4.9 to 5.0 seconds |
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Average usage value |
$38,599 |
The V8 Vantage has received a lot of love for its thunderous engine, sharp looks and luxurious cabin. But compared to its rivals, its ride felt a little heavy and lacked the poise one might expect from a car in this class.
In 2006, Aston introduced the roadster version, adding an electrically folding soft top. To compensate for the loss of rigidity due to the removal of the metal roof, they reinforced the frame, keeping the car surprisingly planted.
The first generation V8 Vantage stuck around for over a decade
The V8 Vantage had enough charm to sell well, giving it a surprisingly long lifespan. It remained in production from 2005 to 2016, before the arrival of the second-generation Vantage in 2018.
A 2009 refresh brought the biggest changes: a larger 4.7-liter V8 increasing output from 374 horsepower to 425 horsepower, a sharper gearbox and stiffer suspension for better responsiveness.
Unsurprisingly, these latest models hold their value better than the original 4.3-liter cars. If you want one at around the price of a 2026 Miata, these are the versions to hunt down.
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A few V8 Vantages only for Miata money
The V8 Vantage Roadster came to the United States in 2007, so only two model years prior to the update were available in the United States. With slightly lower performance than their later siblings, it’s no surprise that they’re priced a bit more affordably today.
Getting one for about the price of a new base MX-5 isn’t easy, but it’s possible. For example, a black 2008 model with just over 40,000 miles recently appeared on Cars.com in very good condition with a clean title.
This particular car comes with a six-speed automated manual transmission and is listed at $31,995 as of December 2025, proof that a legendary V8 roadster can be within reach.
You will find more options if you increase the budget a little
The MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition costs around $36,250, and at that price you suddenly get a lot more V8 Vantage Roadster options.
Take the example of a deep red from 2008: this 19,000 mile car sold Bring a trailer for just $35,000.
It came in great condition with a clean title and featured the six-speed automated manual transmission, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get into one of these legendary roadsters.
The V8 Vantage engine steals the show
Sure, the Aston’s James Bond looks will turn heads, but it’s the engine that really grabs the attention.
The naturally aspirated 4.3-liter V8 isn’t the most powerful ever, hitting 60 mph in about five seconds, but it’s ridiculously loud.
Aston designed the V8 to be as visceral as possible when pushed, but smooth enough to remain civilized at low speeds: a perfect balance between thrills and everyday use.
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Aston added small exhaust valves to control the V8’s roar, keeping it quiet below 4,000 rpm. Step on it and the valves open, unleashing all of the engine’s breathtaking fury.
It’s so loud you can hear it miles away, and the roadster lets you feel every decibel firsthand. Unlike a Miata, the V8 Vantage wraps you in a leather and wood/metal interior, allowing you to return home in luxury once you’re done waking up the neighborhood.
All of this costs about the same as a base MX-5, but keep in mind that maintenance can be considerably higher.
V12 Vantage Roadster offers more power, for a premium price
If the V8 Vantage doesn’t quite satisfy your need for speed, its V12 sibling might do the trick.
The V12 arrived in 2009 as a more hardcore version of Aston’s ‘baby’ model, and it didn’t disappoint. The DBS’s 5.9-liter V12 sat under the Vantage’s hood, producing well over 500 horsepower.
A convertible version followed in 2013, although only 101 examples were made, making it a rare and seriously desirable machine.
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Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster 2015-2017 |
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|---|---|
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Engine |
6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 |
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Transmission |
Seven-speed automatic |
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Power |
557 hp |
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Couple |
457 lb-ft |
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0 to 60 mph |
3.9 seconds |
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Average usage value |
$235,707 |
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This exclusivity, along with the huge increase in performance, means the V12 Vantages cost significantly more than the V8. Expect to spend well over $130,000, although U.S. buyers will have to look to the even more expensive V12 Vantage S, since the original was only sold in Europe.
Built between 2015 and 2017, the 557-horsepower S version costs an average of about $235,000, according to Classique.com. That’s about $200,000 more than a previous V8, representing a premium for four extra cylinders.
Still, some buyers would do anything for the pleasure of an extra 200 horsepower. Honestly, it’s easy to see why.
