A new car for a future James Bond? Perhaps, especially as this is the most powerful Aston Martin Vantage in history. The wisdom of the Vantage begins in 2008 with the first generation adopting the V8 and V12 in every way, before a second phase is introduced in 2018.

After the DBX 707, Aston Martin unveils another prestigious model with the latest V12 Vantage. You’re looking at the most powerful Vantage in history, with a twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 that improves power-to-weight ratio by more than 20 per cent over the V8-powered model.

With 700 horsepower and 753 Nm of torque, the new V12 Vantage has an impressive technical record. The car generates 204 kilos of downforce at its top speed of 322 km/h. Aston Martin states that 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 3.5 seconds. All this power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and a mechanical limited slip differential mounted on the rear axle.

This mechanical work of art weighs only 1,795 kilograms, thanks in part to the use of carbon on many of the body panels, such as the bumper, boot lid and bonnet. A new stainless steel exhaust system has been added. It saves 7.2 kilograms over the V8 Vantage and has been specially tuned to produce a V12-like sound.

This new V12-powered Vantage is likely to be the last Vantage to have such an engine, with the next generation likely to be electric. It’s a fine tribute to the Vantage saga, which will surely not end here, even if the V12 is phased out.

The Gardon-based company says that 333 units will be produced, not one more, and they are all sold out of course. The first deliveries are expected in the second quarter of this year. It remains to be seen whether the next James Bond, who will succeed Daniel Craig and whose identity will be revealed this year, will appreciate this marvellous car, if it finds its place in the film’s cast.

To discover more about Aston Martin cars, discover right here and in pictures, this beautiful book dedicated to one of the most emblematic car brands.