Aston Martin Reveals Manual V12 Vantage S

#SaveTheManuals

Jeff Knoespel

Aston Martin said it will offer the V12 Vantage S with a 7-speed manual transmission for model year 2017, hailing it as the transmission of choice for enthusiasts who want the ultimate analog experience.

That’s the car with the company’s largest engine squeezed into its smallest car, now available with three pedals and a weird selector knob in the center console. The shift pattern has a dog-leg first gear, so those more fun gears are conveniently lined up. A driver selectable mode called AMSHIFT will automatically simulate a heel-toe downshift for those enthusiasts who are dedicated enough to get a manual transmission but don’t want to be bothered with learning how to properly use one.

"Broadening the scope of the V12 Vantage S with a manual transmission option is an indication of our desire to offer the keenest drivers a more analogue and immersive machine to enjoy. I'd like to take this opportunity to reiterate that the manual gearbox remains an integral part of our product plans and will do for many years to come," Aston Martin CEO Dr. Andy Palmer said.

Both the 7-speed manual and Sportshift III automated manual will be offered alongside each other for the same price. Start pinching your pounds now.