The new Aston Martin V12 Vantage is now available to order in the United States starting from $179,995 for the normal models, and $194,995 for the ones with Carbon Black package, which includes special black paintjob and wheels as well as carbon fiber interior accents. That’s before tax of course, so realistically when you are done with the options a base model can cost over 200 grand.

The V12 Vantage is a tarted and stiffened up version of the gorgeous V8 Vantage which has been fitted with 6.0 liter V12 engine of the DBS. This powerplant develops 510 hp and 420 lb/ft of torque, which means the car does 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 190 mph. It gives the Vantage the extra umpf it always needed.

That’s all good, but you should beware that this changes has turned the Vantage from a GT into a hard and sharp sportscar, more suited for tack days. So I’d rather save a couple of thousands and get a V8 Vantage Roadster. Oh, and that V8 sounds much cooler than the V12!