Clash of Powerhouses: Ferrari 12-Cylinder vs Aston Martin Vanquish in Super GT Race
In the world of high-performance V12 super GT cars, two powerhouses stand out: the Aston Martin Vanquish and the Ferrari 12Cilindri. While both share similarities, they differ significantly in performance, design, and sound characteristics.
Performance
The Aston Martin Vanquish, equipped with a 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, produces a staggering 824 hp and 737-738 lb-ft of torque. This powerful setup enables the Vanquish to accelerate from 0-62 mph in about 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 214 mph. The twin-turbo setup offers quicker torque delivery and more midrange power, making it a formidable force on the road [1][2][3][4].
In contrast, the Ferrari 12Cilindri features an atmospheric V12 with approximately 819 hp and slightly less torque than the Vanquish. Ferrari's focus is on high-revving precision, a characteristic typical of its performance ethos [1][3][5]. The 12Cilindri's engine is described as more "clinical" and futuristic in character compared to the Vanquish's more intense power delivery.
Design
The Aston Martin Vanquish is praised for its classic, sculptural beauty, with curves reminiscent of traditional grand tourers. It is often referred to as an "automotive Adonis," boasting a lavish interior and carbonfibre-reinforced panels [2][3]. In contrast, the Ferrari 12Cilindri marks a radical departure for Ferrari with a more cold, sci-fi, and futuristic design, representing a leap into avant-garde automotive aesthetics [2].
Sound Characteristics
The Vanquish's twin-turbo V12 is said to be more vocal and louder than the Ferrari 12Cilindri, delivering a richer and more audible engine soundtrack, especially under throttle [1][3]. Ferrari's V12, while powerful, provides a more restrained and clinical exhaust note, consistent with its more refined and futuristic image [2].
Pricing
The Aston Martin Vanquish retails for £339,000, while the Ferrari 12Cilindri's pricing information has not been disclosed.
In summary, the Aston Martin Vanquish offers greater torque, more classic grand tourer beauty, and a louder, more visceral engine sound, while the Ferrari 12Cilindri emphasizes high-revving naturally aspirated performance, avant-garde futuristic design, and a more clinical exhaust tone. Both are pinnacle GT cars but cater to subtly different preferences in power delivery, aesthetics, and auditory experience [1][2][3].
It's worth noting that the Aston Martin Vanquish has faced criticism for not being bombastic enough and for its rear styling resembling the Pontiac Aztek. The design of the Ferrari 12Cilindri, despite initial criticism, may have been considered ugly when the 550 Maranello was introduced in 1996. The design of the 12Cilindri is provocative, with a breadvan-ish tail and a hyper-chiselled prow. The car model is a Ferrari GT, styled in-house, ending Pininfarina's 66-year influence with the F12 Berlinetta.
The Vanquish produces nearly half as much torque as the Ferrari 812 Superfast's atmospheric 6.5-litre counterpart. The design of the Vanquish is considered prettier than the Ferrari 812 Superfast. The 12Cilindri replaced the car model F12 Berlinetta.
- Those seeking a louder, more visceral driving experience might prefer the Aston Martin Vanquish's twin-turbo V12 engine, which produces a richer and more audible engine soundtrack.
- For those who appreciate cutting-edge design and technology, the sleek, futuristic Ferrari 12Cilindri with its avant-garde aesthetics could be the ideal choice.
- Gadget enthusiasts interested in car-maintenance might find the Aston Martin Vanquish's carbonfibre-reinforced panels and luxurious interior appealing, whereas the more cold, sci-fi design of the Ferrari 12Cilindri could appeal to those with a passion for sports and technology.
