How Do the Ferrari 12Cilindri and Aston Martin Vanquish Stack Up in the Real World?
If you’re the kind of person who dreams in V12, you know that the rivalry between Ferrari and Aston Martin is more than just a numbers game—it’s a clash of philosophies, histories, and, let’s be honest, egos. With the arrival of the Ferrari 12Cilindri and the latest Aston Martin Vanquish, that old rivalry is burning hotter than ever. But which of these super-GTs truly delivers the magic, and what’s it actually like to live with either one?
Why Did the Ferrari 12Cilindri Get Off to a Rocky Start?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the 12Cilindri didn’t exactly win over the internet at first glance. Critics poked fun at its name and rear styling, and some purists lamented that the V12 didn’t sound as wild as before. But here’s the thing—Ferrari’s design language has always pushed boundaries. Remember the 550 Maranello? It was called ugly when it launched, and now it’s a classic.
The 12Cilindri’s breadvan tail and sharp nose are bold, yes, but they’re also a statement. And while new emissions rules have tamed the engine’s soundtrack a bit, what matters most is how it feels from behind the wheel. Early impressions? It’s a revelation, especially as you peel off the motorway and let that V12 sing through the Scottish hills.
What’s the Aston Martin Vanquish’s Secret Sauce?
Aston Martin’s recipe for the new Vanquish is pure confidence. The cabin is a blend of luxury and tech, the silhouette is jaw-dropping, and the handling walks a fine line between poise and playful oversteer. It’s a car that makes you grin before you’ve even left the driveway.
Performance-wise, Aston hasn’t just caught up—they’ve thrown down the gauntlet. The Vanquish’s 824bhp twin-turbo V12 outguns the Ferrari on paper, and its carbon-rich bodywork is arguably the prettiest in the segment. The sound? Thunderous. And for the first time, the price difference between these two icons is almost negligible.
How Do These V12s Reflect Their Brands’ Evolution?
Both Ferrari and Aston Martin have evolved dramatically in recent years. They’re now publicly traded, compete at the highest levels of motorsport, and their road car lineups mirror each other more closely than ever. Whether you want a super-GT, a super-SUV, or a road-legal Le Mans machine, both brands have you covered.
This isn’t just about horsepower or lap times. It’s about heritage, ambition, and the kind of cars that make your heart race. The 12Cilindri and Vanquish are the latest chapters in a story that stretches back decades, with both brands pushing each other to new heights.
What’s It Like to Actually Drive These Cars Across the UK?
Let’s get practical for a second. Super-GTs are meant to devour miles in comfort, with just enough edge to make a back-road blast unforgettable. On a long haul from London to Scotland, the Ferrari 12Cilindri proves itself a surprisingly refined companion. The V12 is smoother, the ride more forgiving, and the cabin more inviting than its predecessor, the 812 Superfast.
You can cruise at 40mph in eighth gear with barely a whisper from the engine, and the new glass canopy makes the interior feel airy and open. The dash layout is a bit fussy, but overall, this is a Ferrari you could genuinely use every day—massage seats and wireless charging included.
Switching to the Aston after a stint in the Ferrari is eye-opening. The Vanquish’s cabin is more lounge than cockpit, with softer seats and a panoramic roof that floods the space with light. It feels bigger and heavier, and the numbers back that up: 1952kg for the Aston versus 1806kg for the Ferrari (thanks in part to the Ferrari’s pricey carbon options).
Does Weight Matter When You’re Chasing B-Roads?
Absolutely. The Ferrari’s lighter weight, shorter wheelbase, and rear-wheel steering give it an agility advantage that’s hard to ignore. It’s more responsive, more playful, and more precise through corners. The steering is lightning-quick, and the car feels alive—almost telepathic—in the way it responds to your inputs.
The Vanquish, meanwhile, is more of a grand tourer in the classic sense. It prefers sweeping curves to tight hairpins, and its steering, while quick, is heavier and less communicative. There’s a bit of understeer to work through before you can really exploit its balance, and the lack of rear-wheel steering makes it feel a touch less nimble.
But here’s the twist: the Aston’s massive torque means it’s always ready to surge forward, and on a long, open road, it’s an absolute joy. It’s less about razor-sharp dynamics and more about effortless, continent-crushing pace.
How Do These Cars Make You Feel?
This is where things get subjective. The Ferrari 12Cilindri is a masterclass in balance and control. It’s fun, exciting, and just cerebral enough to keep you engaged on every journey. The way it blends super-saloon comfort with supercar precision is genuinely special.
The Aston Martin Vanquish, on the other hand, is all about character. From the moment you fire up the V12 with its signature gargle, you know you’re in something unique. The ride is a bit firmer, the steering heavier, but the sense of occasion is unmatched. It’s a car you want to spend time in, even if it’s not quite as sharp as the Ferrari when the road gets twisty.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re lucky enough to be choosing between these two, you’re already winning. Both the Ferrari 12Cilindri and Aston Martin Vanquish deliver experiences that are deeply gratifying, each in their own way.
The Ferrari edges ahead with its blend of usability and dynamic brilliance—it’s the new benchmark for front-engined V12 GTs. The Aston, while heavier and less agile, is arguably the more traditional grand tourer, with a sense of luxury and presence that’s hard to beat.
The bottom line? Ignore the armchair critics. Both cars are masterpieces in their own right, and either would make you feel like royalty every time you turn the key. The real winner is anyone who gets to experience what these V12 legends have to offer.