Aston Martin pure pleasure

It should only take a glance of these pictures to understand just why it is we here at carsguide are happy campers. Just two words sum it up; Aston Martin.

In the past week we've had the privilege of not one but three Aston Martin models rolling through our garage . . . and what a week that has made it.

These pure-bred exotics get through on looks alone, but a quick look at their sports car credentials; places all three near the top of the table of best cars we have ever had the pleasure of driving.

First out of the blocks; with an absolute burst from the big six-litre V12 under the hood and a cracking exhaust note, which is as beautiful to the ear as the sculptured car is to the eye; was the DB9 Sport.

With 335kW of power and 570Nm of torque, a top-speed of 300km (not tested), and covering 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds, you know you have a true performance vehicle at your hands.

Engulfed by luxurious fittings, feeling very much as one with this tremendously well-balanced machine, it's impossible not to enjoy this experience.

With 80 per cent of the V12 engine's pulling power available from as little as 1500rpm, the DB9 relaxes on the open road, with an astonishing mid-range performance which offers instant overtaking power almost regardless of engine speed, or even which gear has been selected.

With the DB9 parked safely back in the Solitaire garage at Mile End, next to roll on to Adelaide roads was the V8 Vantage Roadster.

This stunning drop top embodies the qualities that are integral to Aston Martin; power, beauty and soul.

It's a sports car and a show piece . . . bringing equal pleasure whether it's being driven hard or for others to enjoy its fine looks.

That said, the Vantage Roadster packs a 283kW, 410Nm, 4.3-litre V8 under the bonnet and is capable of doing 0-100km in five seconds and has a top speed of 280km/h; it's light weight and efficient aerodynamics the key to its performance.

Don't fancy a soft-top, then the original Vantage coupe is the way to go; the same 283kW and 410Nm pushing 80kg less and the state limit is shattered in five seconds.

Aston's answer to the Porsche 911, has a V8 that's endowed with a glorious howl and it's all fired through the limited slip-diff rear end; using a mid-mounted six-speed manual or optional Sportshift automated manual gearbox.

It's a body work of bonded aluminium alloy, steel, composite, and magnesium but surprisingly still weighs just over 1600kg.

Calling it head-turning is under-selling the reaction, such is the handsome shape. Whole bodies pivot to watch Aston Martin cars drive by and it's easy to see why.