Japan vs UK — 2003 vs 2022
| RX-8 Type S | V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 690 hp |
| Torque | 159 lb-ft | 555 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 5,204 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 sec | 3.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 200 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 11.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 3,957 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,704 mm |
| Length | 4,435 mm | 4,495 mm |
| Units Produced | 192,094 | 333 |
| Original MSRP | $26,700 | $300,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $550,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
The 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type S counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Japan engineering meets UK craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type S and 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp holds a clear advantage in raw power with 690 hp compared to 232 hp, a 458-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-8 uses a Rotary (Wankel) Twin-Rotor displacing 1,308 cc, while the Aston Martin V12 Vantage relies on a V12 DOHC Twin-Turbo with 5,204 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp edges ahead at 3.4 seconds versus 6.0 seconds. The Mazda RX-8 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1069 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 333 units built, the 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-8's 192,094 examples. On the collector market, the 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp commands a significant premium over the 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2022 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Final V12 690hp rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.