We agree it isn't an apples-to-apples comparison, but one worth the effort, considering they fall in the same price bracket.

Front-engined super GTs have always been something worth lusting after. But what separates them from the quintessential supercar and its mid-engined design? Of course, having the engine up front is one notable difference, and the driving position is arguably more relaxed. But that’s not all.

In all honesty, front-engined GTs are more than just a long nose and a short bum. While mid-engined exotics are cool and everything, there’s a level of elegance and finesse that’s exclusive to front-engined Ferraris and Astons.

Sure, an Aventador looks sharp and agile, but one glance at an 812 Superfast, and you’ll notice a timeless design courtesy of smooth curves. Something that Lamborghini forgot since the Miura.

Anyway, our discussion isn’t about the Miura or the Aventador. We’re keener on the latest V12 entrant in Aston’s lineup. No, it’s not the Valkyrie; it’s the new Vantage. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the V12 Vantage is back.

And to make things interesting, we pit it against Ferrari’s 812 GTS, the convertible variant of the 812 Superfast. We agree it isn't an apples-to-apples comparison, but one worth the effort, considering they fall in the same price bracket.

So Aston managed to shoehorn a V12 inside the Vantage. It’s always exciting to find big engines in small cars. But, unfortunately, it’s not cheap; the retail on the new baby Aston is expected to be around $350,000. That’s nearly twice as much as the regular Vantage and a touch under Aston’s flagship GT, the DBS Superleggera.

So now the question is, is it worth the extra money?

Firstly, the V12 Vantage is not a series-production car; Aston will only make 333 units. Secondly, there are quite a few differences over the standard Vantage; think of it as a Vantage on steroids.

The new 2022 Vantage comes with a familiar 5.2L twin-turbo V12 that powers the DB11 and DBS. Output stands at 690 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque; power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed torque converter automatic. Sadly, there is no manual available.

Aston Martin is yet to disclose the performance figures. But we reckon it’s going to be significantly better than the standard car. Although the regular Vantage is not slow by any stretch of the imagination, Aston claims the new V12 Vantage is more capable, with a 20% increase in power-to-weight over the standard car.

Changes in the new 2022 V12 Vantage are dramatic. It gets styling updates, a wider 1.6-inch track, a mechanical limited-slip differential, extensive chassis tweaks, and a host of carbon fiber upgrades. Also, the spring rates are 40% stiffer at the front and 50% at the rear. Plus, the car gets functional aero improvements like a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear wing, which can be deleted should you prefer a cleaner look.

RELATED: Everything You Need To Know About The 2023 Aston Martin DBX707

The 812 GTS, on the other hand, is very much a Grand Tourer. Unlike the Aston Martin, this one is more for the laid-back commuter, a tool that’s better suited for visiting the south of France and enjoying a continental breakfast.

That’s not to say the GTS is a slouch. It gets a 6.5-liter V12 engine capable of revving to almost 9,000rpm. With 789 horsepower and 530 lb-ft of torque, the roofless 812 Superfast is capable of hitting 0-60 in 2.8 seconds!

And because it’s a Ferrari, the drive is every bit exciting as it should be. When you’re on the limit, it’s a wild animal that breaks traction with the slightest throttle inputs. You don’t want to get on its dark side, as things could get a bit lairy.

The 812 GTS’ party piece is its foldable roof. Employing this unique hard top makes the 812 GTS Ferrari’s first V12 roadster in more than ten years. But it’s not cheap, of course, it’s a V12 Ferrari. Retail cost for a 2022 812 GTS is $370,000 before options.

RELATED: 2021 Ferrari 812 GTS: Costs, Facts, And Figures

Price-wise, both cars are in the same ballpark, but here's the deal. The Vantage is a limited-run swansong to Aston’s V12, whereas the 812 GTS is not as exclusive but also happens to be the last of its kind.

The V12 is a dying breed; there’s no arguing that. This is a great opportunity for wealthy individuals to purchase what is perhaps the greatest engine of all time. The soul and character of V12s are unmatched in the motoring industry, and it’s a real shame to let it go.

Both Aston and Ferrari have unique identities, and there are compelling reasons to buy them. However, the Ferrari makes more sense if you want the best of both worlds. On the flip side, if you’re one to keep a low profile and prefer exclusivity to everything else, the Vantage V12 has your name written all over it. It’s as capable as the Ferrari and can easily fly under the radar as a normal Aston (with the wing delete, of course).

Sources: Aston Martin, Ferrari, Car and Driver, YouTube

A relatively naive bloke in every aspect other than cars. Ever since he was a toddler, cars fascinated him so much that he only ate when there's a magazine beside him. Although comprehension was a bit far-fetched, pictures were the focal point. Fast forward a few years, he graduated with a degree in automobile engineering and now pens down on all things motoring.