Ken Koncelik from Cincinnati is well-known among those who collect DeLoreans for organizing and coordinating the National DeLorean Car Shows from 1998-2014. He recently invited me and my wife to visit him as there was something “special” in his garage that he wanted to share with us. He kept it a secret until we arrived.
When we got there he greeted us with an exquisite example of the 2009 Aston Martin Vantage, whose manufacturer was made famous by the James Bond movie franchise. These cars are expensive and very fast. The Vantage was limited to 3,000 units and, with the options, the sticker price was just over $127,000 in 2009.
Built with lightweight aluminum components, the sports car is often viewed as Britian’s answer to the German’s Porche 911. At the heart of the Vantage is a V-8, 4.3-liter, 380-horsepower engine with a six-speed gearbox. It shares many components with its “big brother” and more famous DB9 model.
The beauty of this roadster and its design are awe-inspiring. It drives as well as it looks. Cincinnati was a mere blur as Ken took us for a ride through town.
The Aston Martin Co. has changed dramatically over the past 15 years. While the Vantage is considered the baby of the lineup, it still delivers all the thrills and excitement of the larger Aston Martins and has played a huge role in the brand’s revival over the past decade.
Until next time, happy cruising!