Aston Martin DB12 vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

Driving Character: Aston Martin DB12 vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

The DB12 marks a decisive shift in Aston Martin’s philosophy, moving away from the wallowing nature of its predecessor to embrace true sporting agility. The 671hp AMG-sourced V8 provides muscular, linear power that feels perfectly harnessed by the new nine-speed wet-clutch transmission. While the chassis balance is significantly sharpened, the car retains a sophisticated grand tourer core that isolates occupants from road imperfections. It behaves with composure on winding B-roads, offering steering that feels more connected and precise than previous models, ensuring that while it is an aggressive performer, it remains deeply comfortable over long distances.

The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is defined by its mid-engine configuration and the installation of the 4.0L flat-six from the GT3. The chassis is a masterpiece of precision, featuring RS-specific suspension geometry that rewards technical accuracy. The steering feel is sharp and communicative, offering a visceral connection to the tarmac that few modern roadsters can replicate. While it is certainly capable on a track, the engine note and open-top architecture make it a raw experience on winding B-roads. The gearshifts are lightning fast, ensuring the powertrain remains at the heart of the driving sensation throughout every spirited corner.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Aston Martin DB12 — 671hp AMG V8; more powerful and responsive than the DB11 it replaces; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six; open-top configuration amplifies mechanical engine and intake sounds. Characteristic of the Aston Martin DB12: Nine-speed wet-clutch gearbox; quickest shifts in Aston Martin history. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Balanced mid-engine layout; steering geometry provides agile turn-in response for spirited driving. In outright terms it is 671 hp against 493 — a 178 hp gap — and the Porsche 718 Spyder RS reaches 60 mph 0.2s sooner.

Interior & Cabin: Aston Martin DB12 vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

Stepping inside the DB12 reveals a transformative leap for the marque, shedding the dated systems of old for a fully contemporary cockpit. The centrepiece is the curved 10.25-inch touchscreen, which offers responsive software and logical navigation, finally bringing the tech suite up to current luxury standards. Materials remain premium, with supple hides and high-quality finishes throughout. However, some traditionalists may lament that the cabin feels less like a bespoke, hand-crafted space and more like a modern, technology-focused office. Despite this evolution, the overall fit and finish are of an exceptionally high order for this segment.

Inside, the Porsche 718 Spyder RS prioritises weight saving over luxury. The carbon fibre bucket seats provide immense support, while the use of fabric door pulls and minimal sound insulation highlights its motorsport heritage. Build quality is characteristically high, though the cabin environment is undeniably sparse compared to a standard 718. The infotainment system is functional rather than flashy, providing necessary data without distracting from the task of driving. Despite the lack of plush padding, the driver-focused ergonomics remain impeccable, creating a purposeful space that reflects the uncompromising nature of the vehicle’s design philosophy.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Aston Martin DB12 — Completely redesigned interior; most contemporary Aston cabin to date; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Focused instrument layout; high-quality material finishes maintain the premium feel of Porsche. Characteristic of the Aston Martin DB12: Curved 10.25-inch touchscreen; significantly improved tech versus DB11. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Supportive bucket seats; cabin architecture prioritises driver connectivity while top is retracted.

Daily Usability: Aston Martin DB12 vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

Practicality in the DB12 is framed by its 2+2 layout and a functional 300-litre boot, which makes it a surprisingly viable option for weekend excursions. While the interior is more ergonomic than earlier Astons, the car’s significant 76.7-inch width demands vigilance in tighter urban environments or narrow parking bays. The ride quality is expertly calibrated, allowing it to glide over broken road surfaces in GT mode without bruising its occupants. It is clearly built for the open road, where its combination of power and usable space makes it a highly capable companion for cross-continental travel.

Daily utility is clearly secondary to performance in the Porsche 718 Spyder RS, yet it remains surprisingly manageable. The inclusion of a nose lift system as standard allows for navigation over urban speed bumps and steep inclines without damaging the front splitter. Storage is adequate for a weekend getaway, with both a front boot and a rear luggage compartment available for essential items. Ingress and egress require some physical agility due to the low-slung bucket seats and side sills, but for owners who accept the compromise of a manual roof operation, it serves as a usable roadster.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Aston Martin DB12 — 300L boot and 2+2 seating balance sports car focus with GT practicality; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Front and rear storage; 125L cargo capacity remains usable for short-distance trips. Characteristic of the Aston Martin DB12: Comfortable GT modes well calibrated for real-world road quality. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: 110 mm clearance provides adequate height; compact exterior dimensions aid navigating city streets. that means 262 litres of boot space against 125, plus a usable front boot in the Porsche 718 Spyder RS, and everyday running costs that favour the Aston Martin DB12 at the pumps.

Ownership: Aston Martin DB12 vs Porsche 718 Spyder RS

Ownership of the DB12 represents the most polished experience in the history of the DB lineage, with expected reliability levels that finally match its rivals. While the annual maintenance costs remain firmly in the premium category, the backing from the Aston Martin Works network provides extensive support that mitigates the risks of high-performance motoring. As the current benchmark for the brand, it holds a strong position in the market, though prospective owners should factor in high insurance premiums and the inevitable expenses associated with maintaining such a sophisticated, high-output drivetrain over time.

Ownership of the Porsche 718 Spyder RS is defined by its exclusivity and potential for appreciation. As a model with limited production, it sits in a secure position within the enthusiast market. While annual maintenance costs are high, the support provided by the Porsche Motorsport division offers peace of mind for specialized mechanical needs. Insurance premiums will be substantial, and the high purchase price requires careful consideration, but the prospect of long-term residual strength remains strong. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents a peak of internal combustion performance within the Porsche stable.

Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Aston Martin DB12 — Latest generation Aston; best reliability expectation of any DB model; the Porsche 718 Spyder RS — Enthusiast collector market; naturally aspirated flat-six engines maintain strong value retention. Characteristic of the Aston Martin DB12: Aston Martin Works and wider network both support DB12 comprehensively. For the Porsche 718 Spyder RS: Reliable dealer support network; scheduled maintenance remains manageable through official channels. On the wallet the two diverge at £185,000 versus £140,000 — a £45,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £3,500 against £1,400.

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