Aston Martin DB12 vs. Ferrari Roma: A Comprehensive Comparison for Auto Trader UAE
1. Overview and Purpose
The Aston Martin DB12 and Ferrari Roma are two of the most captivating luxury sports cars on the market, each offering a blend of performance, elegance, and cutting-edge technology. The Aston Martin DB12 continues Aston Martin’s tradition of grand tourers with a focus on driving pleasure and luxury, while the Ferrari Roma embodies Ferrari’s philosophy of combining classic styling with modern performance. This comparison aims to help buyers in Dubai decide between the sophisticated Aston Martin DB12 and the stylish Ferrari Roma by examining their performance, design, features, and overall value.
2. Performance and Engine Specifications
The Aston Martin DB12 is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering 680 horsepower and capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. It features an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, designed to offer an exhilarating driving experience with a balance of power and control. The DB12’s adaptive suspension and advanced chassis dynamics provide excellent handling and responsiveness, making it suitable for both spirited drives and comfortable cruising.
The Ferrari Roma, on the other hand, is equipped with a 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 620 horsepower, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 3.4 seconds. The Roma also uses an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, emphasizing agility and precision. Ferrari’s advanced aerodynamics and adaptive suspension systems enhance its driving dynamics, offering a more connected and responsive experience on the road.
While both cars offer exceptional performance, the Aston Martin DB12 provides a slightly higher power output, while the Ferrari Roma delivers a more agile and precise driving feel, making both vehicles compelling options for luxury performance enthusiasts in Dubai.
3. Design and Style
The Aston Martin DB12 is designed with a focus on elegance and sportiness, featuring Aston Martin’s signature front grille, sleek lines, and muscular stance. Its exterior combines modern design with classic Aston Martin cues, creating a look that is both timeless and dynamic. Inside, the DB12 offers a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, including leather, Alcantara, and brushed metals, along with a digital instrument cluster and a state-of-the-art infotainment system.
The Ferrari Roma stands out with its minimalist and refined design, showcasing clean lines, a smooth silhouette, and a distinctive front end that harks back to Ferrari’s classic GT models. The Roma’s interior is equally sophisticated, featuring a driver-focused cockpit with premium materials, digital displays, and Ferrari’s signature attention to detail. The Roma’s design emphasizes simplicity and elegance, making it a striking presence on Dubai’s roads.
Both cars excel in design, with the Aston Martin DB12 offering a more traditional grand tourer look and the Ferrari Roma leaning towards a contemporary yet classic aesthetic.
4. Technology and Features
The Aston Martin DB12 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technologies, including a high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. It also features adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems that enhance both convenience and safety.
The Ferrari Roma also boasts a range of modern technology, including Ferrari’s latest infotainment system with a vertically-oriented touchscreen, digital driver’s display, and an optional passenger display. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a premium audio system. The Roma also offers advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition.
While both vehicles are well-equipped with modern technology, the DB12 emphasizes comfort and usability, while the Roma focuses on delivering a more immersive and driver-centric experience.
5. Safety Ratings and Features
Both the Aston Martin DB12 and Ferrari Roma are designed with safety in mind, featuring multiple airbags, stability control, advanced braking systems, and driver-assistance technologies. The DB12 offers a comprehensive safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a head-up display, contributing to a secure and confident driving experience.
The Ferrari Roma also provides a robust set of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a suite of driver aids designed to enhance vehicle control and occupant protection. Both vehicles are built to high safety standards, ensuring that drivers and passengers are well-protected.
6. Pricing and Value
In Dubai, the Aston Martin DB12 generally comes with a premium price tag, reflecting its luxury grand tourer status and extensive customization options. The DB12’s value lies in its blend of luxury, performance, and heritage, appealing to those who seek a high level of craftsmanship and exclusivity.
The Ferrari Roma, while also positioned in the luxury segment, offers a competitive price for a Ferrari, making it an accessible entry point into the brand’s lineup. Its value proposition is centered around performance, design, and the prestige of owning a Ferrari, making it an attractive choice for buyers seeking a blend of classic style and modern performance.
For those prioritizing luxury and customization, the Aston Martin DB12 offers great value, while the Ferrari Roma provides an excellent balance of price, performance, and iconic design.
7. Reliability and Maintenance
Aston Martin has made significant improvements in reliability, and the DB12 benefits from these advancements. However, as a luxury performance vehicle, maintenance costs can be high, and parts can be expensive due to the car’s exclusive nature. Aston Martin’s service network in Dubai offers good support, ensuring that maintenance needs are met.
Ferrari is known for its rigorous standards of quality and reliability, and the Roma is no exception. Maintenance costs, however, are on the higher side, reflecting Ferrari’s premium positioning and the specialized nature of its vehicles. Ferrari’s established service network in Dubai ensures that owners have access to expert care and support.
Both cars require attentive maintenance and come with high ownership costs, typical of their luxury performance class.
8. Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
The Aston Martin DB12, with its powerful V8 engine, offers moderate fuel efficiency for its class, averaging around 12-14 L/100 km depending on driving conditions. Its emissions are significant, reflecting the focus on performance rather than environmental impact.
The Ferrari Roma also prioritizes performance, with similar fuel efficiency figures of around 11-13 L/100 km. Both vehicles have a substantial environmental footprint due to their powerful engines and high emissions, making them less suitable for buyers focused on eco-friendly driving.
9. Pros and Cons
Aston Martin DB12 Pros:
Aston Martin DB12 Cons:
Ferrari Roma Pros:
Ferrari Roma Cons:
10. Target Audience and Use Case
The Aston Martin DB12 is ideal for buyers who prioritize luxury, comfort, and a refined driving experience in a grand tourer. It appeals to those who value brand heritage, exclusivity, and the ability to personalize their vehicle, making it perfect for Dubai’s luxury lifestyle.
The Ferrari Roma targets buyers who seek a high-performance sports car with an emphasis on style, agility, and a strong connection to Ferrari’s storied history. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who want a car that delivers both on the road and as a statement of style, suitable for weekend drives, special occasions, or as a sophisticated daily driver in Dubai.
11. Final Verdict or Recommendation
For buyers in Dubai seeking a luxurious grand tourer with a focus on comfort, advanced technology, and personalized luxury, the Aston Martin DB12 is the recommended choice. Its blend of performance and opulence makes it a standout for those who appreciate refined driving experiences.
However, if you are looking for a more dynamic and performance-oriented sports car with a distinctive design and Ferrari’s legendary driving feel, the Ferrari Roma is the ideal choice. Its balance of classic aesthetics and modern performance provides a compelling package for enthusiasts.