The Rapide S fixes most of the reservations people could have about the first Rapide. More power, better calibration and later the eight-speed `Touchtronic III` make it more responsive without betraying its identity as a large four-door Aston. It is the most convincing variant for real-world use because it combines the original Rapide style with a level of development closer to a well-sorted Porsche Panamera.
The `V12` keeps all its nobility, but the car feels less heavy to carry and more modern in the way it responds. The Rapide S still belongs to informed owners: four real seats, a token boot, a superb silhouette and maintenance costs that constantly remind you this is a very large British GT. The most attractive cars are the ones driven regularly and serviced by time as well as mileage.