2009 Aston Martin Vantage.

MSRP: $119,500 - $136,500

Vantage has not been tested by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)—and most likely never will be. Safety is not the primary concern of those purchasing this car.

However, Aston Martin doesn’t disregard safety. The Vantage comes equipped with anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, side airbags, and rear parking assist.

Visibility might be the biggest safety issue, even with front and rear parking sensors. “Its thick pillars and low-profile windows hamper visibility and tend to make occupants feel hunkered down,” says Edmunds.

Another safety-related complaint comes from Automobile Magazine: “The stability control system is slightly over eager to come into play when driving the V-8-powered Aston quickly. The DBS offers a sportier, more tolerant stability control mode and this feature would be a welcome addition to the V8 Vantage as well.”