Tag: Aston Martin V12 Vantage

  • Aston Martin V12 Vantage: a spectacular finale for an iconic bloodline

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage - front view

    For fifteen years the V12 Vantage has boldly represented Aston Martin’s passion for performance. Fast and fierce in equal measure, successive iterations of these great cars have formed an iconic bloodline. One built around the premise of fitting the most compact and driver-focussed model with the largest and most potent series production engine. With this unique lineage nearing its end, Aston Martin is proud to introduce the fastest, fiercest and most dynamically accomplished of them all; the new V12 Vantage.

    With production of the V12 Vantage strictly limited to 333 examples globally, this final edition celebrates the end of an epic era in fitting style. The ultimate expression of extreme performance and driver-focussed thrills, this remarkable machine mixes blistering straight-line speed and scintillating handling with spectacular looks and enviable exclusivity: An extremely enticing proposition.

    So enticing, that since V12 Vantage was confirmed in December last year, Aston Martin have seen unprecedented demand for this future icon with all examples sold ahead of release and an oversubscribed register of interest eagerly waiting in the wings.

    Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Moers, said of the V12 Vantage: “Every great sportscar brand has a hero car. For Aston Martin in more recent years that car has been the V12 Vantage. Right from the moment the first V12 Vantage RS Concept was shown back in 2007 our customers and fans around the world fell in love with the idea of fitting our biggest engine into our smallest and most sporting model. The recipe has been refined over the years with great success, but the essence has remained the same. Now it is time to bring this bloodline to a close, fittingly with the most spectacular example yet – the fastest, most powerful and most dynamically capable V12 Vantage ever. A celebration of its forebears and an embodiment of Aston Martin’s intensifying focus on driving dynamics, it ensures the V12 Vantage goes out on the highest of highs”.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBD7GElTOOw

    The engine is the heart of every Aston Martin, but never more so than in this, the fastest and most powerful Vantage ever built. Developing 700PS at 6500 rpm and 753Nm of torque from just 1800rpm to 6000rpm, the quad-cam 60-deg 5.2-litre V12 offers an intoxicating combination of magnificent low and mid-range muscularity with searing top-end power. With a top speed of 200mph, V12 Vantage reaches to 0-60 in just 3.4 seconds. Thanks to the propulsive efforts of this magnificent powerplant – and extensive use of weight-saving materials throughout the car – the V12 Vantage has a power-to-weight ratio of 390PS-per-ton; an increase of more than 20% compared to the V8 powered Vantage.

    These weight saving measures include carbon fibre front bumper, clamshell bonnet, front fenders and side sills, composite rear bumper and deck lid, lightweight battery and a special centre-mounted twin-exit exhaust system. Tuned to ensure the V12 Vantage has a voice to match its looks and performance, this new exhaust system is made from lightweight 1mm stainless-steel, saving some 7.2kg compared with the system fitted to the Vantage.

    The power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear of the car. The V12 Vantage receives a unique transmission calibration to enhance shift speeds and driver interaction, with learnings taken from the V12 Speedster and Vantage F1® Edition models. This specially calibrated software delivers a level of shift refinement and usability which is beyond that seen on dual clutch gearboxes. The transmission’s adaptive software is designed to gauge the conditions the car is operating in, along with the demands the driver is making, to ensure the car is in exactly the right gear at the right time providing a truly connected driving experience.

    Like its celebrated forebears the new V12 Vantage is focused on delivering a dynamic driving experience that compliments its unmistakable engine performance and character, while ensuring the driver truly remains at the centre of the driving experience. To achieve this, the car is equipped with a new adaptive damping suspension system including new anti-roll bars, bushes, and spring and damper assemblies.

    Suspension spring rates have been increased by 50% at the front and 40% at the rear, combined with top mount stiffness increasing by 13% and new anti-roll bars are 5% stiffer at the front and 41% softer at the rear.  To maintain comfort for the driver, a secondary tender spring has been introduced to the rear. The tender spring provides a lower spring rate than the main spring providing enhanced ride comfort without affecting dynamic performance.

    Body stiffness is increased with additional front and rear sheer panels, a rear suspension tower strut brace and fuel tank bracing, increasing body stiffness (kNm/Deg) by 8% and lateral stiffness (kNm/mm) by 6.7%, giving the optimum platform stiffness for driving dynamics.

    These changes are also supported by a new steering calibration, improving steering feel and delivering a sharper response – and in turn, an enhanced driver experience.

    For stopping power that’s more than a match for its performance, the V12 Vantage features a Carbon Ceramic Braking (CCB) system as standard – At the front 410mm x 38mm discs with 6-piston calipers, while at the rear 360mm x 32mm discs are paired with 4-piston calipers.

    Offering increased braking performance and significant reduction in un-sprung mass, these CCB discs maintain consistent braking performance at high temperatures and have been engineered to resist brake fade at temperatures up to 800 degrees, helping the V12 Vantage unleash its full performance potential while giving the driver maximum confidence and precise control.

    This CCB technology also saves 23kg of weight when compared to steel brakes. Moreover, as this mass is unsprung, the weight savings further contribute to the V12 Vantage’s ride quality and dynamic handling character.

    Completing the V12 Vantage dynamic package are a choice of two new designs of 21in alloy wheels offered in satin black or satin black diamond turned, plus an optional lightweight option available in Satin Black, which saves a further 8kg.  Further scope to complement or match the colour of the diamond turned highlights to that of the body or graphics package is available via the Q by Aston Martin bespoke service. Michelin Pilot 4S high performance tyres – 275/35 R21 front and 315/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitment on all rims.

    Such an uncompromising pursuit of performance and driving pleasure demands an equally uncompromising aesthetic. To this end the V12 Vantage boasts a jaw-dropping physique thanks to a bodywork widened by some 40mm new to accommodate a wide track chassis optimised for cornering performance and stability. Employing extensive use of carbon fibre, this new widebody design also features a dramatic aerodynamic package.

    While spectacular from any angle, it is when viewed from the front that the V12 Vantage is at its most dramatic. Perfectly complimenting a new front bumper design, a full width front splitter generates additional downforce and aerodynamic balance as well as perfecting the ground-skimming stance.

    To provide increased air flow through the engine cooling radiators the front grille is 25% larger. In addition, a distinct ‘horse shoe’ design engine vent has been integrated into the bonnet, enhancing cooling and echoing the design character of the magnificent Vantage GT12, Aston Martin’s road-going tribute to the legendary V12 Vantage GT3 racer. The assertive design continues along the side profile with a new sculpted single-piece sill also inspired by motorsport and reminiscent of previous V12 Vantage models.

    At the rear a new and unique bumper with integrated diffuser maintains aerodynamic balance from front to rear. The centre piece of this new design is the lightweight centre mounted, twin tailpipe, exhaust system. Completing this nose-to-tail transformation is a dramatic rear wing which contributes to a maximum downforce of 204kg at top speed and further enhances the V12 Vantage’s unmistakable visual impact. For a more subtle styling with a sleeker silhouette, the option to delete the rear wing is available.  Yet in either configuration, extensive work to the underbody ensures aerodynamic balance is maintained, delivering high speed stability and ultimate performance.

    Maximising the driving experience with the iconic V12 soundtrack, V12 Vantage comes with an open rear load space also placing the new rear suspension strut brace on display.

    Moving to the interior, the V12 Vantage retains the instantly recognisable layout of the current Vantage, whilst signifying its halo positioning with a Sports Plus Seat trimmed in full semi-aniline leather featuring ‘Wings’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard.

    There is also a new carbon fibre performance seat with exposed twill carbon fibre shell and manual 6-way adjustment available as an option, offering a supportive seat design for those enhanced driving dynamics and a distinct design character. This is an Aston Martin patented design inspired by motorsport, optimised to save 7.3kg without compromising comfort.

    Further enhancing the dramatic styling both outside and inside, every V12 Vantage can be individually tailored through the marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin. Offering a variety of unique options, customers can create a true one-of-a-kind specification.

    Striking exterior graphics and liveries are available to select in a range of colourways, as well as a selection of coloured brake callipers and painted wheel finishes. In a way to make the exposed Carbon Fibre elements even more unique, the Q by Aston Martin: Commission service also offers a range of tinted lacquers, helping accentuate the craftsmanship behind the hand-laid carbon fibre panels. The tints change appearance under different lighting conditions; parked in a dark street or under faded light, they appear subtle and understated, but placed under a brighter light, the tint transforms the car with a jewel-like glisten.

    Options are equally distinctive inside the car. Woven leather or Alcantara seat inserts, trim inlays and the anodised rotary dials found in the centre console can coloured in a way to match or contrast with the exterior body or graphic colour, providing a more subtle injection of colour inside the cabin. With so many design combinations available, it would not be a surprise to see no two cars the same.

    Marco Mattiacci, Aston Martin Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer, adds: “At Aston Martin we build cars, but we sell dreams. That is the magic of this brand. Only a select number of customers around the world can buy the V12 Vantage, yet like all our iconic models, its significance extends far beyond its exclusivity. What’s more, such is the level of bespoke personalisation available via Q by Aston Martin even a car as rare as the V12 Vantage can be made to a specification completely unique to its owner”.

    Production of the V12 Vantage – the order book for which is already closed due to unprecedented demand – is due to commence in Q1 of 2022, with first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q2 2022.

  • Aston Martin Introduces 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster

    Aston-Martin-V12-Vantage-S-Roadster-THuMB2015 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster is one of the most powerful and fastest cabriolets on the market. The company plans to enter the vehicle on the market worldwide later this year. This model is set to deliver great sporting agility highlighted by an enviable sports ‘soundtrack’. The latter of course is generated by its naturally aspirated V12 engine and the tuned sports exhaust system. All in all V12 Vantage S Roadster is the mechanical embodiment of Aston Martin’s exceptional spirit – beautiful, potent and dynamic.

    To go into details, under the hood of the new cabrio sleeps the 565 hp (415 kW) AM28 6.0-litre V12 engine. It features Bosch engine management and is capable of accelerating the car from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.9 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited up to 201 mph.

    Furthermore, the peak torque is rated at 619 Nm (457 lb-ft) and it is available at 5,750 rpm. The low rev torque is measured at just 1,000 rpm and peaks at a 509 Nm (376 lb-ft).

    Just like its coupe sibling, the roadster includes race car technology, which runs right through its DNA. Two examples of this track technology are the CNC machined combustion chambers and hollow cam shafts. Another instance is the Sportshift III ASM auto-shift manual transmission that is engineered to use the full potential of the V12.

    In addition, the utilization of the three-stage adaptive damping, contributes to more precision in driving dynamics. There are three modes: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ that provide versatility in performance. This system also manages the level of power steering assistance.

    The braking performance is ensured by carbon ceramic discs, while the new exhaust system is derived from the exclusive One-77 hypercar. Next, the ZF Servotronic power assisted steering offers a quick 15:1 ratio. It is linked to the adaptive damping button and also offers two-mode steering assistance.

    In terms of exterior the new roadster has the emblematic grille, which is made of carbon fibre arrangement with sporty black or titanium silver mesh. It was created to optimize the airflow to the V12. Other distinguishing features include the lightweight forged alloy ten-spoke wheels.

    The interior of the car features seat trim and door trims with Sport and carbon fibre lightweight seat options. As an option, Aston Martin is offering the Interior Carbon Pack. It adds the material to car’s fascia and door pulls, and includes black pedals.

    On the other hand, the company is also introducing for the V12 Vantage S Roadster, the Q by Aston Martin Collection. It comprises of bespoke features such as a wide range of bold exterior and interior colors, body colored carbon bonnet louvers, red tint or satin finish to the carbon fibre elements on the exterior and interior, a full carbon fibre centre console, black anodised and machined rotary controls and a steering wheel with a leather on-centre stripe in the chosen color.

    2015 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster Technical Specification:

    Body Two-seat, two-door soft-cover convertible top bodystyle

    Extruded bonded aluminium VH body structure

    Aluminium, magnesium alloy, composite and steel body

    Extruded aluminium door side-impact beams

    Halogen projector headlamps (main beam)

    High Intensity Discharge headlamps (dipped beam)

    LED rear lamps

    Clear rear lamps

    Carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser

    Black headlamp bezels

    Engine All-alloy, quad overhead camshaft, 48-valve, 5935 cc V12

    Front mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive

    Fully catalysed, stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves

    Compression ratio 11.1:1

    Max power 421 kW (573 PS/565 bhp) at 6750 rpm

    Max torque 620 Nm (457 lb ft) at 5750 rpm

    Acceleration Roadster 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds

    Maximum speed Roadster 323 km/h (201 mph)

    Transmission Rear mid-mounted, seven-speed ‘Sportshift III’ automated manual transmission

    Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft

    Limited-slip differential

    Final-drive ratio 3.727:1

    Steering Rack and pinion, speed-sensitive Servotronic power-assisted steering, 2.5 turns lock-to-lock

    Column tilt and reach adjustment

    Steering rack with 15:1 ratio

    Wheels & Tyres 19” 10-spoke forged alloy Graphite painted wheels with diamond-turned finish

    Front: 9 x 19” Pirelli P Zero Corsa 255/35 ZR19

    Rear: 11 x 19” Pirelli P Zero Corsa 295/30 ZR19

    Suspension Front: Independent double wishbones incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers

    Rear: Independent double wishbones with anti-squat and anti-lift geometry, dual-rate coil springs and monotube adaptive dampers

    Three-stage Adaptive Damping System (ADS) with Normal, Sport and Track modes

    Brakes Front: Ventilated Carbon Ceramic Matrix discs, 398 mm diameter with six-piston monobloc calipers

    Rear: Ventilated Carbon Ceramic Matrix discs, 360 mm diameter with four-piston monobloc calipers

    Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Track mode

    Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Track mode

    Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

    Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)

    Traction Control (TC)

    Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)

    Positive Torque Control (PTC)

    Hill Start Assist (HSA)

    Standard Specification Full-grain leather interior

    Piano Black fascia trim, centre stack and door grabs

    Leather-trimmed sports steering wheel with Black airbag ring

    Electrically adjustable sports seats with side airbags

    Memory seats and exterior mirrors (three positions)

    Dual-stage driver/passenger front airbags

    Carbon fibre front grille

    Titanium front grille and side strake meshes

    Powerfold exterior heated mirrors

    Heated rear screen

    Automatic temperature control

    Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays

    Trip computer

    Cruise control

    Bluetooth® telephone preparation with audio streaming capability

    Satellite navigation

    Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror

    Garage door opener

    Rear parking sensors

    Reverse parking assist camera (USA and Canada only)

    Tyre pressure monitoring

    Alarm (with volumetric and tilt sensor) and immobiliser

    Remote control central door locking and boot release

    Glass ECU

    Glass switches

    Aston Martin Tracking by Cobra

    LED map reading lights

    In-Car Entertainment 160 W Aston Martin audio system with six-CD autochanger

    Integrated Apple iPod® connector

    USB connector with Waveform Audio Format (WAF), Windows Media Player (WMA) and MPEG (MP3) audio file compatibility

    Exterior Detailing Options 10-spoke lightweight alloy wheels – Silver painted – Satin Black painted

    10-spoke forged alloy wheels – Liquid Silver painted – Gloss Black painted with a diamond-turned finish

    Alternative Brake Caliper finish: Grey, Red or Yellow

    Pirelli P Zero Tyres

    Black or Silver Graphics Pack – individual body panels or combinations of: front grille ‘lipstick’, rear tailgate panel and lamp infills,

    Exterior Carbon Pack comprising mirror caps, side strakes and rear lamp infills

    Carbon fibre side strakes

    Painted carbon fibre front grille

    Black front grille and side strake meshes

    Black side window trim surround

    Black textured tailpipe finisher

    Silver headlamp bezels

    ‘V12’ front wing badging

    Delete model badging

    Delete protective tape

    Interior Detailing Options Carbon fibre fascia trim

    Carbon Interior Pack comprising fascia trim and door grabs

    Carbon fibre paddleshifts

    Aston Martin Wings headrest embroidery

    Black pedal pads and footrest

    Black anodised speaker grilles (only available with Bang & Olufsen audio system)

    Personalised sill plaques

    Comfort and Convenience Options Front parking sensors

    Reverse parking assist camera

    Lightweight seats with six-way electrical adjustment

    Heated seats

    Passenger seat with ISOFIX (fixed height)

    Garage door opener

    Second glass ECU

    Aston Martin Tracking by Cobra

    First aid kit

    Ashtray and cigar lighter

    Boot-mounted umbrella

    Leather ECU pouch

    In-Car Entertainment Options 700 W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with Dolby® Pro Logic II®

    1000 W Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system with ICEpower® technology

    Satellite radio

    Dimensions Length 4385 mm (172.6”)

    Width 1865 mm (73.4”) excluding mirrors

    Width 2022 mm (79.6”) including mirrors

    Height Roadster 1260 mm (49.2”)

    Wheelbase 2600 mm (102.4”)

    Front track 1570 mm (61.8”)

    Rear track 1575 mm (62.0”)

    Turning circle 11.8 m (38.7 ft) (kerb to kerb)

    Boot capacity 144 litres (5.1 cu ft)

    Fuel capacity 80 litres (17.6 UK gal/21.1 US gal)

    Kerb weight Roadster 1745 kg (3847 lb)

    Fuel consumption litres/100 km (mpg) Urban 22.5 (12.6)

    Extra-urban 10.2 (27.7)

    Combined 14.7 (19.2)

    Gas mileage and CO2 emissions City 12 mpg

    Highway 18 mpg

    Combined 14 mpg

    343 g/km

    Source: Aston Martin

  • Aston Martin Enters 24 Hours of Nurburgring With Three Race Cars

    Aston-Martin-Hybrid-Hydrogen-Rapide-S-THUMBThe ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring is going to happen this weekend, where the British automotive icon Aston Martin is going to participate with three different race cars. The first one to enter is the international championship-winning V12 Vantage GT3, the second one – Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S and the last – the close-to-production specification V12 Vantage.

    At the N24 the brand is going to celebrate its anniversary by entering a front-running GT3 car crewed by top professional drivers, a world-first engineering technology project and a near-standard V12 Vantage. In addition, a stunning 100-car parade of Aston Martins will entertain the public through around the length of the legendary 22km-long circuit.

    To go further into details, the unique Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S was announced a month ago The car is based on Aston Martin’s new four-door, four-seat sports GT. In fact, the model that is going to compete in the Nürburgring is the first Hybrid Hydrogen-powered car to enter in an international racing event.

    The model was created with the help of the hydrogen experts at Alset Global. The specialists at both brands have equipped the prototype with twin turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine. In addition, this Aston Martin vehicle is able to run on pure gasoline, pure gaseous hydrogen, or a blend of both. Aston-Martin V12 Vantage is the third car that is going to enter the race. It is also a close-to-production vehicle which was specifically modified to meet the N24 regulations.

    At last, the brand will compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours for the eighth successive year with the goal of achieving first place.

    Source: Aston Martin

  • 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 Supported By Bilstein

    2013-Aston-Martin-V12-Vantage-GT3-THUMBAston Martin has confirmed their partnership with leading damping and suspension specialist Bilstein, appointing it as primary technical partner for Aston Martin Racing’s competition programme at the Nürburgring race in May.

    The emblematic blue and yellow colours of Bilstein are now featured on the new 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 which will be driven by Darren Turner (GB) and Stefan Mücke (D), alongside Allan Simonsen (DK) and Pedro Lamy (PT) at the race.

    In fact, Bilstein has played a crucial role in the success of Aston Martin’s road cars, giving them excellet performance and quality. The Bilstein-liveried V12 Vantage GT3 is going to be firstly presented at the 60. ADAC Westfalenfahrt four-hour race (VLN1) on 23 March and then again at the 55. The other events at which it will be seen are the ADAC ACAS H&R Cup (VLN3) on 27 April in preparation for the ADAC Zurich 24-Hour race on 19/20 May.

    Additional details about the racecar, as well as Aston Martin’s full Nürburgring 24 Hours campaign will be disclosed in the coming weeks.

    Source: Aston Martin

  • Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster spotted on the streets [VIDEO]

    AMV12Roadster-THUMBFew days after the official release of Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, it has been already spotted on the narrow streets of London. The new sports car by the famous British brand looks even better than on the pictures. And just wait to hear the roaring sound at the end of the video.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster on the streets of London
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster on the streets of London

    Being a limited edition model, the V12 Vantage Roadster has one of the coolest interiors I’ve ever seen: a red indulgence of carbon fiber material. This undoubtedly will give the lucky one driving the car the feeling of luxury and uniqueness.

    In particular, this Aston Martin’s power comes from the naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it generates the stunning 517 horsepower (380 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a muscular 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

    Given these facts, I am sure it will be no surprise for you to read that the 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched by it in just 4.5 seconds.

    httpv://youtu.be/K2YVH7FLkP8

    Video Source: YouTube

  • Global debut for Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    Aston-Martin-V12-Vantage-Roadster-THUMBAston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster is the new sports car by the famous British brand which will be available for only limited number of customers because it comes out as a limited edition model.

    It comes equipped with the astonishing power of Aston Martin’s naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine that will offer the lucky drivers the thrills of Vantage Roadster driving experience. The V12 is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, and hence is able to produce 517 hp (380 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a muscular 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

    It is no surprise then that the 0-62 mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.5 seconds. The top speed here is 190 mph.

    Furthermore, the new Roadster includes modified rear boot lid and lower front air intake to maintain a level of dynamic performance that’s fully in keeping with the V12 Coupe. In addition redesigned are also the rear damper set-up, front and rear damper valve tuning and a new rear spring design. The outstanding performance of the vehicle is improved additionally by the Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres.

    Some other stylish characteristics of the car include: carbon fibre side strakes; a carbon fibre front splitter and rear diffuser; carbon fibre mirror caps and carbon fibre rear lamp infills; new forged alloy wheel design.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    The interior includes some new features as well. For example, there are subtle additions as the use of glass switches in the lower centre stack. They give more luxurious ambience to the Vantage Roadster cabin.

    What is more here is the unique feature of the V12 Vantage’s which the engine’s “Sport” mode button is. What it does basically is to enables the driver to select between two different powertrain modes.

    When in Normal mode, which is active as soon as the car starts working, the Roadster has not only a more relaxed throttle response but also a quieter, more refined exhaust note.

    On the other hand, the Sport mode is made for more dynamic driving situations where sharper responses are required. Thanks to it the car has sharper throttle response, with the engine delivering more torque during the early stages of throttle pedal travel.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster pricing starts at £150 000 RRP.

    Source: Aston Martin

  • Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    Aston Martin has announced the new V12 Vantage Roadster. The new “Volante” model is planned to make its official debut later this week. The production will be limited to just 101 units and the manufacturer is apparently already taking orders from special clients.

    An unknown UK dealer has stated pricing of approximately £150 000.

    The modifications include front and rear suspensions as well as a revised luggage lid and rear spoiler. Other new design elements include carbon fiber side strakes, carbon fiber mirror caps, rear lamp black outer trim with carbon fiber inner appliques, new design forged alloy wheels, black exhaust pipes and Aston Martin emblems with black background.

    The interior is also revised. It boasts lower center console glass switches (instead of black plastic) and carbon/black trim detailing. A Carbon Interior Pack takes it a step further with the addition of a carbon fiber center console fascia and carbon fiber gearshift base plate.

    Stay tuned for more information about the new V12 Vantage Volante.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster

    Source: Aston Martin

  • Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3

    What happens, when you put 600BHP V12 engine in 1250kg car? The answer is very simple – it happens something really good and nice to drive and in this case to watch.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 is not only extremely fast race car, but it is incredibly beautiful, too. The tests of the vehicle has just began and the racing team has already covered almost 1000 kilometres in just two days. The majority of the mileage was conducted by factory driver Darren Turner.

    “The car ran like clockwork throughout and we’ve managed really good mileage already. The feeling of the V12 Vantage GT3 is a massive step forward from the DBRS9. Being based on the smaller Vantage it is more responsive and feels more nimble, giving the driver plenty of confidence to extract all the performance from the V12 engine while also being light on its tyres. It isn’t too physical to drive and I didn’t even break into a sweat during the test!”, said mr. Turner, after two days behind the wheel.

    “With the clean styling and the amazing sounding V12, it’s closer to the core values of Aston Martin’s road cars than any of the racing cars we’ve ever built. I’m certain it’ll become a favourite among motorsport fans in no time at all.”, he added.

    The V12 Vantage GT3 is a direct replacement for the Aston Martin DBRS9, which first competed in 2006 and went on to score many race and championship wins including the 2007 British GT Championship and the 2009 FIA GT3 Teams’ Championship.

    The engine is the most staggering element in the V12 Vantage GT3. It is 6.0 liter twelve-cylinder naturally aspirated monster with 600BHP (445 kW) and 700Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque. All that power is sent to the limited slip differential at the rear wheels through Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission.

    Aston Martin Racing will continue with the V12 Vantage GT3’s comprehensive testing programme into the New Year and beyond.

    You can check the full specs, below!

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3
    Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 Specs:

    • Engine

      Lightweight V12
      Dry sump oil system
      Power >600bhp
      Torque >700Nm

    • Transmission

      Xtrac 6 speed sequential transmission with semi-auto gear change
      Limited slip ramp/plate differential
      Carbon fibre propshaft

    • Chassis

      Lightweight aluminium chassis
      Steel roll cage to FIA safety standards
      High speed pneumatic jack system

    • Suspension

      Double wishbone with uniball bearings
      2-way adjustable dampers front and rear
      Optimised geometry for lower race ride height

    • Steering

      Hydraulic power assisted steering

    • Fuel system

      110-litre fuel cell to FIA safety standards
      Twin quick release couplings

    • Brakes

      6 pot front & 4 pot rear calipers with ventilated steel discs
      Manually adjustable front/rear brake bias
      Adjustable motorsport ABS and traction control

    • Wheels & Tyres

      Front 12.5” x 18”        30/68-18
      Rear  13” x 18”            31/71-18

    • Cockpit

      Six-point safety harness
      Adjustable seat & pedal box position
      Lightweight battery
      Carbon fibre dash
      Fire extinguisher system
      Driver display and shift lights

    • Body & Aero

      Removable carbon-fibre body panels & aluminium roof
      Front splitter
      Adjustable full width carbon fibre rear wing
      Aerodynamically optimised bumpers, side sills and rear fenders

    • Weight

      Dry weight 1250kg

    Source: Aston Martin

  • Aston Martin Racing unveils 2011 Vantage GT4

    Aston Martin Racing has released a new, 2011 version of its staggering racing ride Aston Martin Vantage GT4. Inspired by the sleek V12 Vantage road car, the 2011 Vantage GT4 showcases optimized aerodynamics, increased downforce, as well as a specially remapped 4.7-liters powerplant, which along with the aluminum chassis and suspension design is borrowed from the V8 Vantage road car. (more…)

  • Aston Martin unveils DBS Carbon Black and V12 Vantage Carbon Black

    Aston Martin has unveiled two special edition models – DBS Carbon Black and V12 Vantage Carbon Black. Based on the more than successful DBS and V12 Vantage sport vehicles, both newcomers benefits from a Carbon Black metallic paint with subtle metallic twist, special Carbon Fibre exterior add-ons and fresh interior enhancements. (more…)

  • Two new Offers from Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen

    Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen are proud to introduce two new bespoke audio systems – Bang & Olufsen BeoSound V12 Vantage and Bang & Olufsen BeoSound V8 Vantage – developed and designed exclusively as an option for the Aston Martin V12 Vantage and V8 Vantage sports cars, the latter being available in both Coupe and Roadster variant. (more…)

  • Aston Martin V12 Vantage

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage
    Aston Martin will present the most potent production sports car in the marque’s 95-year history at the Geneva motor show on 3rd March. Based on the hugely successful V8 Vantage, the V12 Vantage will feature a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.2 seconds.

    The latest incarnation of the Vantage family has been designed to provide a unique character, appealing to different driver tastes and complementing the other models in the Aston Martin line-up.

    The original V12 Vantage concept was unveiled to guests at the opening of the Aston Martin Design Studio in December 2007. Continuing the marque’s impressive record of bringing concepts to market in their original form, Aston Martin engineers have brought the V12 Vantage to market in an incredible 12 months.

    Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said:  “This is the ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range, combining our most agile model with our most powerful engine. It represents the definitive driving package; providing spectacular performance to ensure a dynamically thrilling and everyday useable driving experience.

    “The V12 Vantage has a unique character, unlike our other cars. This will appeal to different people with different tastes, allowing more people to enjoy the Aston Martin experience.

    “This also illustrates one of Aston Martin’s key strengths – the ability to act quickly and turn concepts and ideas into reality.”

    Designed for the focused driver, every component of the V12 Vantage has been honed with pure driving enjoyment in mind. Benefitting from race-developed materials and components, and featuring lightweight carbon fibre; performance and agility have been tuned to perfection.

    Visually enticing, the V12 Vantage expresses its performance potential through its purposeful stance created by enhanced aerodynamic and cooling aids optically widening the car. Equally inviting, the cosseting interior permits the driver to extract maximum performance ability from the car while also enjoying customary levels of Aston Martin comfort on longer journeys. High levels of power and torque are available at all engine speeds making the V12 Vantage responsive and tractable in any driving situation.

    The V12 Vantage will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire joining the DBS, DB9 and V8 Vantage model lines which are built in the state-of-the-art production facility combining hi-tech manufacturing processes with traditional hand-craftsmanship. Production will be limited to between just 300-500 examples per year, making the V12 Vantage a truly exclusive driver’s car.

    Deliveries of the V12 Vantage are expected to commence during quarter three 2009 with prices to be confirmed at the Geneva motor show.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage: Specification

    Body:

    • Two door, two seat coupe body
    • Bonded aluminium structure
    • Aluminium, magnesium alloy, composite and steel body
    • Extruded aluminium door side impact beams
    • High Intensity Discharge Headlamps (dipped beam)
    • Halogen projector headlamps (main beam)
    • LED rear lamps

    Engine:

    • All alloy quad overhead cam 48 valve 5935cc V12
    • Compression ratio 10.9:1
    • Front mid-mounted engine, rear wheel drive
    • Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves

    Maximum Power

    • 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS) at 6500 rpm

    Maximum Torque

    • 570 Nm (420 lb.ft) at 5750 rpm

    Acceleration

    • 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds
    • 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds

    Maximum Speed

    • 190 mph (305 km/h)

    Fuel Economy

    • Urban                         11.64 mpg          24.26 l/100km
    • Extra Urban                24.05 mpg          11.74 l/100km
    • Combined                   17.28 mpg          16.35 l/100km

    CO2 388 g/km

    Transmission:

    • Rear mid-mounted six speed manual gearbox. Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft
    • Limited slip differential
    • Final Drive Ratio 3.71:1

    Steering:

    • Rack and pinion
    • Column tilt and reach adjustment

    Suspension:

    • Front:  Independent double wishbone incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube dampers
    • Rear:  Independent double wishbones with anti-squat and anti-lift geometry, dual-rate coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube dampers

    Wheels

    • Front: 9” x 19”
    • Rear: 11” x 19”

    Tyres:

    • Front: Pirelli P Zero Corsa 255/35 ZR19
    • Rear: Pirelli P Zero Corsa 295/30 ZR19

    Brakes:

    • Front:  Ventilated Carbon Ceramic discs 398 mm diameter with six piston callipers
    • Rear:  Ventilated Carbon Ceramic discs 360 mm diameter with four piston callipers
    • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Track mode
    • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
    • Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
    • Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
    • Traction Control

    Length:

    • 4380 mm (172.5”)

    Width:

    • 1865 mm (73.5”) (excluding door mirrors)
    • 2025 mm (80”) (including door mirrors)

    Height:

    • 1241 mm (49“)

    Wheelbase:

    • 2600 mm (107.9”)

    Fuel tank capacity:

    • 80 litres  (17.6 Imp. Gal. / 21.1 US Gal)

    Weight:

    • 1680 kgs (3704 lb)

    Interior:

    • Carbon fibre door pulls
    • Memory seats and exterior mirrors (3 positions)
    • Sports seats with 10 way electric adjustment, including height, tilt and lumbar
    • adjustment
    • Dual stage driver and passenger front airbags
    • Side airbags (Sports seats only)
    • Heated rear screen
    • Automatic temperature control
    • Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays
    • Trip computer
    • Cruise control
    • Hard Disk Drive (HDD) satellite navigation system*
    • Bluetooth telephone preparation*
    • Powerfold exterior mirrors
    • Rear parking sensors
    • Auto dimming interior rear view mirror
    • Tyre pressure monitoring*
    • Alarm and immobiliser
    • Remote-control central door locking and boot release
    • Battery disconnect switch
    • Tracking device (UK only)

    In Car Entertainment

    • 160W Aston Martin Audio System
    • MP3 player connectivity

    Options

    • Lightweight seats with 6 way adjustment, including front and rear height adjust. (Does not include side airbags or Passenger Airbag Cut-Off Switch)
    • 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with Dolby® Pro Logic II®
    • Piano Black facia trim
    • Graphite Alloy facia trim
    • Personalised sill plaques
    • Garage door opener (Europe only)
    • Tracking device**
    • First aid kit
    • Ashtray and cigar lighter
    • Boot mounted umbrella
    • Front parking sensors
    • Heated seats (Sports seats only)
    • ISOFIX and fixed-height passenger seat (Sports seat only)
    • Battery conditioner

    *Not available in all markets
    **Complies with UK Thatcham Category 5 requirements. Excludes subscription. Standard in UK

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage: Performance

    Agility and outright performance formed the basis of design for the V12 Vantage to produce the most exciting incarnation of the Vantage model line-up to date. Aston Martin’s most powerful engine is fused with its most agile model to produce a truly exhilarating sports car.

    The V12 power plant has been intelligently packaged into the Vantage’s compact form preserving its perfect proportions. While the external dimensions of the V8 Vantage remain unchanged, the internal front structure has been extensively revised forward of the suspension towers to house the larger engine, brake cooling system, and twin air intake system.

    The engine was designed at Aston Martin’s headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, and is hand-built at the company’s dedicated engine facility in Cologne, Germany. To achieve the power output, the engine features a number of enhancements over the standard 6.0-litre V12 found in the DB9. These include a ‘by-pass’ engine air intake port that opens up at 5500 rpm, a revised induction system and re-profiled air inlet ports that further improve airflow into the combustion chamber to improve performance.

    The naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 hand-built engine produces 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS) at 6500 rpm and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque giving the driver access to high levels of power and torque at all engine speeds. Unique to the V12 Vantage is a ‘Sport’ button which allows the driver to choose between two powertrain modes.

    The default ‘normal’ provides a more progressive, throttle response, suited to more everyday situations, such as driving in urban areas, heavy traffic, or in challenging weather conditions. Selecting ‘Sport’ mode delivers a sharper throttle response together with a sportier exhaust note. This mode is designed for use in more dynamic driving situations where sharper responses are required, extracting the maximum performance from the car.

    The V12 Vantage benefits from Aston Martin’s class leading all-alloy VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture: a lightweight bonded platform that provides outstanding strength, rigidity and weight benefits.

    Although the V12 engine weighs 100 kg more than the standard car’s engine, intelligent use of lightweight materials and components including carbon ceramic brakes, lighter forged aluminium wheels, lightweight inner rear quarter panels and optional lightweight seats have resulted in the overall kerb weight being only 50 kg heavier than its V8 sibling. The ensuing weight distribution provides for balance that is near perfect (51:49).

    Exclusively available with a six-speed manual transmission, the gearbox uses a transaxle configuration to aid weight distribution. The V12 Vantage’s final drive ratio has also been modified from 3.909:1 to 3.71:1. This allows the Vantage to take full benefit of the high torque levels delivered by the engine to provide both flexibility at lower engine speeds as well as a high top speed of 190 mph.

    For a car possessing such racing pedigree, the V12 Vantage surprises with its day to day usability. Featuring a luggage capacity of 300 litres and a traditional tailgate, coupled with ample stowage space to the rear of the seats, touring and trips away are made easy. Gear changes are light and precise requiring minimum effort from the driver and a longer final drive ratio extracts the most from the power and torque available to improve driveability. The communicative chassis provides comfort on long journeys and thrilling feedback with energetic driving.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage: Control

    Aston Martin is the only sports car manufacturer to offer a race car for every GT category. The DBR9 has enjoyed year-on-year success all over the world in the GT1 category including class wins at Le Mans two consecutive years running. Customer teams are consistently achieving podium finishes with the DBRS9 in GT3 while 2008 was a test and development year for the newly-launched Vantage GT2. The Vantage N24 achieved GT4 class wins all over Europe since its launch in 2006. Common to both road and race cars is the VH architecture platform upon which the V12 Vantage is based. Consisting of extruded, pressed and cast aluminium alloy, bonded together with aerospace-grade adhesive, the backbone of the car works collaboratively with the powertrain and suspension to create an exceptionally responsive driving experience.

    Near-perfect weight distribution is achieved with a transaxle-mounted gearbox which sees 85% of the car’s weight lying between the front and rear axles. Aston Martin engineers have positioned the engine as far back and as low as possible in the car to contribute to the 51:49 weight distribution. Containing the weight within the V12 Vantage’s wheelbase results in a low polar moment of inertia, creating a car which has a natural agility.

    Superb handling characteristics are at the heart of the V12 Vantage; the rear suspension has been modified, with a more compact dual-rate spring design, in order to accommodate a wider wheel and tyre combination, improving grip and traction. The ride height of the V12 Vantage has also been lowered by 15 mm, while the spring rates have been stiffened by 45% and the anti-roll bars are 15% (front) and 75% (rear) stiffer than the standard car. These measures serve to lower the car’s centre of gravity and reduce the amount of roll experienced during cornering, further increasing the V12 Vantage’s dynamic capabilities.

    V12 Vantage’s diamond-turned 19” alloy wheels are manufactured using a forging process, saving a total of 5 kg, which reduces the overall weight of the car, as well as enhancing both ride and handling characteristics.

    The new 10 spoke wheels are clad with wider Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres which have been specifically designed for the V12 Vantage enabling it to generate the highest cornering forces of any Aston Martin; up to a peak of 1.3g is possible.

    The V12 Vantage comes as standard with Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes, providing immense stopping power. Benefitting from carbon fibre’s inherent properties, CCM brakes are not only tougher than conventional cast iron discs but also dissipate heat more rapidly resulting in less fade during sustained dynamic driving.

    Air ducts positioned within the lower front grille feed air directly onto the discs to aid cooling and optimise braking performance.

    The V12 Vantage’s CCM discs are 398 mm in diameter at the front and 360 mm at the rear while the brake callipers feature six pistons at the front, four at the rear and have a larger brake pad area compared to the V8 Vantage. The CCM brakes are some 12.5 kg lighter than conventional brakes reducing not only the overall weight of the car but also the unsprung mass specifically. This benefits ride and handling and lower rotational mass helps improve acceleration.

    In line with the character of the V12 Vantage, a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system permits the driver, through three modes of operation, to manage how the system intervenes during more challenging driving situations.

    In default operation, the DSC is automatically switched on. Depressing the DSC button for two seconds selects ‘track mode’ which raises the manner and threshold at which the system intervenes allowing the driver to explore the limits of the car’s considerable handling capabilities. Depressing the button for four seconds will switch off DSC completely.

    Aston Martin V12 Vantage: Design

    Based on the stunning V8 Vantage originally launched in 2005, the V12 Vantage subtly hints at its sporting intent with its controlled aggression and lower, purposeful stance. It is manufactured at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire where all Aston Martins benefit from class leading levels of craftsmanship fused with cutting-edge technology.

    Avoiding purely cosmetic changes, each modified panel on the V12 Vantage has been altered to enhance the vehicle’s dynamics. Knowledge gained from the N24 race car programme has led to body revisions designed to improve downforce while not increasing the drag coefficient of the car. Each form follows its functional requirements, while also contributing to stunning design – a revised front splitter channels cooling air to the brakes and to the radiator while also producing increased down force. Bonnet louvres remove heat from the engine bay and help increase front-end down force by limiting the built up air pressure under the bonnet. New side sills derived from the N24 race car channel air towards the rear of the car rather than under it, reducing rear-end lift. A more pronounced boot ‘flip’ and the new rear carbon fibre diffuser work in harmony with a redesigned rear under floor to channel air through the new high-capacity oil cooler and maintain an area of low pressure under the rear of the car producing increased down force and aiding grip.

    Complementing the taught exterior, the V12 Vantage’s interior hints at the car’s dynamic capabilities. The optional carbon fibre and Kevlar® composite seats cosset the driver providing support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on long journeys. Saving 17 kg per car, the seats which are manufactured by a supplier to the motorsport and aviation industries are hand-trimmed by craftsmen at the Gaydon production facility.

    The interior of the V12 Vantage provides the ideal environment for the focused driver to extract the very best from every element of the car. The extensive use of high quality materials with exceptional attention to detail placed throughout the cabin results in an unparalleled level of finish. The instrument cluster has been revised with even clearer dials to allow the driver to completely focus on the information being relayed from the car.  The door pulls are made from beautifully-prepared carbon fibre where even the carbon weave has been meticulously aligned – a sign of exceptional craftsmanship. Additional light weight materials in the form of Alcantara are used to save valuable weight throughout the cabin. The unique ambience of the V12 Vantage interior beautifully marries the functional requirements of a driver-focussed sports car with the comfort of an everyday practical car.