martin – Automobiles Review

2015 Ford Mustang Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II

Ford US is going to exhibit a unique 2015 Mustang Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II at the 2014 EAA AirVenture event. The manufacturer has created a nice tradition to prepare special aviation-themed models to showcase at the Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Besides the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II theme, the specially-prepared car comes with a new front splitter from carbon fiber, a new rear diffuser and special decals. The interior boasts Recaro bucket seats as well as yellow tinted windows and other nice upgrades.

The 2015 Mustang Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II will be auctioned at the Gathering of Eagles charity event at EAA AirVenture. The money will be donated to the EAA Young Eagles program. This is a non-profit organization, which provides free flights and since 1992 almost two million people participated in the program. It helps the normal people to achieve their dreams of flying on a fighter jet.

No words about the engine, but it will be probably the powerful 5.0 liter V8 – 426HP (313 kW) at 6,500RPM and 529Nm (390 lb-ft) at 4,250RPM. The one-off model will be fitted with a 3.55 Limited Slip Differential, GT Performance Package and Reverse Park Assist.

July 16, 2014

Aston Martin Cygnet & Colette Limited Edition

Aston Martin has revealed the Cygnet & Collete limited edition, which was spotted in Dubai recently. The small Aston comes with a number of unique extras such as Bitter Chocolate brown finish, quilted leather door and seat inserts and quilted Alcantara sun visors for the interior.

Only 14 units are produced and all of them boast a Lightning Silver exterior paint with a hood livery and a race-inspired front bumper. There are also diamond-turned wheels and mirror caps.

The Cygnet & Collete limited edition is prepared in collaboration with Paris fashion house Colette. This explains the whopping price of €48,995.

Source: Aston Martin

April 11, 2013

DMC Fakhuna: Aston Martin DB-S boasting more style and performance

German Luxury Tuner DMC has launched a number of successfull Refinement Packages, including the recent Lamborghini Gallardo “Toro” and the Aventador “Molto Veloce”. While only some models make it through a number of harsch project phases before being invested and approved internally, some design never make it to the production stage. Introducing the DMC “Fakhuna”, a concept design for the Aston Martin DB-S.

Most significant change is an aggressive new front bumper fascia, which is equipped with larger air-intakes and a spoiler lip. Between the front and rear side, striking side skirt attachments render an integrated design and give the Aston a lowered and more stretched look. In order to reduce the lifting forces at the back axle, DMC engineers envisioned a shapely spoiler which can be fitted on the rear lid and enhanced with a matching three-part rear diffuser. The latter optically extends the side skirts downwards and skilfully enhances the two end pipes of the DMC sport exhaust system. Basically, carbon fiber and real actual gold are the dominant colours in this styling package.

One of the technical highlights in the tuning programme will be the new three-part DMC forged alloy wheel. The rim combines both sportiness as well as elegance. The concave rims and the titanium bolting emphasise the dynamism of the wheel, the highly-polished rim flange on the other hand renders a noble appearance. DMC offers the wheel/tyre combination measuring 9,0Jx21 inches with 245/30ZR21 tyres at the front and 10,5Jx21 rims with tyres measuring 295/25ZR21. The new aluminium wheels are accentuated with special chassis springs which lower the centre of gravity of the Aston by 30 mm at the front axle and by 20 mm at the rear axle. At the same time, this enhances the handling of this sports car.

As part of the performance upgrade, the Duesseldorf based engineers developed sport catalysers and sport end mufflers. The components made of titanium steel render an impressive sound setting and emphasise the sportive value of the DMC-makeover.

While the Fakhuna has not made it into the regular production lines, DMC gives the design, which was developed by Dutch artist Wildspeed, a chance to be realized as custom order.

Source: DMC

June 22, 2012

Aston Martin – Nurburgring 24 hour

Aston Martin will compete in the ADAC Zurich Nurburgring 24 Hours on 19^th and 20^th May. Eight cars will take place in the epic battle at the world’s most famous and tough race track. The brand will field its most ambitious entry to date with four official Aston Martins – including a pair of V12-powered Vantage GT3s – supported by a further four customer cars.

More than 170 cars will start at the 24 hour race on the daunting 25km circuit that combines the legendary Nordschleife with the modern Grand Prix track.

Having focused its efforts in previous years on near production-specification cars since its 2006 Nürburgring24 Hour debut, Aston Martin will, for the first time, be represented in the senior SP9 category for FIA-homologated GT3 cars. The pair of V12 Vantage GT3s will be run in association with long-standing official partner team, Young Driver AMR.

The lead Vantage GT3, carrying the iconic #007 designation, will be driven by Johannes and Ferdinand Stuck (A) – sons of triple Nürburgring 24 Hour winner Hans-Joachim Stuck – alongside Dennis Rostek (D) and Aston Martin Racing factory driver Darren Turner (GB). Turner’s regular works team-mate, Stefan Mücke, will drive the #006 car with Tomas Enge (CZ), Fredy Barth (CH) and Oliver Mathai (D).

Aston Martin - Nurburgring 24 hour — Aston Martin – Nurburgring 24 hour

In addition, Aston Martin’s engineering department will return with the spectacular V12 Zagato concept car that made its Nürburgring24 Hour debut in 2011. Targeting another successful race finish will be Aston Martin Chief Executive Dr Ulrich Bez (D), Chief Engineer Chris Porritt (GB), Aston Martin Nürburgring Test Centre Director Wolfgang Schuhbauer (D) and renowned motoring journalist and racer Richard Meaden (GB).

“Our 100 per cent finishing record in thirteen starts in one of the world’s toughest endurance races is remarkable; truly a testament to the reliability of our cars and the efforts of our people. In the past six years we have deliberately focused on racing close-to-production cars, achieving seven class podiums and three class wins. For 2012, I am delighted to be returning again to drive our V12 Zagato with my engineering team, but also to have such an exciting step up with the V12 Vantage GT3s.”, commented Ahead of the race, Dr Bez.

The fourth official entry will be a V8-powered Vantage run by Aston Martin’s Nürburgring Test Centre team and driven by Jurgen Stumpf (D), Australians Mal Rose and Rob Thomson, and Peter Cate (GB). Aston Martin will be represented by four further customer outfits, including Team Mathol Racing, winners of the SP10 class for GT4 cars in 2010.

The 40^th ADAC Zurich Nürburgring 24 Hours starts at 16:00 CET on Saturday, 19 May.

Source: Aston Martin

May 11, 2012

2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage [HD video]

Aston Martin has announced their new facelift version of V8 Vantage – both Coupe and Convertible models. The 2012 V8 Vantage has a lot of features coming from the sporty Vantage S.

The new V8 Vantage has an updated front bumper including a nice air splitter, a new modified side sills and different rear bumper having an integrated diffuser. However, the updates are not only for styling, but the handling is also improved. Aston Martin also took care about the brake system, which features bigger discs and calipers. Other improvement to comfort, handling and styling are the new wheel-tire sets, which are wider.

2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is powered by a 4.7 liter eight-cylinder petrol delivering 426PS (313 kW) and 490Nm (361 lb-ft). It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending all that power to the rear wheels. Still, 7-speed Sportshift II is available as an option. It replaces the old 6-speed Sportshift automated manual transmission.

The new V8 Vantage starts around $144 000 and the Vantage S is $170 500.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Syv8BNAEVGE

Source: Aston Martin

March 23, 2012

2012 Aston Martin Vantage GT4

Aston Martin will reveal the new 2012 Vantage GT4 at the Geneva Motor Show, next week. The revised sports car features an all-new aerodynamic package plus further improvements to the rollcage and fuel tank.

The aerodynamic package includes a carbon fibre rear wing, which generates a lot of downforce, especially combined with a new larger front splitter.

The re-designed rollcage conforms to the latest FIA regulations and improves access and legroom.

Last improvement is the mid-mounted, 115-litre fuel tank, which lowers the centre of gravity and helps for better weight distribution. The fuel tank has twin quick-fill entries in the rear quarter.

The Vantage GT4 is powered by a 4.7 litre V8 with 436PS (321 kW) at 7300RPM and 490Nm (361 lb-ft) at 5000RPM.

The price is £119 500.

“We have taken the opportunity to make some quite dramatic aerodynamic enhancements to the Vantage GT4, which will close the performance gap between this entry level GT car and the GT3. We have also fitted the car with the same roll cage and fuel tank configuration that’s found in the Vantage GT3 and GTE. We are about to sell our 100^th Vantage GT4 and since its launch it has been one of the most successful cars in its class; the Vantage GT4 and its predecessor, the Vantage N24, scored many 24 Hour race class victories, the 2010 European GT4 Cup title and also back-to-back championship victories in the Nürburgring VLN series in 2010 and 2011.”, said John Gaw, Managing Director of Aston Martin Racing.

“The revised version has very large boots to fill, but given the effort we’ve put into developing the upgrades and following a successful first outing, we’re very confident that the 2012 Vantage GT4 will pick up where its predecessor left off.”, he added.

Source: Aston Martin

March 4, 2012

2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage – Price £84 995

Aston Martin has announced its range for this year. It includes V8 Vantage Coupe and Roadster models, Vantage S, V12 Vantage and the exclusive V12 Zagato, which will join the range later this year.

The entry-level V8 Vantage is powered by a 4.7 liter naturally aspirated engine with 426PS (313 kW) mated to a 6-speed manual, but 7-speed Sportshift™ II automated manual is available as an option. With an additional gear, closer ratios, lower final drive and a quicker, refined shift quality, this new gearbox – designed and manufactured specifically for Aston Martin – provides faster and more precise shifts, optimises acceleration and delivers a sporting driving experience. The starting price is 84 995 or €108 500 in Germany.

The powerful Vantage S has a price tag of £99 995 or €128 500 in Germany. It has the same engine, which is slightly boosted to 436PS (321 kW) at 7300RPM and 490Nm (361 lb-ft) at 5000RPM. It also has Sportshift™ II close-ratio 7-speed automated manual transmission as standard, a sports exhaust system and carbon fibre detailing.

The V12 Vantage has a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 517PS (380 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft). Top speed of 305 km/h (190 mph) and 0-100 kp/h time of 4.2 seconds.

The exotic V12 Zagato, created in 2011 to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the iconic DB4GT Zagato, will be delivered later this year.

Combining iconic styling, thrilling performance, true craftsmanship and exclusivity the revitalised Vantage range boasts unprecedented breadth and appeal. The revised V8 Vantage together with the rest of the range is available to order now from Aston Martin’s global dealer network.

Source: Aston Martin

February 20, 2012

Aston Martin V12 Zagato at the Kuwait Concours D’Elegance

Aston Martin will exhibit the V12 Zagato at the Kuwait Concours d’Elegance. This is the only event of its type in the Middle East and plays host to some of the world’s finest automotive art from over 19 countries.

“We are excited to show the new V12 Zagato for the first time in production form at the Kuwait Concours d’Elegance. Over 50 years since the introduction of the iconic DB4GT Zagato, Aston Martin and Zagato have collaborated to create this modern interpretation which remains true to the original focus of craftsmanship, performance and exclusivity.”, commented Dr Ulrich Bez, CEO of Aston Martin .

Aston Martin V12 Zagato will be run in limited edition series of just 150 units. The sports car comes with the company’s acclaimed 6.0-litre V12 engine – 517PS (380 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft).

The price for this masterpiece is £330 000, excluding local taxes.

Source: Aston Martin

January 27, 2012

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 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

November 21, 2011

2012 James Bond Vehicle Exhibition

Everybody knows James Bond movies and most of us have been watching the series for a long time. James Bond’s cars are very interesting part of the plot.

Now, we will have the chance to see all James Bond vehicles in large exhibition to celebrate the fiftieth year of the Bond franchise. The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu and EON Productions will run the event through whole 2012.

On display, there will be 2008 Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace, the 2002 Jaguar XKR with SFX weapons from Die Another Day, the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 from Goldeneye and the 1937 Phantom lll Rolls-Royce from Goldfinger and many more. Totally 50 vehicles that will be on display at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu.

“Following the success of the first Bond cars exhibition staged at Beaulieu in 2001, we are delighted to be working with EON again on this new display, bringing together the world’s largest collection of Bond vehicles.”, said Beaulieu’s Commercial Director, Stephen Munn.

So, if you are James Bond fan and a petrol head or both, you’d definitely visit the National Motor Museum during the next year.

Source: beaulieu.co.uk

August 12, 2011

Aston Martin Cygnet at the 2011 Bridgestone Eco-Rally

Aston Martin will take part at the 5th annual Bridgestone Eco-Rally this weekend. The manufacturer will take two Cygnet models. The rally showcases the world’s best eco-friendly vehicles in association with “Start”, an initiative inspired by HRH The Prince of Wales to celebrate eco-friendly living.

Aston Martin Cygnet is powered by a а 1.33 litre dual VVT-I four-cylinder petrol engine with 98PS (72 kW) at 6000RPM and 125Nm (92 lb-ft) at 4400RPM. 0 to 100 km/h takes 11.8 seconds and the top speed is 170 km/h (106 mph). The small city car returns 56.5 mpg, which is exactly 5 litres per 100 km.

One of the Cygnets entering the event will be dressed in Seychelles Blue, the paint colour of the Aston Martin DB6 Mark II Volante recently driven by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their wedding day. Aside from the two formal entries, a third Cygnet will also be supporting the event in eye-catching “Flouro Orange”, the hallmark of London-based designer Tom Dixon.

Driven by Aston Martin Racing regular, Darren Turner and David King, Aston Martin’s Director of Special Projects and Motorsport, the two Cygnets will be on the extended route from Exeter College, Oxford to The Mall, London.

The rally begins on Broad Street, Oxford at 10:00 and concludes at 14:30 on the 31^st July.

“I have been a fan of Cygnet from the start. It’s a great city car, easy to manoeuvreand park and a lot of fun to drive.”, commented Darren Turner.

“To drive Cygnet in a busy city is to experience a car ideally suited to its environment. Cygnet is tiny, with impressively low emissions but with all the style and craftsmanship of the finest luxury cars.”, said David King.

“I’m looking forward to demonstrating Cygnet on the Bridgestone Eco-Rally, maybe it’s my one and only chance to beat Darren Turner!”, he finished.

Aston Martin Cygnet 2011 - Bridgestone Eco-Rally — Aston Martin Cygnet 2011 – Bridgestone Eco-Rally

Source: Aston Martin

July 29, 2011

Aston Martin V12 Zagato at the Nurburgring

Aston Martin is putting the final touches to its race preparations for the toughest 24 hour race of them all – the annual ADAC Nurburgring 24 Hours on 25 and 26 June. Two V12 Zagato cars will compete in this challenge.

The first one is the show car from Concorso D’Eleganza at Villa D’Este, which has been transformed into the number 3 race car, nicknamed “Zag” (red). It will be piloted by Aston Martin CEO, Dr. Ulrich Bez, the company’s Nurburgring Test Centre Director, Wolfgang Schuhbauer and automotive journalists Horst von Saurma and Matthew Marsh.

The second V12 Zagato is a green race car – nicknamed “Zig” with number 5, which will be raced by One-77 Chief Engineer Chris Porritt, experienced sports car driver Oliver Mathai, automotive journalist Richard Meaden and experienced amateur racer Peter Cate.

Aston Martin V12 Zagato - Zag — Aston Martin V12 Zagato – Zag

Furthermore, at the race track will be a V8 Vantage GT4 nicknamed “Smurf” – which will be driven by Aston Martin Racing works driver, Darren Turner, journalist and experienced 24 hour driver, Shinichi Katsura, Australian racer Rob Thomson and seasoned Nürburgring pilot Jurgen Stumpf.

Aston Martin V12 Zagato Nurburgring - Zig — Aston Martin V12 Zagato Nurburgring – Zig

“Our entries this year extend our Nürburgring racing philosophy. For five years now we have signed-off our new products by entering a car which is as close to the road car as possible and subjecting it to the toughest 24 hour test on what best simulates the extremities of public roads. This year we go a step further by testing a car at prototype stage.”, commented Aston Martin’s Head of Motorsport, David King.

“As ever, the race will present an enormous challenge in a vast and increasingly competitive field which will be fraught with all the unpredictable elements associated with racing at the Nürburgring. However, we are excited by the potential we have seen from the V12 Zagato in the testing we’ve completed and that gives us great hope for the task ahead. We look forward to a safe, successful and enjoyable race for our teams and customers.”, he added.

V12 Zagato has a new handcrafted aluminium body and is powered by a smooth 6.0 liter V12 with 517PS (380 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. It also has a specially developed chassis for maximum performance.

Source: Aston Martin

June 22, 2011

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