Aston Martin Steps up performance options

After the launch of Aston Martin's new 4.7 liter V8 Vantage earlier this year, the British automaker is now offering owners of the previous Vantage a choice of performance enhancing add-ons for the original 4.3 V8 engine.


Now available through the dealer network, a 20 horsepower increase is available thanks to some bolt-on hardware devised by the company's engineering team. Peak power levels off at an even 400 horses, while top speed is increased slightly to 177 miles per hour. Owners can expect slightly quicker 0-60 times as well.

The power boost mainly comes from a new intake system with an airbox switching valve that opens at 5,500 RPM to allow more air into the engine. Revised computer programming backs it up, and the computer can now recognize higher octane fuels for further performance optimization.

In addition to under-hood upgrades, owners can add a Sports Pack to their machine to alter handling and response characteristics from their Vantage 4.3. The package includes upgraded springs and dampers working with lightweight aluminum wheels for higher levels of precision and agility.

Both the power and handling upgrades are available now- and owners should contact their dealer for more information.