Aston Martin has unveiled the new and renewed edition of its famous Vantage, a name synonymous since 1951 with high performance. And from the looks of its, all the stops have been pulled out by the automaker!
Over and above its fluorescent yellow finish, a paint scheme sure to elicit strong reactions, immediately noticeable are the car’s sharper lines, minimized overhangs and more muscular fenders. The new Vantage has not just the stance but the expression of a dangerous predator, which the aggressive-looking new headlights only accentuate.
The aerodynamics of the Vantage have been optimized, via the aforementioned contours but also under the car and as well as the rear diffuser, reducing turbulence and improving cooling of the key components. Observers will also notice new gills on the flanks, as well as a slightly more-prominent rear spoiler.
Inside, the decor is sharper and more focused; the low driver’s seating position reinforces the sense of communion with the car, and in the process considerably improves head room. Commands have been made more intuitive and easier to use, and a wide choice of materials and finishes is available.
From a naturally aspirated V8 to a twin-turbo V8
Getting to the heart of the new Aston Martin Vantage, the engine is still placed low and recessed back as far as possible to ensure 50/50 weight distribution, but it is a new 4.0L twin-turbo V8, derived from Mercedes-AMG, which can generate 503 hp and 505 lb-ft of torque. That power, combined with the relatively light weight of the car (1,530 kg), allows the new Vantage to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a mere 3.6 seconds. The induction, exhaust and engine-management systems have been refined and produce a truly exceptional sound. A ZF 8-speed automatic transmission is charged with transferring power to the rear wheels, aided by an electronic rear differential (a first for Aston Martin) and dynamic torque vectoring.
It’s worth noting that the chassis was developed from the one that underpins the DB11; 70% of the Vantage’s components are specific to it; and it sits on specially designed Pirelli P Zero tires. The adaptive damping system, meanwhile, is a marvel of unparalleled sophistication.
“… the outgoing Vantage… is the single most successful model in Aston Martin’s history. Creating a worthy successor has been a challenge to relish and a huge source of motivation. I’m enormously excited by what we’ve created: a new Vantage that’s more explicit in looks and intent, wrapping heart-pounding performance and dazzling dynamics into an everyday usable package…. the new Vantage is the Aston Martin pure driving machine enthusiasts have been waiting for.”
- Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President and Chief Executive Officer
Delivery of the new Aston Martin Vantage is expected to begin in the spring of 2018. American pricing will be US $149,995; no pricing has yet been announced for the Canadian market. Take a moment to admire the photo gallery here, and don’t miss the video, an invitation to revel in some serious eye… and ear candy!
