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| Looking over the AMV8 Vantage prototype, Henrik Fisker, Aston Martin's Design Director leans in on the right. (Photo: Aston Martin) |
What can't be seen might be more exciting to some. The two-seat sports coupe incorporates a front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout providing 50:50 weight distribution which should prove nimble at speed. The AMV8 Vantage is the first to use AM's VH Platform Strategy (Vertical/Horizontal) destined to form the basis for all future Aston Martin models.
"Much of the technology that has been developed from the Aston Martin Vanquish will be adopted for the production AMV8 Vantage," stated Jeremy Main, Director of Product Development for Aston Martin. "It has a unique body and chassis constructed from aluminum and composites, AMV8 Vantage is a very advanced sports car offering high degrees of engineering efficiencies, structural integrity and torsional rigidity."
A stiff structure will be important as Aston Martin's V8s are known for their torque. The AMV8 Vantage will receive an all-new 4.3-L alloy V8, unique to the brand. While it will no doubt offer the latest in engine technologies to optimize power while lowering emissions and fuel economy, the company is being silent regarding its specific output. Nevertheless expect something in the neighborhood of 400-hp so that it can hold its head up high next to its Italian and German competitors.