2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Preview

While the DB9 and Vanquish S both feature handcrafted V12 powerplants, the baby Aston uses an all-new 4.3-liter quad-cam, 32-valve

The V8 Vantage uses an all-new 380-hp 4.3-liter quad-cam, 32-valve V8 engine. (Photo: Aston Martin)

V8 engine. The motor produces an impressive 380 horsepower at 7,800 rpm, and 302 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. Aston claims that the V8 Vantage is capable of accelerating to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of about 175 mph.

Key features of this thoroughbred motor include dry-sump lubrication, which allows the motor to sit low in the car with a front-mid mounting. The former aids in lowering the car's center of gravity, while the latter allows the six-speed manual gearbox to be positioned at the rear, and helps create the car's 49:51 front-rear weight distribution.

For its chassis and structure, the V8 Vantage will utilize a super-lightweight aluminum architecture bonded with rivets and advanced epoxies, a technique first used in the DB9. This strong frame will ensure a stiff

Aston hopes to have models ready for sale in North America by the year's end. (Photo: Aston Martin)

structure, while keeping weight to a minimum to ensure excellent road manners. Body panels for the Vantage will be a mix of aluminum, steel and composite materials to save even more weight.

As with other Astons, the V8 Vantage is multi-national; its engine is built in Cologne, Germany alongside the V12s used in the DB9 and Vanquish S, while the rest of the vehicle is assembled in Gaydon, England.

Deliveries in Europe of this new, breathtaking machine will begin in late summer. Although North Americans will have to wait a little longer for the Vantage, Aston hopes to have models ready for sale by the year's end. Pricing has yet to be announced.

Specifications:

• Price (estimated MSRP): $130,000
• Body Type: 2-door coupe
• Layout: front engine, RWD
• Engine: 380 hp, 304 lb-ft, 4.3L, 32-valve, DOHC V8
• Transmission: 6-spd man (opt 5-spd auto)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Curb Weight: 3,307 lbs
• Acceleration (0 - 60 mph): 4.9 seconds
• Top Speed: 175 mph
• Seating Capacity: 2
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
• Warranty (mo/km): 24/Unlimited comprehensive
• Direct Competitors: Ferrari 360 Modena, Lamborghini Gallardo, Maserati 4200 GT, Mercedes-Benz SL55, Porsche 911 Turbo
• Web Site: www.astonmartin.com