Exclusive images in this week's Auto Express magazine reveal one of the most driver-focused Aston Martins ever. And we can can reveal secret plans for an RS version of the V8 Vantage. With a stripped-out interior, uprated engine and stiffer suspension, the lightweight model has its sights firmly set on the Porsche 911 GT3 and Ferrari's F430 Stradale.
It won't be Aston's only performance newcomer.
Thanks to a growing market for hardcore supercars, a stripped-out DB9 is also on the way, drawing on the firm's rich racing heritage.
As our images show, the lightweight V8 Vantage's styling is influenced by Aston's DBR9 Le Mans racer, with a low splitter and gaping air intakes supplementing the trademark grille. But without the vast track-car wing and only a subtle bodykit, the purity of the V8 Vantage's shape has been kept. Major aerodynamic enhancements have been hidden underneath, with an undertray and venturi tunnels that channel airflow around the car. These emerge at the rear, where they are joined by larger twin exhaust pipes.
Weight-reducing measures will include composite body panels, a carbon fibre roof and 19-inch magnesium alloy wheels. Together with a stripped-out interior, including racing buckets replacing the standard chairs, the newcomer will weigh at least 150kg less than the current V8 Vantage, tipping the scales at 1,420kg
This is only marginally heavier than Porsche's outgoing 911 GT3. To improve the power to weight ratio further, Aston is likely to raise the output of its 4.3-litre V8 from 380bhp to 420bhp, thanks to an uprated variable valve timing system, a higher 8,000rpm rev limit and a performance exhaust.
With a six-speed manual gearbox, expect 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds, 0-100mph in less than 10 seconds and a top speed of 190mph - figures which should match the forthcoming 911 GT3. The new exhaust will give the V8 Vantage an even louder engine note, too.
Cornering will match the straight-line performance, with a lowered ride height, adjustable dampers and sharper steering offering better agility and more responsive handling. Bigger brakes will provide even stronger stopping power, too.
Customers who spend much of their time at track days and who want an even sharper machine can specify an optional roll cage. As for creature comforts, the lightweight Vantage is likely to come with a stereo and air-con as standard, as well as electric windows. But these 'luxuries' can be deleted at the customer's request.
The lightweight V8 Vantage won't appear until 2007 at the earliest, and will have a price tag of around £90,000. In the meantime, a convertible V8 Volante is likely to debut in 2006, with sales starting later in the year.
Source: Autoexpress
A vantage to take on Porsche's 911 GT3 and Ferrari's 430 Challenge stradale? I like.
That would be awesome. I've always liked Aston, and I almost bought a DB7 once, but the Porsche I ended up buying was at the same auction going for cheaper...
I would like to see them go head to head, Aston and Porsche.
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