Gaydon, UK: The Aston Martin V8 Vantage has been revised and is aimed at enhancing the dynamic feel and style plus competitive pricing and content offering of the marque’s
entry-level sports car.
The revised 4.7-liter entry-level V8 Vantage that produces 420bhp and 346lb.ft of torque, features the improvements first seen in the Vantage S. The standard six-speed
manual transmission remains, but the optional six-speed Sportshift™ automated manual
transmission has now been replaced with the seven-speed Sportshift II™. With an
additional gear, closer ratios, lower final drive and a quicker, refined shift quality, this
new gearbox – designed and manufactured specifically for Aston Martin – provides
faster and more precise shifts, optimizes acceleration and delivers a sporting driving
experience.
Further dynamic enhancements centre on the V8 Vantage’s chassis, which features
developments from the Vantage S. Quicker steering, bigger brakes and wider tires have
all been fitted to the V8 Vantage. A new steering column installation, re-valved
power-steering pump and a quicker ratio of 15:1 compared to 17:1 should improve steering response. Stopping power and pedal feel have been increased thanks to new 380mm
two-piece ventilated cast-iron front discs and six piston callipers. This new braking
system also includes Hill Start Assist (HSA) for more precise control on steep inclines.
The V8 Vantage also comes with tires that are 10mm wider than the outgoing model.
The V8 Vantage has received a number of styling changes inspired by the Vantage S and V12 Vantage. At the front a lower bumper –complete with aerodynamic splitter – houses a larger air intake that feeds the engine and front brakes. A rear diffuser and side sills complete the V8 Vantage’s more muscular look.
These technical and styling changes have been applied to both the V8 Vantage Coupe
and Roadster models, with prices now starting from CAD $124,289 (Coupe) and $139,664
(Roadster) respectively.
The CAD $144,550 Vantage S remains the highest performing and most
driver-focussed V8-engined model in the range. Developing 430bhp (436PS/321kW) at
7,300rpm and 361lb.ft (490Nm) of torque at 5,000rpm, the Vantage S’s more potent
engine is paired to the Sportshift II™ close-ratio seven speed automated manual transmission.
Production of the V12 Vantage continues unchanged. Powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine producing 510bhp (380kW / 517PS), and 420 lb.ft (570 Nm) of torque, this Vantage has a top speed of 190mph (305km/h) and 0-62mph (0-100km/h) time of 4.2 seconds.
Later this year the Vantage range will be joined by the exotic V12 Zagato which
assumes the position as the flagship of the range. Created in 2011 to celebrate the 50th
anniversary of the iconic DB4GT Zagato, a prototype V12 Zagato won the prestigious Villa D’Este concours and competing in the Nürburgring 24-hour race. Priced at (British Pound) £330,000 (plus local taxes) and first deliveries will commence later this year.
2012 Aston Martin Vantage
Source: Aston Martin
