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Aston Martin

2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

First filed 26 January.

Aston Martin has fiddled about with its seemingly timeless V8 Vantage and created a new S model. The Vantage is still such a great looking car. And now it’s just that little bit better, too.

With 321kW and 490Nm from the 4.7 litre V8, plus the addition of a new 7-speed Sportshift II transmission, Aston Martin CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez reckons, “The Vantage S epitomises every attribute of the V8 Vantage and pushes the driver experience beyond what we have offered before.

“It combines dynamic exhilaration with all the charming finesse, beauty and practicality already associated with the Vantage range.”

More after the break.

UPDATE 14 March: Over 25 news pics added, as well as a ripping video of the V8 Vantage S driving around the wonderful Ascari Race Resort.

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Aston Martin Motorsports

Aston Martin updates Vantage GT4

Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT4

Aston Martin Racing has updated its successful V8 Vantage-based GT4 racer ahead of the 2011 season. A new aero package, revised ECU mapping and a new Bosch ABS/traction control setting developed with race data headline the improvements.

But, really, it’s an Aston and with slick marketing pics like these it’s the beauty of the Vantage’s form that is worth savouring. So enjoy these handful of pics and remember to click on each one to launch the 2000px super sizing.

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Aston Martin

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420

Aston Martin have just taken the wraps of their latest special edition V8 Vantage. It’s called the N420; that’s N for Nürburgring and 420 for the number of horses under the bonnet.

The Vantage has a proud record of racing at the Nürburgring 24 hour race. An Aston Martin Vantage has raced at the Ring every year since making its debut in 2006. Perhaps the most famous of these cars is the one called “Rose” which was the first Vantage to pop its Ring cherry. That car has completed thousands of racing miles over a number of years. A great advertisement for Aston, supported ably up by the appearance of CEO Ulrich Bez in the race seat as well.

So, this N420 thing, what’s it all about? In addition to the 420hp on offer from the 4.7 litre V8 there is the choice of 6-speed transmissions in traditional manual or Sportshift auto configuration. Weight has been reduced by 27kg, too, which is a nice touch. But that won’t really stand out at the Country Club, so Aston have obliged by throwing bits of carbon fibre trim on the outside. Optional “Race Collection” paint schemes will also give you bragging rights at the 19th hole. Other minor styling updates have also been introduced.

Perhaps one of the better introductions is the addition of a revised sports exhaust system. Aston say this “delivers a suitably rousing soundtrack”. The V8 Vantage already sounded sublime and if they have found a way to improve on that exhaust note then they’ve done a cracking job.

More after the break.

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Aston Martin

Aston Martin gives Vantage a dirty dozen

Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Aston Martin will reveal a V12 Vantage at the Geneva Motor Show next month. By shoehorning a V12 into the Vantage shell Aston has created what they claim to be their “most exhilarating sports car” yet.

The 6.0 litre 12 cylinder produces 380kW (510bhp) and a very tidy 570Nm of torque. All that power is good for claimed performance of 0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds and a 305km/h (190mph) top speed. All achieved through the use of a trad six speed manual, there will be no flappy paddle option, either. Helping bring a halt to proceedings are the Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes, and with a 51:49 weight ratio Aston is pretty confident of the car’s handling abilities. They reckon you can corner the V12 Vantage at 1.3g.

The V12 Vantage concept was released a little over 12 months ago, so it’s some task by the British company to have the car ready in such a short amount of time.

Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, is a bit excited, “This is the ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range, combining our most agile model with our most powerful engine.

“The V12 Vantage has a unique character, unlike our other cars. This will appeal to different people with different tastes, allowing more people to enjoy the Aston Martin experience.”

I have to say, and I’m almost afraid to admit it, but I find this car a little crass. The lashings of carbon fibre and almost vulgar fluted bonnet seem a bit too much out of character for the Vantage. It’s almost like Audrey Hepburn having death metal tattoos down her arms. Sure, there’d be people that would go bonkers for that, but, it just wouldn’t be the same. Even the wheels have a hint of Tempe Tyres about them.

Of course, given an opportunity, I am sure I could learn to love the V12 Vantage.

Pricing for the V12 Vantage will be confirmed at the Geneva Motor Show and the car is expected to go on sale some time after June.

Extensive press blurb and seven more 2000px super images after the jump.