Aston Martin has called on all its sporting DNA for a new special edition model - the Vantage GT8.
The luxury brand’s most extreme models draw directly from that race car knowledge and passion to deliver something altogether more overt in looks and ability.
Inspired and influenced by the 2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE race car, the Vantage GT8 is described as a 'true thoroughbred'. The lightest and most powerful V8 Vantage ever, the Vantage GT8’s dramatically sculpted carbon fibre bodywork has been shaped by race-bred aerodynamic function. With a ‘super-sharp’ chassis tuned for track-focused agility, powered by a revised 446PS version of Aston Martin’s 4.7-litre V8 and available with a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed Sportshift II paddle-shift transmissions, the Vantage GT8 has unmistakable style, a ‘no-nonsense stance and a driving experience that’s second to none’.
Director of Special Projects and Motorsport, David King said: “We long held the desire to create a road car that truly reflects our racing activity at Le Mans. With the Vantage GT8, we’ve finally been able to achieve that. By focusing on weight savings and aerodynamics, we’ve taken the V8 Vantage to an entirely different level of agility and aggression. It’s a hugely exciting car honed to the keenest possible edge.”
Wide-bodied with aerodynamics that clearly take their lead from Aston Martin Racing’s WEC contender, the GT8 features extensive use of carbon fibre with the front splitter, front and rear bumpers, fenders, side sills and rear diffuser all fashioned from the lightweight material. A ‘striking’ standard features of the model is the cutaway front wheelarch, which mimics that of the GTE racer. Those wishing for the most extreme aero configuration can specify the optional Aero Pack, which adds the large rear wing and additional corner elements to the front splitter.
The Vantage GT8 is further distinguished by a new 5-spoke alloy wheel, with ultra-lightweight seven-spoke centre-lock magnesium rims available as an option. Both standard and optional wheels are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres for exceptional performance on-road and track. Three optional ‘Halo‘ paint schemes are available in combinations of China Grey and Blue, Stratus White and Green or Stirling Green and Lime.
Improved performance through weight saving is central to the Vantage GT8. A standard-fit lithium ion battery sheds more vital kilos while further (optional) weight saving measures include a carbon fibre roof, polycarbonate rear screen and rear side windows and a titanium centre mounted exhaust. Together with the standard-fit lightweight carbon fibre sports seats (with manual adjustment, again to save weight) and carbon fibre door panels, this suite of lightweight components saves up to 100kg, making the Vantage GT8 the lightest Vantage ever. Air-conditioning, a 160w audio system and the company’s latest AMi III infotainment system ensures it remains genuinely road-useable, says Aston Martin.
Announcing the introduction of the new Vantage GT8, Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “Road cars are our business, but racing is the beating heart of Aston Martin. The Vantage GT8 expresses that combination perfectly: an authentic and unashamedly extreme road car that draws directly from our Le Mans racing programme to amplify the inherent dynamism that has long made the Vantage such a fine sports car. Beautifully engineered and set-up to be equally at home on a fabulous road or a demanding race track, the Vantage GT8 is a driver’s car in the truest sense of the word.”
Appealing to collectors as well as pure driving enthusiasts, the Vantage GT8 will be strictly limited to just 150 examples with pricing starting from £165,000. Deliveries are expected in late 2016.