Aston Martin has taken the covers off what it describes as the ultimate expression of style, sound and speed, the new V12 Vantage Roadster. Production is limited to just 249 examples, all of them already sold.
Sporting unmistakeable looks thanks to its dramatic widebody design, it’s the first to be powered by the car maker’s new 5.2-litre V12 twin-turbo powertrain, delivering 515kW of power and 753Nm of torque.
With a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical limited-slip differential mounted at the rear, the car possesses the purity and balance of a front-mid-engined rear-wheel drive layout.
An optimised transmission calibration minimises shift speeds and maximises driver interaction, while adaptive software in the transmission’s control system monitors operating conditions and driver demands to enhance the driver’s feeling of response and control.
Wide-track suspension provides pinpoint handling, another first. With a top speed of 321km/h, it can sprint to 100km/h in just over 3.5 seconds.
Like the V12 Vantage, the V12 Vantage Roadster features powerful carbon ceramic brakes
as standard, with 410mm front discs gripped by 6-piston callipers, while 360mm rear discs are paired with 4-piston callipers.
“We have worked extremely hard to ensure the V12 Vantage Roadster possesses the same potency and dynamism that characterises the V12 Vantage, while surpassing it in terms of raw sensory excitement that you only achieve with roof down driving,” Aston Martin CTO Roberto Fideli said.
“With more power and torque than any Vantage Roadster before it, a wide-track chassis with precisely tuned suspension calibration, and up to ten times the downforce of the series production Vantage Roadster, this is a breath-taking machine created for our most enthusiastic customers.”
A new front end features a full width front splitter, while aerodynamic performance also informs the new sculpted single-piece sills and rear bumper, which comes complete with integrated diffuser – the effectiveness of which has also been improved.
In contrast to the V12 Vantage, the Roadster comes without the dramatic rear wing as standard, though it can be specified as an option. Those who choose the more understated look can do so in the knowledge that aerodynamic balance is maintained.
Final visual touches come in the form of impressive 21-inch alloy wheels, which are offered in two finishes, satin black or satin black diamond turned. An optional lightweight forged wheel option is also available.
Michelin Pilot 4S high performance tyres are standard fitment on all rims. As flagship of the range, the V12 Roadster is fitted with Sports Plus seats, trimmed in full semi-aniline leather and featuring ‘Wings’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard.
A carbon fibre performance seat with exposed twill carbon fibre shell and manual 6-way adjustment can be had as an option for those looking for the ultimate in dynamic design and maximum support for high performance driving.
Deliveries of the Vantage Roadster are set to begin in Q4 of this year. It’s not known how many, if any, are headed to Australia.
