Aston Martin have announced a new Vantage model which will be as close to the British carmaker's Le Mans racer as possible. The new car will be called the Vantage GT8 and just 150 models are being produced. Prices start from £165,000 with deliveries expected in the last quarter of 2016.
The Vantage GT8 draws inspiration from V8 Vantage GTE racecar and is described as a 'true thoroughbred' by Aston Martin. This model is the lightest and most powerful Vantage ever with a predicted power output of 440 bhp coming from the 4.7 litre V8 engine. The engine can either be mated to a 6-speed manual or 7-speed Sportshift II paddle-shift transmission. The bodywork is made from carbon-fibre and has been shaped by race-bred aerodynamic function. Customers can opt for a carbon fibre roof as well to make the car even lighter.
Despite it's diet the Vantage GT8 still offers creature comforts such as air conditioning, a 160w audio system and Aston's infotainment system. The GT8 is predicted to be able to get to 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and will continue to a top speed of 190 mph. On the exterior the car features Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres wrapped around the 5 spoke alloy wheels plus the racing paraphernalia you'd expect to see.
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.”
