Aston Martin Archives

Aston Martin DB5 Junior for the little ones

Aston Martin’s DB5 is well known as the ‘James Bond car’, having appeared as a gadget-packed sportscar in the movie ‘Goldfinger’ (as well as ‘Skyfall’). Only 1,059 units were produced and sold between 1963 and 1965, so it is a rare model. As part of its Continuation program, the company is currently making 25 units of the ‘Goldfinger’ car, complete with the array of gadgets, priced at the equivalent of RM17.7 million.

While the original DB5 is not readily available and only 25 people will get to own the Goldfinger cars, there is now the DB5 Junior, a two-thirds scale replica that runs on electric power. It is the result of a collaboration between Aston Martin and The Little Car Company and based on Aston Martin’s reference 3D scan of an original DB5 to ensure complete accuracy and authenticity.

Developed over the last 15 months as a collaboration between the two companies, the junior car is priced at £35,000 (about RM195,000). Like all Aston Martin models, customisation of the DB5 Junior is possible in almost the same manner. Only 1,059 units will be available – the same production volume as the original DB5 – on a first-come, first served basis with a refundable deposit required.

The DB5 Junior is around 3 metres long, and 1.1 metres wide. It is designed to easily accommodate an adult and a child side by side. The aluminium honeycomb chassis and composite body provide a very rigid platform whilst keeping the total weight down to around 270 kgs.

Absolute authenticity was key throughout the development of the car. For example, the DB5 Junior sports the same iconic Aston Martin ‘wings’, ‘shield’ and DB5 badges as the original 1963 model. Like its big brother, the dashboard is filled with functional Smiths instruments, which have been cleverly updated for the modern era.

The fuel gauge has been converted into a battery meter, while the oil temperature now monitors the temperature of the electric motor. Finally, the same Smiths clock as seen in the original 1960s car sits proudly in front of the passenger seat.

The perfect two-thirds scale steering wheel has a racing-style quick release to make entry and exit easier for the driver. Power is regulated by billet aluminium accelerator and brake pedals and, as would be expected, there are working headlights, brake lights, indicators and a horn. However, there are no 007 gadgets which is a pity.

In true DB5 style, the car comes in the famous Silver Birch colour as standard, with a full black leather interior and carpet set. There is even a boot at the rear for storage.

Like the real car, the DB5 Junior sits on double wishbone suspension at the front and even the roll centre and camber gain match the original geometry. At the rear, there is a live axle that is of the 1960s period, with authentic upper and lower trailing arm suspension and Panhard rod.

Behind each of the 10-inch wire wheels are ventilated disc brakes. Like modern hybrid and all-electric cars, there is regenerative braking which contributes to recharging of the battery pack.

Powered by a torquey electric powertrain delivering 5 kW (6.7 bhp) to the rear wheels, the DB5 Junior can zip to a maximum speed of almost 50 km/h. The removable battery pack under the bonnet is said to provide 16 to 32 kms driving range, depending on how the car is driven. A second battery can be added for extra range and replacement of each pack is easily done in seconds.

For safety, there are three modes to suit the skill of the driver, with the power output reduced to 1 kW (1.3 bhp) for less experienced drivers. Besides a maximum speed of around 20 km/h, this mode has a remote kill switch which will disable the car if it is further than 30 metres. The Expert mode generates maximum output available and for the ultimate driving experience, a rally-style hydraulic handbrake is included.

DB5 Vantage Junior
There is also the DB5 Vantage Junior available in the UK for £45,000 (around RM250,000) which has a powerful 10 kW (13.4 bhp) electric motor. This output is delivered to the wheels through a Limited-Slip Differential. Performance is further enhanced by the lightweight carbonfibre body and a second battery pack, doubling the range to between 32 and 64 kms.

First ‘Goldfinger’ Aston Martin completed, priced at RM17.7 million (w/VIDEO)

Aston Martin offers two limited edition models with new 007 movie release

With the DB5 Goldfinger Continuation cars, of which there are only 25 units will be available, Aston Martin offers an authentic version of the most memorable car used by Agent 007. It comes with gadgets like machineguns in the headlights, tyre-shredders, revolving numberplate and battering rams. And it’s not a toy model – it’s a full-sized fully engineered car that can be driven around.

If you missed the opportunity to own one of those cars, here’s another chance to own am Aston Martin associated with the movie franchise. Aston Martin is celebrating the release of the 25th James Bond film – No Time to Die – with two exclusive 007 special editions of the Vantage and DBS Superleggera.

Four iconic Aston Martin models will appear in the movie, to be released around the world in November 2020. Besides the iconic DB5, there will be the classic V8, DBS Superleggera and the Valhalla – the company’s forthcoming mid-engined hypercar.

The two special editions being offered in limited numbers to buyers around the world have been carefully designed and crafted by Aston Martin’s bespoke division known as Q by Aston Martin. ‘Q’ is the character in James Bond movies who has headed the R&D department of the British Secret Service and developed all those fancy gadgets, weapons and cars.

So it seems appropriate that Aston Martin has created its own department with that designation to offer bespoke personalisation services to customers. Besides the personalisation expertise, Q by Aston Martin also produces special editions such the latest 007 editions of the Vantage and DBS Superleggera.

Vantage 007 Edition
£161,000/RM882,700
The first of the two models is the Vantage 007 Edition, inspired by the original V8 which made its 007 debut in The Living Daylights in 1987 and also appears in No Time to Die. As in Skyfall, James Bond retrieves the the car from his personal storage lock-up in London.

Building on the formidable sporting style and aggressive performance of the regular Vantage, the new car features unique exterior styling treatments led by a bespoke mesh grille with chrome bezel that references the look of the brand’s classic V8. Further styling details include a dashed yellow diffuser inspired by the hazard stripes on the film car’s rockets.

The Vantage 007 Edition can even be delivered with a set of The Living Daylights inspired limited edition skis and ski rack – referencing the ‘winterised’ V8 saloon from the film. 007 branding applied on the centre console of cars equipped with a manual gearbox.

The sun visors of all the cars will carry another subtle film reference in the shape of an embroidered radio station frequency – 96.60 (FM) – which 007 buffs will know was the Russian police frequency Bond used to aid his escape in The Living Daylights.

The seats themselves feature unique heritage fluting reminiscent of that seen in the V8, along with carbonfibre seat backs and, in a particularly detailed nod to the 1980s film, the outline of cello ‘f holes’ inspired by the memorable cello chase scene.

Additional association with the movies is in the form of a laser-etched gadget plaque that references the various weapons and devices seen on the original film car. These included a rocket motor, missiles, lasers, a targeting display and ski outriggers. Crosshairs etched onto the car’s paddle shift gear levers allude to the missile guidance system seen in the film, too. Available as a manual or automatic, the Vantage 007 Edition also boasts a side strake Vantage badge and is limited to 100 units globally.

DBS Superleggera 007 Edition
£279,025/RM1.53 million
The range-topping DBS Superleggera that is the basis of the other 007 Edition will be available in just 25 units. Each car will have the same specification as the muscular DBS Superleggera featured in the upcoming film, including the 715 bhp/900 Nm 5.2-litre V12 twin-turbocharged engine.

The 007 edition will come with special Ceramic Grey exterior paint with the roof, mirror caps, splitter, diffuser and rear Aeroblade IITM in black tinted carbonfibre. Also unique to the 007 Edition are visually striking Gloss Black diamond-turned Y-Spoke 21-inch wheels. This special edition also features a 007 fender badge, finished in chrome with a black enamel infill and Stainless Steel Silver 007 foil applied to the rear spoiler blade.

Inside, the cockpit is a dark, brooding, leather-clad environment with flashes of red detailing the outline of the seats. Subtle 007 branding can be found on the door cards, armrest buckle badge and on the rear sub-woofer cover. The car is finished with a sill plaque that identifies it as one of the exclusive 007 Editions.

James Bond’s 50th anniversary Aston Martin DBS Superleggera unveiled

First ‘Goldfinger’ Aston Martin completed, priced at RM17.7 million (w/VIDEO)

55 years after the last new Aston Martin DB5 left the production line in England, a brand new unit of the same car has done the same thing. It is the first of only 25 cars that the carmaker is making as part of its Continuation programme. Each car will take around 4,500 hours to complete.

It’s not just a standard DB5 that is being made either; it’s the model which James Bond drove in the 1964 movie Goldfinger and comes with an array of gadgets that amazed audiences around the world. Many of the gadgets are functioning too although the machine guns that pop out of the headlights do not fire bullets, for obvious reasons.

Interestingly, though the DB5 is properly engineered like the original, Aston Martin mentions that it is not legal for use on public roads and that the fitment of gadgets is subject to country-specific regulations. Things like the revolving number plates would certainly not be legal. So most of the units will probably for display with occasional drives at special events.

The James Bond DB5 is regarded as ‘the most famous car in the world’. Fewer than 900 examples were built between 1963 and 1965 and are today among the most desirable and sought-after classic Aston Martin models.

Each of the 25 new cars are meticulously detailed authentic reproductions of the DB5 seen in the movie, taking 4,500 hours to complete. Some modifications and enhancements have been necessary to ensure the highest levels of build quality and reliability comparable to today’s Aston Martins. All the Goldfinger edition cars are being built to one exterior colour specification – Silver Birch paint – just like the original.

Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Edition — *The ‘half sunroof’ is actually an opening with a detachable panel removed. In the movie, the car had an ejection seat on the passenger side – which was used to get rid on an unwanted person.*

The cars feature original DB5 styled aluminium exterior body panels cloaking an authentic DB5 mild steel chassis structure. Under the bonnet there’s a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated inline 6-cylinder engine with three SU carburettors and oil cooler. It produces around 290 bhp which goes through a 5-speed ZF manual transmission and mechanical limited slip differential to the rear wheels.

Servo-assisted hydraulic Girling-type steel disc brakes, rack and pinion and a suspension set-up comprising coil over spring and damper units with anti-roll bar at the front, and a live axle rear suspension with radius arms and Watt’s linkage. The steering system is not power-assisted but Mr. Bond would not have required it, of course.

And now, let look at the list of gadgets the owner gets in the car:

Back in August last year, the original James Bond car was sold at an auction for US$6.4 million (about RM27.37 million) which was the highest price ever paid for a DB5. Each of the 25 modern units are said to cost £3.3 million, equivalent to RM17.66 million.

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James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 in ‘Goldfinger’ reborn – complete with the gadgets!

Car chase scenes were in movies a long time before ‘Goldfinger’, the James Bond movie, appeared in 1964. But it was in this 007 movie, only the third of many to come, that the Aston Martin DB5 became famous, especially with its built-in gadgets like machine-guns behind the headlamps, tyre slashers, numberplate-changer and even an ejector seat, to name a few.

Dubbed ‘the most famous car in the world’ and renowned as being among the most desirable and sought-after classic Aston Martin models, only 900 units of the DB5 were built by Aston Martin between 1963 and 1965.

Now, 55 years after the last new DB5 left the factory, the company is once again making the DB5 in a strictly limited number. Created in association with the producers of the James Bond films, EON Productions, they even have a broad suite of working gadgets seen on the car in the 1964 film.

The Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation cars are history in the making, part of the Continuation car programme which began in 2017 with the DB4 GT Continuation. Each of the 25 cars takes around 4,500 hours to complete and while there is still the old-world craftsmanship, the highest possible quality is achieved by using modern engineering advancements and performance enhancements.

All the new cars are meticulously detailed authentic reproductions of the DB5 seen by millions around the world in 1964. They all come in one exterior colour – Silver Birch – just like the original.

The cutting-edge gadgets were developed in association with Chris Corbould, the special effects supervisor who has worked on more than a dozen Bond films. While there will not be an ejector seat, owners will get with their car the following:

Rear smoke screen delivery system
Rear simulated oil slick delivery system
Revolving number plates front and rear (triple plates)
Simulated twin front machine guns
Bullet resistant rear shield
Battering rams front and rear
Simulated tyre slasher
Removable passenger seat roof panel (optional equipment)
Simulated radar screen tracker map
Telephone in driver’s door
Gear knob actuator button
Armrest and centre console-mounted switchgear
Under-seat hidden weapons/storage tray
Remote control for gadget activation

007 Aston Martin DB5 — *Installing simulated machine-guns behind the lights (left) and the oil-sprayer at the rear (right) – all not working, of course.*

The cars feature original DB5 styled aluminium exterior body panels wrapped elegantly around an authentic DB5 mild steel chassis structure. Under the bonnet, there’s a 4.0-litre naturally aspirated inline 6-cylinder engine with a 6-plug head, three SU carburettors and oil cooler. The output of 290 bhp goes through a 5-speed ZF manual transmission to the rear axle which also has a mechanical limited slip differential.

Servo-assisted hydraulic Girling-type steel disc brakes, rack and pinion steering – which has no power assistance – and a suspension set-up comprising coil over spring and damper units with anti-roll bar at the front, and a live axle rear suspension with radius arms and Watt’s linkage, complete the dynamic package.

First deliveries of the DB5 Goldfinger Continuation to customers will commence in the second half of 2020. Each car is priced from £2.75 million (about RM14.8 million).

James Bond’s 50th anniversary Aston Martin DBS Superleggera unveiled

Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS by R-Reforged

Bespoke automotive manufacturer R-Reforged, based in Switzerland, has announced plans to produce its Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS in-house at its new facility in England. 38 Aston-Martin-licenced units and handbuilt as the 38 Coupe and Speedster TWINS that celebrate the centenary of the Zagato Atelier (1919-2019) and 60-year long partnership between the Milanese ‘Signature’ and British sportscar manufacturer.

19 pairs to be produced
Offered solely in pairs to just 19 customers (with the majority already sold), the sculpted Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS by R-Reforged were created by Zagato and R-Reforged to combine the best of two automotive worlds: a sporting Speedster in its purest form and a timeless Coupe.

Each features iconic Zagato design cues synonymous with the carrozzeria, notably the ‘double bubble’ roof on the Coupe and, exclusively, the 100th anniversary gold Z badging.

Now derived from the later V12 Vantage, the 19 Coupes and 19 Speedsters feature a reworked version of its 5.9-litre 48 valve, naturally aspirated engine to produce 600 bhp (85 bhp more than the original).

Carbonfibre body with bespoke features
Clothed in an all-carbonfibre body, both incorporate an active aero and deployable rear wing to improve stability at high speeds whilst maintaining the clean surfaces and pure lines of the Zagato design. Combined with a number of other design tweaks such as new, centre locking 19-inch bespoke alloy wheels designed by APP Tech, the overall effect is muscular, purposeful yet graceful and unmistakably Aston Martin.

Owners can specify every element of their cars to the designers, before being invited to witness the team of skilled craftspeople at R-Reforged’s newly-created facility start making their cars. They will see first-hand a blend of traditional and contemporary processes, ranging from Bridge of Weir leather trimming to the latest in additive manufacturing. Options include an ‘infinity’ colour palette with the opportunity to match the interior and exterior to any colour sample provided by the client.

“The Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS by R-Reforged are undoubtedly a highlight of our centenary celebrations,” said Andrea Zagato. “A beautiful, bespoke and intrinsic part of our history and creative association with Aston Martin. To own these collectible cars will be a very personal and emotional experience.”

The cars will be unveiled in mid-2020 with production set to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.

Aston Martin V12 Speedster – inspired by the F/A-18 jet fighter

First new Aston Martin engine in over 50 years starts test runs (w/VIDEO)

Aston Martin has revealed further details of its in-house designed V6 engine, created initially for deployment in a new range of mid-engined sportscars, starting with the Valhalla from 2022. Codenamed TM01 – celebrating Aston Martin’s illustrious engineer of the 1950s and 1960s, Tadek Marek – the engine has already undergone a series of extensive testing sessions on the dyno, as the team make progress towards creating the luxury British brand’s first in-house designed engine since 1968.

Confirmed today as a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, the full powertrain will be electrified – an aspect that has been key to the engine’s development from day one. In parallel to the tests shown today, Aston Martin is developing a new range of hybrid systems that will ensure that the complete unit will become the most powerful in the Aston Martin range when on sale. The final power and torque figures for each application of this powertrain will be determined by the desired characteristics of each product it serves and confirmed at the time of launch.

Following the Valkyrie – the brand’s first mid-engined hypercar – many key learnings have been directly applied to this project. As a result, the decision to develop the engine with a ‘hot V’ structure was clear from the start, with the configuration allowing for this compact engine to weigh less than 200 kgs.

Higher engine speeds, in combination with the benefits of electrification, will offer the performance characteristics of a mid-engined sportscar on an extreme level. Naturally, the engine will be positioned directly behind the driver’s cabin and equipped with a dry sump system to guarantee the lowest possible centre of gravity. The system will also deliver exceptional lubrication performance during on-limit, high-speed cornering. Despite the overt nature of this powertrain, the engine is designed to meet all future emission requirements for Euro7.

“This project has been a great challenge from the start. Putting a team together to deliver what is going to be the future power of Aston Martin has been an honour. From the very beginning, we have had the freedom to explore and innovate in a way that we have not been able to do so in a very long time. Most importantly, we wanted to create something that is befitting of the TM01 nameplate and create something that would have impressed our predecessor and pioneering engineer, Tadek Marek,” said Joerg Ross, Powertrain Chief Engineer.

Max Verstappen and Alex Albon test-drive the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar

Aston Martin V12 Speedster – inspired by the F/A-18 jet fighter

Conceived a little over 12 months ago, the Aston Martin V12 Speedster has undergone an intensive development programme, going from drawing board to production reality within that short period. Demonstrating the skills and meticulous planning of ‘Q by Aston Martin’ and Aston Martin Design, the V12 Speedster is a living showcar, using engineering ingenuity and advanced materials.

Denied of a global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show which was cancelled at the last minute, Aston Martin nevertheless went ahead with an announcement of the car’s debut at its UK headquarters.

“It makes me enormously proud to reveal Aston Martin’s latest, most exciting special model. The V12 Speedster is an incredible demonstration of the breadth of capability and determination from the ‘Q by Aston Martin’ team, who have worked tirelessly to create this stunning, two-seat sports car aimed at our most demanding and enthusiastic customers,” said Aston Martin Lagonda President & Group CEO, Dr. Andy Palmer.

Inspiration from a jet fighter
The V12 Speedster draws inspiration from both the brand’s rich racing history and aeronautical design. The debut model, for example, has a conceptual F/A-18 Super Hornet jet fighter livery which will be available to customers. Born from an exciting new collaboration with Boeing and created by the brand’s bespoke customisation service, this striking car is finished in Skyfall Silver, with contrasting satin black on the exhaust tips, vent grilles and vanes.

*The F/A-18 Super Hornet which inspired the designers of the V12 Speedster*

Utilising Aston Martin’s latest bonded aluminium architecture, the V12 Speedster incorporates elements from both the DBS Superleggera and Vantage model lines to create its own unique platform. With independent double wishbone front, and multi-link rear suspension with coil springs and adaptive damping offering Sport, Sport+ and Track modes, the V12 Speedster also benefits from standard 21-inch forged centre lock alloy wheels. Carbon Ceramic Brakes of 410 mm diameter on the front axle and 360 mm at the rear are also standard equipment.

Over the V12 Speedster’s unique chassis is a bespoke body constructed almost entirely from carbonfibre. No roof or screen, a big engine, low, with broad shoulders and exaggerated and emotional styling with twin humps and the spine separating the driver and passenger. The light, low, rear end contrasts with the bold, enlarged grille, unique headlights and bonnet nostril at the front.

2-seat interior with purposeful look
The dark theme is carried through to the interior, with satin dark chrome, machined aluminium, black leather, black technical textile, black carpets and vivid red Aston Martin scripted door pulls, creating a purposeful look.

The interior specification pushes new boundaries, using a mix of traditional and modern materials. Structural satin carbonfibre contrasts with traditional hand-crafted Saddle Leather, chrome, aluminium and even 3D-printed rubber.

Aston Martin V12 Speedster — *The seats do not eject (at least Aston Martin didn’t say so) but you probably need a helmet when going at 300 km/h with no roof on the car!*

Visually and physically, the interior reduces mass, for a leaner, efficient style but one that retains all the emotion and craftsmanship Aston Martins are renowned for. In front of the passenger is a removable leather bag in place of a traditional glovebox, while there’s additional storage space under the rear bumps for luggage.

3.5 seconds to get to 100 km/h
Powering the V12 Speedster is Aston Martin’s 5.2-litre, Twin-Turbo V12 engine with peak output of 700 bhp/753 Nm. Front mid-mounted, the all-alloy, quad-cam 48-valve engine is mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with a limited-slip differential driving the rear wheels. Aston Martin says the V12 Speedster can accelerate to 100 km/h from standstill in 3.5 seconds. After that, it can continue to a top speed of over 300 km/h but is electronically limited to that maximum speed, which is about the speed at which the F/A-18 starts to leave the ground.

Orders are now being taken for the 88 units that will be built, with prices starting at £765,000 (about RM4.15 million). The first customers are expected to have the V12 Speedster in their driveway during the first quarter of 2021.

DBX – the first-ever Aston Martin SUV is unveiled today, priced from RM798,000 (w/VIDEO)

Max Verstappen and Alex Albon test-drive the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar

Aston Martin has unleashed the power of three of its Valkyrie models, with Max Verstappen and Alex Albon – the Aston Martin Red Bull Racing drivers – getting their first taste of the revolutionary hypercar.

While each Formula 1 driver drove the first verification prototype (VP) that made its public debut at last year’s British Grand Prix (Aston Martin Valkyrie VP1), both VP2 and VP3 were taken round by the company’s high-performance test driver Chris Goodwin and Aston Martin Racing WEC drivers Darren Turner and Alex Lynn.

Each verification prototype, of which there will be 8 built in total, is subjected to a variety of intense testing programmes designed to develop and validate specific attributes that contribute to achieving the performance of the world’s fastest ever road-going hypercar. These programmes are focussed on supporting first customer deliveries starting in the second half of this year.

“This event has been an incredibly important step in Aston Martin Valkyrie’s story. To have three cars now running will see the rate of physical development for this exceptional hypercar increase exponentially. Both Max and Alex were really positive of the direction that we’re currently taking and could see that the ingredients for an exceptionally high-performing car are already there ready to be untapped. To have that second opinion and validation doesn’t mean the hard work is done already, but this is a great step on our journey,” said Goodwin.

8-time Grand Prix winner Verstappen came away elated by his first laps in the Valkyrie. He said: “I was here at Silverstone to watch the first runs of the Aston Martin Valkyrie at the British Grand Prix last year but of course it’s always better to be behind the wheel yourself! To be one of the first guys to drive an insane car like this was really exciting… it was amazing to get a first taste of it.”

“Of course, it’s still in the development phase but you can already feel the pace, which compared to a normal car is… pretty different! The Aston Martin Valkyrie and its levels of downforce are incredible, and it looks super aggressive. It was a lot of fun out there,” he added.

Albon was equally pleased with his drive. “It was incredibly exciting to have this opportunity to drive the Aston Martin Valkyrie and the first thing that struck me was the visual aspect – it looks awesome! It also really feels like a racing car,” said the Thai driver.

“Obviously there’s still some development to do, but already it feels very good, especially the balance between the corners. It’s light; it feels sharp. Sure, compared to an F1 car, you’re missing the outright downforce, but you still feel the g-forces in the corners and it definitely reacts closer to an F1 car than a normal roadcar. It’s pretty special. I just need to get my hands on one!” he said.

Aston Martin Valkyrie will compete in Le Mans 2021

Roadster to join Aston Martin Vantage line in second half of 2020

A new Aston Martin Vantage Roadster joins the Vantage Coupe, which was launched in 2018, bringing a compelling blend of potent performance, outstanding dynamics and everyday usability to those who want limitless headroom and the wind in their hair. Like the Vantage Coupe, the Vantage Roadster has Aston Martin’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo 510 ps/685 Nm V8 engine mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.

While the Vantage Roadster mirrors the Coupe in dynamic performance, the design of the body is very much its own, especially where the roof is concerned. The tautly tailored fabric hood employs a compact powered Z-fold mechanism for rapid operation (lowered in 6.7 or raised in 6.8 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h). In fact, the roof of Vantage Roadster is claimed to have the fastest full operating cycle of any automatic automotive convertible system.

An impressively low stack height pays the double dividend of allowing the design team the latitude to create a seamless rear profile with minimal impact on the Roadster’s luggage space. Indeed, with a boot capacity of 200 litres, it is possible to stow a full-sized golf bag and accessories.

Only 60 kgs more than the Coupe
Without a roof as a stiffener, the structure of the car needs to be intelligently engineered and the weight increase is 60 kgs, compared with the Coupe. Careful development of structural shear panels and chassis components ensures the Vantage Roadster retains the strong dynamic ability and sporting character achieved in the Coupe with no compromise to feel or refinement.

Sharing the same Adaptive Damping, Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Torque Vectoring and Electronic Rear Differential, the Roadster benefits from specific dynamic refinements. These include a bespoke tune for the rear dampers, Adaptive Damping System software and ESP calibration.

As you’d expect from a dedicated sportscar, a choice of Sport, Sport+ and Track chassis modes – also tuned specifically for the Roadster – give the driver control of its dynamic character and behaviour. Working in harmony with Sport, Sport+ and Track powertrain modes retained from the Coupe offers the ability to progressively increase the car’s overall responsiveness and excitement, meaning the Roadster will feels equally at home on road or racetrack.

Vantage nameplate celebrates 70th anniversary
To celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Vantage nameplate, Aston Martin is introducing the company’s iconic ‘vane’ grille as an option. It is available on both Coupe and Roadster as an alternative to the track-inspired ‘hunter’ grille featured on the Coupe from its launch in 2018. There is also a new range of optional alloy wheel designs in a choice of finishes.

Enthusiasts will also welcome the manual 7-speed transmission being offered as an option on the Coupe, having initially only been available in the limited-edition Vantage AMR.

“Open-top Aston Martins are always firm favourites with our customers, so it’s very exciting to introduce the Vantage Roadster. For many, driving with the roof down is the true definition of the sportscar experience as it truly brings your senses to life,” said Aston Martin President & CEO, Dr. Andy Palmer. “Vantage has always delivered the purest of thrills, but in Roadster form that adrenaline rush is set to go to the next level.”

The Vantage range starts at £114,850 (equivalent to RM617,200), with the Roadster starting from £126,950 (RM682,400) in the UK. First deliveries of the Vantage Roadster are scheduled to begin during the second quarter of 2020.

DBX – the first-ever Aston Martin SUV is unveiled today, priced from RM798,000 (w/VIDEO)

Aston Martin confirms limited production of V12 Speedster

Aston Martin today confirmed production of a strictly limited number of the new V12 Speedster. The car will make its global debut later this year, with potential customers around the world offered the opportunity to acquire this exclusive British sportscar by booking one now. Only 88 will become owners and as each handbuilt unit is completed, it will be delivered, starting from the first quarter of 2021.

The V12 Speedster, created by in-house bespoke service Q by Aston Martin working with the brand’s talented team of designers and engineers, combines an authentic, driver-oriented sportscar with the use of cutting-edge motorsport and aviation technology to deliver a stunning, two-seat, enthusiast driving machine.

At the new car’s heart lies a high-performance variant of Aston Martin’s now iconic, 5.2-litre V12 Twin-Turbo engine, capable of generating an output of around 700ps/700 Nm. Offering a compelling breadth of performance, superb response and thrilling V12 soundtrack, the engine is mated to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission mounted towards the rear of the car.

The new car’s design, while modern and dynamic, brings to mind both Aston Martin’s legendary 1959 Le Mans 24 hours- and 1000 km of Nurburgring race-winning DBR1 and the marque’s Centenary CC100 Speedster Concept shown in 2013. Its forward-looking features are shaped from the same advanced materials and expert engineering used throughout Aston Martin’s contemporary sportscar range.

Aston Martin DBR1 — *The Le Mans-winning DBR1 in 1959.*

The Le Mans-winning DBR1, which in part inspired the V12 Speedster, delivered Aston Martin’s most high-profile motorsport triumph to date, needs no introduction. One of only three cars in the 1950s to win both the World Sports Car Championship and Le Mans 24 Hours in the same year, the DBR1 defined not only motorsport excellence but also exquisite design elegance – an enduring Aston Martin trademark.

The brand’s CC100 Speedster Concept, meanwhile, was produced in 2013 to celebrate Aston Martin’s centenary. It too helped to inspire the creation of the new V12 Speedster which is the product of more than 12 months of meticulous design and planning work by the teams from both Q by Aston Martin, and Aston Martin Design.

Aston martin CC100 Speedster Concept — *CC100 Speedster Concept*

Aston Martin Valkyrie will compete in Le Mans 2021

Piston.my

Aston Martin

Aston Martin DB5 Junior for the little ones

Aston Martin offers two limited edition models with new 007 movie release

First ‘Goldfinger’ Aston Martin completed, priced at RM17.7 million (w/VIDEO)

James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 in ‘Goldfinger’ reborn – complete with the gadgets!

Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS by R-Reforged

First new Aston Martin engine in over 50 years starts test runs (w/VIDEO)

Aston Martin V12 Speedster – inspired by the F/A-18 jet fighter

Max Verstappen and Alex Albon test-drive the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar

Roadster to join Aston Martin Vantage line in second half of 2020

Aston Martin confirms limited production of V12 Speedster

Aston Martin Vantage Terpantas: Kereta Keselamatan Rasmi FIA Untuk F1

Fastest ever Aston Martin Vantage: Official FIA Safety Car For F1

Aston Martin Memperkenalkan Vantage 2025: Lebih Kuasa, Prestasi Dipertingkat

Aston Martin Unveils Revamped Vantage: More Power, Enhanced Performance

Aston Martin Vantage Generasi Baharu Akan Dilancarkan Bulan Depan

Aston Martin Set to Unveil Next-Gen Vantage in February 2024

Aston Martin Valhalla: Pengeluaran Terhad dengan 998bhp!

Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Production with V8 Power

Aston Martin Preserves Manual Transmission For Special Editions

Aston Martin DB5: An Icon Turns 60

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Review: Jaecoo J7 AWD – Brawn and Beauty in a Muscular Package

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Alfa Romeo Milano: Firm’s First-Ever Series-Production Electric SUV

BYD Seal U to Enter the Malaysian Market?

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