2017 Aston Martin Vantage AMR V12 Photos, engines & full specs

Aston Martin introduced the Vantage AMR in 2017 as a limited edition model built in 200 units with a V8 and just 100 with a V12 under the hood. It was the last stint for this generation before being replaced by a newer one in the following year.

The British automaker was known for creating various versions and special editions based on the same platform it used since 2005. It was the car manufacturer's way of dealing with an aging vehicle, which still managed to look fresh even after 12 years since the model's launch. The Vantage AMR, for instance, was created using the experience gained in the FIA Endurance Championship, where Aston Martin Racing competed in the GT4, GT3, and GTE categories. It was the carmaker's way of saying that the Vantage was not just another GT on the market but a supercar in disguise that should be taken seriously, and the V12 Vantage AMR was solid proof of that, and it was the swan-song for this generation of the Vantage.

Aston Martin hand-crafted the vehicle and made it available in just four color schemes that make it look different from any other versions of the Vantage. In addition, Aston Martin Racing developed a unique aerodynamic package that included carbon fiber elements for the front splitter, the side sills, and the fixed rear wing attached at the back of the vehicle on the tailgate. At the lower side of the rear bumper, the car manufacturer added a black diffuser. In addition, the V12 AMR could've been equipped with titanium exhausts, which shaved 14 kilos (31 lbs.) of weight from the car. A distinct feature of the vehicle from its V8-powered sibling was noticed on the wheels, which featured a ten-spoke design instead of a five-spoke one.

The interior went through some major changes, which transformed the Vantage from a luxurious GT to a ferocious race car in disguise. Its carbon fiber bucket seats, covered in thin layers of Alcantara and leather, are made to keep their occupants in their places during high-speed cornering maneuvers. Unlike the regular Vantage V12, it doesn't boast acres of expensive leather everywhere, and there were fewer sound-deadening materials in the AMR version than in its luxury-oriented cousin. Several trims were replaced by carbon fiber elements, such as the door grabs.

But the true difference was under the car's skin. AMR tuned the old V12 engine under the hood to provide 30 more ponies than the regular version, raising the power bar to 595 HP (603 PS). Aston Martin offered the car fitted as standard with a seven-speed automated gearbox with paddle-shifters behind the steering wheel or with a seven-speed manual for those who loved a three-pedal setup. Thanks to this setup, the Vantage V12 AMR was able to rocket to 60 MPH (97 kph) from a standstill in less than four seconds, confirming that it?s a proper supercar.