ASTON MARTIN Vantage GT8 2016-Present Photos, engines & full specs

Aston Martin had the race in its DNA and after the 1959 win at the 24h from LeMans and numerous wins in GT3 and GT4 categories, it offered special models for the racing enthusiasts. In 2016, it launched the lightest Aston Martin Vantage ever.

The British brand tried to keep a balance between sport and elegance. Unlike the Ferrari or Lamborghini, it steered toward comfort, and, somehow, their performance models were not over their competition. In 2016, the company management decided to build a car that should provide more grunt. And that was the Aston Martin Vantage GT8.

The carbon fiber details on the front bumper, the special details on the grille, and the front spoiler enhanced the car's aggressive look. Even the wheels with a central log nut were there to show that the car meant business.

Inside, there was a combination of carbon-fiber, Alcantara, and leather. Instead of rear seats it featured a roll-cage. The car was far from a daily driver or from any other GT car ever made by Aston Martin. It was simply, a track-day car that could have been registered just to take the driver from home to the track and back. The racing-bucket seats were embroiled with the GT8 logo.

Under the hood there was a 4.7-liter V8 engine, handcrafted and signed by an engineer. The standard transmission was a six-speed manual, but a 7-speed dual-clutch was available as an option. Of course, it featured paddle shifters behind the wheel. The sport suspension and the sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires were part of the package.