ASTON MARTIN Virage Volante 2011-2012 Photos, engines & full specs

The 2011 Aston Martin Virage Volante was the open-top version of the V12-engined Aston Martin Virage. A GT vehicle that was cut out of production line after just 18 months.

The history of Aston Martin saw many ups and downs. Sometimes, a car that it shouldn't be too successful was well received by the market and a car that gathered all the technology was available at the time of the car's launch failed to convince potential customers.

The Aston Martin Virage supposed to be the return of the V12 engine for the British brand. It was meant to be fast and sporty, but not harsh as a race-car inspired vehicle. Its design was flowing with elongated lines along with the bodywork. The long hood with clear-lenses headlights and the short end made a powerful stance. The three-layer canvas-top used an army-grade layer of Thinsulate between the inside Alcantara and the canvas exterior.

The interior was typical for a GT car, with ample and bolstered seats. The combination of aluminum and leather upholstery was appealing. To keep the center console and the stalk clear, the car-manufacturer installed buttons for the automatic transmission and paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.

Under the hood, there was a 6.0-liter V12 unit able to produce 490 hp. It was mated to a 6-speed automatic, transaxle, gearbox mounted in the back. For the brakes, the Aston Martin Virage was fitted with a standard set of carbon-ceramic kit. Unfortunately, the car was just too close between the DB9 and the DBS so the customers got confused.