Aston Martin V12 Vantage - Uncovering a Bit of the Magic

Buyers of mainstream cars couldn’t care less about the advanced production details of their vehicles as long as the wheels keep spinning, but when it comes to supercars, like Aston Martins, some users would even like to know what medical school the surgeon that stitched the leather upholstery went to.

We’d like to tell you that (actually, we’re more interested in Alcantara operations) but, unfortunately, we can’t right now, as we’re still gathering information. However, we do know that the toff adrenaline junkie-destined V12 Vantage rides on lightweight rims supplied by Alcoa Auto Wheels.

These feature a “diamond-turned”, ten-spoke design and are wider than the wheels used on the “torque working class” V8 Vantage. The set that flanks the V12 powerplant comes in a 19 inch x 9 inch size, while the one that handles the engine’s fury comes in a 19 inch x 11 inch size. This is not marketing, it is engineering, as the rims have to accommodate wider tires. All the work results in maximum supported cornering force of up to 1.3g, a record for Aston Martin and a more-than-enough value to bring your female partner closer to you when you really want to.

"The forging technology behind these wheels enables significant weight savings directly benefiting handling performance, ride quality, acceleration and braking,” explains David Yates, marketing manager for Alcoa Europe. “Our forging process results in a superior metal structure that also improves strength and durability, allowing finer wheel detailing and lighter weight.”