For some unknown reason, Aston Martin follows in Mercedes-Benz's footsteps and chooses to round-up its displacement figures, no matter how close to the other end the numbers are. That's exactly why their 5.9 liter V12 (5.935cc) is still called a 6.0 liter in all their press releases.
Based on the V12 Vantage Concept, which was unveiled at the opening of the Aston Martin Design Studio in December 2007, the road-going V12 Vantage received more than just an engine swap to be brought to market.
"This is the ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range, combining our most agile model with our most powerful engine. It represents the definitive driving package; providing spectacular performance to ensure a dynamically thrilling and everyday useable driving experience.” said Dr. Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer.
Apart from making it the fastest Aston Martin in the range, the upgraded figures for the V12 Vantage would put even the N24 version to shame. The powerplant's 517 hp and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque give it a naught to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h (190 mph).
The exterior design somehow announces what's new under the hood, so the V12 Vantage is a bit non-Aston Martin-like from this point of view. There are carbon-fiber air scoops and outlet's everywhere on the car, making it look more like a FIA GT competitor than a luxurious GT from Aston Martin.
Some good news to wash away the in-your-face design lines from your mind is the fact that the car will be very exclusive, Aston Martin announcing that the production figures will be limited to just 300-500 examples per year. With official prices to be confirmed at the Geneva Auto Show, deliveries are expected to start at the end of the summer. Until then, we leave you with a nice video of it courtesy of drivers-republic.com. Be sure to turn up your volume in the beginning.
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