2018 ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE

  • All-new Vantage defined by bold new look, intensified performance and dynamics
  • Powered by 4.0-liter, 503bhp/505lb.ft twin-turbo V8 mated to eight-speed ZF transmission
  • Maximum speed 195mph. 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds
  • First Aston Martin to be fitted with an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff)
  • Deliveries scheduled to begin second quarter of 2018

INTRODUCING THE NEW VANTAGE: THE SUCCESSOR TO A TRUE SPORTING DYNASTY

21 November 2017, Gaydon: Vantage. An evocative name for a magnificent bloodline of thoroughbred sports cars. For seven decades the heartbeat of Aston Martin’s purest models, successive generations have built an enviable reputation for thrilling performance and enduring popularity. Today this formidable sporting dynasty is poised to hit new heights with the introduction of the new Vantage.

A spectacular new Aston Martin sports car demands a bold and distinctive design language. Pure, sculptural forms create an athletic, predatory stance, while the minimal front and rear overhangs, muscular flanks and broad haunches express the agility and dynamism inherent within the car. New head and tail lights form dramatic new signatures giving the Vantage unmistakable road presence and contribute to a strong and individual identity within the growing Aston Martin model range.

Aerodynamic performance is central to the Vantage concept: the front splitter directs airflow underneath the car, where a system of fences channels cooling air where it is needed, and also ensures the rear diffuser is fed with clean airflow. The design of the diffuser creates an area of low pressure air, while simultaneously preventing turbulence generated by the rear wheels from disrupting the flow of air exiting centrally from beneath the rear of the car.

Together with the new side gills, which have been integrated into the body surface and bleed air pressure out from the front wheel arches, and the pronounced upswept rear deck lid, the Vantage generates a significant level of downforce – a rarity on any production car and a first for a core production Aston Martin model.

The exciting design story continues inside the Vantage, with a dynamic and focused sports car cockpit that rejects long, fluid curves in favour of sharp, focused lines denoting the more aggressive nature of the car. A high waist interior theme and lower driving position creates a more immersive driving experience, and contributes to significant gains in occupant space and significant improvement in headroom compared with the outgoing Vantage. A combination of rotary and toggle style controls have been used for their unmatched tactile and intuitive functionality. Likewise the PRND transmission buttons have been moved into a triangular formation so as to cluster major controls into clearly defined zones. The interior also offers generous stowage space, with useable room behind the seats and generous double-tier storage areas.

The heart of the Vantage is Aston Martin’s potent new alloy, 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine.  Set low and as far back in the chassis as possible for optimal centre-of-gravity and perfect 50:50 weight distribution, this high performance, high efficiency engine returns a CO2 figure of *245g/km yet develops 503bhp at 6000rpm and 505lb.ft from 2000-5000rpm. With a dry weight of 3373lb this gives the Vantage formidable power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios – something vividly demonstrated whenever the throttle is squeezed. Detailed tuning of the induction, exhaust and engine management systems has given the Vantage a truly intoxicating character and soundtrack.

The Vantage deploys its impressive power and torque to the rear wheels via a rear-mounted ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. Capable of accelerating from 0 to 60mph in 3.6 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 195mph, it employs a sophisticated suite of integrated electronic systems to offer maximum control and driver enjoyment. These include Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Torque Vectoring. The speed-dependent electric power steering has 2.4 turns lock-to-lock for a perfect combination of quick-wits and precise, intuitive control.

For the first time on an Aston Martin the new Vantage also features an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff). This differential is linked to the car’s electronic stability control system, so it can understand the car’s behavior, and react accordingly to direct the engine’s power to the relevant wheel. Unlike a conventional LSD, it can go from fully open to 100% locked in a matter of milliseconds.  At higher speeds, the Electronic Differential’s speed and sensitivity of response enables the system to take very fine control of the car’s dynamic behaviour. It makes the car feel much more composed both in terms of its straight-line stability and its cornering performance, providing the driver with increased levels of confidence to explore and enjoy the car’s capabilities to the full.

The chassis is an evolution of the latest generation bonded aluminium structure first seen on the DB11, though some 70 per cent of the structure’s components are new for Vantage. Balance, strength, rigidity and weight efficiency were all priorities in the new Vantage design, as was handling purity and consistency. Highlights of the chassis include a solidly mounted rear subframe for an enhanced feeling of direct connection for the driver, new Pirelli P Zero tyres developed specifically for new Vantage and the latest generation Adaptive Damping System which incorporates Skyhook technology and offers the choice of Sport, Sport Plus and Track modes.

Thanks to full integration of engine, transmission, E-Diff, Dynamic Torque Vectoring, Dynamic Stability Control, Adaptive Damping and the electric power steering systems, each mode optimises every area of the car as one. With each step the Vantage gains in agility and responsiveness, its character becoming progressively sharper, more vocal and more exciting. This is the essence of the Vantage driving experience – a car that’s never less than connected and engaging with the breadth of capability to revel in challenging roads and bare its teeth on track.

The Vantage features a high level of standard equipment, including keyless start/stop, tyre pressure monitoring system and Parking Distance Display, Park Assist and front and rear parking sensors. The In-Car Entertainment system – controlled and viewed via a centrally mounted 8” LCD screen – comprises of the Aston Martin Audio System, Bluetooth® audio and phone streaming, iPod®, iPhone® and USB playback. There is also an integrated satellite navigation system and wi-fi hub.

Being an Aston Martin, the new Vantage also features a high level of craftsmanship, evidenced by flawless paintwork, luxurious Alcantara® and leather upholstery and a fabulous level of finish using tactile natural materials of the highest quality. There is also extensive scope for personalisation via a generous choice of options. These include forged alloy wheels in a variety of finishes, Sports Plus Collection (comprising Sports Plus seats and Sports steering wheel), carbon fibre interior and exterior detailing and a Premium Audio System.

Aston Martin President Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andy Palmer said: “It speaks volumes for the outgoing Vantage that it is the single most successful model in Aston Martin’s history. Creating a worthy successor has been a challenge to relish and a huge source of motivation. I’m enormously excited by what we’ve created: a new Vantage that’s more explicit in looks and intent, wrapping heart-pounding performance and dazzling dynamics into an everyday usable package. A true sports car with a sharper look and a keener dynamic edge, the new Vantage is the Aston Martin pure driving machine enthusiasts have been waiting for.”

The new Vantage is on sale now with a recommended retail price from $149,995 in the USA. Deliveries are scheduled to begin during the second quarter of 2018.

2018 ASTON MARTIN RACING VANTAGE GTE

  • New Vantage road car forms basis of Aston Martin Racing’s 2018 WEC challenger
  • Developed in parallel with the new Vantage road car
  • Development car has already completed 13,000km of testing, including two 30-hour tests
  • Three new technical partners: Alcon brakes; Öhlins suspension; Michelin tyres
  • Established AMR drivers joined by British star Alex Lynn

21 November 2017, London: Earlier today, Aston Martin revealed the new Vantage: a dynamics successor to the biggest-selling road car in the British marque’s history. This evening, in an unprecedented synchronised launch, Aston Martin Racing revealed the new Vantage GTE: the spectacular new FIA World Endurance Championship challenger poised to replace the team’s most successful competition car of all-time, the multiple Le Mans-winning V8 Vantage GTE.

Built to comply with the FIA’s strict GTE class regulations, the new Vantage GTE takes the road car’s core design and dynamic capabilities to a whole new level through extensive optimisation of the powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics. Designed and engineered in-house at Aston Martin Racing’s headquarters in Banbury, the project is led by Technical Director Dan Sayers, who also guided the design and development of the current V8 Vantage GTE – the car credited with 37 of the team’s 51 international race victories, including two Le Mans 24 Hour class wins.

Though the new Vantage road car has only just been launched, development of the new Vantage GTE race car is well advanced, with more than 13,000km of testing completed, including a successful 30-hour run at the Spanish circuit of Navarra. The car has also been through a rigorous durability programme at the notoriously rough Sebring circuit in Florida. All of Aston Martin Racing’s current drivers have contributed to the test programme.

Reliability has been exceptional straight out of the box, while the drivers have reported the car is easier to control on the limit than its predecessor – something that will make the Vantage GTE especially attractive to competitors in the GTE Am class, where top-level amateurs race alongside professional teammates. Together with Aston Martin Racing’s engineers, the factory drivers have worked hard to optimise the drivability and performance of the base Mercedes-AMG 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine, that has been developed for use in the Vantage GTE application by Aston Martin Racing.

Aston Martin Racing is working with new technical partners: Alcon for the braking system, Öhlins for the suspension and Michelin for a bespoke tyre programme to maximise the performance of the Vantage GTE. Also, the in-house Aston Martin Design team, led by Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman have taken their intimate knowledge of the road Vantage styling and amplified it for the WEC version. The result is an extreme and exciting evolution of an already aggressive road car design – a lesson in Aston Martin’s ethos of pure form and function.

With a new car to develop, Aston Martin Racing has kept its highly experienced and successful driver line-up. This year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans GTE Pro class winners Darren Turner and Jonny Adam have been retained, as have the Danish duo and 2016 FIA WEC GTE Pro world champions, Nicki Thiim and Marco Sørensen. In addition, AMR has recruited ex-GP2 race winner and now Formula E racer Alex Lynn. Further driver announcements will be forthcoming.

Aston Martin Racing is also proud to announce a range of partners who will support the team throughout the 2018/19 season.

Hackett London remains the long-term Official Clothing Partner for Aston Martin Racing, supplying the team with all technical wear throughout each race weekend and a range of Aston Martin Racing clothing in stores worldwide. Likewise, Immun’Age, who produce immune system boosting natural papaya food supplements, continue their association with the British marque.

The team are also proud to confirm that Total will continue as Official Lubricant Partner. After joining the team at the beginning of 2016, Aston Martin Racing and Total have together delivered two world championships and a win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, underlining the success of the relationship.

Aston Martin Racing is also proud to announce a range of new partners to the fold. One of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands, Waldorf Astoria, becomes the team’s Official Hotel Partner, whilst Beats by Dr. Dre, the leader in premium consumer headphones, earphones and speakers, joins as Official Audio Partner.

Aston Martin Racing Technical Director, Dan Sayers said of the 2018 Vantage GTE: “Designing and developing this new car has been an extremely satisfying process. We’ve collaborated closely with Aston Martin’s Gaydon headquarters to develop the road and race cars in parallel. Attention to detail has been a priority at every step of this process and we’ve made big improvements in each area of the car. We’ve spent every second optimising the design right until the build of our test car, which has paid dividends during our current testing schedule. This project has been one of the most intensive but also rewarding of my career so far”.

John Gaw, Managing Director, Aston Martin Racing said, “It’s terrific to be involved in this exciting new chapter for Aston Martin Racing. The increasingly tough competition in the GTE class and the prospect of two visits to Le Mans and a return to Sebring within the 2018/19 super-season is thoroughly tantalising. To conduct the development process of this car so closely with Aston Martin’s design and engineering teams was essential for both road and race car to retain the same underlying DNA. We believe the Vantage GTE will bring further success worldwide to Aston Martin Racing in the coming years”.

President of Aston Martin Racing, David King said, “Motorsport is fundamental to the DNA of Aston Martin and our commitment to the FIA World Endurance Championship is stronger than ever. This is a golden era for GT racing and today’s launch of the new Vantage GTE wil ensure that Aston Martin Racing remains at the forefront of the world’s greatest endurance series. The team has enjoyed incredible success over recent years with the outgoing V8 Vantage GTE and while this will hold fond memories for me, I can’t wait to see the new car race in anger at Spa next year and continue to write motorsport history”.

Aston Martin 2018 Vantage GTE Technical Specification

Engine

  • Bespoke BorgWarner turbos with integrated electric wastegates
  • Akrapovič inconel exhaust system
  • Dry sump lubrication system
  • Engine repositioned to optimise mass
  • Distribution
  • Power >400 kW*
  • Torque >700 Nm*
  • Variable by boost

Driveline / Transmission

  • Rear wheel drive with traction control
  • Xtrac six speed sequential transmission
  • Alcon motorsport multi-plate clutch
  • Mechanical limited-slip differential wit externally adjustable preload
  • Semi-automatic paddle shift gear change
  • Direct acting electric gear shift actuator
  • Carbon fibre propshaft

Chassis

  • Lightweight aluminium chassis based on the latest Vantage production car
  • Steel roll cage to FIA safety standards
  • High speed pneumatic jack system

Suspension

  • Optimised geometry double wishbone suspension front and rear
  • Öhlins 5-way adjustable dampers
  • Adjustable anti-roll bars

Steering

  • Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering
  • Quick release carbon fibre steering wheel

Fuel System

  • 100 litre fuel cell to FIA safety standards
  • Single point fuel coupling

Brakes

  • Alcon monobloc six pot front calipers
  • Alcon ventilated wide annulus front brake discs
  • Alcon monobloc 4 pot rear calipers
  • Alcon ventilated rear brake discs
  • Integrated caliper temperature and pad wear sensors front and rear
  • Floor mounted driver adjustable pedal box
  • Driver adjustable front/rear brake bias

Cockpit

  • Optimised for driver access and visibility
  • RaceTech FIA 8862 safety seat
  • Schroth Six-point safety harness
  • Lifeline FIA 8865 fire extinguisher system
  • Cosworth driver display and shift lights
  • Rear view camera with Bosch collision avoidance radar system
  • Air conditioning
  • Electrically operated driver drinks system

Aerodynamics / Bodywork

  • Removable carbon-fibre body panels to FIA LMGTE regulations
  • Carbon fibre roof with regulation safety access hatch
  • Full length flat floor
  • Carbon fibre splitter and diffuser
  • Adjustable carbon fibre rear wing

Wheels

  • TWS forged magnesium 12.5” x 18” front
  • TWS forged magnesium 13.0” x 18” rear
  • Captive wheel nut design

Tyres

  • Michelin 30/68 – 18 front
  • Michelin 31/71 – 18 rear

Weight

  • Dry weight 1245kg (regulated base weight)

 


 

RANKIN BRINGS HIS VISION TO THE NEW ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE

  • The celebrated photographer creates a portfolio and film to launch new Aston Martin Vantage
  • A bold artistic vision based on the brief that ‘beautiful won’t be tamed’
  • Imagery that celebrates new Vantage’s dynamic form and aggressive character

Tuesday 21 November, London: The new Aston Martin Vantage has made its global debut with a unique portfolio of imagery and film by Rankin, one of the most influential photographers of our generation. The London-based photographer has been at the forefront of commercial and editorial innovation since he co-founded the magazine Dazed and Confused in 1992, bringing a unique aesthetic to fashion shoots and portraiture.

Over the course of a high-profile career, Rankin has taken the portraits of the Queen of England, Daniel Craig, Kate Moss, David Bowie, Monica Bellucci and many hundreds more. He has also published around 30 books and been a key driver behind major charity and commercial campaigns for a number of key brands around the world.

To introduce the new Vantage, Rankin brings his talents to a classic tale of rivalry, a portrait of a car born on the track, shaped through racing and a formidable performance heritage. It is also a story of pure driving pleasure and a challenging portrayal of true automotive beauty, a car that is as beautiful in motion as it is at rest.  The images and film are a dramatic creative vision, born out of Rankin’s bold and fearless approach. ‘My ambition is to create film and stills that make the hairs on your neck stand up,’ says Rankin, ‘it’s about high intensity, maximum impact – imagery that gets your pulse racing with the urgency of the V8 engine at full throttle.’

The brief was to capture the new Vantage as the archetypal hunter, imbued with the ethos of ‘beautiful won’t be tamed’ to create a sharply focused sports car with a sense of precision and intensity. New Vantage evolved from a single line, a flowing form that encompasses the form and makes a devastatingly beautiful statement of intent. ‘The Vantage is instinctive. It’s unadorned. Stripped of armour. Raw and focused,’ says Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, ‘This car was always going to be an elemental object, with lines inspired by the language of the DB10 and the dramatic forms of the Aston Martin Vulcan, a car without a traditional grille.’

Across two shoots, a dynamic two-day session at the Atlanta Motorsports Park and a static shoot in Rankin’s Studio, Rankin and his creative team built up a portfolio that captures the true character of the new Vantage. To emphasise the primal, predatory character of the car, the shoot involved bringing a wolf into the studio – a stark and beautiful contrast with the form of the car. ‘The Vantage becomes a symbol of primal beauty,’ the photographer explains, ‘it is as much a sensual experience as it is an exhilarating one.’

‘Our design philosophy is that the Vantage is undiluted, with simple clarity of purpose,’ says Reichman, ‘Rankin has a wonderful way of capturing the car as art.’ The film, shot with actors and stunt drivers in Atlanta, also used drones and a chase car to create a dynamic and dramatic story. ‘It’s two drivers exploring the limits, vying for dominance over each other,’ Rankin explains, ‘it finishes with a tense stand-off, waiting for the next move.’

The end result captures the raw, animalistic character of this important model, the second car in Aston Martin’s Second Century plan. ‘You can’t work with an artist and then constrain their art,’ says Reichman, ‘and this is about two brands coming together to create beautiful art.’

New Vantage is a spectacular Aston Martin sports car with a bold and distinctive design language. Pure, sculptural forms create an athletic, predatory stance, while the minimal front and read overhangs, muscular flanks and broad haunches express the agility and dynamism inherent within the car. New head and tail lights form dramatic new signatures giving the Vantage unmistakable road presence and contribute to a strong and individual identity within the growing Aston Martin model range.

 

 


 

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