Gaydon, 25 January 2011. The Aston Martin Vantage range comes of age with the new V8 Vantage S characterised by a host of new driver-focussed features all designed to push the honed dynamics of the standard Vantage to a new benchmark level.
Aston Martin’s own 4.7 litre V8 engine has been engineered to deliver peak power of 430 bhp (436 PS / 321 kW) at 7300 rpm and torque of 490 Nm (361 lb.ft) at 5000 rpm and is coupled with a new ground-up developed Sportshift™ II transmission specifically designed for the Vantage S with seven short ratio gears to deliver the most engaging and intense driver involvement.
“The Vantage S epitomises every attribute of the V8 Vantage and pushes the driver experience beyond what we have offered before,” says Dr. Ulrich Bez, CEO of Aston Martin, “It combines dynamic exhilaration with all the charming finesse, beauty and practicality already associated with the Vantage range.”
The interior of the Aston will remain largely the same as the other models in the line, which is really not a problem. It is one of the most exquisite handcrafted cabins in the industry with an impeccable level of fit and finish.
Once you have entered the cabin through the upswing doors you are greeted by hand stitched leather seats, aluminum face gauges and dash, and a host of electronic wizardry. The optional 1,000 watt Bang and Olufsen stereo system remains one of the most favorable options if listening to the harmonious engine note is not enough entertainment. Interior appointments are rounded out by embroidered "Vantage S" logos in the carpets and headrests.
EXTERIOR
Aston Martin will offer this car in coupe and roadster versions complete with V12 Vantage styling. The Car will use a Horizontal splitter under the lower front grill in order to increase airflow under the car. A new lower front air dam and bumper set up built from carbon fiber creates a more aggressive look than ever for the front end of the Aston. This piece is functional as well, allowing more air to cool the new 6-piston front brakes. In front of the brakes sit 19-inch v-spoke wheels or optional 10 spoke models that are even more lightweight. Further increasing grip is the width of the rear wheels on the Vantage S – 10mm in extra rubber should provide improved grip in the slalom and for acceleration.
At the rear of the car is a more pronounced deck lid, which Aston claims will reduce lift at high speeds. The carbon fiber rear diffuser will also help airflow from underneath the car. These features may be functional, but they also help to distinguish this new model from the base version in an already tight model lineup. The sporting feel increases further if the driver presses the sport button allowing the exhaust bypass valves to open fully and let out a strong V8 rumble.
ENGINE
Every 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 good for 420 hp and 346 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic with shift paddles is optional. Aston Martin estimates a manual-equipped coupe will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy with the manual is 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway and 15 mpg combined.
SAFETY
Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, rear parking sensors and side airbags that provide head and torso protection. The Roadster includes pop-up roll bars. and front parking sensors are available.source:edmunds.com,topspeed.com,zulva.com
