Autoblog

Aston Martin celebrates milestone with Centenary Vanquish

Zach Bowman — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:33:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Aston Martin, UK, Design/Style, Luxury

Aston Martin is marking its 100th anniversary with special edition versions of its V8 Vantage, DB9, Rapide and Vanquish. The automaker will only build 100 Centenary Edition versions of each car. The first of those is the Vanquish, which boasts a special graduated paint finish and sterling silver badges with a unique enamel inlay. Indoors, buyers can expect to find the same Deep Soft leather as used in the One-77, complete with contrast silver stitching and sterling silver sill plates bearing the car's individual number.

Those who pony up the cash for the Centenary models will also receive a box packed full of exclusive "gifts," including two glass keys, bespoke key pouches, silver cuff links, a silver Rollerball pen and a pair of Bang & Olufsen headphones. There's a silver polishing cloth in there as well. Near as we can tell, the Centenary Editions will remain mechanically identical to their non-bejeweled counterparts. You can check out the full press release below and take a look at a slew of special models from the company's first 100 years in the gallery.

Continue reading Aston Martin celebrates milestone with Centenary Vanquish

Aston Martin celebrates milestone with Centenary Vanquish originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster [w/video]

Michael Harley — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Aston Martin, New Car Reviews

A Proper Argument for Ignoring the Performance Specifications Sheet

Handcrafted in Gaydon, England, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster is a convertible variant of the fixed-roof V8 Vantage Coupe. The soft-top made its world debut on the heels of its sibling, unveiled the following year at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show. Now in its seventh model year, the non-S Roadster is one of the automaker's least expensive offerings (remembering that we are not subjected to the Scion iQ-based, but Aston Martin-branded, Cygnet on our shores).

As an entry-level Aston Martin, the V8 Vantage Roadster hides in the shadows of not only the higher performing Vantage S models, but the One-77, V12 Zagato, Rapide, DB9 and new Vanquish, just to name a few. The glitz, glamour and bright lights are bestowed on the more spectacular siblings, while the standard Vantage Roadster is left in the shadows.

But don't be fooled into thinking that its relative position in the family extinguishes its style, performance or British character. The 2013 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster not only holds its own ground, but it has significantly more appeal after a slew of recent updates.

Continue reading 2013 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster [w/video]

2013 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin rolls out Dragon 88 special editions in Beijing

Noah Joseph — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, China, Aston Martin, Beijing Motor Show, Design/Style, Luxury

Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar and Land Rover all unveiled new special editions at the Beijing Motor Show, and Aston Martin wouldn't miss the opportunity to join in their company. Hence the Dragon 88 Limited Edition.

A special trim level available on the DBS Volante, Virage Coupe and V8 Vantage S, the Dragon 88 range is outfitted at the hands of the Q by Aston Martin division that tricked out the matte-violet Virage we saw in Geneva. The Dragon 88 celebrates the Year of the Dragon with such special touches as 24-carat gold badges, embroidered headrests, special interior trim, commemorative sill plates and a choice of three unique exterior colors.

As the name implies, only 88 examples will be offered, exclusively in China, at an as-yet undisclosed price. Since your chances of ever seeing one up close, then, remains rather slim, the high-res image gallery above (joined by the press release after the jump) is probably your best shot.

Continue reading Aston Martin rolls out Dragon 88 special editions in Beijing

Aston Martin rolls out Dragon 88 special editions in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin announces, prices updated V8 Vantage for U.S.

Noah Joseph — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, Luxury

Back in February, Aston Martin announced a revision to its entry-level model - the V8 Vantage - for European markets, and subsequently revealed it to the public at the Geneva Motor Show. Of course, we knew it would only be a matter of time until the updated Vantage would find its way Stateside, and that time has now come.

Many of the updates are borrowed from the slightly up-market Vantage S, including some mild cosmetic changes and the optional seven-speed Sportshift II sequential transmission replacing the clunkier six-speed version that preceded it. The suspension and brakes have also been upgraded on the new model, but the 4.7-liter V8 and its 420 horsepower carry over unchanged.

So how much will a new V8 Vantage set you back with all these updates? $118,370 for the coupe, or $132,870 for the Roadster - which actually represents a slight discount over the previous coupe model and a negligible increase on the convertible. Like what you see? You're invited to dive into the full press release and specifications below, along with the high-resolution images in the gallery above.

Continue reading Aston Martin announces, prices updated V8 Vantage for U.S.

Aston Martin announces, prices updated V8 Vantage for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pamela Anderson goes from racy to racing with her new Downforce1 team

Noah Joseph — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Europe, Aston Martin, Celebrities

It's funny how a couple of letters can change the meaning of a word entirely. Take "racy" and "racing," for example. One implies a certain charge of sexuality, while the other refers to the competition of getting from Point A to Point B the quickest. Pamela Anderson, for example, would be one we'd categorize under the former, but now the Canadian model/actress/bombshell is breaking into the latter by launching her own racing team.

Downforce1 by Pamela Anderson is the name of the new team that will be fielding an Aston Martin Vantage GTE in both the (European) Le Mans Series and the International GT Open, wearing white and blue livery with the glamour model's signature and bearing the logos of PETA (the animal rights group for which Anderson is a spokesperson) and ICM (the talent agency that manages her career). The team is apparently being managed by a Swiss outfit with ten years of experience in GT racing.

This is not the first time we've seen a model lending her image to a racing team: Paris Hilton was connected to a MotoGP squad a couple of years back, and now Pam appears to be following in her high-heeled footsteps. And apparently she's not stopping at GT racing, either, as the effort could spawn a NASCAR team as well. In the meantime, Anderson hopes to be present at as many of the races as her schedule will allow. Which ought to be plenty distracting for the racers.

So what is it about models like Pam headlining racing teams? Beyond the usual barrage of innuendos - the airbags have, after all, been removed - maybe the former Baywatch starlet herself put it best in a recent interview with British tabloid The Sun: "Fast cars and fast women go together." Who are we to argue?

Pamela Anderson goes from racy to racing with her new Downforce1 team originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage emerges with a slew of improvements

Michael Harley — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Aston Martin, Luxury

It is hard to believe, but the gorgeous Aston Martin V8 Vantage is pushing seven years on the market. In that time, the British automaker has worked hard to keep its sporty coupe relevant and current. Along those lines, and in a move expected to be embraced by enthusiasts worldwide, the 2012 model is on the receiving end of yet another comprehensive update (its last was in 2008).

While the naturally-aspirated 4.8-liter V8 (pumping out 420 horsepower) and six-speed manual gearbox remain unchanged, the optional automatic transmission has been upgraded from last year's six-speed Sportshift to a seven-speed Sportshift II sequential transmission. While it still remains a single-clutch unit (while the rest of the industry is migrating towards dual-clutch), it will deliver smoother and quicker performance when compared to its predecessor.

Other tweaks include a quickened steering rack and beefier brakes (now configured with Hill Start Assist). Lastly, the front fascia has been resculpted to improve and optimize airflow to the brakes and radiator - and to make it easier to differentiate from its siblings. Check out the press release below. The first gallery is live from the Geneva Motor Show floor, and we have also posted a few official images from Aston Martin.

Continue reading 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage emerges with a slew of improvements

2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage emerges with a slew of improvements originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin unleashes new Vantage GTE on WEC, Le Mans [w/video]

Noah Joseph — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Videos, Aston Martin, Racing

Few outfits have benefited from the kind of success that Aston Martin Racing has enjoyed. The team has emerged as an absolutely dominant force in the numerous GT classes of endurance racing around the world. But Aston's success arguably went to its head a little, prompting AMR to abandon its GT racing program to privateers as the team itself attempted to step up to the top-tier LMP1 class with the AMR-One.

That ended up a fool's errand that yielded none of the success to which the Prodrive squadron had become accustomed. So after three years nipping at the heels of Audi and Peugeot, AMR has announced its return to production-based GT racing with this, the Aston Martin Vantage GTE.

Designed to comply with the amalgamated GTE Pro class regulations set out by the ACO and FIA for the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the new World Endurance Championship, the Vantage GTE is based on the V8 Vantage, but upgraded considerably to competition spec. Its aerodynamically optimized carbon fiber bodywork - draped in iconic blue and orange Gulf livery - packs a 4.5-liter V8 with a six-speed sequential transaxle and adjustable everything to optimize the package for specific race tracks.

The team will field one car at each of the races on the WEC calendar - from its debut at Sebring on March 17 through Spa, Silverstone, Sao Paulo, Bahrain, Fuji and Shanghai - with a second car to join at Le Mans in June. Follow the jump for the full press release and video clip, check out the high-res images in the gallery for a closer look.

Continue reading Aston Martin unleashes new Vantage GTE on WEC, Le Mans [w/video]

Aston Martin unleashes new Vantage GTE on WEC, Le Mans [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin tweaks V8 Vantage for Geneva debut

Noah Joseph — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin

Aston Martin has had the V8 Vantage on the market since 2005, making it seven years old this year. That's a fairly long life-cycle for any car, but that doesn't mean Gaydon hasn't tried its best to keep it current, releasing the most comprehensive update since the refresh it received in 2008.

Although the 420-horsepower, 4.7-liter V8 with six-speed manual continue unchanged, buyers can now opt for the seven-speed Sportshift II sequential transmission from the Vantage S in place of the jerky old six-speed Sportshift.

The steering rack has also been quickened, the tires widened and the brakes enlarged and aided by Hill Start Assist. To distinguish the new model from the old - and to help cool those beefed-up rotors - the front intake has been enlarged, while a new front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser help optimize airflow.

The updated V8 Vantage is currently confirmed only for the UK and European markets and is
set for unveiling at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, but you can check it out now - in both coupe and Roadster form - in the press release after the jump and the high-res images in the gallery. Meanwhile, the Vantage S and V12 Vantage continue on largely unchanged, but now play second fiddle to the exclusive V12 Zagato.

Continue reading Aston Martin tweaks V8 Vantage for Geneva debut

Aston Martin tweaks V8 Vantage for Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

Michael Harley — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, First Drives

Does It Have What It Takes To Snuff A Porsche?

2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nestled in a secluded valley in the south of Spain is the Ascari Race Resort. Celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful tracks, the private 3.2-mile ribbon of perfectly smooth blacktop challenges drivers with 26 corners, 10-degree climbs and 18-degree banks as it weaves through the mature oak trees that dot the landscape. Named after Alberto Ascari, the first double world Formula 1 champion, the well-manicured decade-old venue is the type of circuit enthusiasts fantasize about.

Our private shuttle takes us through the manned guard gate towards the main clubhouse. As we round the corner, and head down the shallow hill, the sun reflects off something in the distance. Parked in the paddock are a dozen glistening sports cars - some coupes, some roadsters - each still dripping wet from the overnight shower that leaves the air fresh and crisp. The vehicles, the latest offering from Aston Martin, are the enthusiast-targeted Vantage S Coupe and Roadster.

Nine times zones from home with jet lag extinguished by a morning café grande, I figure it is time to get behind the wheel. Only one thing is more enjoyable than driving the new Aston Martin Vantage S through the mountains of Spain - spending a long afternoon with the sports cars on the wide-open Ascari race circuit.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Aston Martin Vantage S...

Gallery: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S: First Drive

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

First Drive: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Aston Martin Vantage S is music to our ears

Zach Bowman — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Aston Martin, Luxury

Aston Martin Vantage S - Click above to watch video after the jump

Not to step on John Stewart's toes or anything, but it's now time for your moment of Zen. After seeing yesterday's smoking-hot photos of the first production Singer 911, we thought this week just couldn't get any better. We're happy to tell you that we were completely wrong. The good people of Motor Authority have been so kind as to slip the web a taste of the 2011 Aston Martin Vantage S courtesy of a lengthy, high-definition slice of B-roll.

The video is a full eight minutes and six seconds of ocular and audio bliss, recorded at the Ascari Race Resort in beautiful Spain. The footage isn't marred by such blemishes as traffic or stoplights, and the buttery smooth surface of the track is free of aggravations like potholes or road salt. Instead, there's simply the meaty Aston Martin and nothing to do but lay waste to every apex. Hit the jump to indulge yourself.

Gallery: Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continue reading Video: Aston Martin Vantage S is music to our ears

Video: Aston Martin Vantage S is music to our ears originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin V8 Vantage S packs more power, attitude

Zach Bowman — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, Luxury

Aston Martin V8 Vantage S - Click above for high-res image gallery

Aston Martin has found a way to turn up the heat on its V8 Vantage with a new S model. The coupe packs the same 4.7-liter V8 under the hood as its predecessors, though the mad scientists in Gaydon have managed to wrench a full 430 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque from the eight-pot. The engine is now bolted to a tweaked version of the company's seven-speed SportShift II transmission with even shorter ratios than before and the combined effect should be more than enough to snap your neck in style.

The engineers also bolted in a quicker steering rack, huge rotors and six-piston calipers up front to ensure this machine can take whatever level of flogging you deem appropriate.

The design crew at AM specifically lifted cues from the even mightier V12 Vantage and the race-bred Vantage GT4. That means buyers can expect to find a carbon fiber splitter low on the front fascia and a pair of wildlife-swallowing inlets designed to feed those massive stoppers. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston Martin V8 Vantage S packs more power, attitude

Aston Martin V8 Vantage S packs more power, attitude originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin recalls 2007-2008 V8 Vantage, DBS, DB9 models over suspension fear

Jeff Glucker — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Recalls, Aston Martin, Luxury

2008 Aston Martin DBS - Click above for high-res image gallery

The National Highway Traffic Safety Adminstration has issued a recall for select Aston Martins. If you own a V8 Vantage, DB9 or DBS produced during the 2007 and 2008 model years, you should head on in to your local dealership. A cam bolt in the front bottom suspension arm could crack, allowing the lower control arm to move about in ways it shouldn't.

As always, dealers will replace the bolt free of charge. The recall is scheduled to begin on or before October 18th, 2010 and is said to potentially affect 1,090 vehicles.

Gallery: 2008 Aston Martin DBS

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Aston Martin recalls 2007-2008 V8 Vantage, DBS, DB9 models over suspension fear

Aston Martin recalls 2007-2008 V8 Vantage, DBS, DB9 models over suspension fear originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paris Preview: Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 Roadster

Noah Joseph — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Paris Motor Show, Aston Martin, Luxury

2010 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's not much we'd change about the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, as it's compact, stylish and thoroughly addictive already. But that hasn't stopped the British marque from launching a series of updates and upgrades. The latest came in July with the launch of the N420 edition coupe, a race-car-for-the-street variant inspired by the company's motorsports prowess at the Nurburgring. At the time, Aston announced that the N420 - itself the successor to the earlier N400 - would be available in both coupe and convertible bodystyles, but it has only now released the drop-top model ahead of its debut later this week at the Paris Motor Show.

Like the N420 coupe, the roadster keeps the same 420-horsepower V8 engine and the optional Sport Pack suspension as standard, and upgrades with a sport exhaust system, new wheels, aero package and reduced weight as compared to the standard model. Prices should come in around the $145k mark, available with either a six-speed manual or Sportshift automatic. Have a closer look at the Gaydon goodness in our gallery below, and stay tuned for live shots straight from the Parisian show floor.

Gallery: 2010 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 Roadster

[Source: Aston Martin]

Paris Preview: Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin releases new N420 edition V8 Vantage

Noah Joseph — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, UK

2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 - Click above for high-res image gallery

You remember the Vantage N400? Aston Martin released the special-edition sportscar back in 2007 to commemorate the success of its Vantage N24 racer at the Nürburgring. It packed 400 horsepower, a series of suspension tweaks and some special cosmetic touches. Unfortunately, Aston only produced 240 examples of the 'N', all of which have long since sold out. But now it's back. With a vengeance.

Whereas the previous N400 upgraded the stock 380 horsepower to 400, the new N420 - based on the current, post-2008 updated Vantage - carries over the stock 420-horse mill. Suspension upgrades come courtesy of the otherwise optional Sports Pack, here fitted as standard equipment, along with a special exhaust unique to the N420. A new front splitter, side skirts and diffuser are made of carbon fiber, unique wheels are fitted along with black mesh grille inserts, and 27 kilograms (60 pounds) have been trimmed from the curb weight. Upgrades have also been carried out to the interior, and buyers can choose from a range of "race collection" paint schemes.

Like its predecessor, the new Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 will be sold in coupe or roadster format and available with either six-speed manual or Sportshift semi-automatic transmissions. Deliveries will begin next month in the UK, the £96,995 price tag (that's over $147,000 USD but includes the UK's hefty Value Added Tax) represents a £13,804 ($21k) premium over the base model, which sells in the UK for £83,191 (equivalent to $126k at today's exchange rates) and in the United States for $119,500. Details in the press release after the jump, high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420

[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston Martin releases new N420 edition V8 Vantage

Aston Martin releases new N420 edition V8 Vantage originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Aston Martin to debut revised DB9, Vantage in 2013/14

Noah Joseph — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin

Following the introduction of the Rapide and One-77, and with the miniaturized Cygnet on its way, Aston Martin is turning its attention to its two core model lines. But rather than replace the existing DB9 and Vantage with all-new, ground-up redesigns, word from the UK is that Gaydon is planning thorough revisions of the existing models, including to their chassis and engines.

Both the DB9 and the Vantage are based on Aston's flexible VH platform, which will reportedly carry on for another generation. However Aston's aiming to cut weight by around 10 percent. Although the VH is made of aluminum, the vehicles based on the platform are heavier than they should be. A comprehensive re-engineering of the platform components, as well as the possible use of lightweight composite body panels, should help Aston trim the weight off the next-gen mode - expected to arrive around 2013/14 - thereby helping the company reach EU emissions targets.

The current DB9's V12 engine is also expected to carry on for another generation, although significant revisions are expected there as well. Technologies developed for the brand's racing program will be brought to bear for the road car, although it remains to be seen whether the potential benefits of incorporating direct injection will outweigh the costs involved.

Stylistically, both the DB9 and Vantage are expected to take their cues from the One-77, with a low, wide grille and strong character line running from the signature front-fender vent to the rear, albeit somewhat toned down for the volume models.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Aston Martin to debut revised DB9, Vantage in 2013/14 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Reunion for four of Bond's Astons planned at Stoke Park Club

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Aston Martin, Luxury

Four of Agent 007's Aston Martins

Before the original Aston Martin DB5 Bond-mobile goes on the auction block this Fall, it and three other Astons from the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s will get together for a party in the UK. The DBS, Vanquish, and V8 Vantage Volante from Quantum of Solace, Die Another Day and The Living Daylights will be on hand for the Midsummer Classic at the Stoke Park Club.

The Stoke Park Club is hardly new to Agent 007, having been a setting in at least two Bond flicks among other lesser known films. The absence of the original DBS from 1969's On Her Majesty's Secret Service and the V8 Vantage coupe from The Living Daylights means this isn't quite a complete set, but it's close enough. Now we just need to bring together the Lotus Esprits and assorted BMWs from the middle years of Bond for a more complete retrospective.

Gallery: James Bond's 1964 Aston Martin DB5

Gallery: Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace

Gallery: Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante

Gallery: Aston Martin Vanquish

[Source: MotoBullet]

Reunion for four of Bond's Astons planned at Stoke Park Club originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Aston Martin planning more Vantage upgrades?

Noah Joseph — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin

With Aston Martin busy releasing the Rapide, preparing the Cygnet city car, running the One-77 flat out, gearing up for a fresh assault on Le Mans and toying again with the whole Lagonda project, it's been a while since we've heard anything about the Vantage.

The entry-level model in Aston's range received some upgrades for the 2010 model year, including updated lights, sills, wheels, stereo and a cut to its carbon emissions. Now a crop of spy shots has been circling the intertubes showing another Vantage undergoing cold-weather testing.

Sources can't pinpoint whether this is a V8 or V12 model. Judging by the lack of louvres on the hood, installed on the V12 Vantage to keep the big engine breathing in such a tight space, our money's on the slant eight. If that's the case, the V8 Vantage could be getting the diffuser from the V12 model. The rear lip spoiler has also grown, but it's hard to tell much more than that.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy Shots: Aston Martin planning more Vantage upgrades? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elite LMV-R brings the heat to Aston Martin

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin

The Elite LMV/R -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Aston Martin Vantage GT4 might be worthy on the track, but what if you want a lightened, hardened Vantage for the street, à la Lamborghini's Gallardo Superleggera and Ferrari's F430 Scuderia? Then you have Elite to thank for this, the LMV/R. The car is lightened with the use of carbon fiber body panels and interior kit, widened with bespoke fenders, and given a Galpin Motorsports-esque wheel and tuning treatement.

They don't get any extra power, however. If it's any consolation, there will only be thirty of them - but each one will cost a fortune: $173,000 plus the cost of a Vantage. You can read all about the Florida-built car after the jump, and check it out in the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Elite Aston Martin Vantage LVM/R

[Source: Exotica Motorsports]

Continue reading Elite LMV-R brings the heat to Aston Martin

Elite LMV-R brings the heat to Aston Martin originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston to field half-dozen V12 Vantage racers at Nürburgring 24

Jonathon Ramsey — Sat, 23 May 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Aston Martin

Click above for a high-res gallery of the V12 Vantage preparing for the Nürburgring 24-hour race

It started with one lone V8 Vantage, dubbed the N24, that ran the Nürburgring 24-hour race in 2006. Last year, that first racer, a yellow car dubbed "Rose," won class honors in the race. This year, it will be joined by five more Vantages, one of them being the 510 horsepower V12 Vantage introduced in Geneva earlier this year.

Only three of the six cars will be factory efforts. The slightly modified V12 Vantage will be piloted by Aston CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez and three co-drivers, and "Rose" will be driven by another team of three. Privateer entrants will be headed by Richard Kramer, an Austrian Aston dealer whose Vantage N24 is being supported by the factory.

You can read the full press release after the jump, and check out live action from the weekend's qualifying and race at the ADAC site.

Gallery: Aston Martin V12 Vantage at the Ring

[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston to field half-dozen V12 Vantage racers at Nürburgring 24

Aston to field half-dozen V12 Vantage racers at Nürburgring 24 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin to move further upmarket?

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Supercars, Aston Martin

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Such is the logic of luxury economics: charge tens of thousands of dollars more for the same product, sell fewer of them and boost the balance sheet and your brand's long-term viability. That is what Aston Martin's considering for the next phase of its business plan, which runs from roughly 2011 to 2019 and will see the launch of DB9 and Vantage successors, the Rapide, and the renewed Lagonda brand.

The Vantage and DB9 are big sellers for Aston, but the company might be unsure of how to sustain the momentum. One option is to move the price of the $113,000 Vantage closer to the $171,000 DB9, and move that latter car closer to the $265,000 DBS, sell fewer of them but make more money. The DB9 does strike us as a (relative) bargain - it's cheaper than a Bentley GT -- but pricing the Vantage closer to the DB9 would seem to wreck its business case as a 911 fighter. Another option could be to replace the Vantage or DB9 with a mid-engined sports car, which could be drool-worthy and well worth the price bump... but perhaps un-Aston-like.

AutoWeek also appears to report that the One-77 isn't sold out, writing "Although Aston has said that it would make a maximum of 77 cars, insiders privately say the market is closer to 25." We don't know how that could be, unless a bunch of the 100 people who applied to buy the car were just kidding...

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

[Source: AutoWeek]

Aston Martin to move further upmarket? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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