I’m nervous right now – I’ve been waiting for this moment for quite a while now! The astonishing Aston Martin V12 Vantage S is here, to my joy, and I’m sure to all others’. They say it’s meaner, faster, rides better, lighter and absolutely pleasurable to drive. Let’s give it a contextual go!
The official arrival of this gorgeous vehicle comes after a couple of teasers. If we don’t consider the specially-manufactured One-77, the V12 Vantage S is the brand’s fastest production vehicle. It draws muscle from a 6.0-liter V12 engine delivering a fantastic 573 HP (421 kW) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to an automated manual 7-speed Sportshift III AMT gearbox which enables the car to reach the astonishing top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h). Aston Martin hasn’t yet stated anything related to the car’s acceleration, but estimates say it’ll do the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in less than 4 seconds.
Weighing at around 1,665 kg (3,670 lbs), the V12 Vantage S sports a triple-stage adaptive damping system developed by Bilstein. In terms of stopping the car, Brembo have done a really fine job installing carbon-ceramic brakes derived from the ones mounted on the One-77, alongside double-stage Dynamic Stability Control by Continental which can be completely turned off.
Even more astonishing are the wheels – the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S rides on a brand new set of 10-spoke lightweight alloy rims wrapped in either Pirelli P Zero Corsa dry-weather tires or P Zero all-weather ones. There’s also a lighter exhaust system mounted on the car, alongside a modified front grille inspired by the CC100 concept and carbon fiber vents. The grille, which is now wider, is based on a carbon fiber frame with titanium or carbon fiber dark mesh.
As for the cabin, it is fitted with lightweight carbon fiber seats, gorgeous stitching all over, welt detailing plus leather and/or Alcantara upholstery. If customers are willing to pay more for their cars, they’ll be bestowed with black pedals and an optional carbon fiber interior pack including door pulls and fascia.
In terms of availability and delivery, they are expected to commence sometime before the end of 2013. Aston Martin hasn’t yet stated anything related to the price though. I’d say it’s way above £150,000.
[Aston Martin]
