2011 Aston Martin DB9 Coupe

The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is an exotic GT available in two body styles: coupe and Volante convertible.

Options include front parking sensors and a Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system. The rear-wheel-drive DB9 is powered by a 5.9-liter V12 that produces 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Aston Martin estimates that the DB9 will go from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds regardless of transmission. The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 comes with antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front side airbags (which protect head and torso) and rear parking sensors. Front parking sensors are optional.

The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is striking in the ease with which it drives down the road. First launched in 2004, the DB9 has become Aston Martin's most recognized model.
In addition to the straight-line performance, handling of the newest DB9 is improved thanks to Bilstein shocks, new suspension arms and bushings, and 19-inch wheels. These suspension upgrades resulted in a sportier ride, while the Volante's (convertible model) ride is made cushier.
The DB9's bumpers are invisible. The side strakes - an Aston Martin DB signature - are made from metal. The interior features an elegant center console, finished almost entirely in
die-cast zinc with an iridium finish. The Aston Martin DB9 is also available in a convertible model, designated by the unique Volante name.

You might have seen elsewhere that CAR was embedded in the Aston Martin pit team at the weekend's 2010 Le Mans 24-hour race. A facelifted' 2010 Aston Martin DB9? Yes, let's call it the 2011 model year DB9. Aston types hesitate to use the word 'facelift', it's just part of the continuous improvement that's gradually spruced up the DB9 since launch back in 2003.

CAR bumped into Aston Martin design director Marek Reichmann in the AMR pits at Le Mans and he gave us the lowdown on the 2011 DB9. What's new? The interior of the DB9 is spruced up with some previously unseen toys and equipment. How does the revised DB9 drive?

CAR picks up the fettled DB9 on Sunday night an hour after the end of the Le Mans 24-hour race. Click here to find out how Aston Martin Racing got on at La Sarthe.

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2011 Aston Martin DB9 Coupe

The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is an exotic GT available in two body styles: coupe and Volante convertible.

Options include front parking sensors and a Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system. The rear-wheel-drive DB9 is powered by a 5.9-liter V12 that produces 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. Aston Martin estimates that the DB9 will go from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds regardless of transmission. The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 comes with antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front side airbags (which protect head and torso) and rear parking sensors. Front parking sensors are optional.

The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is striking in the ease with which it drives down the road. First launched in 2004, the DB9 has become Aston Martin's most recognized model.
In addition to the straight-line performance, handling of the newest DB9 is improved thanks to Bilstein shocks, new suspension arms and bushings, and 19-inch wheels. These suspension upgrades resulted in a sportier ride, while the Volante's (convertible model) ride is made cushier.
The DB9's bumpers are invisible. The side strakes - an Aston Martin DB signature - are made from metal. The interior features an elegant center console, finished almost entirely in
die-cast zinc with an iridium finish. The Aston Martin DB9 is also available in a convertible model, designated by the unique Volante name.

You might have seen elsewhere that CAR was embedded in the Aston Martin pit team at the weekend's 2010 Le Mans 24-hour race. A facelifted' 2010 Aston Martin DB9? Yes, let's call it the 2011 model year DB9. Aston types hesitate to use the word 'facelift', it's just part of the continuous improvement that's gradually spruced up the DB9 since launch back in 2003.

CAR bumped into Aston Martin design director Marek Reichmann in the AMR pits at Le Mans and he gave us the lowdown on the 2011 DB9. What's new? The interior of the DB9 is spruced up with some previously unseen toys and equipment. How does the revised DB9 drive?

CAR picks up the fettled DB9 on Sunday night an hour after the end of the Le Mans 24-hour race. Click here to find out how Aston Martin Racing got on at La Sarthe.

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2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 overviews

The Aston Martin Vantage GT4 is built to FIA GT4 regulations and is eligible to compete in the following series: FIA GT4 European Cup; British GT4 Championship; Britcar Endurance Series; German GT4 Championship; Dutch Supercar Challenge; Dutch GT4 Championship; VLN Endurance Championship at the Nurburgring; Australian Endurance Championship; the American SCCA Championship; and the Aston Martin Owners Club Race Series.

The Vantage GT4 comes with either a manual transmission or sportshift transmission. Aston Martin Racing is now the only manufacturer to produce cars in each of the GT classes: GT1, GT2, GT3 and GT4. At 1,330 kg the Aston Martin Vantage GT4 is 300 kg lighter than the standard car.
Aston Martin has unveiled today details on a new Vantage GT4 for 2011.

Aston Martin Racing has launched a new Vantage GT4 for 2011. The new V8 engined racing car takes design inspiration from Aston Martin’s V12 Vantage road car, giving it enhanced aerodynamics and increased downforce.

As with the current 4.7 litre Vantage GT4, which made its race debut in 2009, the 2011 car is closely based on the V8 Vantage road car with key attributes being carried over including the aluminium chassis, base engine and suspension design. The Vantage GT4’s new splitter increases downforce at the front of the car, as well as channelling cooling air to the brakes and radiator. At the rear, the car gains the V12’s larger boot ‘flip’.

The new Vantage GT4 will be eligible for this Challenge, as well as the European GT4 Cup and all other series with a GT4 class.

The updated 2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 has just been revealed showcasing a revised engine. The 2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 comes with similar aerodynamics as the V12 Vantage road car, but with increased downforce.

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2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 overviews

The Aston Martin Vantage GT4 is built to FIA GT4 regulations and is eligible to compete in the following series: FIA GT4 European Cup; British GT4 Championship; Britcar Endurance Series; German GT4 Championship; Dutch Supercar Challenge; Dutch GT4 Championship; VLN Endurance Championship at the Nurburgring; Australian Endurance Championship; the American SCCA Championship; and the Aston Martin Owners Club Race Series.

The Vantage GT4 comes with either a manual transmission or sportshift transmission. Aston Martin Racing is now the only manufacturer to produce cars in each of the GT classes: GT1, GT2, GT3 and GT4. At 1,330 kg the Aston Martin Vantage GT4 is 300 kg lighter than the standard car.
Aston Martin has unveiled today details on a new Vantage GT4 for 2011.

Aston Martin Racing has launched a new Vantage GT4 for 2011. The new V8 engined racing car takes design inspiration from Aston Martin’s V12 Vantage road car, giving it enhanced aerodynamics and increased downforce.

As with the current 4.7 litre Vantage GT4, which made its race debut in 2009, the 2011 car is closely based on the V8 Vantage road car with key attributes being carried over including the aluminium chassis, base engine and suspension design. The Vantage GT4’s new splitter increases downforce at the front of the car, as well as channelling cooling air to the brakes and radiator. At the rear, the car gains the V12’s larger boot ‘flip’.

The new Vantage GT4 will be eligible for this Challenge, as well as the European GT4 Cup and all other series with a GT4 class.

The updated 2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 has just been revealed showcasing a revised engine. The 2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 comes with similar aerodynamics as the V12 Vantage road car, but with increased downforce.

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2011 Aston Martin DB9 Review

2011 Aston Martin DB9 Review

2011 Aston Martin DB9. As an exotic sports car, the 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is up against tough competitors like the Lamborghini Gallardo and Ferrari California. The Aston Martin DB9 holds its ground because it offers one thing the Gallardo and California don’t: a fine-tuned suspension, which creates a comfortable ride that’s great for long trips.

Two critiques, the DB9’s small rear seats and small trunk, are typical for the class. Overall, reviewers find it hard to dislike the Aston Martin DB9. "If God needed wheels, they'd be an Aston Martin DB9 convertible."

Other Sports Cars to Consider
If you’re looking for something more powerful than the Aston Martin DB9, there are plenty of options. It comes standard with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, which is smaller and produces less horsepower than the DB9’s V12, but reviewers say the R8 outshines the DB9 in the performance arena.

For 2011, the Aston Martin DB9 gets a very mild refresh to the front and rear styling -- you'll need side-by-side photos to tell the difference. In the here and now, the 2011 Aston Martin DB9 has more to worry about than its place in a future museum. The DB9 brings to the table the same lightweight yet structurally rigid all-aluminum platform that underpins every Aston Martin. We give the 2011 Aston Martin DB9 our whole-hearted enthusiastic endorsement, but with a significant caveat -- there are a lot of wonderful cars available for the same or less money than the DB9. The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is an exotic GT available in two body styles: coupe and Volante convertible.

Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights, a two-mode (street and track) active suspension, power-folding mirrors, a limited-slip differential, rear parking sensors, cruise control, automatic climate control, heated power front seats with memory functions, a full leather-trimmed interior, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a hard-drive-based navigation system, a battery deactivation switch (for extended parking), an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a premium audio system with six-CD changer, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod/USB audio interface and satellite radio. The Volante adds a wind deflector.

Options include front parking sensors and a Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system. The DB9 is also highly customizable, especially when it comes to exterior paint. There are also plentiful interior trim types and leather hues available.

The rear-wheel-drive DB9 is powered by a 5.9-liter V12 that produces 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic with shift paddles on the steering wheel is available. Aston Martin estimates that the DB9 will go from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds regardless of transmission. The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 comes with antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front side airbags (which protect head and torso) and rear parking sensors. The Volante comes standard with automatically deploying rollover bars. Front parking sensors are optional.

The cabin's decent outward visibility makes the DB9 less onerous to drive than some other exotics.

Driving Impressions
The 2011 Aston Martin DB9 is striking in the ease with which it drives down the road. The DB9 has always been exhilarating to drive, changing direction easily and responding smartly to steering and braking inputs, but now the Sport setting of the two-mode active suspension gives the car a dimension of ultra-high performance, making the discontinued Sport Suspension package unnecessary.

Along with “Touch Tronic” six-speed paddle shifters and six-speed automatic H-model Aston Martin DB9 provides a strong mix of simple and sporty. The Aston Martin DB9 is available as a sedan or tape (successful) with an average rear mounted six-speed manual gearbox as standard or optional “2 Touchtronic” Production DB9 six-speed automatic transmission is already underway, with deliveries from July, revised .. Prices from £ 122.445 for the DB9 Coupe DB9 and £ 131.445 for the band.

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2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Convertible

2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Convertible
Aston Martin claims the car will reach 60 mph in 4.7 seconds with the standard transmission. Other major options comprise 19-inch wheels, a Hard-Dick Drive navigation system, satellite radio, Bluetooth communication interface, and Xenon HID headlights.
Aston Martin stated that the Roadster model records identical performance tests to the Coupe model, despite being two hundred pounds heavier.

Or is that a V12 Vantage? Looking at the pics of this Aston Martin test car snapped by our crack team of spies, it's tough to say if we're looking at a refreshed V8-powered Vantage Roadster, or what might in fact be a V12 Vantage Roadster. Namely, and aside from the gray carbon-look wheels, a carbon fiber front splitter and a rear carbon fiber diffuser.

It all starts with Aston Martin's all-aluminum platform, the same basic chassis that also underpins the Aston Martin DB9, Aston Martin DBS and Aston Martin Rapide. The 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a two-seat sports car available in two body styles: a hatchback coupe and the convertible Roadster. The V12 Vantage is reviewed separately.

The V8 Vantage N420 gets a sport suspension, a lightweight exhaust system, different wheels, carbon-fiber bodywork trim, clear-lens taillamps, power folding mirrors, front parking sensors, cruise control, sport seats, memory functions and Bluetooth. Most of the regular V8 Vantage's options are available, along with faux-suede seat inserts and special paint colors that celebrate Aston Martin's racing heritage: Rose Yellow, Kermit Green, Elwood Blue, Asia Cup Black and White, and Aston Martin Racing Green.

Every 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 good for 420 hp and 346 pound-feet of torque. In terms of practicality, the V8 Vantage falls between the comfortable Audi R8 exotic car and the practical Porsche 911 sports car.

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Aston Martin volante review

2011 aston martin DB9 volante review
Aston Martin DB9 Volante there is infinitely variable bilstein dampers plus some new cosmetics to beautify this car 2011. Body control is strong but the chassis is supple. The steering feedback is precise.

Completing the DBS line-up, the new Volante affords customers the combination of the DBS’s already-established benchmark sports car characteristics with all the thrills of open-air motoring.

‘Volante’, meaning: ‘moving with light rapidity’, perfectly defines the performance potential and the dynamic characteristics of the DBS Volante.

Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down. The DBS Volante offers a subtle mix of power and performance. In standard specification, the DBS has a rear-mounted six-speed manual gearbox, while an automatic six-speed ‘Touchtronic’ option is also available. The DBS Volante also comes with Bang & Olufsen’s renowned ‘BeoSound DBS’ in-car entertainment system, featuring 13 speakers as standard equipment. Aston Martin’s 16th convertible, learning taken from the engineering of previous soft-top cars has resulted in the DBS Volante possessing Aston Martin’s quietest and most refined roof system to date. As with the DBS Coupe, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are formed from carbon fibre. The Volante features 2+2 seating as standard. The beautifully leather trimmed rear seats are ideal for younger persons or extra luggage making the DBS Volante a practical everyday sports car.

Delivered as standard with Bang & Olufsen’s BeoSound DBS audio system and seamlessly integrated into the DBS Volante’s bespoke interior, the system provides the driver and passengers with an unrivalled audio experience. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS system has been developed exclusively for Aston Martin. The system is acoustically and physically matched to the DBS Volante, with a design that follows the inherent quality and material honesty of the Aston Martin interior. The DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0-litre V12 engine at the heart of the DBS which was launched in 2007. The 3.71:1 (manual) and 3.46:1 (Touchtronic) final drive ratio assures that all the DBS Volante’s power is useable, while also enhancing in-gear acceleration.

The DBS Volante is available as standard with a rear-mounted 6-speed manual gearbox with gear ratios optimised to extract the very best from the 6.0-litre engine. The Sport setting also incorporates a more responsive throttle map to match the high-performance characteristics of the DBS Volante.

Augmenting the DBS Volante’s supreme handling characteristics is the near perfect weight distribution – achieved by mounting the 6-speed gearbox at the rear placing 85% of the weight between the front and rear axle.

To take full advantage of its extremely precise and rigid platform, the DBS employs a sophisticated Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which is specifically tuned for the DBS Volante maximising ride comfort. The DBS Volante’s Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car’s sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during ‘normal’ driving conditions. The DBS Volante also has a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system specifically tuned to the Volante to help maintain maximum traction in challenging driving conditions. This results in reducing the overall weight of the car and, in particular, the unsprung weight and rotational masses, further enhancing the DBS Volante’s dynamics.

With a 510bhp V12 engine, the Aston Martin DBS Volante makes you feel like a film star.
Uli Bez, Aston Martin's chief executive, has some pretty firm ideas on style and isn't afraid to express them. There's a lot of bare metal in the cabin, so our first winter driving impressions of the DBS Volante (that's drophead to you and me) mainly involve cold hands touching freezing switches and dials and a bone-chilling bare aluminium gear knob. Gloves, anyone?

That said, there are some tactile and visual highlights in the Aston's cabin, albeit not those concerning the Ford Fiesta steering column stalks.

The rest of the cabin, though, is a delight of soft claret leather, immaculate stitching, comfortable seats and tiny amounts of luggage room, including those laughably small rear seats, which would struggle to accommodate Barbie and Ken.
There's nowhere to hide. Delivering 510bhp at 6,500rpm, such is the colossal torque that the engine barely needs working to that extent.

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2011 Aston Martin Rapide review

2011 Aston Martin Rapide. Under the derma is Aston Martin’s accepted bonded-aluminum assemblage physique and rear-mounted transaxle, while the 6.0-liter V12 is aggregate with the DB9. The Rapide is abundant larger, however. Beyond the 9.8 inches of added wheelbase, the Rapide is 12 inches best all-embracing and 10 inches wider.

The Aston Martin Rapide is rear-wheel drive and is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 acceptable for 470 application and 443 pound-feet of torque.

The 2011 Aston Martin Rapide that’s not covered in bendable leather, while wood, admixture trim and even azure clear ample in the blanks.
The 2011 Aston Martin Rapide sees no significant changes, but there is a new Luxe edition that includes major options, normally extra-charge colors and a custom luggage set.

Times have changed, thanks to the 2011 Aston Martin Rapide. Under the skin is Aston Martin's customary bonded-aluminum unit body and rear-mounted transaxle, while the 6.0-liter V12 is shared with the DB9. The Aston Martin Rapide is much larger, however. Beyond the 9.8 inches of additional wheelbase, the Rapide is 12 inches longer overall and 10 inches wider. So it's based on the DB9 and looks like the DB9, but does the Aston Martin Rapide drive like one as well?

The "2011 Aston Martin Rapide" is a four-passenger, four-door sedan with a hatchback-style trunk. Standard equipment includes 20-inch cast-aluminum wheels, adaptive dampers, a limited-slip differential, bi-xenon headlamps, front and rear parking sensors, power outside mirrors, front and rear automatic climate control, power front seats with memory functions, heated front and rear seats, a full leather interior, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, a hard-drive navigation system and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with a CD player, an iPod/USB audio interface, an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.

The Rapide Luxe gets special wheels, standard ventilated front and rear seats, a secondary glass-trimmed key fob, glass switchgear, a rear-seat entertainment system, a six-piece bespoke luggage set that matches the interior leather, and custom paint and leather colors. The Aston Martin Rapide is rear-wheel drive and is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 good for 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. According to Aston Martin, the Rapide will go from zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds, which is certainly quick, but notably slower than luxury sport sedans like the supercharged Jaguar XJ and Porsche Panamera Turbo. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway and 15 mpg combined.

The Rapide comes standard with antilock disc brakes, brake assist, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Front and rear parking sensors are also included.
The driver seat is marvelously comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for taller drivers.
Climb into the 2011 Aston Martin Rapide's snug driver seat and you might think you're actually in a DB9. Owners simply must be mindful of their pretty Aston Martin's underbody and chin spoiler.

It is neither, but a handsome and elegant transformation of the DB9 and Aston design heritage into a 4-door sports car.

No, Rapide is not Aston’s answer to Porsche’s Panamera. The English machine is more a generous 2+2 with extra doors. Aston did the reverse.
Aston says the Rapide is the DB9 back to the A-pillar...traditional grille, swept-back headlamps, and the side strake. The rear gets us back to DB9 thinking.

The front suspension comes from DB9. Aluminum is used for all you see outside save the rear fender structure (steel) and the front fenders and rear tailgate (SMC composite). Entry and exit to the front seats is easy with plenty of room available. Setting the driver’s seat for my 6-foot frame, I slipped in the seat behind it. Equipped with a rear-mounted 6-speed automatic, 0-60 mph comes up in 5.1 seconds, the acceleration curve climbing to 184 mph.

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2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe

2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 510 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque. Aston Martin DBS coupe estimates will accelerate from zero to 100 km / h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds.

Interiors 2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe is one of the best examples of British art. Thin carbon fiber trim and elegant lines of the port areas of cut aluminum wheels and an optional piano black trim (a must-have) adorn the center console.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Coupe should be quite a few safety equipment for an exotic sports car. Stability and traction control and ABS brakes are standard carbon-ceramic disc. Side airbags front and rear fog lights are standard.

The special edition Carbon Black trim features lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar sport seats with black leather trim and silver stitching, piano black trim, gloss black alloy wbeels, six-speed auto transmission, anodised black tread plates and a bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint.

Sporting a 510-horsepower V-12, massive wheels and a low-slung hood, the DBS competes with supercars like the Ferrari 599 GTB and Maserati GranTurismo. The rear-wheel-drive DBS crowns Aston Martin's three-car lineup and is available as a coupe or convertible. It shares its platform with the similarly styled DB9 and less expensive V8 Vantage, both of which have convertible variants.

New for 2011
There are no significant changes for 2011.

Exterior
Those who have seen a mid-'90s DB7 or anything newer should recognize the DBS as an Aston. Its trapezoidal grille and low-slung hood mimic the V8 Vantage and DB9; the front air dam is larger, the bumper has a few more etchings, and the rear sports an aggressive underbody air diffuser. Exterior features include:
• Constructed from lightweight aluminum, magnesium and carbon fiber
• Aluminum chassis
• Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
• LED taillamps
• 20-inch wheels standard
• Available lightweight 20-inch wheels
• Power retractable fabric roof (convertible)
Interior
The two-seat interior looks much like that of the DB9. The center stack starts with the air-conditioning vents up top and flows down to the center armrest. A small cargo area behind the seats can hold a custom luggage set. The rear cargo area can be replaced with additional seats to increase seating capacity to four. This configuration comes standard on the convertible. Interior features include:
• Leather-upholstered dashboard, armrest, steering wheel and seats
• Choice of ultrathin racing seats or chunkier, but still heavily bolstered, sport seats
• Available navigation system
• Available Bang & Olufsen stereo
Under the Hood
The engine sits in front of the driver and passenger but is pushed back toward the center of the car. The automatic transmission is similar to the unit used in the DB9, but with beefed-up internal parts to handle the extra power. Mechanical features include:
• 510 hp and 420 pounds-feet of torque
• Mid-mounted 6.0-liter V-12
• Zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds
• Standard six-speed manual transmission
• Available six-speed automatic with paddle shifter
• Adaptive suspension adjusts dampers to changing road conditions
Safety:
• Antilock brakes
• Traction control
• Electronic stability system

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2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

Aston Martin will offer this car in coupe and roadster versions complete with V12 Vantage styling. 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.

Interior appointments are rounded out by embroidered "Vantage S" logos in the carpets and headrests.

Aston Martin builds each of its V8 engines at their facility in Cologne, Germany. Aston Martin wanted this car to be driver-focused with a more involving character overall. The standard Vantage features a 6-speed sport shift transmission that is more than capable of performing well in the car, but Aston engineers wanted more. Utilizing a carbon fiber driveshaft and other performance components, the Vantage S will have weight distribution of 49/51. The Porsche GTS line may be the most compelling comparison considering that it bridges the gap for Porsche between the base models and Turbos. Improved exterior bodywork, tweaked engines, and slight handling improvements make the GTS line a success while keeping the price down from an all out Turbo model. The Carrera GTS produces 408 hp at 7300rpm and 310 lb-ft at 4200rpm.

The Aston packages a more powerful version of its V-8 with some of the V-12 Vantage’s aggressive bodywork.

The automated transmission is standard (read: no available manual) because, Aston tells us, a majority of V-8 Vantage buyers opt for the paddle-shifted Sportshift automatic already.

The Vantage S, which is available as a coupe or roadster, patterns its side sills, rear deck, rear bumper, and carbon-fiber front fascia after those of the V-12 Vantage. A new 19-inch V-spoke wheel design is standard, while lightweight 10-spoke wheels are optional. The rear wheels are a half-inch wider than those of the non-S V-8 Vantage, and all four wheels are wrapped in new Bridgestone Potenza RE050 tires that are 10 mm wider than the base car’s.

Aesthetically, the V8 Vantage S taps its twelve-cylinder sister for exterior looks in both coupe and roadster trim. Acoustically, it gets a new exhaust system and bypass valve tuning to create a "distinctive and highly vocal exhaust note," according to Aston Martin.

Aston sees it as a bridge to the gap between the Vantage GT4 racer and the standard V8 Vantage road car.

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The Best British Cars

Jaguar, Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, and Lotus - what do they have in common? If you are thinking they are some of the world's best cars then you are correct. But aside from being the best automobile in the world, these cars are all British cars.

Jaguar gained its worldwide fame during the 1960s because of its drop top roadsters. It is a favorite choice of cars in several films such as Austin Powers. At present, Jaguar is owned by Indian Tata Motors.

Another British car is the Rolls Royce. Regarded as the car of the millionaires, Rolls Royce is known for its class and size. It is often used as limousines by the rich and the famous from all parts of the world. All through the years, Rolls Royce has manufactured expensive and exclusive car models such as Phantom, which is a favorite car by Hollywood celebrities 50 Cent and P Diddy.

Not to be forgotten when it comes to the best British car is the Aston Martin. This car is best known to be the car for Agent 007 or popularly known as James Bond, the fictional character for the movie with the same name. Aston Martin is known for manufacturing supercars with incredible style like their models Vanquish and DB9.

Lastly, there is the Lotus, an iconic British car well known for manufacturing both racing and road cars. The Lotus has produced sports cars such as Elise and Exige, famous for being not only the smallest but the fastest supercars as well.

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Aston Martin new Vantage GT4 for 2011

Aston Martin Racing has unleashed a new Vantage GT4 for 2011. The new V8 race car takes design inspiration from Aston Martin's V12 Vantage road car, giving it enhanced aerodynamics and increased downforce.

The Vantage GT4's new splitter increases downforce at the front of the car, as well as channelling cooling air to the brakes and radiator. At the rear, the car gains the V12's larger boot 'flip'.
The new GT4 will be eligible for this Challenge, as well as the European GT4 Cup and all other series with a GT4 class.

Aston Martin has revealed its new Vantage GT4 racing car. It is closely based on Aston’s road-going V8 Vantage coupe, though the new 2011 car benefits from design features of the stunning V12 Vantage. These both enhance the aerodynamics and increase downforce.

Expect a 0-60mph time of around 4.5sec and a 180mph+ top speed.

Meet Aston’s uprated Vantage racer. "Aston martin" has also introduced a race-developed Bosch ABS and traction control system which has been specially developed by Bosch to provide decent performance in both wet and dry conditions.

Aston Martin Racing has announced the launch of its new Vantage GT4 for 2011, based on the marque's V8 Vantage road car but tweaked-up with increased power and enhanced aerodynamics. The 2011 car carries over key attributes from the road car including an aluminium chassis and base engine and suspension design.

Engine and aero upgrades are joined by a race-developed Bosch ABS and traction control system.

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Aston Martin Cygnet specs

Aston Martin has released with the occasion of the Geneva auto show detailed information on the new luxury mini, including the first Aston Martin Cygnet specs.

The Aston Martin Cygnet offers three configurations: a 2 2 seating system, a 2 1 seating system or a 2-seater with large luggage area. The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept redresses the balance offering Aston Martin qualities and values in a car that is designed for the heart of the city.

The Concept

The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept brings intelligence, innovation and artistry to the small car market.

It is essential that Aston Martin continues to diversify its product offering. The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept provides the ultimate city car solution, a solution designed explicitly for the urban context. At the same time, the Aston Martin Cygnet Concept retains the intensely emotional and personal qualities that arise from the Aston Martin customer's close relationship with the specification and manufacture of their product. The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept presents a high degree of feasibility, representing how a series production Aston Martin Cygnet could appear.

The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is small. The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept has a six-speed manual gearbox, with the MultidriveTM CVT system available as an option.

Personalisation

The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is a demonstration of Aston Martin's unrivalled skill at creating hand-crafted interiors. The rich mix of hand-stitched leather, Alcantara and aluminium is shared with Aston Martin's sports cars.

Like all other Aston Martin cars, the Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is not hand-finished out of deference to tradition, but because skilled craftsmanship can achieve a far higher quality of finish than machine production.

The Future

Aston Martin believes that a market for between 2,000 and 4,000 Aston Martin Cygnets exists in Europe alone, with each car forming a natural extension of existing Aston Martin ownership, a supplementary product that exists in tandem with the company's range of luxury sports cars. A substantial proportion of Aston Martin owners have several cars in their fleet; almost a quarter own a small car. The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept represents the natural choice for those looking for a premium commuter car and initial supply will be prioritised to existing Aston Martin customers.

As part of the brand's commitment to its future security and stability, Aston Martin Cygnet production will be established at Aston Martin's global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

As a luxury commuter car that can slip easily and unobtrusively into the city, the Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is a highly intelligent solution to urban mobility. Using tried and tested technology, together with Aston Martin's acclaimed levels of personalisation and customisation, material quality, craft skill and tactile delight, the Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is innovative and forward-thinking, a genuine solution for future mobility and a natural partner for Aston Martin's line-up of acclaimed luxury sports cars.


To much rejoicing, Aston Martin has confirmed that the Toyota IQ-based Cygnet concept minicar will enter production. Along with the announcement, Aston Martin also provided the car's specs. There are three configurations to the Cygnet: a 2 2 seating one, a 2 1 seating one that increase the luggage space and a 2 seating one that offers generous luggage area. Aston Martin included this car in its personalization program, offering unlimited options for the exterior and interior trim, color and finish.

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Aston Martin Cygnet gets the green light?

The Aston Martin Cygnet will go into production in 2011 at the company’s headquarters in Warwickshire.

Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez said “whatever we do, we do right. The Aston Martin Cygnet needs to satisfy the demands of emissions and space. It is a car without compromise, just like every other Aston Martin.”

If you ask Aston Martin, it'll tell you the car was born of a desire to provide its customers with a small vehicle for urban and city use. The reality, though, is that the Cygnet will allow the company to comply with the EU's forthcoming average CO2 emissions targets, which state that 65 per cent of a car manufacturer's fleet must emit no more than 130g/km by 2012.

Personally, we'd have preferred if Aston Martin had attempted to meet the EU's demands by creating a hybrid or electric car instead of modifying a Toyota, but the latter is undeniably the cheaper, safer, quicker option. Word on the Interwebs is that it'll cost somewhere in the region of £30,000 -- which is considerably more than the £10,228 the entry-level iQ costs.

The Aston Martin Cygnet is a small city car based on the Toyota iQ.

Aston signatures such as the bonnet and the DB9 rear lights will be fitted in the Aston factory in UK.
Aston Martin's chief executive Ulrich Bez reassured customers in a broadcast video, 'Whatever we do, we do right.
The small car had attracted no small amount of controversy as it could signal a compromise in Aston Martin's brand value.
Aston Martin owners will get priority when the car first launches, the official Twitter account for Aston Martin said.

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