Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Although the originally small anticipated level of demand from the Americas meant that the car would not be homologated for the market, unprecedented demand from customers prompted an engineering study into potential feasibility; with the strict brief that any changes could not impact on the overall design of the car. Now just six months later, a series of engineering refinements have been introduced to satisfy the specific requirements of the American market.

Benefiting from the modular nature of the VH architecture, the Aston Martin engineering team were able to review the virtual and physical testing data for all modern era Aston Martins. Following this study a detailed Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) analysis resulted in the development of an alternative load transfer path, incorporating an innovative version of the structure at the front of the car, which now satisfies North and South American requirements.

For launch in the Americas, the Aston Martin V12 Vantage will also be available in a limited Carbon Black special edition. This new special edition adds a typically understated flair to V12 Vantage. On the exterior, the car features a bespoke Carbon Black metallic paint with a subtle metallic twist to create a deep rich patina; created through a hand painting process taking 50 man hours. The Aston Martin side strake has been fashioned from real carbon fibre backed by a black mesh and complimented with gloss black 10 spoke diamond turned alloy wheels. A bright finished grille and front parking sensors (normally an option) complete the exterior detailing.

Inside, owners will be greeted to swathes of Obsidian Black leather highlighted with a contrast silver coarse stitch all hand stitched by the craftspeople at Gaydon – Aston Martin's global headquarters in England. Also featured are a Piano black facia trim, centre stack and centre console, anodised black tread plates and unique sill plaques build on the carbon theme. The normally optional Aston Martin 700w Premium Audio System is delivered as standard equipment.

Visually enticing, the V12 Vantage expresses its performance potential through its purposeful stance created by enhanced aerodynamic and cooling aids optically widening the car, while retaining traditional understated Aston Martin design. Equally inviting, the cosseting interior permits the driver to extract maximum performance ability from the car while also enjoying customary levels of Aston Martin comfort on longer journeys. High levels of power and torque are available at all engine speeds making the V12 Vantage responsive and tractable in any driving situation.

The V12 Vantage is built at Aston Martin's global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire joining the DBS, DB9 and V8 Vantage model lines. The V12 Vantage is available to order now and deliveries to the Americas are expected to commence during quarter four 2010 with prices to be confirmed in the coming weeks.