ASTON MARTIN FIGHTS ADVERSITY AT NURBURGRING 24-HR
With a record-setting appearance at the Nurburgring 24-hour race, Aston Martin faced mechanical issues, but ended with double class podium finishes.
The near-production standard four-door Rapide took second place in its class and 34th overall. This was the model's first competitive outing and it did not suffer any mechanical issues whatsoever.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Dr Ulrich Bez stated, "Our main objective was to come here with our new four-door Rapide, just as we would with any of our sports cars, and prove its ability and reliability in what I believe is the toughest race in the world. The car featured some weight savings, a standard production six-speed automatic gearbox, standard engine and FIA-approved safety modifications. We have succeeded in what we set out to achieve."
The manufacturer also entered its new V12 Vantage in hopes of a strong finish. The car faced issues with its driveshaft and fuel pump, but quick work from Aston Martin's crew saw the car still finished strongly.
Six private Aston Martins competed in the race. One of which, Mathol Racing's V8 Vantage, took victory in the SP10 GT4 class and finished 27th overall.