The Aston Martin Vantage range comes of age with the new V8 Vantage S characterized by a host of new driver-focused features designed to push the dynamics of the standard Vantage to a new level.
Aston Martin's own 4.7 liter V8 has been engineered to deliver peak power of 430hp at 7300rpm and torque of 361 lb-ft at 5000rpm, coupled with a newly developed Sportshift II transmission designed for the Vantage S with seven short ratio gears to deliver the most intense driver involvement.
Dynamic revisions include a quicker steering rack ratio of 15:1 compared to 17:1 on the standard car, and larger diameter front brake discs with new six-piston calipers.
New springs and dampers, and wider rear wheels also contribute to chassis revisions. A new dynamic stability control (DSC) system has been tuned to the Vantage S along with a new brake module providing features such as Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).
Bespoke tires have been developed with Bridgestone to optimize road holding enhancing dynamic feel.
At the core of the Vantage S is the new seven speed Sportshift II automated manual transmission, offered as standard and delivering rapid gear changes, 20 per cent quicker than the current Sportshift.
The extra gear permits closer ratios, taking advantage of the optimum torque, which, combined with a shorter final drive ratio of 4.182:1, delivers quicker acceleration and an enhanced sporting feel.
The inherent benefits of a single clutch system reduces complexity and weight over a dual-clutch solution.
Sportshift II allows the driver to take an increased level of control, modulating the throttle pedal to achieve the desired type of gear change. In addition, the Vantage S features a 'Sport' button which quickens the gear changes and gives the driver a more aggressive throttle response while also opening the exhaust bypass valves across most of the engine speed range.
As with every Aston Martin, the Vantage S benefits from its own unique sound with a new exhaust muffler and bypass valve map, creating a very distinctive and highly vocal exhaust note.
The Vantage S is instantly recognizable as a true Aston Martin, characterized by its purposeful stance. From the front, a lower front bumper finished in carbon fiber houses a larger air intake feeding the engine and front brakes.
The splitter, combined with the extended deck lid spoiler, work in harmony to provide increased downforce at speed.
New 19" 'V' spoke wheels are available as standard (with an optional 10-spoke lightweight forged wheel) to reduce unsprung mass further.
A new rear bumper and side sills optically widen the car.
Bridging the gap between roadcar and racecar, the Vantage S is heavily influenced by the 2011 Vantage GT4 race car. The GT4 takes advantage of the Vantage's immensely rigid bonded aluminum chassis, providing the ideal platform for a racecar.
Minor racing safety modifications including an FIA-approved rollcage and racing 'bag' fuel tank along with weight saving measures made to the standard road car to convert it into a class winning race car.
In 2010, the GT4 won its class at the Dubai 24 Hours, followed by further endurance wins at the Nurburgring 24 Hours, Silverstone 24 Hours and Spa 24 Hours. It also won its first major international championship victory in the European GT4 Cup.
The Vantage S is available to order now from Aston Martin's global dealership network.