Aston Martin has released the new V12 Vantage Roadster, an ultra-exclusive limited production model combining the thrilling performance of the Aston Martin Vantage with the freedom of roof-down driving.
With production strictly limited to just 249 units globally, the V12 Vantage Roadster boasts a compelling combination of dramatic widebody design, ground-hugging wide-track suspension and – for the first time in a Vantage Roadster – a mighty 5.2-litre Twin-Turbo V12 engine. With searing straight-line speed and the unfiltered howl of Aston Martin’s sonorous 700PS 12-cylinder engine, the V12 Vantage Roadster elevates the open-top driving experience to a scintillating new level.
Key to this exhilarating driving experience is the powerhouse of the engine. Developing 700PS at 6500 rpm and 753Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, the quad-cam 60-deg 5.2-litre V12 is a true force of nature. With a power-to-weight ratio of 372PS-per-ton and an endlessly impressive delivery which combines effortless in-gear response with epic acceleration, every squeeze of the V12 Vantage Roadster’s throttle leads to an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
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Accelerating from rest to 100km/hr in just 3.5 seconds and with a top speed of 321km/hr, the V12 Vantage Roadster occupies the very highest echelon of open-top sportscar performance. With a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear, the car possesses the purity and balance of a front-mid-engined rear-wheel drive layout. An optimised transmission calibration minimises shift speeds and maximises driver interaction, while adaptive software in the transmission’s control system monitors operating conditions and driver demands to enhance the driver’s feeling of response and control.
Sharing the same suspension hardware as the V12 Vantage, but featuring a bespoke tune for its adaptive dampers, the V12 Vantage Roadster’s dynamics have been honed to the keenest possible edge. The steering calibration mirrors that found in the V12 Vantage, to offer maximum steering feel and quick response, improvements which bring the car alive through corners and can be felt with every steering input.
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With all that power you’ll also need some decent breaks. Like the V12 Vantage, the V12 Vantage Roadster features powerful Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) as standard. Measuring 410mm x 38mm the front discs are gripped by 6-piston calipers, while the 360mm x 32mm rear discs are paired with 4-piston calipers. With much increased stopping power and tremendous resistance to brake fade at high temperatures, the CCB technology also makes a considerable 23kg of unsprung weight saving compared to steel brakes, benefitting steering response and ride quality.
It’s an indication of the V12 Vantage Roadster’s monstrous performance that its dramatic form is driven by function. For example, the formidable physique of the widebody design is necessary to accommodate the widetrack suspension, which is 40mm wider than Vantage. The new front bumper design, complete with full-width front splitter generates additional downforce and aerodynamic balance, while increased cooling is achieved by the reshaped front grille, which is 25% larger, and the ‘horse shoe’ engine vent in the bonnet.
Final visual touches come in the form of impressive 21-inch alloy wheels, which are offered in two finishes, satin black or satin black diamond turned. An optional lightweight forged wheel option is available in both satin black and black satin diamond turned, saving a further 8kg of unsprung mass. Michelin Pilot 4S high-performance tyres – 275/35 R21 front and 315/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitment on all rims.
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As the flagship of the Vantage range, the V12 Roadster is fitted with Sports Plus Seats trimmed in full semi-aniline leather and featuring ‘Wings’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard. A carbon fibre performance seat with exposed twill carbon fibre shell and manual 6-way adjustment can be had as an option for those looking for the ultimate in dynamic design and maximum support for high-performance driving, also saving 7.3kg without skimping on occupant comfort.
Production of the V12 Vantage Roadster is due to commence in Q3 of 2022, with the first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q4 2022.
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