The first series production derivative of Aston Martin’s new race-inspired performance range - AMR - has been revealed.
With the Vantage name long synonymous with more extreme performance Aston Martin models since the 1950s, the first model to launch the range was therefore chosen as the 'Vantage AMR'.
The AMR treatment ‘amplifies and accentuates’ the sporting prowess of the British marque’s road cars, by taking inspiration or direct influence from Aston Martin Racing’s participation in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
The AMR brand has two tiers. Series production limited-edition models such as the new Vantage AMR sit at its entry point, while extreme and extensively modified AMR Pro models, created by Q by Aston Martin Advanced Operations, top the range.
With sharpened looks to match their vivid performance the Vantage AMRs are offered both with 430bhp V8 or 595bhp – up from 565bhp – V12 powertrain options. Both engines are fitted with automated sequential manual paddle-shift transmissions, or for the purist - six and seven-speed manual gearboxes in the V8 and V12 Vantage AMRs respectively.
The Vantage AMR is available in four AMR exterior schemes: Stratus White with an Orange graphic; Ultramarine Black with Blue graphic; Zaffre Blue with Red graphic; and Scintilla Silver with Grey graphic.
In addition, the AMR ‘Halo Pack’ takes direct inspiration from Aston Martin Racing’s 2016 World Endurance Championship-winning #95 Vantage GTE, with a combination of Stirling Green paint and vivid Lime Green accents. As a finishing touch, a special Union Jack-enameled AML wings badge, previously featured on last year’s GTE racer, is available as a no-cost option.
Lightweight carbon fibre seats are offered as part of the range of interior and exterior options. These include a suite of other carbon fibre features, including a lightweight front grille, side strakes, lamp infills and mirror caps on the outside, instrument surround, door tops and door grabs on the inside. There is also a choice of three different finishes for the V8 Vantage AMR’s 5-spoke alloy wheels and the V12 Vantage AMR’s lightweight 10-spoke alloy wheels.
A new AMR Accessories range has also been revealed, including an AMR Aero Kit. Produced in partnership with Aston Martin Racing, the aerodynamic package for coupe models is constructed from carbon fibre and features front splitter and dive planes, plus side sills and a fixed rear spoiler. Another highlight is the optional forged aluminium AMR Vantage wheel, which mimics the design of the wheels fitted to the Vantage AMR Pro Concept shown at Geneva. Further weight savings can be made with the AMR titanium exhaust, which saves 14kg over the standard V12 Vantage system, sounds sensational and helps to sharpen engine response.
Both V8 and V12 Vantage AMR models are available in both Coupe and Roadster body styles in selected markets2, with recommended retail prices starting from £97,995 in the UK. Firs deliveries are scheduled to commence in Q4 2017.