Aston Martin reveals super-exclusive V12 Speedster

ASTON Martin has unveiled one of its most exclusive models to date, the roofless V12 Speedster which will be produced in a limited run of just 88 units, however Australian customers will miss out on the chance of owning the luxurious open-top.

Revealed overnight in England, the V12 Speedster was created by Aston’s ‘Q by Aston Martin’ bespoke customisation division, and is influenced by fighter jet designs as well as past Aston models such as the 1959 DBR1, 1953 DB3S and CC100 Speedster concept from 2013.

Using Aston’s bonded aluminium architecture, the V12 Speedster borrows elements from the DBS Superleggera and Vantage to create its own unique platform.

The front of the car is reminiscent of the V8 Vantage with its oval-shaped headlights and expansive lower grille, while extra side intakes and a front splitter give the front end an impression of width.

Air vents on the sides of the bonnet are borrowed from the outgoing V12 Vantage, while the centrally placed vent or ‘bonnet nostril’ not only allows extra cooling but has been included to facilitate the fitment of the V12 underneath.

The roof and window shield-less silhouette flows to the rear of the vehicle, with a body panel running between the two occupant seats for airflow while power bulges behind the headrests add to the unique look.

A fixed spoiler mirrors the design of the upper section of the front grille, while the rear diffuser mirrors the spoiler and houses a centrally mounted stainless-steel twin-exit exhaust system.

Carbon-fibre is used for the V12 Speedster’s body panels, which is coated in a Skyfall Silver paint colour with F/A-18 fighter jet livery found around the cabin.

The V12 Speedster is fitted with 21-inch forged centre lock alloy wheels, with stopping power coming courtesy of carbon-ceramic brakes measuring 410mm front and 360mm rear.

One of the signature design elements is its lack of a windscreen, following in the footsteps of compatriot McLaren and its Elva coupe.

A mix of materials are used for the interior, including satin carbon-fibre, leather, chrome, aluminium and even 3D-printed rubber, with Aston Martin aiming to create a lean, minimalist feel.

The glovebox has been replaced by a removable leather bag, while luggage can be stored under the rear bumps.

As its name would suggest, the V12 Speedster is powered by Aston’s 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 tuned to produce 522kW and 753Nm, driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

A limited-slip differential on the rear axle helps aid traction, with the V12 Speedster rushing from standstill to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds, on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 300km/h.

Double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension is employed, with adaptive damping that offers Sport, Sport+ and Track modes.

Aston Martin chief engineer Matt Becker said the highlight of the V12 Speedster was its involving drive experience.

“For raw, driving thrills the V12 Speedster is unparalleled, the fully open element of the car adding a new dimension to the experience,” he said.

“It engages on every level, delivering a precise, involving driving experience, with agility and poise backed by abundant power from Aston Martin’s twin-turbo 5.2-litre V12.”

Prospective British owners will have to stump up £765,000 (A$1.49m) for the privilege of owning the V12 Speedster, with deliveries beginning in the first quarter of 2021.