We were quite impressed when we drove the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S at the international launch in the USA. The company’s current most powerful engine installed in its smallest car is usually a recipe for success.
Following in the coupe’s steps, the British-based manufacturer has unveiled the V12 Vantage S Roadster. Needless to say, this is Aston Martin’s most powerful roadster to date.
Under the louvered bonnet is the same 6,0-litre, V12 engine delivering 421 kW and 620 N.m, although as much as 510 N.m is already available at only 1 000 r/min. Enough according to Aston Martin to power the car to a top speed of 323 km/h. The dash from standstill to 100 km/h is dealt with in a brisk 4,1 seconds.
Sending the torque to the rear wheels is Aston Martin’s latest sportshift III, 7-speed transmission. Although this is no double-clutch transmission, this hydraulically actuated automated manual transmission is 20 kg lighter than the old 6-speed manual gearbox.
Even though being a roadster, the car still offers several dynamic choices to its driver. There is a three-stage adaptive damping system, together with a three-stage dynamic stability control system. These systems also run parallel to a two-stage ABS system, while the level of power steering also changes depending on the selected mode.
Braking performance comes from a carbon ceramic system, closely resembling that found on the larger Vanquish.
Aston Martin made a special mention of the optional lightweight, forged alloy ten-spoke wheels. There is also an optional interior carbon pack, which adds this much-loved material to the fascia and door pulls.
Expect the new Roadster to arrive in South Africa before the end of the year.
