Aston Martin has unveiled a road-going version of its uprated Formula 1 safety car, bringing bringing bespoke styling and mechanical upgrades that mirror the track variant.
It is described as "the first core model to benefit from direct input from Aston Martin’s recently appointed Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Moers", and arrives as the British firm makes its return to Formula 1 after a 61-year hiatus.
Essentially, mechanical and styling upgrades mirror those applied to the safety car, though the F1 Edition goes without the extra screens and communication equipment necessary for in-race operations.
Power from the Aston Martin Vantage’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is up from 503bhp to 528bhp for the new series-production F1 Edition, and Aston claims 505lb peak torque output is “sustained for longer to further increase tractability and in-gear urgency”. Modifications to the gearbox make for quicker shift times and, according to the brand, improved powertrain control during braking and deceleration.
Underneath, the Vantage F1 gains extra chassis reinforcements at the front end for improved stiffness, while upgraded dampers are said to improve vertical body control “without any deterioration in low-speed compliance”. Rounding off the dynamic upgrade package are stiffer rear springs and a tweaked steering system that boosts feedback.
Visually, the F1 - available in both coupé and drop-top guises - is distinguished from the regular car by its larger 21in wheels with a bespoke design and low-profile tyres, a substantial aero package that boosts downforce by 200kg at top speed, carbon fibre detailing all over and a unique vaned grille design.
A new shade of Racing Green, inspired by the F1 team's livery, is available, as are black and white - all available with a satin or gloss finish and decorated with a matte grey racing graphic.
Moers said of the first production Aston Martin model launched on his watch: "The Vantage was already the most focused sports car in our range but in the development of our official safety car of Formula 1, it had to be a true athlete: more powerful; more agile; more immediate and more exciting to drive. And - of course - quicker and more capable in a race-track environment.
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Yes, I think you're right as Symanski has yet to do the, wait for it......
Making Hay while the Sun shines?, it's the pace car for the F1 this year, so adding a few bits etc and charging £20K extra for decals, there will be punters for them though.