The Aston Martin V12 Speedster has been unveiled, with just 88 examples of this puristic limited-edition model set to hit the road early in 2020. Here’s what you need to know….
1. Created by bespoke customisation service ‘Q by Aston Martin’, the Aston Martin V12 Speedster draws inspiration from both the brand’s racing history and aeronautical design.
2. The V12 Speedster has undergone an intensive development programme, going from drawing board to production reality in just over 12 months.
3. Utilising Aston Martin’s latest bonded aluminium architecture, the V12 Speedster utilises elements from both the DBS Superleggera and Vantage model lines to create its own unique platform.
4. Powering the V12 Speedster is Aston Martin’s 5.2-litre, Twin-Turbo V12 engine, with a peak output of 700bhp and 753Nm of torque. Front mid-mounted, the all alloy, quad cam 48-valve engine is mated to a ZF 8-Speed automatic transmission with a limited-slip differential driving the rear wheels.
5. The V12 Speedster is able to accelerate to 62mph (100km/h) in 3.5 seconds on the way to a limited top speed of 186mph (300km/h).
6. With independent double wishbone front, and multi-link rear suspension with coil springs and adaptive damping offering Sport, Sport+ and Track modes, the V12 Speedster also benefits from standard 21-inch forged centre lock alloy wheels. Carbon Ceramic Brakes of 410mm on the front axle and 360mm at the rear are also standard equipment.
7. The V12 Speedster’s unique chassis is constructed almost entirely from carbon fibre.
8. The interior uses a mix of traditional and modern materials. Structural satin carbon fibre, contrasts with traditional hand-crafted Saddle Leather, chrome, aluminium and even 3D printed rubber. Clever stuff eh?
9. In front of the passenger is a removable leather bag in place of a traditional glove box, while there’s additional storage space under the rear bumps for luggage. No room for golf clubs though.
10. Unveiled at Aston Martin’s Gaydon HQ, the V12 Speedster has been shown in a conceptual specification that is inspired by the legendary F/A-18.
11. Born from an exciting new collaboration with Boeing and created by the brand’s bespoke customisation service ‘Q by Aston Martin’, the livery takes the legendary fighter jet for inspiration and is finished in Skyfall Silver, with contrasting satin black on the exhaust tips, vent grilles and vanes.
12. Aston Martin’s engineers have created a bespoke stainless-steel exhaust system exiting centrally into the diffuser surface at the rear of the car for an even more rousing, characterful sound from the drivetrain.
13. Orders are now being taken for the V12 Speedster, with pricing starting at £765,000. Deliveries expected to begin in the first quarter of 2021. Can anyone lend us a few quid?