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Aston Martin has unveiled a new performance concept car - the V12 Vantage RS.
Revealed in front of 700 guests at the opening of the company's new dedicated design centre, the V12 Vantage RS is based on Aston's current V8 Vantage coupe.
The RS produces a monstrous 600bhp (448kW) and weighs in at just under 1600kg. This gives the car a power-to-weight ratio of 375bhp (280kW) per ton, which makes it the fastest accelerating car ever built by the company, capable of reaching 100km/h in 4 seconds, and 160km/h in 8.5.
Aston says the aggressive styling is partly down to functionality; the rear spoiler rises automatically at high speeds to increase down force and the front bumper features cooling ducts for the carbon ceramic brakes.
The carbon fibre front splitter helps to balance down force also and as on the DBS, the bonnet and boot lid have also been moulded in carbon fibre.
Design Director Marek Reichman said, "Much of Aston Martin's recent success has come from the ability of our designers and engineers to work hand-in-hand to optimise form and function.
"Our new dedicated design centre will take this process to a new level and I am delighted that the V12 Vantage RS is the first car to stand on the turntable in the studio."
- REUTERS
