Gaydon, 24 August 2011. Aston Martin confirms today the specification
of the 2012 Vantage GT3 race car. As the natural successor to the
enormously successful DBRS9, the new Vantage GT3 will offer customers
the latest in race-car technology to ensure the Vantage GT3 has the
credentials to compete with the most recent new product offerings from
other manufacturers.
The Vantage GT3 features a modified version of Aston Martin’s
production 6.0 litre V12 engine found in the marque’s highly acclaimed
sports cars. The dry-sumped engine is expected to produce 600 bhp with
700 Nm of torque and its position has been optimised further to improve
weight balance. A carbon fibre propshaft mates the engine to a Xtrac 6
speed sequential transmission with semi-automatic paddle shift gear
change.
The Vantage GT3 benefits from Aston Martin’s V/H architecture
philosophy, the modular chassis uses aerospace bonding techniques to
create a light and immensely stiff aluminium and composite structure
which not only aids handling on Aston Martin’s road cars but is also an
ideal base for competitive race cars.
Most dramatic of all, are the new aerodynamics, contributing to a
muscular and purposeful stance while maintaining the overall beauty of
the V12 Vantage. The shorter wheel base and lower engine position over
its predecessor will contribute to enhanced handling and performance.
The new car will also provide enhanced driveability with the latest
race-developed ABS and Traction Control systems which are fitted to the
V12 Vantage GT3 as standard.
The Vantage GT3 will be eligible for numerous race series around the
world including the FIA GT3 Championship, ADAC Masters, Nürburgring VLN,
Blancpain Endurance Series, British GT, Belcar and Open GT among
others.
Aston Martin remains the only manufacturer to offer a race car for
every GT class firmly cementing it as a global forerunner in race car
production. The new Vantage GT3 is being developed to replicate and
indeed surpass the superb track record of the DBRS9.
Aston Martin has sold 24 DBRS9s and customer teams have accumulated
many race podiums and victories over the past six years including 2009
Winner Teams Championship, and Winner Manufacturers Championship for
Hexis Racing and as recently as a 2011 GT Open race win at Spa for
Villois Racing.
Testing of the new car will commence in October, where the Vantage
GT3 will undergo a comprehensive sign-off durability test including a
10,000 km test programme. Deliveries of the first cars will commence in
early 2012. Prices start from £298,000.
