The revised 4.7-litre 420 bhp entry-level V8 Vantage features a raft of improvements first seen in the Vantage S. The standard six-speed manual transmission remains, but the optional six-speed Sportshift automated manual transmission has now been replaced with the seven-speed Sportshift II, with an additional gear, closer ratios, lower final drive and a quicker, refined shift quality.

This new gearbox – designed and manufactured specifically for Aston Martin – provides faster and more precise shifts, optimises acceleration and delivers a more sporting driving experience.

The Vantage S remains the most generously equipped, highest performing and most driver-focussed V8-engined model in the range. Developing 430 bhp at 7300 rpm and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of torque at 5000rpm the Vantage S’s more potent state of engine tune complements the Sportshift II close-ratio seven speed automated manual transmission, which is fitted as standard. A sports exhaust system unique to the ‘S’ further emphasises its sporting credentials, delivering a rousing soundtrack, in keeping with the intensity of the driving experience.

Production of the V12 Vantage continues unchanged, powered by a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp and 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque, the V12 Vantage has a top speed of 190 mph and 0-62 mph time of 4.2 seconds.

Chassis and Braking

Further dynamic enhancements centre on the V8 Vantage’s chassis, which also features developments from the Vantage S. Quicker steering, bigger brakes and wider tyres have all been fitted to further enhance the V8 Vantage’s poise and make it more responsive and exciting to drive. A new steering column installation, re-valved power-steering pump and a quicker ratio of 15:1 compared to 17:1, ensure the new V8 Vantage steers with greater precision, whilst providing the driver with better feedback.

New 380mm two-piece ventilated cast-iron front discs combined with six piston callipers, improve stopping power and brake feel and this new braking system also includes Hill Start Assist (HSA) for more precise control on steep inclines.

The V8 Vantage comes with tyres that are 10mm wider than the outgoing model, which not only increases grip, but also allows the more responsive steering and stronger brakes to be fully exploited.

Styling

To reflect its enhanced performance the V8 Vantage has received a number of styling changes inspired by the Vantage S and N400 limited edition. At the front a lower bumper – complete with aerodynamic splitter – houses a larger air intake that feeds the engine and front brakes, whilst at the rear a diffuser creates added drama and function, while sculpted race-derived side sills complete the V8 Vantage’s more muscular look.

Carbon fibre detailing of the Vantage S’s motorsport-derived aerodynamic package makes a discreet visual distinction from the V8 Vantage, while inside the ‘S’ variant features a sumptuously trimmed interior combining traditional hand-stitched leather upholstery with striking modern design. The company’s fully integrated satellite navigation system developed in conjunction with Garmin is now fitted as standard along with Bluetooth and cruise control.

These technical and styling changes have been applied to both the V8 Vantage Coupe and Roadster models, with prices now starting from £84,995 for the V8 Vantage Coupe and £99,995 for the Coupe S.

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Priced at £330,000 (plus local taxes), the V12 Zagato is “..a celebration of both Aston Martin’s heritage and its future”, according to Aston Martin’s CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez.

Given how rare and cherished the V12 Zagato is likely to be (shame), this might be the only chance you get to see one in motion – although a little bird tells me that Goodwood Festival of Speed (28 June – 1 July) might be a good place to spot one before they’re all delivered to customers..

For more details, read Aston Martin V12 Zagato reaches production.

This is the final production version of the V12 Zagato, inspired by the 50th anniversary last year of the DB4GT Zagato and handmade in very small numbers (150 cars) for the princely sum of £330,000 (plus local taxes).

Whilst the V12 Zagato may be the pinnacle of the Vantage range, in some ways it has more in common with the range-topping £1 million One-77, from which it borrows many of the materials, processes and technology pioneered in that car.

Our relationship with Zagato stretches back more than 50 years. Together in that time we have created a series of very special cars.

For Aston Martin’s CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez, the V12 Zagato is “a celebration of both Aston Martin’s heritage and its future”. He continues: “Our relationship with Zagato stretches back more than 50 years. Together in that time we have created a series of very special cars.

The first – the DB4GT Zagato – is a true icon: fast, beautiful and incredibly desirable. In the V12 Zagato I believe we have captured the spirit of that car and combined it with a confident twist of modernity to give it a character all of its own.”

Initial design concepts for the V12 Zagato were explored in early 2010. Inspired by Zagato’s bold and individual styling signatures Aston Martin’s Director of Design, Marek Reichman, and his Gaydon-based design team relished the challenge of shaping the V12 Zagato, creating a car that pushes the boundaries of Aston Martin’s design language, yet pays tribute to the DB4GT Zagato.

Demonstrating Aston Martin’s ability to rapidly bring ideas to fruition the Zagato programme quickly gained momentum, the design team working hand-in-hand with engineers and craftsmen to complete the build of a pair of concept cars in the spring of 2011.

The Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato, introduced in October 1960 was fitted with a a 3.7-litre, aluminium straight-6 engine producing 314 bhp. It could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 153.5 mph. Only 19 of the originally planned 25 cars were ever made.

These concept cars then made their world debut at the prestigious Villa d’Este concours in May 2011. Entered in the Concept Cars and Prototypes class, the V12 Zagato wowed the judges and the crowd, taking first place against impressive opposition.

In June the Villa d’Este winner – along with the second prototype car – made the V12 Zagato’s world racing debut at the gruelling 24 hour endurance race held at the Nürburgring. Both cars completed the ultimate durability test, continuing Aston Martin’s 100 per cent finishing record in this notoriously difficult race.

After an overwhelmingly positive response from customers, the decision was made in July 2011 to build a strictly limited run of V12 Zagatos.

Since then, Aston Martin’s design team has worked to refine the sports car’s detailing and aerodynamic performance while staying faithful to the original design concept.

At the same time engineers based at Gaydon have been putting prototypes through the company’s rigorous development programme to ensure the V12 Zagato performs as well as it looks.

Every Aston Martin is a unique combination of advanced materials, technology and time-honoured craftsmanship. The V12 Zagato takes this philosophy to a level previously only seen in the company’s exquisite One-77 supercar, which completes its build run this year.

Creating each V12 Zagato is a painstaking process that takes approximately 2,000 man-hours to complete.

Just like the One-77, the V12 Zagato is constructed from a combination of hand crafted aluminium and carbon fibre. The bonnet, signature ‘double-bubble’ roof and doors are hand-crafted aluminium, while the front and rear fenders, door sills and boot lid surround are made from carbon fibre.

The finished body is then painted in the same dedicated area as the One-77.

Four unique colours have been created for the V12 Zagato: Scintilla Silver, Alloro Green, Alba Blue and Diavolo Red. The painting process alone takes some 100 hours to complete and is followed by the marriage of the body and the drivetrain within the sports car production area.

From there the V12 Zagato is transferred to the standalone facility originally built to house One-77 production, where the build is completed.

This serene, laboratory-like space is perfectly suited to the task of creating special cars such as the V12 Zagato. It is here that time is lavished upon the fitment and installation of an array of bespoke components, including the side glass and the distinctive rear window, which features a curved surface that continues the sculptural lines of the ‘double-bubble’ roof.

All the exterior brightwork around the windows has a contemporary black finish to compliment the exposed carbon fibre components, whilst fitment of the hand-crafted interior and upholstery is also completed in this dedicated build area.

Like all Aston Martins when viewed as a whole, the V12 Zagato is an artful composition of powerful lines and compelling proportions, but when viewed up close it reveals sophisticated, sculptural surfaces and jewel-like details.

The exposed elements of carbon fibre on the front splitter, A-pillars, rear lamp pods, diffuser, door mirror cases and rear wing all display the same perfectly symmetrical weave and smooth resin finish. Likewise the bold new grille is formed in a unique three-dimensional composite material mesh that echoes Zagato’s famous ‘Z’ moniker.

More delights are found inside.

Seven Bridge of Weir hides – in semi-aniline finish to offer durability while preserving the natural texture of the leather – are used to trim the V12 Zagato’s interior.

Hand-stitched quilting of a unique design creates a flowing pattern that evokes a dynamic sense of movement across the seats and headlining, while ‘Z’ embroidery in the headrests and rear parcel shelf add a further flourish.

Satin-finish carbon fibre on the dashboard and centre stack is perfectly complimented by piano black accents and satin black rotary switchgear, whilst carbon fibre sill-plaques with ’V12 Zagato’ inlaid metal script provide a distinctive finishing touch.

A work of art built by skilled craftsmen to be driven and enjoyed by the world’s most discerning car collectors, the V12 Zagato is a fitting tribute to its illustrious ancestor.

If you’re tempted (I certainly am) then you can order a V12 Zagato for £330,000 (plus local taxes). The first production V12 Zagato will be on show at next month’s Geneva Motor Show and thereafter first deliveries will commence from Autumn 2012.

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Designed together with Toray Industries Inc, the AR.1 is the result of a commission from Toray for Gordon Murray Design to design, tool and build a fully functioning prototype vehicle which utilises many of Toray’s advanced automotive materials.

The 2-seater sports car is designed to use the Toray carbon fibre component system with a process time of less than 10 minutes. A carbon monocoque, one of the key technologies of Teewave, can be applied to any type of vehicle and not just 2-seater sports cars.

The entire programme from concept discussions to running vehicle took just 9 months and uses the powertrain from an existing commercial electric vehicle (thought to be Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV), whilst the unique electrical architecture and control units used in the AR.1 were developed from scratch by Gordon Murray Design.

As you would expect of Murray, a great deal of attention has been given to achieving low weight, with a low centre of gravity and suspension geometry providing an excellent ride and handling balance. The AR.1 weighs just 850kg (including the 240kg battery) putting the car firmly in Lotus Elise territory and some 400kg lighter than a Tesla.

Ultimate performance is limited by an output figure of 63bhp (47kw) but a torque of 133lb-ft (180 Nm) available from a standstill is said to provide lively acceleration.

Murray said, “It has been a pleasure to work with Toray Industries’ team on this challenging project. The resultant vehicle weight of just 850Kg achieved using Toray’s carbon fibre once again proves that performance through light weight is the most efficient and environmentally friendly way to achieve power to weight targets.”

All the performance targets for the project were met by the team, but they’re unlikely to generate much praise at the moment whilst such a modest powerplant is used. Let’s hope it eventually receives the kind of power to embarrass a Tesla in more than just its performance on the scales.

Speaking at the Volkswagen Group pre-event gathering, Winkelmann confirmed the 995 kg model will use the same 562 bhp engine as the LP570-4, resulting in a 0-62 mph time of around 2.5 seconds.

There is no word on pricing yet, but expect it to match the Sesto Elemento’s gargantuan performance and echo the $1.5 million previously asked for the Reventon.

This month, Alfa Romeo celebrates 101 years of motoring, and the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed (1-3 July) will help mark this occasion by playing host to the UK public debut of the mid-engined Alfa 4C Concept, the latest evolution in Alfa Romeo design and technology.

Representing the essence of an Alfa Romeo sports car: performance, Italian style and technical excellence, the Alfa 4C Concept offers the classic formula of a two-seater, mid-engined, rear-wheel drive coupé.

Lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre and aluminium are used extensively throughout. These solutions, used in conjunction with a powerful 200bhp 1750 TBi 4 cylinder petrol engine coupled with the new automatic Alfa TCT twin dry clutch transmission, and Alfa DNA dynamic control selector, allow the 4C Concept to deliver a set of eye-catching performance figures: Top speed 155mph, kerb weight under 850kgs, 0-62 mph in under 5 seconds, and a power-to-weight ratio of 235 bhp/tonne.

Alongside the Alfa 4C Concept on the Alfa Romeo exhibition stand will be an array of the Italian marque’s UK product range, including another UK public debut − the updated Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde, together with the Alfa Giulietta Cloverleaf and the Alfa 159 Sportwagon.

From L to R: Alfa Romeo 33 TT 12, Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM, Alfa Romeo 750 Competizione

While celebrating the future of Alfa Romeo at this year’s Festival of Speed, the marque will also be embracing its rich past, by showcasing five iconic cars from the Alfa Romeo museum collection in Italy. These automotive legends include Fangio’s Alfa 6C 3000CM, which alongside the Alfetta 159, will celebrate the 60th anniversary of Fangio’s historic 1951 Formula One World Championship title, as well as the Alfa 6C 1750GS, Alfa 750 Competizione and the Alfa 33 TT 12. Spectators at the Festival will be able to see the cars in action over the three day event, and they will be on display in the Cathedral Paddock area.

In the Supercar Paddock, Alfa’s 8C Spider will be turning heads as it makes its way past the crowds, up the historic Goodwood Hill. In addition to a traditionally strong presence at the Festival of Speed, Alfa Romeo will also be exhibiting at the Goodwood Moving Motor Show.

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Thanks to Audi ultra lightweight technology, the flagship version of the high-performance open-top sports car has trimmed a full 85 kg from the already low weight of the R8 V10 Spyder, and as a result weighs in at just 1,640kg, all of which helps it to accelerate from zero to 62mph in 3.8 seconds and to reach a top speed of 197mph.

Visual modifications accentuate the styling of the R8 GT Spyder. These include additional contrasting titanium grey trim elements, a front splitter with a dual lip, flics at the sides of the front bumper, red GT badges, round exhaust tailpipes, an enlarged diffuser and dark LED tail lights in a clear-glass design. An optional windscreen frame in matte CFRP is also available.

Audi engineers also trimmed weight from the technical components in the transmission, wheels and brakes. In the interior, the bucket seats alone, with their chassis of glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP), saved 31.5 kg.

In classic Audi fashion, the R8 GT Spyder features a lightweight fabric soft top that is said to be extremely quiet even when motorway cruising at high speeds. Its electro-hydraulic drive raises or lowers it in 19 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph. The powered retractable glass rear window is nestled in the bulkhead, separate from the soft top. The bulkhead also incorporates a rollover protection system comprising two pre-tensioned plates.

If you’re interested in getting hold of one for yourself, you can formally register your interest in a right-hand-drive version at your local Audi Centre or by visiting the audi.co.uk web site from today. Order confirmation will begin later this summer ahead of first customer deliveries in early 2012. UK pricing has yet to be confirmed, however with a price of €207800 in Germany, you can expect it to be at least £165,000.

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China is an extremely important market for Lamborghini, achieving over 150% sales growth in 2010 compared to 2009, although after the recent spectacle of a disgruntled Chinese owner destroying his Gallardo (see below) we wonder if Lamborghini should vet their customers more closely before letting them buy a car.

Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, said: “Our presence at Auto Shanghai 2011 reflects the importance of the Chinese market, which is now our second most significant after the USA. The appeal of the Lamborghini brand in China is illustrated by the launch here of the Gallardo LP 550-2 Tricolore: definitively Italian, and with all the performance and handling a Lamborghini Gallardo promises. Demand for our cars continues to grow: our worldwide order book for the Lamborghini LP 700-4 Aventador is already eighteen months ahead of production.”

In 2011 Lamborghini will expand its dealership network in China from 14 to 20 dealers.

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This latest Supersport model is derived directly from the race car that competes in the highly-successful Caterham Supersport championship, the road-going edition borrows all of the track version’s performance essentials and then, for good measure, is fine-tuned for the road.

Caterham Cars engineering director, Mark Edwards, said: “The SP/300.R was our first brand new model for 15 years. But the Supersport is all about our roots. The Seven was born out of motorsport and this new model illustrates the values – accessibility, affordability and unadulterated fun – that have made Caterham the iconic brand it is today and which will ensure the Seven’s continuing global success.

“We’ve built faster and more powerful accelerating cars before, but the Supersport’s character, value and low running costs have generated a machine that will excite sportscar fans, including those on a budget.”

Priced from £19,995 (incl tax) in self-build form, the 140bhp Supersport carries a Caterham Motorsport-tuned 1.6-litre Ford Sigma engine, five-speed ‘sprint’ ratio gearing, lightweight flywheel and race-prepared suspension with CR500 Avon tyres on 13” wheels. The Supersport like other Caterham models promises a raw and unadulterated driving experience, which will be at home both on the road and on the track.

Equipped with a motorsport-honed limited-slip-differential and gearing with sports driving in mind, the Supersport also features uprated springs and dampers borrowed directly from its race car cousin, stiffer anti-roll bars, track biased dash with integrated change up lights and an aero screen. Composite race seats and a four-point race harness instead of standard seat belt complete the track-inspired experience.

Factory-built, the Supersport will cost £22,995 with enthusiasts able to purchase one in component form for £19,995. Weighing in at just 520kg, the 140bhp Ford powerplant will propel the Supersport from 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 120mph – making it more than quick enough for most people’s capabilities.

The Caterham Supersport Championship represents the third rung of its ‘motorsport ladder’ and is Caterham’s fastest-growing series. With 14 rounds over seven race weekends, the championship heads to the new Snetterton 300 circuit on 24-25th April.

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Now depending on your viewpoint, either the sales rush to buy Lamborghini’s £220,000 (€255,000) flagship is a sign of growing economic confidence or due to perfect timing of its launch, just when those hard-working bankers received their bonuses.. Maybe it’s a sign that Lamborghini priced it too cheaply, given that its nearest neighbour Pagani is asking three times as much for the similar performing Huayra.

If the sight of the Aventador has proven too tempting to resist then you might like to visit Lamborghini’s microsite www.Aventador.com, which contains the usual content found on most automotive microsites including the window-shopping wonder that is the configurator. Here you can explore all the LP700-4 colours and trim options, then picture yourself sweeping along open roads of the Route Napoleon heading towards a relaxing lunch in Nice..

The microsite features full technical specifications, standard equipment, options and a full directory of official Lamborghini dealerships around the globe, so if you’re feeling flush you could then pick up the phone and order your own Aventador – provided you don’t mind the 18-month wait.

“Interest in the Aventador has been unprecedented and we have orders for far more than one year. Before customer deliveries begin in the second half of 2011, customers and brand enthusiasts can visit the Aventador microsite to receive a glimpse into the wealth of personalization opportunities available with the new V12 super sports car,” said Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.

“Although we prefer to leave the complete customization process to a one-on-one experience with a Lamborghini retailer, the microsite is the perfect interactive tool for enthusiasts who want to test different options and styles for a truly personalized Lamborghini.”

Thankfully Lamborghini were thoughtful enough to exclude a ‘Buy Now’ shopping cart on the site, otherwise I’d have already purchased two – Grigio Antares metallic with Terra Antiope + Nero Ade leather for the daily drive, and Giallo Orion pearl effect with Giallo Taurus + Nero Ade alcantara trim for the weekend.

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