VIDEO: Aston Martin Rapide Sports Sedan Filmed in Kuwait

You never know when or where you're going to stumble upon a prototype model these days. This time some folks spotted a thinly disguised Aston Martin Rapide test car on the roads of Kuwait. Apparently the British automaker was performing hot climate tests on its forthcoming four-door sports sedan that is planned to get its first public outing at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

First seen at the 2006 Detroit auto show as a prototype model, the production Rapide is almost identical to the 196.9-inch-long concept study. Due to go on sale in the beginning of 2010, the Rapide is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine which is rated at 480HP, and linked to a six-speed ZF automatic transmission with Aston's Touchtronic control.

Man Amasses Ridiculously Awesome Gulf Oil-Liveried Racing Car Collection

The ROFGO Gulf Collection by Duncan Hamilton is one man's dream of assembling the largest assortment of racing cars ever to compete in the legendary colors of Gulf Oil. The collection comprises 14 of the most prominent Gulf Oil-liveried competition cars and has been created by Duncan Hamilton & Co.’s Chairman, Adrian Hamilton, for an unnamed but obviously passionate and extremely wealthy client.

All 14 cars were tracked down and acquired in just two years. The collection includes a variety of models ranging in age from the 1967 Mirage, which was the first Gulf-liveried car to run at Le Mans, to the 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo that competed in the GT2 Championship.

Commenting on the collection, Adrian Hamilton said: “My career has been punctuated by many remarkable cars – eg the one and only Mercedes-Benz 196 Grand Prix car in private hands, some nine Ferrari 250 GT0s, 20 GT40s, seven Porsche 917s and numerous Jaguar C and D-Types etc – but few projects have been as enjoyable and satisfying as this one. Like all racing enthusiasts I’ve grown up with the Gulf brand and it is a tremendous privilege to be able to build such a unique and lasting tribute to one of the greatest names in our sport. I am extremely indebted to my client for the opportunity.”

A total of 12 cars from the ROFGO Gulf Collection by Duncan Hamilton will get their first public outing for all to see at Retromobile, an annual show of classic road and racing cars, which takes place at Porte de Versailles in Paris, from February 2 to 6.

In chronological order the 14 cars are:

• 1967 Mirage

Chassis No.10002 – the first Gulf-liveried car to run at Le Mans

• 1968 Ford GT40

Chassis No.1084 – 4^th, SPA 1000 km, Hawkins/Hobbs

• 1969 Brabham BT26

Chassis No.BT26/4 - 1^st German GP, Ickx

• 1970 McLaren M14

Chassis No.M14/A2 – 2^nd South African GP, Hulme

• 1971 Porsche 917

Chassis No.026 – 2^nd, Le Mans 24 Hours, Attwood/Muller

• 1970 Porsche 908/3

Chassis No.12 – Nürburgring 1000 km, Siffert, DNF

• 1972 McLaren M20

Chassis No.M20/3 – 1^st, Watkins Glen, Hulme

• 1974 Mirage

Chassis No.704 – 4^th, Le Mans 24 Hours, Bell/Hailwood

• 1994 Kremer K8

Chassis No.K8/07/SP – 6^th, Le Mans 24 Hours, Bell/Lassig/Donovan

• 1996 McLaren F1 GTR Longtail

Chassis No.022 – 3^rd, Hockenheim 4 Hours, Bscher/Nielson

• 2006 Courage C65 LMP2

Chassis No.07 – 7^th, Le Mans 24 Hours, Gosselin/Ojeh/Ragues

• 2008 Aston Martin DBR9

Chassis No.007 – 4^th in GT1, Le Mans 24 Hours, Frentzen/Piccili/Wendlinger

• 2009 Aston Martin LMP1

Chassis No.DBR1-2/2 – 1^st, Asian Le Mans series, Okayama, Mucke/Primat

• 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo

GT2 Championship, Giroix/Goethe

VIDEO: New Aston Martin Rapide Promo Films [Part 3]

Aston Martin has released the third and final part of its promotional trilogy “True Power Should Be Shared” starring the Rapide four-door coupe. There's less action in this film as our heroes drive towards their destination, wondering what they are transporting. Well, it turns out to be some kind of a time machine, which saves them from being killed in an ambush and returns them to Lisbon, where everything started. Not what we expected, but at least the Rapide didn’t get blown up. Hit the jump to watch the video.

Aston Martin Launches New V8 Vantage S with 430HP and 7-Speed Transmission

Aston Martin has announced a new addition to its Vantage family in the form of the more driver-focused V8 Vantage S, which is available in both coupe and roadster body styles. The new S models borrow certain styling cues from the V12 Vantage and also come with increased power, a new transmission and a tweaked chassis.

“The Vantage S epitomizes every attribute of the V8 Vantage and pushes the driver experience beyond what we have offered before”, says Dr. Ulrich Bez, CEO of Aston Martin, “It combines dynamic exhilaration with all the charming finesse, beauty and practicality already associated with the Vantage range”.

The Vantage S' 4.7-liter V8 engine has been further honed to deliver 430HP and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) of peak torque, representing an increase of 10HP and 20 Nm respectively. The V8 is coupled to a new 7-speed Sportshift II gearbox, which has shorter gear ratios and is 20% quicker than the V8 Vantage’s standard 6-speed Sporshift. In “Sport” mode, drivers can benefit from even quicker gear changes, accompanied by a more aggressive throttle response.

Other performance upgrades include a revised steering rack ratio, larger front brakes, new springs and dampers and wider rear wheels. Bridgestone supplies the special tires which, according to Aston Martin, optimize road holding and enhance the dynamic feel.

Finally, the Vantage S has a unique exhaust note, thanks to a new exhaust muffler and bypass valve map.

Besides being a performer, the Vantage S is also a looker. The front of the car features a new bumper with a splitter and larger air intake, wider side sills and a redesigned rear bumper, accompanied by 19-inch “V” spoke alloys as standard. A 10-spoke lightweight forged design is offered as an option.

The V8 Vantage S is available for order now.

Aston Martin Cygnet: $30k - €25k Mini Based on the Toyota iQ and it's Official!

We know what you're thinking but you couldn't be more wrong; this is not some funky replica kit but an official concept for an Aston Martin mini car! The Cygnet is based on the Toyota iQ and it is expected to go on sale before the end of next year with an estimated base price somewhere around £20,000 or about $30,000 - €25,000. The initial plan is for the Cygnet to be offered only to current and future Aston Martin owners but a general release could follow at a later date.

"Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this first bold step to embark on this special project - made possible with the support of an organisation of Toyota's stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ," said Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez.

The British automaker did not disclose any specific details, but from the official teaser shots released by Aston Martin it is evident that the Cygnet will feature a new skin while retaining the basic shape of Toyota's iQ citycar. Expect to see a new interior adorned with Aston Martin-esque details.

"Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future," said Bez. "This concept - akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht - will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market."

There's no word on the powertrain options but it is believed that the Cygnet will be us the iQ's 1.33-liter four-cylinder petrol that makes 100HP at 6,000 rpm and peak torque of 125Nm at 4,400rpm. It is possible that Aston Martin's engineers will tweak the iQ's suspension and brake system.

"The offering of a 'Cygnet' with a DBS, DB9 or Vantage is a unique combination of opposites and a novel transport solution allowing intelligent and sensitive mobility on an exclusive and innovative level," Bez noted.

The Toyota iQ donor cars will be built in Japan and then shipped to Aston Martin's Gaydon factory in the UK where they will be transformed into Cygnets.

And you thought GM's badge engineering was ridiculous...

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

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Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin DB9

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

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Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

Wallpapers Aston Martin Vanquish

New Aston Martin N420 Roadster 2011

Vantage N420 (behind the same figure the power generated by the engine), dealing directly with Aston Martin's success in the modern era of racing, including 24-hour endurance race at Nurburgring, Germany. According to Aston Marin, both variants are produced to celebrate the greatness of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage.

Because that was released only a photo-Vantage N420 will make its debut in Paris next week, the engine was assumed to be equal with the Vantage N420 Coupe. It is estimated, N420 Roadster is heavier than kupe. As a result, its performance certainly lose.

Vantage 420 kupe itself is lighter than N400 as more use of carbon fiber for the body and other parts.

Characteristic of this new roadster is a large air flow snout in front, side skirts and rear diffuser from carbon fiber. His appearance was considered aggressive with black wheels and exhaust trestle ten with a special tip.

N420 Roadster is fitted with carbon-fiber sport seats wrapped in leather with contrasting white stitching details. Alloy black and white in the interior will be the center of attention when the roof is open.

If you keep using the same machine with the N420 kupe, this is the engine specs: 4.7-liter V8, 420 PS and 470 Nm of torque. The N420 kupe performance in the sprint from 0-100 km / h is done in 4.9 seconds. These cars use a 6 speed manual transmission and automatic transmission is also offered in sportshift.

New Aston Martin RAPIDE Luxe 2011, More Luxury

If you are still not satisfied with the luxury provided by Aston Martin RAPIDE, the British luxury car manufacturer has just announced an exclusive package of bongsor sedan, namely RAPIDE Luxe.

On the official website of Aston Martin's new choice of variants can be found with some bids RAPIDE Luxe luxury of course different than the standard version. On the exterior there are new color options, Quantum Concours Silver and Blue.

Owners will also get a key made from glass and stainless steel as well as a set of exclusive bags for travel (six pieces) with a special leather-clad same color as the interior.

Inside there is entertainment system for rear passengers in the form of two 6.5-inch LCD screen behind the front seat headrest and eyes are positioned parallel to the rear passengers. As for a DVD multi-changer for six DVDs are behind the trunk panel which is the source for the audio-video system Bang & Olufsen BeoSound RAPIDE and can be heard via wireless headphones.

The seats for four passengers also been equipped with vents that allow temperature regulation. There are three tiers of seating and temperature settings can be controlled via the play button on the console front. Display more special was also present on the main buttons on the center console which is coated with glass material.

There has been no official price of the Aston Martin for RAPIDE Luxe. But certainly, the price will be far more expensive than standard variants berbanderol 197,850 U.S. dollars

"Cygnet" Luxury Car From Aston Martin

Aston Martin continues to put the nails in the premium car market. After introducing the most luxurious four-door sedan variant RAPIDE Luxe, now they show off premium city car, Cygnet, in the middle of a luxury shopping mall Harrods in Knightsbridge, London.

Cygnet's first It debuted in the world, although Aston Martin just started producing them next year. Prospective customers can view and book from this point on Astin Martin dealers across Europe. Production version will appear on display at Harrods until 11 December 2010.

This little car will be created in the Aston Martin factory in Gaydon, England, and will be the eighth model that came out of the main production line at this plant since 2004.

Although appearing as a city car, but Aston Martin promises Cygnet has the same luxury models Aston Martin the other. They called it a "solution designed specifically for urban areas."

2009 Aston Martin Cygnet Concept

2009 Aston Martin Cygnet Concept

Aston Martin releases the aboriginal official images of the Aston Martin Cygnet Abstraction - a new affluence driver abstraction car. The Aston Martin Cygnet abstraction represents a creative, environmentally acquainted solution, actuality small, yet with attendance - and awful ammunition efficient, now accumulated with the authority of Aston Martin's affluence cast ownership. Work on the abstraction is advancing and will abide into 2010 back it is hoped that it will become a assembly absoluteness initially accessible to Aston Martin barter in the UK and Europe.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420


[Source: Aston Martin Media Website]

• New Special Edition, motorsport-inspired V8 Vantage
• Standard equipment includes Sports Pack suspension and new sports exhaust system
• 27kg weight saving over standard car
• New distinctive Aston Martin ‘Race Collection’ paint schemes available as an option

6 July 2010, Gaydon, Warwickshire: Aston Martin has unveiled a new motorsport-inspired special edition; the V8 Vantage N420 which brings a new dimension of sporting prowess and dynamic ability to the V8 Vantage range.

Successor to the special edition V8 Vantage N400 of 2007, the Vantage N420 is based upon the standard 4.7-litre, 420bhp, 180mph V8 Vantage and is available as a Coupe or Roadster, and with a six-speed manual or optional Sportshift automated manual transmission.

The Vantage N420 draws inspiration from the company’s experiences at the Nürburgring 24-hour race. In the 2006 running of the annual Nürburgring endurance classic amongst a field of mostly motorsport homologated cars, Aston Martin entered a near-standard, road-registered V8 Vantage. Driven by a team of employees, including Aston Martin’s CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez, the V8 Vantage – named ‘Rose’ by the team – finished 4th in class and 24th overall from a field of more than 200 specialised racing cars.

Since then Aston Martin has returned every year to compete in this gruelling endurance race, scoring a string of class victories and podiums with road-registered V8 and V12 Vantages and most recently the new four-door Rapide. Not only has this racing success spawned a burgeoning V8 Vantage GT4 customer programme run by Aston Martin Racing, but lessons learned in racing at the Nürburgring has led to aerodynamic and other performance developments being fed back into Aston Martin’s road cars.

A generous standard specification and some unique options ensure the special edition Vantage N420 is both exclusive and distinctive, while also offering a 27kg weight saving – achieved through the application of carbon fibre – over the standard V8 Vantage.

On the outside, wider sills combine perfectly with a carbon fibre splitter, side strakes and diffuser, while bold 10-spoke diamond turned alloy wheels complete with gloss black finish, black mesh vents and ‘Graphitic’ tailpipe finishers complete the co-ordinated look.

Inside the Vantage N420 offers an Iridium interior package, with graphite instruments, leather or Alcantara® steering wheel, special N420 sill plaques and lightweight carbon fibre seats, complete with ‘Race Track’ stitching as in the V12 Vantage. Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control and Park Distance Control are also standard.

Cementing the Vantage N420’s credentials as a special edition V8 Vantage tailored for the most discerning and enthusiastic drivers, it is fitted with the normally optional Sports Pack. This package combines revised springs, dampers and anti-roll bars for even more responsive and dynamic handling, while retaining the V8 Vantage’s renowned poise, balance and long distance ability. Finally, a new sports exhaust system delivers a suitably rousing soundtrack.

A further distinctive feature is the availability of a new range of optional Aston Martin ‘Race Collection’ paint schemes. Pairing bold body colours with contrasting hues for the cant rails and radiator grille surround, they celebrate the marque’s racing heritage. All of the company’s successful N24 Vantage racers are celebrated, with ‘Rose’ yellow, ‘Kermit’ green and ‘Elwood’ blue all featuring in the collection along with traditional Aston Martin Racing green. The white and black car shown in the accompanying images wears the equally striking ‘Asia Cup’ livery.

Production of the V8 Vantage N420 begins this month, with deliveries commencing in August and prices starting from £96,995.


Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420


Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420


Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420