Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420: New Special Edition


Aston Martin has slid the covers off a new motorsport-inspired special edition, the V8 Vantage N420 which is the successor to the special edition V8 Vantage N400 of 2007 and has been created to celebrate the brand's racing achievements in the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

The N420 is based on the standard V8 Vantage and makes use of the same 4.7-litre V8 engine with 420-horsepower, but it features an upgraded sport suspension and unique styling cues while also offering a 27kg [60 pounds] weight saving achieved through the application of carbon fibre throughout the car.

Visually, the Vantage N420 is distinguished on the outside by the wider sills,10-spoke diamond turned alloy wheels in a glossy black finish, 'Graphitic' tailpipes, black mesh vents and carbon fibre splitter, side strakes and rear diffuser.

The sports car is also offered with new paint finishes with contrasting hues for the cant rails and radiator grille surround - all inspired from the N24 Vantage racers, including Rose' yellow, 'Kermit' green and 'Elwood' blue as well as the traditional Aston Martin Racing green.

Inside, the special edition Aston gets an Iridium interior package that includes graphite instruments, leather or Alcantara steering wheel, special N420 sill plaques and lightweight carbon fibre seats, complete with 'Race Track' stitching. Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control and Park Distance Control are also standard.

The N420 comes with the otherwise optional Sports Pack as standard. The package encompasses revised springs, dampers and anti-roll bars, while the British sports carmaker also throws in a new sports exhaust system.

The V8 Vantage N420 is available as a Coupe or Roadster, and with a six-speed manual or optional Sportshift automated manual transmission. Production begins this month with deliveries commencing in August. Prices in the UK start from £96,995 (about US$146,900 or €117,200 at today's exchange rates).