Aston Martin unveils V12 Vantage RS Concept Car

The wraps have been lifted on Aston Martin’s 600bhp, V12 Vantage RS concept. Based the V8 Vantage coupe, the new Concept combines a low kerb weight of less than 1600kg with the formidable horses provided by the race-developed 6.0 litre V12 to give it a power-to-weight ratio of over 375bhp per ton. On the speedo this translates to 0-62mph (100km/h) in 4.0 seconds and 0-100mph (160km/h) in just 8.5 seconds, making it Aston Martin’s fastest accelerating road car to date.

Described as a "production feasible concept car focussed on extreme performance and dynamics", the unveiling of the V12 Vantage RS took place at the official opening of the company's first ever dedicated design centre in Gaydon, Warwickshire, on Tuesday 11 December.

The focus weight reduction to enhance performance sees the use of a bonnet and trunk lid moulded in carbon fiber - as per the recently launched DBS - and the adoption of carbon ceramic brake discs cooled by ducts in the front bumper. Down-force is boosted by a deployable spoiler that rises automatically at high speeds balanced by a carbon fibre splitter up front.

Featuring a dry sump lubrication system, tuned length exhaust manifolds, forged pistons and steel con-rods, revised lift and duration camshafts and modified cylinder heads, the 600bhp 6.0 litre engine achieves peak power at 6250rpm and peak torque of 690Nm is at 5000rpm.

Depending on the response from its public airing, the Concept may be headed for low-volume production sometime down the track according to Aston Martin: “Over the last five years, we have established a reputation for presenting fully functional, feasible concept cars, and the V12 Vantage RS is no exception. We will listen with interest to feedback on this concept and, as ever, if there is sufficient demand then we will seriously consider a low volume production run in the near future with a price that will reflect the exclusivity of the car," said CEO Dr Ulrich Bez.