ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE GT4
ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE GT4
The Tuned, New Vantage
Aston Martin Racing has announced the 2011 model, a facelifted version of its race-only Vantage GT4.
By Dai Matsuo
Race-Ready Performance Enhanced by Downforce
The Aston Martin Vantage GT4, a race-exclusive model debuted in 2009, is based on the production V8 Vantage, featuring its aluminum chassis, base engine, and suspension. In the two years since its introduction, it has sold 80 units worldwide, making it arguably the most successful example in the GT4 class in terms of actual sales. In 2010, it achieved victories not only in the Dubai 24 Hours, Nürburgring 24 Hours, and Spa 24 Hours, but also in the European GT4 Championship. A one-make series, the "Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of Great Britain," is also held.
The design of the new Vantage GT4, which has undergone a facelift, features a newly designed bumper and shares a common image with the production V12 Vantage. Aerodynamics have been further enhanced to increase downforce. It is powered by the same 4.7-liter V8 engine as before, but both power and torque have been improved through revised tuning.
Additionally, it is possible to select ABS and traction control systems developed by Bosch for racing. These systems have been optimized by Bosch Motorsport specifically for the Vantage GT4, enabling maximum performance on both wet and dry surfaces.
BRAND HISTORY
Currently drawing global attention as the coolest sports car brand, Aston Martin of Britain holds a prominent position. Founded in 1914 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, this small company adopted the Aston Martin name after achieving success in a hill climb event known as Aston Clinton. Since then, it has left a brilliant mark on the history of motorsport and sports cars.
Conversely, the company has faced numerous financial crises, each time receiving a helping hand, charting a truly tumultuous course. For instance, David Brown, who became owner in 1947, left his name on sports cars like the "DB2" and the racing machine "DBR1" by leveraging his excellent management skills and engineering acumen. More recently, Ford's sale of its shares to an investment group led by David Richards, founder of Prodrive, is still fresh in memory.
However, Aston Martin has consistently pursued the creation of sports cars imbued with surging power and beautiful styling throughout its history. The current lineup has expanded to include the "V8 Vantage," "DB9," and the four-door saloon "Rapide."

