50th Anniversary Model: The Collaboration Between Aston Martin and Zagato

The Vanquish Zagato, limited to 99 units worldwide, is priced at ¥85.1 million and will begin deliveries in the first quarter of 2017. While two units were allocated to Japan, they have already sold out. The model unveiled in Japan is the pre-production Vanquish Zagato concept.

The first collaboration between Aston Martin and Zagato was the "DB4GT Zagato" announced in 1960. This was followed by the "V8 Vantage Zagato" in 1986, the "DB7 Zagato" in 2003, and the "V12 Zagato" in 2011. This model marks the fifth Zagato collaboration.

The design was led by Marek Reichman, Aston Martin's Chief Creative Officer. He initiated and collaborated with Zagato on the design of this model.

According to Kazuo Terajima, Managing Director of Aston Martin Japan, "We aimed to create the ultimate Zagato to commemorate 50 years of collaboration with Zagato, and we based this Zagato on the Vanquish, our flagship model." He added, "While the Vanquish is beautiful and elegant, this Zagato makes it even more luxurious and dynamic."

The concept car was unveiled at theVilla d'Este Concorso d'Eleganza 2016as the "Vanquish Zagato Concept."

The exterior features elements that signify the collaboration with Zagato, such as red enamel wing badges, a Z-pattern grille, and the signature circular taillights characteristic of Zagato models. Naturally, the double-bubble roof, now a design icon for Zagato, has also been adopted.

Furthermore, selecting the Villa d'Este package adds the distinctive bronze anodized side strakes, a design motif that complements the side markers.

Inside, the seats and door sections feature a unique "Z" pattern quilting. The Zagato initial, "Z," is embossed on the headrests and stitched onto the center console.

The powertrain features a 6-liter V12 engine producing 600ps, enabling acceleration from 0-60 mph (approx. 97 km/h) in 3.5 seconds. The suspension settings have been revised to match this enhanced performance. Additionally, the body is constructed from full carbon fiber, utilizing large, single-piece panels to significantly reduce the split lines typically found on body panels.

Terajima emphasized the merits of the base car, stating, "With the arrival of this luxurious and dynamic Vanquish Zagato, the beauty and elegance of the standard Vanquish will be further enhanced. We hope this occasion will also allow people to re-appreciate the perfection of the standard Vanquish."

From Street to Track: The "Vantage GT8"

The "Vantage GT8," inspired by the "Vantage GTE" racing car, is a road-legal model priced at ¥27.7 million (manual transmission) / ¥28,272,400 (Sportshift). Limited to 150 units worldwide, Japan will receive four units. Deliveries are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2016.

"Aston Martin has been involved in racing since its inception, continuing its philosophy of building cars by feeding back racing technology into road cars. The GT8 is a model that incorporates technology honed in recent races, built as close to a race car as possible for the road, inspired by the GTE. In essence, it is a thoroughbred derived from a race car," stated the aforementioned Mr. Terajima.

The Vantage GT8, the lightest and most powerful V8 Vantage model to date, features carbon fiber bodywork and applies aerodynamic technologies directly derived from racing. Its chassis, tuned for track use, delivers exceptionally sharp agility.

The drivetrain is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing a maximum output of 446ps. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or the Sportshift II paddle-shift system. It boasts an acceleration of 0-60 mph (approx. 96 km/h) in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 304 km/h (both are projected figures).

Although positioned as a road car, the Vantage GT8 features a wide body reminiscent of Aston Martin Racing's WEC machines and aerodynamic enhancements. Lightweight carbon fiber is used for the front splitter, front/rear bumpers, fenders, side sills, and rear diffuser. An optional aero pack is available, consisting of a large rear wing and front splitter corner elements.

The standard five-spoke alloy wheels are a new design, with ultra-lightweight seven-spoke center-lock magnesium wheels also available. Both standard and optional wheels are fitted with Michelin "Pilot Sport Cup 2" tires.

For weight reduction, a lithium-ion battery is standard. Optional lightweight features include a carbon fiber roof, polycarbonate rear windscreen/side windows, and a center-exit titanium exhaust system. With standard carbon fiber sports seats (manually adjustable) and carbon fiber door panels, a maximum weight reduction of 100 kg is achievable, bringing the total weight to 1,510 kg with all lightweight options included.

Regarding the Vantage GT8, Andy Palmer commented, "Building road cars is our business, and motorsport is our heritage. This model masterfully blends these two elements. It is an extreme road car directly from our Le Mans racing program, further developing the inherent dynamism of the Vantage as a pure sports car. In other words, the Vantage GT8 is a true driver's car, perfectly suited for every scenario, from the street to the circuit, anywhere in the world."