Aston Martin has just taken the wraps off the 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, which is now the most powerful open-top Vantage available with its 6.0L V12 engine.
Aston Martin has just taken the wraps off the 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, which is now the most powerful open-top Vantage available with its 6.0L V12 engine. The limited-edition V12 Vantage Roadster packs 509 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of torque, which is good enough to accelerate it from 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 190 mph.
The V12 Vantage Roadster shares most of its specs with the V12 Vantage coupe, but there are a few changes. The V12 Vantage Roadster features a redesigned trunk lid and lower front air intake to maintain a level of dynamic performance that’s fully in keeping with the V12 Coupe, while there are also a number of unique chassis revisions. These include a modified rear damper set-up, front and rear damper valve tuning and a new rear spring design.
Unique to the V12 Vantage and new V12 Vantage Roadster is the engine’s “Sport” mode button, which enables the driver to select between two different powertrain modes.
Normal mode is the default from start-up and provides not only a more relaxed throttle response but also a quieter, more refined exhaust note. This creates a more progressive throttle response, suited to ‘everyday’ situations such as when driving in heavy traffic.
Sport mode, meanwhile, is designed for use in more dynamic driving situations where sharper responses are required. It has a number of tangible effects on the powertrain including a sharper throttle response, with the engine delivering more torque during the early stages of throttle pedal travel. Exhaust system bypass valves are also kept open for longer to create a particularly sporty exhaust note.
Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The V12 Vantage models are, first and foremost, driver’s cars – inviting and fully rewarding the driver’s full involvement. The addition to our range of this exceptional new Roadster allows the driver and passenger to experience full ‘sensory overload’ thanks to its outstanding performance.”
The 2013 Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster is available for order now and is priced at £150,000 in the UK.
