Friday 1st December 2006

Prodrive boosts AM Vantage V8

Better handling, power, and aero

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Prodrive has launched a range of parts for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage to improve the car’s performance and enhance its driving dynamics.

The range includes:

• A performance pack for the engine
• New driver-adjustable suspension
• Unique forged wheels
• A discreet aero package.

Prodrive has tuned the 4.3 litre V8 engine to raise peak power from 380bhp to 425bhp, as well as increasing peak torque from 302lb-ft to 325lb-ft. This reduces the car’s 0-62 mph time from 5.0 seconds to an estimated 4.7 seconds and increases the top speed by eight mph to 183 mph. A new throttle map, combined with the increase in torque, also make the engine more responsive throughout the rev range.

Prodrive has worked with suspension specialists, Bilstein and Eibach, to develop new driver-adjustable suspension. A switch in the cockpit allows the driver to choose between normal and sports mode. The normal mode has been designed to enhance the V8 Vantage’s existing ride and handling characteristics, while the firmer sports mode delivers an even more focussed driving experience on the road or for track use.

The engine performance pack has a modified exhaust system with a low back pressure sports catalyst and a driver-controlled switch to manually override the V8 Vantage’s exhaust valve. This gives the option of a quiet mode, where the valve is permanently closed; auto, where the valve operates as it does on the standard car; and sport mode, where the valve is permanently open where conditions allow.

The V8 Vantage’s aerodynamics have been analysed in the wind tunnel to develop an aero package to reduce high speed lift. The result is discreet Prodrive designed and manufactured carbon composite front lip and trunk spoilers, which are in keeping with the Vantage’s classic styling. Together, these reduce lift by 45 per cent, improving both high speed stability and grip.

Prodrive runs the Aston Martin Racing team in partnership with Aston Martin. It has used its experience of designing and developing DB9 and V8 Vantage-based race and rally cars to help create this range of performance enhancements for the road car. It has also carried through the unique design of the wheels used on the Aston Martin DBR9 GT1 racing car to special 14 spoke 19-inch forged wheels made by Prodrive Japan for the V8 Vantage. These come complete with Pirelli P-Zero tyres, which have been selected to match the new suspension and optimise the ride and handling.

“The V8 Vantage is already one of the world’s best sports cars,” said Roland Cherry, Prodrive performance products director. “Our aim was to develop a range of parts which enhanced the car’s performance but, most importantly, did not compromise the inherent Aston Martin driving characteristics or styling. I think we have achieved this with a range of parts owners can specify as a package or individually.”

The range of parts and prices will be available from early 2007.

[Valentin]

Well-done Prodrive!!!!!!!
They have exactly done what one would expect Aston Martin to do.
If the buttons fit into the interior properly, and they give you a warranty... more than perfect.

[Valentin]

Back to topic:

Does anyone know if the Prodrive wheels (wich doesn't look as nice as the standard ones, but not to bad) are at least lighter than AM wheels?

And why aren't they offering ceramic brakes? They could easily use the ones of the DBRS9.