Aston Martin has launched a new version of its Vantage GT4 racer for 2011. The new car takes design inspiration (though not the extra cylinders) from Aston Martin's V12 Vantage road car, meaning improved aerodynamics and increased downforce. The 4.7-litre V8 has also been remapped for more power and torque.
As with the current 4.7 litre Vantage GT4, (which made its race debut in 2009), the 2011 car is closely based on the V8 Vantage road car.
Now though, in addition to the engine and aero upgrades, competitors can for the first time choose a race-developed Bosch ABS and traction control system. This system has been specifically tweaked for the Vantage GT4.
The Vantage GT4's new splitter increases downforce at the front of the car, as well as channelling cooling air to the brakes and radiator.
At the rear, the car gains the kicked-up bootlid from the V12. This works together with a new carbon fibre diffuser and rear underfloor to increase downforce.
The redesigned underfloor also channels more air through a new rear-mounted high capacity transmission oil cooler.
Aston has sold more than 80 Vantage GT4s to customers around the world in the past two years and won the 2010 European GT4 Cup as well as the GT4 class at the Dubai 24 Hours, the Nürburgring 24 Hours and the Spa 24 hours. The car also has its own one-make series, the Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of Great Britain.
The new Vantage GT4 will be eligible for this series, as well as the European GT4 Cup and all other series with a GT4 class.
