2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Aston Martin has pulled the wraps off of its most potent production sports car in the brand's 95-year history. What was merely a concept just over a year ago is now the 2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage.

Essentially, Aston wanted to add some pungency to its product line so the company took its lightest, most nimble coupe and shoved in its biggest engine. The result is a car the size of a V8 Vantage with the V-12 grunt of the DBS.

Unfortunately, the 6.0-liter under the hood of the V12 Vantage doesn't make the expected 600 hp of the concept. However, it does turn out 510 hp. Aston claims that power will launch the car to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and give it a top speed of 190 mph.

As shown by the pictures, the mighty engine wasn't the only enhancement. To bring all that power to a halt, the V12 Vantage has added vented carbon ceramic brakes that span 15.7 inches in the front and 14.2 inches in the rear. It also wears 19-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels shod with Pirelli PZero Corsa tires to help it put the power to the pavement.

Visually, the V12 Vantage is distinguished by a vented hood, carbon-fiber front and rear splitters, and more aggressive side skirts. The aerodynamic bits on the car result in a 64 percent reduction in total vehicle lift, increasing the car's high speed stability.

Inside, the cabin is a sea of Alcantara and stitched leather. As an option, hard-core drivers can opt for carbon-fiber and kevlar seats which save nearly 40 pounds.

The V12 Vantage will officially debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Word on the street is that the new sports car will not be making its way to North America due to concerns about emissions and crashworthiness. Pricing will be announced at the show and expected to top $200,000.

source : car