Aston Martin has revealed the V12 Vantage S Roadster – a 201mph soft-top which is the brand’s quickest and most powerful convertible yet.
The conventional V12 Vantage Roadster had been quietly dropped from the company’s website last week, and this automobile is its replacement. It’s fitted with the 565bhp 6.0-litre V12 from the Vanquish, which delivers 55bhp more than the old V12 Roadster. It’s also got a new stainless steel exhaust and new engine management system.
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In addition, by replacing the old six-speed manual with a seven-speed automated manual box, Aston has cut the 0-62mph time from 4.5 seconds to 4.1 seconds. That 201mph top speed represents an increase of 11mph, too.
Meanwhile, there’s 510Nm of torque from just 1,000rpm – a Porsche 911 Carrera S produces 440Nm at its peak – and a maximum of 620Nm at 5,750rpm. That should mean plenty of performance is available whenever you need it.
There are some slight improvements to running costs, too, although figures of 19.2mpg and 343g/km aren’t likely to get the environmental seal of approval.
Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster: styling
As well as borrowing the Vanquish’s engine, the V12 S Roadster shares its three-stage adaptive dampers. These are hooked up to the power-steering, so selecting Normal, sport or Track mode will not only firm or soften up the dampers, but will also alter the amount of steering effort needed.
As with the V12 Vantage S coupé revealed just over a year ago, the Roadster gets some cosmetic upgrades. The floating front grille is now more open, with the option of black or titanium silver mesh, to help with airflow to the new V12 engine.
As an option, buyers can go for a package of graphics which includes the contrasting surround for the grille and the black bar between the rear lights. A set of lightweight 10-spoke black alloy wheels is new to the options list, too.
Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster: prices
Buyers can personalise their automobile with features like red tinted carbon fibre for the interior and exterior, from the ‘Q by Aston Martin’ collection. There’s no official confirmation of price, but the V12 S coupé cost £3,000 more than the V12, so expect to pay around £153,000.
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