News & Events
Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage Roadster: A Blue Sky Thrill Machine
2009-04-22
By Austin Spencer
When Aston Martin announced a V8 Vantage Roadster, some doubted the car could equal the stylish lines of the coupe. Those concerns were put to rest when the Roadster proved to be as breathtaking as its hardtop sibling.
“The V8 Vantage Roadster is a pure sports car, a car that heightens the senses and provides a dynamically thrilling driving experience,” said Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ulrich Bez. “The Vantage Roadster adds to the unbeatable thrill of open air motoring and by combining engineering excellence, technological innovation and physical perfection, will ensure every journey is one to remember.”
When the 2009 model V8 Roadster was recently introduced to the media, it was obvious that the sports car was dramatically improved. While the 2008 model was brilliant, improvements to the 2009 V8 Vantage make it one of the most desirable cars ever built.
The car retains the sensuous body, marvelous 4-cam V8 and sophisticated chassis that have made the V8 Vantage the most successful Aston Martin in history.
The technical enhancements include significantly more power from a new 4.7 liter engine, revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power, improved Sportshift™ transmission software and a new sports suspension option. Interior updates include a new console, revised switchgear and an ECU. Externally, the acclaimed V8 Vantage design is enhanced with a range of new wheels options.
“The V8 Roadster offers superb design, hand fit finish and the dependability to be driven everyday,” said Aston Martin of Dallas managing partner Kurt Fegraeus. “Changes for the 2009 model make the car even more enjoyable to drive.”
Beauty
The V8 Vantage continues to win hearts with its long bonnet, minimal overhangs and wide track. Perfectly proportioned with a low purposeful stance, the Vantage Roadster is uncompromisingly modern yet also incorporates classic Aston Martin design cues. Even in convertible form, the Roadster retains the critically acclaimed design of the Vantage Coupe. The smooth lines make the car seem as if it is in motion, even when at rest.
The Roadster’s three-layer fabric flows beautifully with the sweeping motion of the body when closed and gives a taut, aggressive appearance to the car. The top stows neatly beneath the rear tonneau cover and can be opened or closed in just 18 seconds at the press of a button located on the console. When the top is down, the flow from front to rear is smooth and elegant, enhanced by the leather speed humps that create a unique transition between interior and exterior.
The Roadster’s sleek lines are accentuated by a new standard 20-spoke 19’’ alloy wheel in either diamond turned silver or graphite finish. A 5-spoke lightweight aluminum wheel is part of the delectable new Sports Pack option.
Soul
Since a sports car’s soul begins with its chassis, Aston equipped the V8 Vantage with superb architecture based on the platform that underpins the DB9 and DBS. This backbone uses a combination of aluminum, steel and advanced composites that make the Vantage Roadster one of the most advanced sports cars in the world.
Despite the mechanism associated with the Roadster’s top and additional body stiffness, Aston Martin’s engineered a minimal weight increase to preserve the agile and sporting characteristics found in the Coupe. A series of improvements were introduced to the chassis and suspension setup to improve body control and low speed ride quality, as well as to take full advantage of the increased performance potential.
The 2009 Vantage benefits from standard low-friction Bilstein dampers that improve the dynamic capabilities and ride quality. The bushings are stiffened, as well as the spring rates both front and rear. These make the Vantage Roadster as composed as the coupe on the road with nicely weighted steering that makes the driver feel connected to the car.
“A new Sports Pack option for Roadsters makes the car even more agile,” explained Fegraeus. “The package includes forged lightweight alloy wheels, re-tuned Bilstein dampers with improved dynamic response, up-rated springs and a revised rear anti-roll bar in the coupe. It is truly for the most enthusiastic driver.”
Power
Improvements in performance were achieved through a number of changes to Aston’s high revving V8. First, Aston bumped the size to 4.7-liter. A new forged steel crank was designed to reduce rotating mass and increase the stroke. The dry sump lubrication system was improved and new cylinder heads were designed for optimal air flow.
“With the new 4.7 liter engine and associated changes, the V8 Vantage Roadster offers new levels of performance that make it an even more desirable sports car,” said Aston Martin sales specialist Cade Mannetti. “With 420 horsepower and 347 lb-ft. of torque, it can leap into high speed or idle along in traffic. And even with the bump in power, the combined fuel economy and emissions have significantly improved.”
The Vantage Roadster is available with two transmission alternatives. The Roadster comes standard with a six-speed Graziano conventional stick-shift manual gearbox; an ultra-quick Sportshift automated manual transmission that can be shifted via paddles on the steering wheel is optional.
Both transmissions have been improved for better performance and smoothness. Enhancements include a modified clutch and flywheel that reduces clutch pedal efforts, slices weight and reduces the rotating masses to increase responsiveness. Aston Martin’s Sportshift transmission has new software too that makes the car feel much more refined.
Love
The Roadster has a roomy driving position with ample adjustment for the deep buckets and stylish steering wheel. The gauges, start button and new switchgear are as elegant as the exterior. Offered in a broad combination of leathers, contemporary fabrics and aluminum, one can choose from an extensive choice of colors for the sumptuous interior as well as the sensuous body.
The V8 Roadster benefits from a new center console constructed of die cast zinc alloy with a graphite silver finish along with a new ECU that was introduced in the DBS. The ECU, which is made of glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate, replaces the key used in the 2008 model. The car also features a new Hard Disk Drive Navigation System with faster route processing, additional features and improved graphics.
Satisfaction
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage had already become an object of lust for connoisseurs. With the 2009 model enhancements, the car has now achieved iconic status. The car is now even more elegant, refined, powerful and fun to drive.
“Dropping the top on a Vantage Roadster is one of life’s greatest gifts,” added Fegraeus. “The exhaust note is magical. The power is intoxicating. The design is timeless and the interior is sumptuous. And with only a handful available in the U.S. this year, it’s certainly an exclusive pleasure.”
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