Aston Martin has unveiled the new DB11 AMR, the successor to the DB11 V12. The race-inspired variant gets the latest chassis-tuning first used on the V8 model, and enough firepower though its uprated V12 engine to fight it out with its most potent rivals – the Bentley Continental GT W12 and the V12 Mercedes-AMG S 65.
Replacing the two-year-old DB11 V12, which accounts for 40 percent of annual DB11 sales, the DB11 AMR’s uprated twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre powerplant develops 639hp at 6,500rpm and 700Nm at 1,500rpm. While the latter remains unchanged, the former represents a significant boost of 30.4hp over the outgoing V12.
Not only does that ensure the hottest DB11 now has 129hp of breathing space compared with the entry-level AMG V8-powered car, it also provides the DB11 AMR with muscle to worry its archrivals, including the 635hp Bentley Continental GT W12 and 630hp V12 Mercedes-AMG S65.
As suggested by the AMR moniker, an acronym for Aston Martin Racing, the new model gets more than just a power boost. It also sends grunt to the rear axle via a retuned ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox and breathes through a new and less restrictive exhaust system, engineered to give the car a racier tone. The combined results are a new 0-100kph time of 3.7sec, two-tenths better than before, and a top speed of 335kph, a gain of 13kph.
The chassis development team, led by chief engineer Matt Becker, has provided the AMR variant with the more agile suspension and geometry set-up of the younger V8 model. Aston claims the improvements have enhanced its responsiveness but had no noticeable effect on the car’s ability to be a comfortable grand tourer.
To signify its range-topping position, the DB11 AMR gets exposed carbon-fibre trim and gloss black detailing on its exterior. Chrome has also been swapped for monochrome, with dark surrounds on the headlights and smoked tail-lights. This more aggressive theme continues inside, where there’s more monochrome trim and Alcantara upholstery, along with a lime central stripe on the leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Alongside the regular trim options for the AMR, which now includes a new carbon-fibre steering wheel, there are three so-called Designer Specifications available. Buyers can also specify a matching tailored luggage set.
At the car’s launch, Aston is offering a limited-edition version of the AMR with Stirling Green and lime livery that mimic the look of the division’s racing models. This variant gets more carbon-fibre detailing and an interior trimmed with Dark Knight leather and contrasting lime details. Just 100 are due to be made.
Comments
Member Login
Personal Details
No comments yet. Be the first to comment.