Aston GT3 racer breaks cover

By Mark Griffiths

24th August 2011

These are the first official shots of the striking Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3.

The Vantage GT3 features a modified version of the six-litre V12 that powers all Aston Martin's V12 road cars and form the basis of the firm's customer motorsport activities next year.

Enhancements in handling and performance are expected thanks to a shorter wheelbase and its engine mounted lower down than its DBRS9 predecessor.

The modular chassis is a light aluminium and composite structure, as featured in the manufacturer's road going models. This helps Aston Martin achieve a target dry-weight of just 1250kg.

Expected to produce around 600bhp and 500lb ft of torque, the car's dry-sumped engine will be mated to an semi-automatic Xtrac six-speed sequential paddleshift gearbox via a carbonfibre props haft.

The Vantage GT3 will be eligible for numerous events such as the British GT Championship, the FIA GT3 Championship, and the Nürburgring-based VLN endurance series.

Initial testing of the car begins in October, during which time the car will complete more than 6000 miles to ensure its on the pace for next season. Deliveries are expected to start in early 2012 with prices starting at £298,000.