Aston Martin has unveiled the Valiant, a new road-legal track car based on the Valour coupe with a twin-turbo V-12 engine producing over 730 horsepower. The Valiant was inspired by a request from Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso and features a multitude of aerodynamic enhancements, carbon fiber bodywork, and advanced suspension technology. The 5.2-liter engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and offers impressive performance improvements over the standard Valour. Only 38 units of the Valiant will be produced, with each already spoken for at a price of around £2 million. Deliveries are set to begin in late 2024, with Alonso slated to receive the first example at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.
Introduction:
Aston Martin has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive performance with the introduction of the Valiant, a new road-legal track car that takes inspiration from the company’s Valour coupe. Built with input from Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso, the Valiant is a high-performance machine that aims to deliver an exhilarating driving experience unlike any other. With a powerful twin-turbo V-12 engine, advanced aerodynamics, and race-ready interior, the Valiant is poised to set a new standard for supercars in its class. In this article, we will explore the key features and specifications of the Aston Martin Valiant, from its engine and performance capabilities to its design and exclusivity in the market.
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1. Performance Upgrades
In terms of performance, the Valiant is a significant step up from the Valour coupe on which it is based. The 5.2-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine under the hood of the Valiant produces an impressive 735 horsepower, a 30-horsepower increase over the Valour. This power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission mounted outback for optimal weight distribution. Despite the increase in power, the torque remains at 555 pound-feet, as it is limited by the gearbox.
2. Aerodynamic Enhancements
The Valiant features a plethora of aerodynamic upgrades to improve downforce and overall performance on the track. The front end of the car has been reworked with a large splitter, while a fixed wing at the rear and a massive diffuser help generate additional downforce. The bodywork is constructed entirely out of carbon fiber, reducing weight and improving airflow around the car. The 21-inch magnesium wheels feature aero discs inspired by Aston’s racing heritage, covering carbon-ceramic brakes for enhanced stopping power.
3. Advanced Suspension Technology
One of the most significant upgrades on the Valiant is the suspension system, which has been replaced with Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers. These high-tech dampers can adjust to thirty-two different settings in less than six milliseconds, allowing for precise handling and control in various driving conditions. This technology is commonly found in high-performance vehicles like the Ford Mustang GTD and modern IndyCars, showcasing Aston Martin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
4. Exclusive Interior Design
Inside the Valiant, drivers will find a race-ready cockpit designed for maximum performance on the track. The cabin is equipped with a half-cage, Recaro Podium bucket seats, and four-point harnesses to keep occupants secure during high-speed driving. Carbon fiber and Alcantara trim adorn the interior, giving the car a luxurious yet purposeful feel. An exposed linkage for the shifter adds a touch of mechanical beauty, while a newly weighted shift knob enhances the feel and effort of gear changes.
5. Limited Production and Pricing
Aston Martin has announced that only 38 units of the Valiant will be produced, with each already pre-sold to exclusive customers. The average transaction price for the Valiant is expected to be around £2 million, making it one of the most expensive cars in Aston Martin’s lineup. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024, with Fernando Alonso set to receive the first example at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. The Valiant’s rarity and performance capabilities make it a highly desirable addition to any automotive enthusiast’s collection.
Summary:
In conclusion, the Aston Martin Valiant is a groundbreaking supercar that showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation and performance. With a potent twin-turbo V-12 engine, advanced aerodynamics, and a track-focused design, the Valiant is a true powerhouse on the road and track. Its limited production run and exclusive pricing make it a highly sought-after collector’s item, with all units already spoken for by discerning customers. The Valiant represents the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s engineering prowess and sets a new standard for road-legal track cars in the industry.