2010 Aston Martin Rapide: A Four-Door Sports Car with Power and Elegance
In a highly anticipated debut, Aston Martin unveiled the Rapide at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This sleek and luxurious four-door sports car combines spaciousness for up to four adults with the exhilarating driving experience that is synonymous with all Aston Martins.
An Interior Designed for Comfort and Functionality
The Rapide's interior has been intelligently designed to create a space where passengers feel fully engaged in the driving experience while enjoying clear views to the front and sides of the vehicle. The hand-trimmed individual seats provide exceptional comfort and support, while a personal face-level heating and air conditioning system ensures optimum temperature control. Practicality is enhanced by a movable bulkhead in the luggage compartment, allowing easy access from the rear cabin. Additionally, the rear seats can be folded flat at the touch of a button, providing ample space for luggage or other belongings.
A Powerful Engine Delivers Effortless Performance
At the heart of every Aston Martin lies an evocative engine, and the Rapide is no exception. Featuring a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) peak torque at 5000 rpm, this sports car offers impressive performance capabilities. The specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission allows for seamless gear changes via steering column-mounted magnesium paddles.
An Aston Martin for Every Taste and Occasion
Rapide represents the culmination of Aston Martin's range of sports cars, offering something for everyone. Whether it's an invigorating yet comfortable ride for long journeys or a thrilling sports car experience, the Rapide delivers. Aston Martin CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez stated, "There is now an Aston Martin for every taste and for every use."
An Exquisite Design that Demands Attention
The Rapide's design remains unmistakably Aston Martin, with its graceful four-door silhouette that maintains the essence of a sporting coupe. The unique 'swan wing' doors open gracefully at 12 degrees to avoid scuffs and scratches when parked next to raised walkways. The front features polished alloy upper and lower grills and single lens bi-xenon headlights with innovative light tube sidelights. Strong rear haunches convey power, while the iconic side strake has been lengthened through to the rear doors, enhancing the lateral proportions of this elegant vehicle.
Specification Highlights
- Four door body style with 4 individual seats
- Extruded bonded aluminium VH body structure
- All alloy quad overhead cam 48 valve 5935cc V12 engine
- Rear mid-mounted six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic gearbox
- Rack and pinion Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering
- Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves
- Dual cast brake discs with six-piston calipers (front) and four-piston calipers (rear)
- Front independent double wishbone suspension; rear independent double wishbones with adaptive dampers
- 20" alloy wheels fitted with Bridgestone Potenza tires
- Premium interior features including full grain leather, walnut facia trim, and heated front and rear seats
- Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system with integrated iPod connector and Bluetooth telephone preparation
Conclusion: A Four-Door Sports Car with Unparalleled Elegance
The 2010 Aston Martin Rapide is a remarkable addition to the Aston Martin lineup. Its combination of power, elegance, and practicality sets it apart in the luxury four-door sports car segment. With its hand-built V12 engine, exquisite design details, and exceptional interior comfort, the Rapide offers an engaging driving experience for all occupants. Whether taking on winding roads or embarking on long journeys, the Rapide provides an exhilarating yet comfortable ride that is sure to impress. This model truly embodies Aston Martin's values of Power, Beauty, and Soul.
-Ed
2010 Aston Martin Rapide
