The Birth of AMR: Aston Martin's Race-Inspired 2018 Models
Aston Martin, a name synonymous with luxury and performance, took the stage at Geneva Auto Show to officially launch their highly anticipated sub-brand - AMR. The brand brings together technology influenced by motorsport and injects enhanced dynamism into the already sporty DNA of Aston Martin's lineup. Two models were presented representing this new era: the four-seater Rapide AMR, which redefines luxe-performance fusion; and Vantage AMR Pro - an aerodynamically designed 507 PS behemoth boasting a race-derived appeal.
From Track Stardom to Tarmac Royalty
The function-centric design language adopted by these models draws vibes directly from the racetrack itself. This philosophy builds on Aston’s storied racing heritage dating back to its victorious Team Cars in Ulster TT road races during mid-1930s, followed by Sir David Brown introducing coveted ‘Vantage’ spec replicas after their historic Le Mans win in 1959 with the iconic DBR1.
Rapide AMR: The Fastest Four-door Sedan Reimagined
The Rapide doesn't just exemplify speed but also elegance that could only come from Aston Martin engineers' craftsmanship. Powered by a revamped version of their celebrated naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12 engine generating a remarkable 600PS, it breaks through any ambiguity about its capabilities – being capable of reaching speeds up to 210MPH solidifies its position as world's fastest production four-door sedan.
This velocity is tastefully enhanced visually — sporting signature Stirling Green exterior accented with vibrant lime green decor recalling the Racing lineage; but it's not all skin deep. A host of noteworthy features such as redesigned 21-inch alloy wheels, a dramatic full-height signature grille along with an aerodynamic front splitter and rear diffuser, all come together to make the Rapide AMR not just fast but also attention grabbing.
For those who appreciate subtle details, the carbon fiber accents are like finishing strokes on Picasso's canvas. As expected from Aston Martin, the interior is no less impressive featuring lightweight carbon fibre seats bathed in Dark Knight Alcantara upholstery accented by Lime Green touches - creating a seamless fusion of racing aspiration and lavish refinement inside out.
Vantage AMR Pro: The Exemplar
If you ask what sets Vantage ANR Pro apart? It starts under the hood. This track-only brute houses a race-tuned engine — derived directly from Aston Martin Racing’s GT4 powerplant—that churns out colossal 507PS making it the most powerful V8 Vantage ever built. To handle this beastly prowess we find an adjustable race-spec suspension set-up teamed up with competition-engineered transmission mounts offering supremely precise handling capabilities.
The Stirling Green exterior complemented with lime green hue adds to its sporty allure while imbibing design cues as seen on Aston Martin Racing’s championship winning V8 Vantage GTE racer. Features such as new bumper housing a bold full height grille, redesigned valance & splitters round off it's menacing yet sophisticated look further leaning into its motorsport pedigree.
The cockpit narrates similar tales where extensive use of carbon fibre blends harmoniously with sumptuous dark knight Alcantara upholstery elegantly highlighted lime green. These elements coupled with a custom roll cage – courtesy Q by Aston Martin– creates an ambiance that screams performance competing only with how spectacular it feels behind the wheel.
A Future Painted With High-Performance Hues
Aston Martin's commitment to their high-performance brand, AMR seems solid and it’s set to shape the future of Aston Martin range. The Vantage will see a limited series production run—capped at just 7 units while Rapide isn't far behind with only 210 slated for manufacturing. With such an exhilarating start, one can expect nothing less than automotive spectacle from this "track-to-tarmac" philosophy backed sub-brand.
-Ed
2018 Aston Martin Rapide AMR
