Bringing the checkered flag home to Gaydon.
Since 2009 Aston Martin has achieved much success with its GT4-spec racer, the Vantage GT4, winning the 2010 European GT4 Cup, GT4 class at Dubai 24 Hours, Nürburgring 24 Hours, and the Spa 24 Hours, making it the most successful racecar in its class. The popularity of the racecar is also impressive, as Aston Martin has sold over 80 models in the past two years.
For 2011, Aston Martin has unveiled a new Vantage GT4 that bears design inspiration from the road-going V12 Vantage. The GT4 uses the same aluminum chassis, 4.7-liter engine, and suspension design as the production V8 Vantage, but does feature a number of racing modifications and upgrades.
The new 2011 Vantage GT4 models wear new bodywork that makes them more aerodynamically efficient. The front bumper wears a new splitter that generates more downforce than the previous model, and sends cool air to the brakes and radiator. The underbody is also new, and is designed to redirect air to the rear-mounted high capacity transmission oil cooler. Downforce is increased at the rear with a small trunk spoiler, new carbon fiber diffuser, and rear underbody, allowing the Vantage GT4 to achieve superb handling.
In addition to the enhanced aerodynamic bodywork, the 2011 Vantage GT4 also receives new electronics that help make it easier to drive. Assisting drivers is a Bosch Motorsports ABS and traction control system specifically designed for the Vantage GT4 for better wet and dry performance. The 4.7-liter V-8 is also updated with a remapped ECU that provides a broader power curve.
The Aston Martin Vantage GT4 will be available for the 2011 model year and be eligible for the Aston Martin GT4 Challenge of Great Britain Series, along with other GT4 class racing series.
Aston Martin GT4 Racer
Engine:
Type: 4.7-liter V8 GT4 race specification engine with new engine mapping for 2011
Transmission:
Type: SportshiftTM or 6-speed manual gearbox
Drive: Rear-wheel
Clutch: Twin plate competition clutch
Differential: Limited-slip
Chassis:
Type: Aluminum chassis with Aston Martin Racing-designed steel roll cage to FIA regulations
Exterior:
-V8 Vantage road car bodywork
-V12 Vantage front bumper and splitter
-V12 Vantage rear bumper and diffuser
-V12 Vantage increased rear boot ‘flip’
-V12 Vantage clear rear lights
Wheels:
Type: Cast magnesium 5-stud OZ racing wheels
Front Wheels: 10 x 18
Rear Wheels: 11 x 18
Suspension:
-Front and rear double wishbone suspension with adjustable toe and camber
-Bilstein dampers (adjustable for ride-height only)
-Koni 2-way adjustable damper (optional)
-Rose-jointed suspension upgrade (optional)
Brakes:
-Four piston monoblock front calipers with race pistons (reduced thermal conductivity)
-Four piston monoblock rear calipers
-Two-piece floating front brake discs with the latest Brembo drive system
-Twin outlet front brake cooling ducts
-Pagid RS29 brake pads front and rear (standard)
-Endurance brake upgrade (optional)
-Bosch race-developed ABS and traction control system (optional)
Fuel system:
-100l single-fill fuel tank (standard)
-120l endurance single or dual-fill tanks (optional)
Further options:
-GT4 electrical diagnostic system
-Cosworth D2/D3 datalogging systems
-Air-conditioning
-Air jacks
[Source: Aston Martin]
Do you think the Vantage GT4 will be able to remain the most successful GT4 racer in 2011? Leave a comment and let us know!
