Because you asked for it!
The Aston Martin V12 Zagato was supposed to be a special prototype model that celebrated the 50th anniversary of the DB4GT. The partnership between Aston Martin and Zagato half a century ago produced one of the most iconic racecars in Aston Martin’s history. Today the partnership has again produced an icon, but instead of being a prototype it will see a limited production run of 150 examples.
“Such style, exclusivity and fastidious craftsmanship ensures it will be one of the most highly coveted models in Aston Martin’s 98-year history,” said Dr. Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin’s Chief Executive. “A fabulous celebration of the iconic DB4GT Zagato, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, the V12 Zagato is the perfect inspiration for the next 50 years of Aston Martin.”
The Aston Martin V12 Zagato received overwhelming praise at each of its unveilings. During the Villa D’ Este Concours event, the V12 Zagato won the Design Award in the Concepts and Prototypes class. Aston Martin has been using the Nürburgring 24 hour race as a test bed for new products for five years, and the new V12 Zagato was a perfect candidate. Two endurance racecar variants were built and pushed to their limits in the 39th ADAC Nürburgring 24 Hour endurance race, passing with flying colors as they covered over 3,700 miles and 230 laps combined.
Based on the V12 Vantage, the new Aston Martin Zagato collaboration features a handcrafted aluminum and carbon fiber body with signature Zagato hallmarks such as the double-bubble roof. Each of the aluminum panels are formed using an English wheel and traditionally crafted body bucks, allowing for a beautiful figure that could not be made using pre-formed techniques. The chassis is constructed from Aston Martin’s most dynamic aluminum platform and is powered by a 510 bhp, 420 lb-ft. 6.0-liter V-12 engine.
“The V12 Zagato is an elegant yet brutal design which reflects the great balance between race performance and pure Aston Martin style,” said Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Director of Design. “The original DB4GT Zagato was a true icon, powerful and graceful; the new design is a true representation of the spirit of DB4GT Zagato. The muscular organic forms define the thoroughbred nature of the car’s racing credentials.”
Aston Martin is currently accepting orders on a first come, first serve basis for the V12 Zagato. Only 150 models will be produced by hand at the Aston Martin headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, with production starting in the summer of 2012. The first deliveries are scheduled to commence during the second half of 2012. The Aston Martin V12 Zagato price will be set at £330,000 GBP (+/- 528,000 USD).
Aston Martin V12 Zagato Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 6.0 liters
Number of Cylinders: V-12
Compression Ratio: 10.9:1
Maximum Horsepower: 510 bhp (380 kW)
Maximum Torque: 420 lb-ft. (570 Nm)
Transmission:
Type: Rear mid-mounted six-speed automated manual
Drive: Rear-wheel
Clutch: Twin-plate competition
Drivetrain: Magnesium alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft, limited slip differential
Suspension and Brakes:
Suspension: All round independent double wishbone with fully adjustable Multimatic DSSV dampers
Front Brakes: Ventilated floating grooved discs with 6 piston callipers
Rear Brakes: Ventilated floating grooved discs with 4 piston callipers
Body:
-Two door, two seat coupe body
-Bonded aluminium structure
-Bespoke steel roll cage.
-Hand crafted Aluminium body
-120 liter endurance racing fuel tank
Aston Martin V12 Vantage Zagato Video
Aston Martin V12 Vantage Zagato Gallery
[Source: Aston Martin]
Do you think that Aston Martin should produce the V12 Zagato? Why or why not?
