The New Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
Aston Martin recently unveiled a new Vantage Roadster. This model joins the Vantage Coupe. As with all past vehicles in the lineup, the car delivers a compelling blend of outstanding dynamics, everyday utility, and potent performance according to Aston Martin. Let’s see what’s under the hood.
The Powertrain
Its powertrain remains the same as what is found in the coupe. The 4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 510PS and torque of 680Nm. This engine is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. It allows the car to jump from zero to 60mph in just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 190mph with its roof raised. Compared to the coupe, it weighs only 60kg more. This is made possible by the lighter Z-fold roof mechanism as well as optimized revisions to the chassis and exterior.
Aerodynamics and Drivability
The design of the structural shear panels and chassis ensure that the Roadster retains strong aerodynamic capabilities and sporting character of the Coupe. It shares the same Dynamic Stability Control, Adaptive Damping, Electronic Rear Differential, and Dynamic Torque Vectoring as the Coupe. It also features some specific aerodynamic enhancements such as ESP Calibration, tuned rear dampers, and Adaptive Damping System software. The car features three chassis modes, which include Sport, Sport + and Track. These modes should ensure that the driver enjoys a high level of responsiveness and excitement, whether they are on a racetrack or the road.
While the Vantage Roadster offers the same pace, cornering performance, and tactility as the Coupe, its design has its own identity. Its fabric hood can be raised in 6.8 seconds and lowered in 6.7 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph, making it the fastest full operating cycle of any convertible system, according to Aston Martin. We’ll need to verify that independently.
Unique Design Aspects
The Vantage Roadster has a low stack height that allowed the Aston Martin design team to create a seamless rear profile without affecting its cargo capacity. The trunk has a capacity of 200 liters, which is more than enough for a full-sized golf bag and other accessories.
As part of the 70th Anniversary celebration of the Vantage nameplate, the design team introduced the iconic ‘vane’ grille as an option. This grille will be offered on both the Roadster and the Coupe as a replacement for the ‘hunter’ grill that was introduced on the Coupe in 2018. Different alloy wheel designs are also available. The Coupe meanwhile will now offer the option of a 7-speed manual transmission. That’s an option that was previously only available in the limited-edition Vantage AMR.
According to the company President, Andy Palmer, for many fans of the Aston Martin brand, driving with the roof down is a true definition of a sports car experience. He added that this car would take the adrenaline rush of driving a sports car to the next level. I don’t know about all that. I’ve always preferred coupes over roadsters. Having said that, this car is definitely easy on the eyes and appears to be incredibly agile. I’ll like to get my hands on one. The Roadster will likely show up at one of the UK driving experiences soon. Once that happens, we’ll happily take it for a spin. Deliveries will begin in Q2 2020.
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