Aston Martin Unveils Special-Edition ‘Valour’ As A Tribute To Thrill & Tradition

Aston Martin is celebrating its 110th anniversary with the introduction of the Valour, an exclusive manual transmission vehicle that pays homage to the automaker’s long history of front-engined sports cars.

Valour traces its roots to some of the marque’s most iconic releases. Firstly, it is inspired by the original V8 Vantage and the legendary Vantage-based RHAM/1 ‘Muncher’ Le Mans racer from 1980, and embodies their raw power.

Engineers creating the vehicle drew inspiration from the twin supercharged V600 Vantage from the 1990s, which was once the most powerful production car in the world. The design and execution of Valour are reminiscent of the breathtaking One-77 supercar and the unique Victor.

But here’s the catch: Aston Martin is only making 110 of these special-edition cars worldwide.

Impressively, the automaker has paired the beastly 5.2-liter V12 engine with a bespoke six-speed manual transmission for the first time ever. This is paired with a custom suspension system comprising adaptive dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars made specifically for the model.

The vehicle’s wheel alignment geometry has been tweaked with dedicated camber, castor, and toe settings for a well-defined ride and handling experience.

But Valour isn’t just about power and performance; it’s a head-turner from every angle. The body is crafted entirely from carbon fiber, combining Aston Martin’s modern design with classic cues from the iconic V8 Vantage of the 1970s. Its clamshell bonnet features a large ‘horseshoe’ vent and twin NACA ducts, ensuring that the twin-turbocharged V12 beneath it stays cool.

Aston Martin’s iconic grille has been given a modern touch, with aluminum strakes in the center and large carbon fiber intakes on the sides. These intakes not only provide cool air to the engine and brakes but also frame the unique round LED headlights, giving Valour a menacing look.

The rear end of Valour is just as eye-catching. It boasts a dramatic tail-light design with LED light blades that remind you of the Valkyrie hypercar.

Within the car, one will find a cockpit that oozes timeless elegance and a delightful tactile experience. The manual transmission gear lever takes center stage, offering a choice of machined aluminum, titanium, carbon fiber, or walnut for the gear knob.

This vehicle has even incorporated traditional woolen tweed— inspired by the seat coverings of Aston Martin’s 1959 Le Mans-winning DBR1, alongside the high-tech carbon fiber used for the lightweight performance seats, door cards, air vents, center console, and transmission tunnel.

To make the car extra special, customers can personalize their ride with 21 paint color options so that the Valour will be truly one-of-a-kind.

[via Car and Driver and Top Gear, images via Aston Martin]

This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked.