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RPM TV Website | March 24, 2024

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Aston’s V8 Vantage sheds weight, gains appeal

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420
Adam Schoeman

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420

The car that put Aston Martin back on the map has had a tough time of late. The V8 Vantage marked the British sports car marque’s return to greatness, and while it wasn’t perfect, its combination of emotive looks, supple dynamics and one of the best exhaust notes in the business ensured instant success.

However, it was never as quick as it looked, prompting the release of a more powerful (and dearer) V12 version – and removing the V8 model from the limelight of desirability in the process.

Now, Aston Martin has released details of a new, special edition version of the V8Vantage. It’s dubbed the N420 (don’t ask me why), and it combines a number of unique features to create what could well be the best V8-powered Vantage to date.

While the special edition retains the standard V8 powerplant, with 313 kW and 430 Nm on tap, the kerb mass has been reduced by 27 kg to improve the power to weight ratio, while a new exhaust system provides a livelier soundtrack to match.

The Vantage N420 boasts sportier ride and handling characteristics, thanks to tauter spring and damper settings, coupled to thicker anti-roll bars.

The more obvious changes include an exterior with wider sills, a carbon fibre front splitter, side strakes and diffuser, redesigned wheels, and black mesh air intakes.

Inside, lightweight carbon fibre seats replace the standard chairs, while aesthetic touches included graphite instrument faces, contrasting seat stitching, and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel.

There’s no word on price or local availability of the V8 Vantage N420 in South Africa, but we’re pretty sure a handful of the special cars will make it to our shores in the not too distant future. It could well become the best V8 Vantage to date.

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