Aston Martin has recently announced their plans to celebrate their 110-year anniversary with the introduction of a highly exclusive model known as the Valour. This new model is set to captivate enthusiasts due to its limited production run of only 110 units. Adding to its allure is its significant price tag, which starts from a staggering £1 million before customizations.
Aston Martin Valour
Aston Martin Valour draws inspiration from the breathtaking one-off creation, aptly named “The Victor,” which was originally crafted exclusively for a discerning client. The Victor itself was inspired by 70’s racer built by Aston dubbed “The Muncher”. So if you’re not confused already, it is an exclusive car which is based on a one-off which was inspired by a 70’s racer which was then inspired by American muscle cars.
Beauty
The Aston Martin Valour commands attention with its stunning design. Its carbon fiber bodywork and captivating clamshell hood, featuring a ‘horse shoe’ vent and twin NACA ducts, contribute to its striking appearance. Circular LED headlights, a wide grille, and vertical air curtains adorn the front end, accompanied by a prominent splitter and exposed carbon fiber accents.
Moving along the sides, the Valour showcases pronounced front fenders with functional vents, sleek bodywork, muscular rear haunches, and an alluring double bubble roof. One of its standout features is the set of 21-inch forged alloy wheels with a honeycomb design, exclusively crafted by Aston Martin and matched with Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires. To ensure exceptional braking performance, the car is equipped with a carbon ceramic braking system, featuring 16.1-inch (410 mm) front discs and 14.2-inch (360 mm) rear discs.
At the rear, the Valour boasts a distinctive Kamm tail and attention-grabbing “vortex generating exoblades.” Taking center stage is the center-mounted triple tailpipe exhaust system, flanked by a prominent diffuser. Completing the rear design are LED taillight blades and a full-width aluminum accent, enhancing the visual appeal of the car.
Power
Returning to the powertrain, the Valour boasts a twin-turbo 5.2-liter V12 engine generating 705 hp (715 PS) and 555 lb-ft (753 Nm) of torque. This represents a slight increase compared to the V12 Vantage, which offers 690 hp (700 PS) and the same torque output. However the wheelbase is shorter than the DB11 and Longer than the V12 Vantage which makes it unique and bespoke.
Piece de resistance of the Valour is a 6- speed manual gearbox. Which makes it one of the only cars which has a combination of a V12 and a manual. A limited-slip differential also aids the rear wheels in delivering all that power. While Aston Martin didn’t provide detailed specifications, the V12 Vantage can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h). However we expect it to slightly slower due to the manual transmission.
Though the automaker didn’t disclose specific figures, they confirmed the Valour features Sport, Sport+, and Track modes, which offer meticulously calibrated throttle response, torque management, and distinctive sound characteristics. Aston Martin also mentioned that the model benefits from a newly developed steering system and a bespoke suspension setup with adaptive dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars, all specifically tuned for the car. The Valour further incorporates a custom body structure comprising front and rear shear panels, a rear strut tower brace, and fuel tank bracing to maximize rigidity.
While performance was a clear priority for the automaker, comfort was not overlooked. Aston Martin emphasized that the Valour remains a road car above all else, promising exceptional driving dynamics and sufficient compliance to excel on exhilarating driving routes.
Soul
The cabin of the Valour closely resembles the standard Vantage, but notable updates can be found in the revised center stack, which now incorporates new air vents and updated switchgear. Additionally, the center console has been completely redesigned to accommodate the car’s six-speed manual transmission and is the center piece of the interior. The manual transmission is operated using an elegant shifter with a wooden ball and featuring high-end detailing and polish around it.
While Aston Martin did not provide extensive details, the Valour is equipped with carbon fiber door panels complemented by pull straps. The sport seats feature carbon fiber shells and are upholstered in a unique “woollen tweed” material, inspired by the seat coverings of the iconic Le Mans-winning DBR1 from 1959. The combination of these elements creates a breathtakingly cool aesthetic in the cabin.
