Unveiled in March 2020, the Aston Martin V12 Speedster is moving to the next stage of its development, the all-important road testing. The limited-run special has made its dynamic debut in prototype form ahead of its on-road testing program that will soon get underway. To mark the occasion, Aston Martin has released photos of the prototype sporting a matte black paint.
Compared to the show car, the prototype
looks almost identical. The only exceptions seem to be the lack of inlays in
the front grille, the exposed carbon fiber rear bumper trim with larger
tailpipe trims and six perforations flanking them, as well as the absence of
transparent material on the back of the aero cowlings.
Described by Aston Martin as an “uncompromising,
visceral two-seater”, the V12 Speedster will be limited to 88 examples
worldwide when deliveries start early next year. The radical roadster has taken
Q by Aston Martin just 12 months to get from the conception to production of
the first prototype.
The car mixes Aston Martin Vantage and DBS
Superleggera underpinnings within a bespoke bonded aluminum architecture. The
automaker did not reveal the curb weight, but taking into account that the body
is made almost completely of carbon fiber and it lacks a roof and a windscreen,
the V12 Speedster must be very light.
It also promises to be a hoot to drive
given that power comes from a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 that delivers 690 HP and 752 Nm of torque. That’s enough mechanical muscle for
a zero to 100 km/h sprint of 3.5 seconds and governed top speed of 300 km/h.
As if the V12 Speedster wasn’t unique
enough, it also features standard 21-inch forged center lock wheels, carbon
ceramic brakes, and a bespoke exhaust system. Prices start from £ 765,000
(US$ 986,800) in the UK, though it’s unclear how many of the 88 units are still
available.
