German Car Zone

Another carmaker going lightweight. Hope MB does the same soon.

Aston is also planning a stripped-out DB9, which will appear alongside the lightweight V8 Vantage.

Taking its inspiration from the DBRS9 GT3 racer launched earlier this year, the road version will be more user-friendly, but have similar performance, and will rival Ferrari's 575M. Sharing the DBRS9's styling - although minus the rear wing - the new DB9's body will be made of carbon composite panels. Racing buckets will replace the front seats, while the two rear chairs will be ditched. This will help lower weight by around 250kg.

Powered by a 550bhp 6.0-litre V12 modified by Aston Martin Racing, the lighter DB9 should manage the 0-60mph sprint in around four seconds and have a top speed approaching 200mph. A conventional six-speed gearbox is likely to replace the standard car's paddleshift unit, while the ride height is lower and adjustable dampers will be fitted to the double wishbone suspension. A price tag of around £125,000 is expected. (AutoExpress)

British weekly Auto Express is claiming in its most recent issue that Aston Martin is developing an RS version of its V8 Vantage that will have a stripped out interior, tuned engine and stiffer suspension. Auto Express has lots of details, including the extreme lengths to which Aston Martin will go to reduce weight that include composite body panels, a carbon fiber roof and 19-inch wheels made out of magnesium. All in all the Vantage RS will weigh around 330 lbs. less than the standard V8 Vantage putting it at 3,130 lbs. The car’s 4.3L V8 will also see a boost in power to 420 hp and the company will even make a roll cage optional equipment. This track master won’t go on sale until at least 2007 and will likely have a heavy price tag - around $156,000US.

repost
http://germancarzone.com/showthread.php?t=1556

Merge the threads

Eye, eye captain!!! Threads Merged!!!