Aston Martin releases the V8 Vantage S

"The Vantage S epitomizes every attribute of the V8 Vantage and pushes the driver experience beyond what we have offered before", says Dr. Ulrich Bez, CEO of Aston Martin, "It combines dynamic exhilaration with all the charming finesse, beauty and practicality already associated with the Vantage range".

Performance has been enhanced for the V8 Vantage S, with the 4.7-litre V8 engine tuned to churn out 430bhp and 490Nm of torque, 10bhp and 20Nm more than the standard V8 Vantage. The Vantage S also comes with a new 7-speed Sportshift II gearbox, which has shorter gear ratios and is 20% quicker than the V8 Vantage's 6-speed Sportshift transmission.

Aston Martin has also tweaked the chassis and handling characteristics of the car, with the Vantage S boasting of a sportier steering ratio, larger front brake discs which measure 380mm and are clamped by new six-piston callipers, and new springs/dampers. There is also a new dynamic stability control system and a revised brake module with Hydraulic Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist, while new exhaust muffler and a bypass valve gives the car a "very distinctive and highly vocal exhaust note"

Cosmetically, the V8 Vantage S, which is available in both coupe and convertible form, features a few additions to differentiate it from the standard V8 Vantage, such as a carbon fibre front splitter, a larger air intake, a new rear bumper, and a carbon fibre diffuser. Other changes include modified side sills, a bigger rear spoiler and 19-inch alloy wheels with bespoke Bridgestone tyres. The interior has also been given new sports seats, a sport steering wheel, Weave Alloy trim, and numerous Vantage S badges.