Taking direct influence from Aston Martin’s exploits on the track, the launch of the new AMR brand marks the start of an exciting expansion to the British marque.
Not only will AMR take inspiration from its racing programme, but also its technology that has helped it become a highly successful team in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), as well as in numerous GT3 and GT4 series around the world. As a result, cars produced within the AMR moniker will benefit from enhanced performance, sharper dynamics and a more aggressive styling direction.
Kicking off Aston Martin’s AMR brand will be two extremes versions of models featured in the company’s current line-up: the Rapide AMR and Vantage AMR Pro. Unveiled at the 2017 Geneva motor show, the two models are fully intended for production and will be built in strictly low numbers.
Rapide AMR
Representing the first tier of the AMR brand, the Rapide AMR fully enhances the four-door saloon to make put it on a totally new level the Rapide S. A whole host of changes have been made to ensure a combination of power and sharply tuned dynamics.
The Rapide AMR features Aston Martin’s naturally aspirated 6.0-litre V12, but in this instance, power has been increased to 600ps (592bhp) to make it the world’s most thrilling four-door saloon and capable of a 210mph top speed. Meanwhile, a new quad exhaust system and features such as new 21in alloy wheels, front splitter and rear diffuser create a much more aggressive stance.
Styling is also enhanced through the use of carbon fibre detailing, while the exterior is graced with AMR’s signature Stirling Green and the flashes of lime green. Inside you’ll find lightweight carbon fibre front seats, trimmed neatly in Dark Knight Alcantara.
Vantage AMR Pro
Aston Martin’s success with the Vantage GT8 and GT12 programmes has pushed the company to further expand on what the Vantage range can offer. The Vantage AMR Pro is the result of this and was perhaps a natural choice given the racing outfit’s success with the Vantage in WEC and GT programmes. As such, it will be AMR’s first track-only example.
The Vantage AMR Pro will also become the most powerful V8 Vantage and is a pure demonstration of Aston Martin’s ‘Track to Tarmac’ philosophy. The AMR division has placed a version of the Aston Martin Racing’s GT4 V8 race engine under the bonnet, with this development offering 507ps (500bhp).
Further track influences come in the form of race-spec adjustable suspension and new 19in x 9.5in front and 19in x 11.5in rear centre lock wheels, dressed in Michelin Pilot Cup 2 tyres. The Vantage AMR Pro’s styling is made to match this race track set-up, with the car also adorned in Stirling Green with lime green accents.
To complete the AMR experience, the Vantage uses the same bonnet and rear wing from the V8 Vantage GTE race car that competes in the WEC. Complimenting these features is a bold new grille and bumper section, along with a new front valance and splitter and revised rear diffuser. The interior, as you might image, is track-orientated, with features such as carbon fibre race seats covered in Dark Knight Alcantara upholstery.