Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition Shines in Geneva

The 2013 Geneva International Motor Show was the venue chosen by Aston Martin to show off a limited edition model of their new Vanquish. Called the Centenary Edition, it has been made to celebrate the British sports car builder's 100th birthday. And just in case you were wondering, the number of examples to ever be built is limited to just 100 units.

So, what sets it apart from the regular Vanquish? Well, its main standout feature is the two-tone graduated paint scheme � the top part of the silver car's bonnet is black (or very dark grey) and it looks like a visual continuation of the black roof. However, the darker part does not simply stop somewhere, as it blends seamlessly with the car's base color the further down the bonnet you go.

The car's badging is also special, and each piece is made out of solid silver.

Step inside its plush interior features swathes of black leather stitched with contrasting silver thread � similar to what you'd find on the One-77 supercar. Finishing off unique interior features are the embroidered headrests and special metallic scuff plates not found on any other model.

The lucky hundred who will be able to afford this car will also be treated to a gift box which includes useful Aston Martin-branded accessories � we found the inclusion of a "silver polishing cloth" which will "help owners ensure the silver centenary wings badges and sill plaques on their car keep their lustre.�

Articles Source : Carscoop

IED's Alfa Romeo Gloria is a Concept for a Sporty Looking Sedan

As far as static concept cars go, there is only one thing they have to do, and do well: look good and attract attention, in order to consolidate a particular brand's image.

One such example is the Instituto Europeo Di Design or IED-designed Alfa Romeo Gloria Concept, which was revealed today at the Geneva Motor Show. It shows a possible future styling direction for a sleek sedan with coupe-inspired lines.

It was designed by a group of 20 students for their thesis project in order to receive their Master of Arts in Transportation Design degree.

Now, while not directly designed by Alfa Romeo, the Italian automaker did participate in its creation, possibly with their own agenda of previewing a proposed four-door model. The official press blurb states that the concept was designed to accommodate turbocharged V6 and V8 engines, undoubtedly referring to those found under the bonnet of the new Maserati Quattroporte. If so, then all-wheel drive is most likely also in the books.

If this is a preview for a future model, the 4.7-meter long concept is a glimpse at what a possible rear-wheel drive mid-size Alfa could look like.

In addition, the car has apparently been design to be an appealing prospect mainly for the Asian and North American markets, where Alfa plans to build on its image as being a premium manufacturer of sporty cars, with the irresistible allure of Italian style.

Articles Source : Carscoop

New Rapide S Takes Center Stage at Aston Martin's Geneva Motor Show Stand

Don�t let the �S� designation fool you: the Rapide S, which made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, is not a sportier version of Aston Martin�s sole four-door model but its revamped replacement.

The jury is still out on that pedestrian-friendly, huge one-piece grille (the rest of the bodywork is mostly the same) but under the skin Aston�s engineers have done a lot of work.

The 5.9-liter V12 now sports 550HP (565PS) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque compared to the outgoing model�s 470HP and 600 Nm respectively. The 17 percent more powerful AM11 unit has gained dual camshaft timing, hollow cam shafts, knock sensing and fully CNC machined combustion chambers and has been placed 19 mm lower in the chassis.

Thus, the Rapide S is 0.3 seconds faster to the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint, which is dispatched in 4.9 seconds, and its top speed exceeds 305 km/h (190 mph). At the same time, despite being more powerful, it cuts CO2 emissions from 355 to 332 g/km.

The VH platform may be 10 years old now, having debuted in the 2003 DB9, but constant updates by Aston Martin mean that it's now in its fourth generation. The new Gen4 VH architecture forms the basis of the revamped saloon, which is also fitted with a new dynamic stability control system and the ADS adaptive damping with three modes (Normal, Sport and Track) calibrated especially for the Rapide S.

Articles Source : Carscoop

2013 Geneva Motor Show

If we are nearing the end of February, then it must be time for the Geneva Auto Show that takes place each year in March. This is the 83rd time that automakers will gather in the Swiss city to display their latest models; the Palexpo center will open its gates on March 5 for the press and two days later for the public and will last until March 17.

In spite of all the fuss about �green� transportation, the 2013 Geneva Auto Show�s most anticipated new models are sports cars.

First and foremost, there�s the Alfa Romeo 4C � a two-seater, rear-wheel drive coupe with a carbon fiber chassis that heralds the Italian manufacturer�s new era and its long-anticipated return to the U.S. market.

Then there�s the Formula 1 duel that has been taken to the streets: Ferrari will unveil the Enzo successor, code-named F150, and rival McLaren, the production version of the P1. Interestingly, both hypercars will be powered by hybrid powertrains and despite putting out in excess of 900-horses, they promise ultra-low CO2 emissions.

Other sports car that will make their premiere in Geneva are the open-top versions of the brand-new Corvette Stingray and the Toyota GT 86 (Scion FR-S in the U.S.), the Aston Martin Rapide S and Vantage SP10 and, of course, a special Lamborghini to celebrate the Sant� Agata-based company�s 50th anniversary.

Naturally, the show won�t be only about sports cars: BMW will launch the 3-Series GT, China's Qoros its 3 Sedan, Volvo its updated range and the VW Group the electrified Audi A3 and VW Golf models.

That�s far from a full description of the cars that will debut at the 2013 Geneva Auto Show, but you can scroll down and view the provisional list in detail.

As always, it will be updated constantly so watch this space.

Acura	Alfa Romeo	Aston Martin	Audi
BMW	Bentley	Bugatti	Cadillac
Chevrolet	Chrysler	Citroen	Dodge
Ferrari	Fiat	Ford	Honda
Hummer	Hyundai	Infiniti	Jaguar
Jeep	Lamborghini	Lancia	Land Rover
Lexus	Lincoln	Maserati	Maybach
Mazda	Mercedes	Mitsubishi	Nissan
Opel	Pagani	Peugeot	Pontiac
Porsche	Renault	Rolls-Royce	Saab
Seat	Skoda	Subaru	Suzuki
Toyota	Volkswagen	Volvo	Concept

Articles Source : Carscoop

Bertone Revisits Aston Martin Vanquish Jet 2 for the Geneva Moto Show

Next up on Bertone's Geneva Motor Show menu after the announcement on the one-off shooting brake-style Rapid Jet 2+2 is an updated version of the Italian design house's 2004 Vanquish Jet 2 concept car.

Bertone says it used the running gear and 210mm (8.2 inches) longer platform of the original 2004 study, dressing it up in a newer body with styling elements from the latest Vanquish coupe, while also adding a second pair of seats at the back.

In a press statement, the coachbuilder said the new Aston Martin Vanquish Jet 2 was created for the company's president, Lilli Bertone.

"The exposed model in Geneva was especially set up for the president of the Company, Mrs Lilli Bertone, with trimmings personalized by Foglizzo Leather (a prestigious Italian Brand founded in 1921) and special paint," said Bertone.

More details on both cars are to be released at the Swiss show next week.

Articles Source : Carscoop

Wheels-And-More for New Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe

Would you be happy with the new Aston Martin Vanquish just like it comes out of the factory? We thought so; but if the answer to that question happens to be negative, then one of the many options that will soon become available on the market is a tune up from German brand "Wheelsandmore".

The tuner avoided making many changes to the exterior, limiting its touch to a pin stripe that runs across the body and wheels, lots of them to be precise.

True to its name, Wheelsandmore offers a wide selection of rims, in terms of styling, colors, sizes and even materials, with available options including 20" and 21" regular wheels, three-piece forged rims and customized carbon fiber wheels.

A software upgrade and a sports exhaust system will add an extra 40PS and 90Nm of torque to AM's stock 5.9-liter V12 engine, lifting total output to 613PS (605hp) and peak torque to 710Nm (524 lb-ft).

The company's current offerings are rounded out by a sports suspension kit.

Articles Source : Carscoop

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish graces Jay Leno's Garage

Jay Leno always seems to lay his hands on some of the best cars � new or old � that have ever been created, so you'd think there aren't many new models that can impress the comic any more. Well after watching the latest installment of Jay Leno's Garage, the collector car king has had some time in newly updated 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish, and if we're not mistaken, he's downright giddy about it.

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

Leno spent a week with the Vanquish, and during his video walkaround, he has almost nothing negative to say about the British coupe, labeling it the "perfect combination" of sports car and a grand touring car, even defending it against very different cars like the Porsche Carrera GT and the Ford Shelby GT500. Starting at almost $300,000 and having a powerful V12 under its long, carbon-fiber hood, Leno notes the Vanquish is sophisticated, astounding him with how well-balanced it is between performance and comfort. Oddly enough, the only thing Leno didn't like about this particular car was its bright blue color, which is probably only a shade or two brighter than Leno's own denim outfit.

Scroll down to watch Leno give his opinion about the Vanquish and then have some real fun taking it for a spin.

Articles Source : Autoblog

2013 Aston Martin Vantage SP10

Aston Martin is launching a very special edition V8 Vantage S in Continental Europe that takes its inspiration from the brand's numerous successes on the race track.

Inspired by its successful motorsport activities in the GT4 racing series - particularly in the VLN endurance championship at the N�rburgring - the new car is a road model that has been engineered in the style of the luxury sports car maker's GT4 racers.

2013 Aston Martin Vantage SP10

2013 Aston Martin Vantage SP10

2013 Aston Martin Vantage SP10

2013 Aston Martin Vantage SP10

With 436 PS and a top speed of 305 km/h, Aston Martin has named the new special edition model Vantage SP10. The inspiration behind it is its namesake class SP10 in the VLN series, in which GT4 racing cars compete at the N�rburgring.

The Aston Martin Vantage SP10 is offered in a bespoke specification that reflects its close affinity with the racing car.

Jeffrey L. Scott, Managing Director of Aston Martin Lagonda of Europe: "Aston Martin has a long and successful tradition in motorsport. Since in the GT4 class the technical similarities between racing cars and their road model cousins are extremely pronounced, many of our customers see their own Aston Martin as a way to identify with our motorsport activities, or they actively participate as 'gentlemen drivers'.

"With the new Vantage SP10 we are now offering a V8 Vantage S with a special motorsport and race track flair - at a competitive price point."

Impressive performance and, for the first time, manual six-speed transmission

Technically, the Vantage SP10 is almost identical to the V8 Vantage S but with the addition, for the first time, of a six-speed manual transmission.

Since its market launch in 2011, the V8 Vantage S has developed into a popular model for Aston Martin customers, a model that places an even greater emphasis on sportiness. With its 4.7-litre V8 engine, which produces 436 PS and 490 Nm on the road, the V8 Vantage S manages 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 305 km/h. This sportiness is enhanced by its striking appearance, which took inspiration from the V12 Vantage, and the sensational sound from the engine, which comes thanks to the sports exhaust with active bypass valves which was specifically developed for this model.

The Aston Martin Vantage SP10 is the first V8 Vantage S to feature a six-speed manual transmission. This manual gearbox is offered as standard and, as with the V8 Vantage, will impress those who enjoy pure sports car driving.

Alternatively, customers can choose the optional Sportshift� II automated manual seven-speed transmission that was developed for the introduction of the V8 Vantage S. This transmission allows for gear changes that are around 20% quicker than the previous transmission, which worked with six gears. This additional gear brings about shorter transmission ratios and optimum gear shifting. And the result: faster acceleration and a more sporty driving experience.

With the V8 Vantage S, Aston Martin has further closed the gap between road cars and racing cars. Like its role model, the Vantage GT4 racing car, it has an extremely rigid aluminium chassis - the ideal platform for a racing car but also the perfect basis for a sporty road car.

Impressive performance, dynamic driving characteristics and superb handling transform the V8 Vantage S, and thus the Vantage SP10, into a sports car that delivers a true 'fun factor' for enthusiast drivers of all kinds.

Design inspired by motorsport

The Aston Martin Vantage SP10 has a purposeful appearance that showcases its agility and performance and transfers the visual dynamics from motorsport to the road.

Both the Coup� and the Roadster are available in Ceramic Grey Metallic. The convertible top of the Roadster is Titan Grey. Its 19-inch cast alloy rims with V-shaped spokes in a diamond turn finish and painted in high-gloss black, and the black brake callipers, emphasise the muscular look of the car. The special paint on the rims is offered exclusively for the special Vantage SP10 model.

Other visual and functional details from the world of motorsport include the front splitter and the carbon rear diffuser - both come as part of the Vantage SP10 standard equipment, along with the clear rear lamps.

Black is the dominant colour in the vehicle interior. Entirely in line with its motorsport pedigree, the Coup� features characteristic Vantage S seat and backrest covers and a sports steering wheel in Black Alcantara.

The silver stitching offers a strong contrast. And the interior is rounded off by a roof liner in Black Alcantara. In contrast to the Coup�, the Roadster features black leather seat and backrest covers and a black leather steering wheel, also with silver stitching.

Both versions are equipped with a centre console in Piano Black. The instrument panel is trimmed entirely with leather and embellished with silver stitching.

Extensive combinations of features for more luxury and practicality

Like the V8 Vantage S, the Vantage SP10 is more than just a distinctive sports model. Thanks to its features, it will prove itself to be outstanding in everyday use.

Electrically operated seats, satellite navigation, cruise control and Bluetooth telephone preparation are just a few examples of the luxurious list of standard equipment that makes the Vantage SP10 a pleasant companion for everyday life. And with the 750W Premium Audio Sound System which is even part of the standard equipment in the Vantage SP10, music lovers can also make the most of this car.

The high-fidelity sound can be enhanced further by choosing the 1000W Bang & Olufsen BeoSound Audio System as an optional extra. This and other additional equipment features, such as a reversing camera, sports suspension (on the Coup� only) or lightweight carbon seats, guarantee even higher levels of comfort and luxury.

One particularly distinctive feature of this special model is a badge on the engine block that features the inscription "Aston Martin Vantage SP10" and which, of course, comes as standard.

Articles Source : Netcarshow

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

The stunning new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut with yet more luxury and yet more power on offer in its quintessentially elegant four-door silhouette.

The iconic British car maker's new luxury GT has been sympathetically redesigned and painstakingly re-engineered to reassert its position as the world's most beautiful, and beautifully balanced, four-seat sports car.

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

2014 Aston Martin Rapide S

Aside from the extensive design and engineering improvements, the luxurious new Aston Martin Rapide S - which replaces the outgoing Rapide in markets worldwide - is now even more refined thanks to a range of additions to the four-seater's sumptuous interior.

Still instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, of course, the new Aston Martin Rapide S now boasts an imposing and assertive new 'face', created by virtue of the impressive and striking new full grille.

Imbuing the new car with an even more sporting, forceful demeanour, the revised front end design is matched at the back by a striking new rear deck profile which includes a more pronounced boot lid 'flip'. The aerodynamic and aesthetic upgrades both reinforce the sporting nature of new Aston Martin Rapide S and work to counteract lift at higher speeds.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: "The Rapide S is to me, without doubt, the most beautiful four-door sports car on the market today. This is, very clearly, the power of luxury in action.

"The car's stunning visual appeal is now matched by a much more powerful and yet more efficient engine - our exceptional new AM11 V12 - which increases massively both the excitement and performance potential of the Aston Martin Rapide S.

"It is a four-door sports car that uniquely combines luxury, style and sporting excitement in Aston Martin's most flexible and accommodating silhouette. Purity of proportion and exceptional elegance are mixed with truly sensational dynamic performance - this is the four-door sports car in its most versatile form and I am sure our customers around the world are going to love it!"

Engineered to excel

Changes under the new Rapide's skin are comprehensive, with a version of the new AM11 naturally-aspirated 6.0-litre V12 powerplant delivering unprecedented power and improved in-gear acceleration.

Power from the new engine jumps significantly versus that of its predecessor: up by 17% or a massive 81 PS from 477 PS at 6,000 rpm to a now very substantial 558 PS at 6,750 rpm.

Peak torque increases, too, up from 600 Nm to 620 Nm at 5,000 rpm. Meanwhile an even more marked improvement in torque occurs lower down the rev range, as pulling power rises by more than 40 Nm between idle and 4,000 rpm with an additional 50 Nm available at 2,500 rpm.

Naturally, increases in power and torque lead to even swifter performance as befits a four-door sports car. New Aston Martin Rapide S shaves 0.3 seconds off its 0-62 mph time, which drops from the 5.2 seconds of the current car to just 4.9 seconds for the new model. Top speed climbs, meanwhile, to 190 mph.

The 5,935 cc naturally aspirated V12 boasts race car technology - developments derived directly from Aston Martin Racing's successful WEC GT campaign - to maximise both performance and efficiency. The new AM11 engine thus boasts fully CNC machined combustion chambers and lighter, hollow, cam shafts.

Dual variable camshaft timing, knock sensing, even the fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system - these are all engineering advances developed to preserve the V12's position as a mainstay of the Aston Martin range.

The engine is now even more efficient, too. Despite the very significant increase in peak power and torque, the Aston Martin Rapide S is appreciably more economical than before. CO2 emissions drop by seven per cent - from 355 g/km to 332 g/km - while fuel economy now stands at 19.9 mpg on the official EU combined cycle.

A product of the latest generation of Aston Martin's world-renowned VH engineering philosophy, which debuted in 2003, the new car of course benefits from many elements of the current Gen4 VH architecture.

The carefully conceived engineering changes continue as the new Rapide now offers even sharper agility and even quicker responses to driver input. The new AM11 engine - a key Gen4 component - has been lowered by 19 mm versus the position of the powerplant in the previous car, with a corresponding reduction in the sports car's centre of gravity.

The changes also lead to a tangible improvement in front end turn-in - no mean feat for a car that was already acknowledged as a leader in dynamic performance.

Aston Martin engineers at the company's global HQ in Gaydon have worked to revise the car's dynamic stability control (DSC) in line with its significant increases in both power and torque.

As befits the more sporting nature of new Aston Martin Rapide S the car benefits from the latest Gen4 iteration of Aston Martin's hi-tech Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The system now offers three distinct settings: 'Normal', 'Sport' and 'Track', with the character of each being tailored to the nature of Aston Martin Rapide S.

The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond quickly to different driving conditions. The different damping modes help to significantly broaden the character of the Aston Martin Rapide S, adapting its set-up to suit the driver's precise requirements. Thus it can be a luxurious GT car in Normal mode with the capacity to morph into a more assertive sports car in Sport and Track modes.

The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car's systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

Head of Product Development at Aston Martin, Ian Minards, explains: "Growing the power in a luxury sports car is all very well, but maximising control and 'usability' of that increased power is, just as much, the engineers' challenge.

"Balance, poise and control are the keys to a successful sports car and the dynamic improvements we have made with Aston Martin Rapide S showcase our efforts to make this not just the most beautiful, but also the most beautifully balanced, car in its class."

He added: "Transmission calibration, ADS refinement, braking capability and engine output optimisation are among the many 'ingredients' which the team here at Gaydon have used to create a sports car of unerring quality and excitement."

Meanwhile, as with the new DB9, the new Aston Martin Rapide S achieves compliance with the latest European pedestrian protection regulations courtesy of its innovative new front grille design.

The lowered engine, new bonnet, new front bumper construction and new grille combine to deliver a uniquely innovative approach to pedestrian impact protection.

The patent-pending design - which features a unique 'keystone' construction - enables the grille to move rearwards on impact, whilst the central and outboard chin stiffeners give rigidity to the lower structure and support achievement of the leg impact regulations. Cut-outs on the front wing catwalks contribute to the achievement of the headform regulation.

The solution means Aston Martin can remain true to its design ethos, and avoid the use of plastic grilles and nose cone bumpers that stretch up in front of the bonnet.

First class cabin

As luxurious as it is thrilling, the new car now boasts a host of new luxury- or sports-orientated options, allowing buyers to more precisely tailor the car to their specific style.

The new optional Carbon Exterior Pack, for instance, immediately dials up the Rapide's sporting attitude. Front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills all fashioned from carbon fibre clearly signal the sporting nature of this 558 PS four-seater.

More pronounced luxury, on the other hand, comes from the new piano black interior pack that adds a deep, rich, mirror-like shine to the facia, transmission tunnel centre plate and door handles of the Aston Martin Rapide S. A darker surround in the instrument binnacle and steering wheel with black horn-push surround round off the pack's sumptuous additions. Luxurious blend headlinings in either tan or grey emphasise the luxury still further inside.

As would be expected of a modern Aston Martin, handcrafting is the order of the day in the Aston Martin Rapide S with the standard-fit pure glass transmission selector switches in the centre console one small yet important example of the truly authentic, bespoke, nature of the car's cabin.

However those with a desire for a more sporting ambience in their sports car will not be disappointed. Optional duotone perforated red and black leather makes its Aston Martin debut here - delivering a captivating visual combination that's unique to the new Aston Martin Rapide S.

Luxury is enhanced by the removal of extraneous 'noise' and the enhancement of desirable 'sound' - a fine distinction but one that helps the new car deliver an aural experience like no other. Improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics are derived from the likes of the new bonnet lining and revised windscreen cowl.

Flexibility comes in the form of four seats - the rearmost two capable of accommodating adults in a uniquely sporting setting - while at the touch of a button the individual back seats fold down to almost triple the Aston Martin's load space.

Options to further enhance the luxurious look and feel of the Aston Martin Rapide S include, subject to market, a reversing camera and twin screen rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remote control and six-disc DVD changer.

Those seeking the ultimate in luxury and personalisation can also consider the 'Q by Aston Martin' service which offers uniquely-tailored options for individualisation. The Q service focuses on fashioning colour and materials with limitless boundaries precisely to customer choice and specification, enabling owners to give free rein to the creativity and indulge their desire for bespoke luxury.

The new Aston Martin Rapide S will be available to order through the brand's 146 dealers worldwide in February 2013.

Articles Source : NetCarShow

EVO Reviews the Aston Martin Rapide, Compares it to the Maserati Gran Turismo

If Aston Martin�s Rapide strikes you as an elongated DB9 with two extra doors and seats, that is because, well, it is.

Designed as a more practical alternative to the British luxury automaker�s line-up, which otherwise consists only of two-door models, the truth is that the Rapide may be the one of the sexiest four-door models on sale, but it hasn�t managed to achieve the kind of sales Aston was hoping for.

Evo�s MD Harry Metcalfe has been running one as a long-term car so he decided to post a review. He also owns a Maserati Gran Turismo, among other vehicles, so he compared the two.

At first glance, the new Quattroporte would have made for a more appropriate comparison. However, in spite of their differences, they are both GTs and, as Metcalfe found out, the Gran Turismo makes for a much closer competitor to the Aston than one would be led to believe by looking at their specs.

You can watch the review and find out why the Maserati makes for a more usable everyday car (!) in the video that follows the break.

Articles Source : Carscoop

Video Source : Youtube

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition

Iconic British sports car brand Aston Martin is marking the start of its 100th birthday celebrations - 15 January - with the unveiling of a bespoke new Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition.

The luxury brand's ultimate GT car showcases a painstakingly created Centenary Edition specification that will be available worldwide on just 100 examples of each of the car maker's model lines: V8 Vantage, DB9, Rapide and Vanquish.

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary Edition

Featuring a unique graduated paint finish, solid sterling silver Aston Martin wing badges with tailored 'trans flux' enamel inlay and a special Aston Martin hallmark, the exterior represents an exclusive new celebration of the company's 100-year history.

Aston Martin CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez, played a key role in the creation of the unique paint treatment, tasking Design Director Marek Reichman and his team with the development of a suitably exclusive and desirable specification.

Dr Bez explained: "Clearly, the centenary of Aston Martin is a great occasion for our business, our customers, and our fans around the world.

"It is only right, then, that we have developed these exceptional Centenary Edition models which will, I am sure, quickly become highly desirable and sought-after."

He added: "The chance to own and enjoy such a stunning piece of Aston Martin's heritage is made all the more rare by the fact that we are limiting numbers to just 100 of each model line. I am sure supporters and enthusiasts of the brand worldwide will be anxious to secure their chosen model quickly!"

A Centenary Edition Aston Martin is identified inside by its exclusive and luxurious treatment. Deep Soft black leather - previously featuring only in the One-77 hypercar - with contrasting silver stitching, a special silver thread embroidery of the Aston Martin wings in the head restraints and solid sterling silver sill plaques individually numbered with an Aston Martin hallmark are among the features unique to the car.

Each Centenary Edition model will also be supplied with a unique presentation box containing a number of exclusive gifts to mark the first 100 years of the company. These include two glass keys, two bespoke key pouches made from leather matching the car's interior trim, solid silver cufflinks featuring the Aston Martin script, solid silver Rollerball pen and high quality Bang & Olufsen headphones.

The gift box will also include a silver polishing cloth to help owners ensure the silver centenary wings badges and sill plaques on their car keep their lustre.

Some specification details will vary market by market around the world but all cars will, as ever, be painstakingly handcrafted at Aston Martin's global headquarters and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Gaydon, in Warwickshire.

The process of creating the unique Centenary Edition paint finish, for instance, clearly demonstrates the brand's commitment to bespoke luxury. Adding an average of 18 hours to a paint process that can already take more than 50 hours to complete, the unique graduated finish is meticulously built by adding special 'tinters' to create the darker inner colour. This custom-made mixture is then applied to each panel by hand, using a special mini-jet spray gun.

Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman explained: "The team has looked closely at the individual contour lines of each of the cars to determine not only the right colours and shades, but also to create a template by which the paint changes from dark to light and where the graduated effect sits."

Articles Source : NetcarShow