Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster

The three-layer fabric hood is opened and closed in only 18 seconds and gives a taut, aggressive appearance when closed and when folded, the flow from front to rear is smooth and elegant, enhanced by the leather speed humps that create a unique transition between interior and exterior.

Now that Spring is here, thoughts turn to open-air motoring…

The Vantage Roadster is a high-performance compact sports car, yet the engine is so tractable, the handling so predictable, the visibility so good and the controls so easy to use that it is as comfortable in town or city as it is on country roads or even the track.   Combine this with electronic high safety standards providing reassurance whatever the driving conditions, the Roadster delivers the sensational feel of open-air motoring with ease, making it both a weekday working car and the ultimate weekend treat.

Dynamically, the Vantage Roadster has enviable credentials: an advanced, lightweight V8 engine, one of the most lightweight rigid body structures available, fully independent double wishbone suspension and optimum weight distribution.  Put them together and it’s little wonder that the result is a supremely agile and entertaining open sports car that offers an invigorating ride.

Built in the UK at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, in Warwickshire, the V8 Vantage Roadster is a thoroughbred sports car, available with two transmission alternatives: the fast-shifting, six-speed Graziano stick-shift manual gearbox and Aston Martin’s new Sportshift automated manual transmission.  With 0-100km/h of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 175 mph its performance figures are as heady as you would expect of an Aston Martin.

Click here for the V8 Vantage’s stunning review in the 19 March issue of Surrey Life. For further details on V8 Vantage Roadster, please click here for more details