Aston Martin adds V8 Vantage S to model range.

The V8 Vantage S is the latest car to join Aston Martin’s glamorous line-up.  Aston Martin says the Vantage S will bridge the gap between the standard V8 Vantage and the GT4 racer that inspired its design.

It comes with the same 4.7-litre engine as the standard V8 Vantage, but with a little extra power – 10hp more to be precise.   The extra grunt means a power output of 430hp at 7300rpm and 490 Nm of torque (361 lb ft) at 5000rpm.

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A new short-ratio seven-speed Sportshift II gearbox sends drive to the rear wheels, which means the Vantage S has a top speed of 189mph (305km/h) - nine mph more than before.  Aston Martin have yet to quote a 0-60mph time, but with the extra power and short gear ratios the standard time of 4.9 seconds should drop by a few tenths.

A “Sport” button will provide quick shift-times as well as increase throttle response.  It will also enhance the sound from the sports exhaust by keeping the exhaust bypass valves open across most of the rpm range.

In a bid to improve handling, the Vantage S gets a quicker steering ratio, firmer springs, firmer dampers, as well as larger brake discs and new front six-piston callipers.  It also get new 19-inch wheels wrapped around in bespoke Bridgestone tyres.  To reduce unsprung mass, forged lightweight wheels are optional.

The V8 Vantage S is now available to order for £102,500 (coupe) and £110,700 (roadster).