Aston's retro rocketship
This is Aston Martin’s new V12 Speedster. Created by brand’s bespoke customisation service ‘Q by Aston Martin’, the V12 Speedster is a truly visceral driver’s car that draws inspiration from both the brand’s rich racing history and aeronautical design.
Conceived a little over 12 months ago, the Speedster has undergone an intensive development programme, going from drawing board to production reality within that short period. It utilises elements from both the DBS Superleggera and Vantage models to create its own unique platform. With independent double wishbone front, and multi-link rear suspension with coil springs and adaptive damping, the Speedster also benefits from 21-inch forged centre lock alloy wheels and carbon ceramic brakes. Powered by Aston Martin’s 5.2-litre, Twin-Turbo V12 engine, the Speedster can reach a limited top speed of 186mph.
The interior, if you can call it that, uses a mix of traditional and modern materials. Structural satin carbon fibre, contrasts with traditional hand-crafted leather, chrome, aluminium and even 3D printed rubber.
The example featured here is inspired by the legendary F/A-18 jet. Born out of a collaboration with Boeing and created by ‘Q by Aston Martin’, this striking livery takes the legendary fighter jet as inspiration and is finished in Skyfall Silver, with contrasting satin black on the exhaust tips, vent grilles and vanes. The dark theme is carried through to the interior, with satin dark chrome, machined aluminium, black leather, black technical textile, black carpets and vivid red door pulls.