Description
In honour of the 40th anniversary of Aston Martin’s incredible 1959 victory at Le Mans, the marque built just 40 exclusive supercharged versions of their V8 Vantage. Unveiled next to the race-winning DBR1/ 2 at the 1999 Geneva Motor show, the so-named Vantage Le Mans was not just a ‘paint and trim’ special – it was a fully enhanced and upgraded model.
The basis of what was at that time the fastest Aston Martin ever was the standard Vantage, and the Le Mans version could be ordered with either the stock 550bhp or enhanced 600bhp engines. Although at a glance outwardly similar to the latter, the Le Mans could be distinguished by its front wing side vents - recalling those of the DBR1 racer - ducted bonnet, 'nostril' front grille and improved high-downforce air dam, while at the rear the spoiler was revised to incorporate the high-intensity and reversing lights. The Le Mans received unique five-spoke magnesium alloy wheels while beneath the skin its chassis boasted the kind of extensive upgrading, in the form of the 'Driving Dynamics' package, required to cope with the massive increase in performance that the Vantage gained over its Virage progenitor.
On the road, its potential performance was equally staggering: 0-100km/ h (62mph) being achievable in 3. 9 seconds while a top speed in excess of 320km/ h (200mph) was possible. The Le Mans interior too was specially reconfigured in the sporting idiom, boasting perforated competition-style pedals, an oversize tachometer, aluminium gear lever knob, 'button' starter, and brushed metal panelling instead of the traditional wood veneers, while the Wilton carpeting featured embossed 'Aston Martin' emblems.
This example is rather special.
It is no 14 out of only 40 cars ever made and a rare LHD (only 22 in LHD with 4 converted from RHD). with a six speed manual gearbox (1 of 4 made).
The car was a special delivery for H. H Abdelaziz bin Khalifa Al Thani and had only one more owner since it was sold in Europe (now on UK registration).
The car comes with a recent service and service history, and is in immaculate condition throughout.
A great collectors Aston Martin and a future classic now available by Veloce Classic and Sports in London.
- details above
Price: SOLD
