Aston Martin plans to start 2020 with a bang, by previewing its next limited edition, the V12 Speedster, to be produced by 'Q by Aston Martin', the company's bespoke service. As the name suggests, it's a two-seat open-topped sports car, powered by Aston's latest V12 petrol engine. Only 88 examples will be built, with deliveries starting early in 2021. We'd expect it to cost in the region of €1.5 million registered on Irish soil.
A V12 at its heart
Under what appears to be its particularly long bonnet is a new version of Aston Martin's 5.2-litre V12 unit. As elsewhere in the range, it features two turbochargers, while its peak outputs of 700hp and 700Nm of torque put it between the engines of the Aston Martin DB11 AMR and the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels.
Aston DBR1 inspiration
The only image we have of the V12 Speedster is a rather abstract side profile, though Aston Martin says it was inspired by its famous DBR1 racer, which won Le Mans (and more) in 1959. Don't expect it to be too retro, though, as Aston also cites the CC100 Speedster Concept of 2013 as a design reference. A quick glance at both of those cars should tell you that the V12 Speedster is designed for driving in sunny climes only.
A word from the boss
Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, said: "The V12 Speedster we're proud to confirm today once again showcases not only this great British brand's ambition and ingenuity, but also celebrates our rich and unrivalled heritage.
"The 88 enthusiast drivers and collectors who secure the keys to these cars can be confident that in doing so, they are also securing an iconic new piece of Aston Martin history."