In a world increasingly dominated by advanced technology and automated driving experiences, the Aston Martin Valour stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of manual driving. Unveiled to celebrate Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, the Valour is a rare breed in the modern automotive landscape. Limited to just 110 units, this retro-futuristic coupe is a tribute to the brand’s storied history and a nod to the purists who cherish the visceral connection between driver and machine.
A Celebration of Heritage and Performance
The Aston Martin Valour is inspired by iconic models like the Virage V600 Vantage, the DBS V8 Vantage, and the DB7 V12 Vantage. It features a twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V-12 engine that produces over 700 horsepower, delivering a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is engaging. However, it’s not just about raw power; the Valour is designed to provide a driving experience that is both rare and deeply involving.
Unlike the forthcoming Vanquish coupe, which will feature an eight-speed automatic transmission and over 800 horsepower, the Valour is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. This makes it one of the few modern V-12 coupes, alongside Gordon Murray’s GMA T.50 and T.33 hypercars, to offer a manual gearbox. This choice underscores Aston Martin’s commitment to providing an authentic and tactile driving experience.
Aston Martin Valour -Distinctive Design and Aerodynamics
The Valour’s design is a blend of past and present. Its muscular carbon fiber panels are reminiscent of the DBS V8 Vantage and the Vantage-based RHAM/1 ‘Muncher’ Le Mans racer from 1980. The clamshell hood features a large horseshoe cooling vent, similar to the one used on the one-off Aston Martin Victor, built in 2020. The Kamm tail and the prominent front splitter, along with the unique round headlights, give the Valour a distinctive and aggressive look.
The rear of the Valour features clusters of LED light blades, echoing those of the Victor and the Valkyrie hypercar. A full-width aluminum accent separates the upper and lower sections of the rear fascia, while a triple tailpipe exhaust, fabricated from lightweight stainless steel, delivers a 15-pound weight saving over a traditional system.
Despite its retro design cues, the Valour is equipped with state-of-the-art aerodynamics. The prominent front splitter, front fender vents, and vortex-generating exoblades work together to manage airflow and achieve a good aerodynamic balance at speed. These features are designed to enhance the driving experience without compromising the car’s classic aesthetic.
Engineering Excellence
Beneath its striking exterior, the Valour shares much of its bonded aluminum structure with the limited edition 2023 V12 Vantage. This structure includes front and rear shear panels, a rear suspension tower strut brace, and fuel tank bracing, all of which contribute to increased torsional and lateral stiffness. The suspension system features multi-link front and rear setups with adaptive dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars, ensuring precise body control and increased refinement.
The Valour’s braking system consists of carbon-ceramic brakes with 16.1-inch rotors at the front and 14.2-inch units at the rear. The car rides on 21-inch wheels, shod with Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires, providing excellent grip and stability.
A Manual Transmission for Enthusiasts
At the heart of the Valour is its 5.2-liter, twin-turbo V-12 engine, which produces 705 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an Italian-made Graziano six-speed manual transaxle transmission, mounted at the rear axle. Aston Martin worked closely with Graziano to ensure the transmission could handle the engine’s torque while providing a satisfying and engaging feel.
The Valour’s mechanical limited-slip differential, integrated into the transmission transaxle housing, plays a key role in delivering a unique driving experience. It allows for more freedom as the car turns into corners and for the inside rear wheel to spin up slightly when power is applied, enhancing the driver’s connection with the car.
Interior Craftsmanship
Inside, the Valour is a strict two-seater with a small parcel shelf behind the heavily sculpted carbon fiber seats. The interior is customizable, with an extensive array of color and trim options. The test car featured woolen tweed trim, inspired by the seat coverings of Aston Martin’s 1959 Le Mans-winning DBR1. The manual shifter, with its exposed linkage, stands out in the center console, emphasizing the car’s focus on traditional driving elements.
The interior hardware includes a digital instrument panel, a Mercedes-Benz-sourced infotainment system, and high-quality switchgear. The driver sits low, with the high beltline at the left shoulder and the center console at the right knee, creating an immersive and focused driving environment.
Driving Experience
Driving the Valour is a unique and rewarding experience. The V-12 engine spools up with a distinctive zing before settling into a brisk idle. The manual transmission requires the driver to be fully engaged, listening to the engine and feeling the car’s responses to determine the optimal shift points. This old-school approach to driving is both challenging and deeply satisfying.
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The Valour steers, grips, and brakes with the same calm authority that characterizes the current Aston Martin lineup. However, the manual transmission adds an extra layer of involvement, making the driving experience more engaging. The engine’s character is more pronounced in the Valour, with turbo lag and the lack of flywheel effect becoming evident, adding to the car’s unique personality.
Conclusion
The Aston Martin Valour is a celebration of the brand’s heritage and a testament to the enduring appeal of manual driving. With its striking design, powerful V-12 engine, and engaging manual transmission, the Valour offers a driving experience that is both rare and deeply involving. As Aston Martin continues to innovate and push the boundaries of automotive engineering, the Valour stands as a tribute to the art of driving and a symbol of the brand’s commitment to excellence.
For enthusiasts and collectors, the Aston Martin Valour represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. With just 110 units being produced, each one meticulously crafted and customized, the Valour is a true collector’s item. First deliveries are scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year, with at least 33 cars heading to U.S. customers. As a celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, the Valour is a fitting tribute to the brand’s legacy and a beacon of its future.
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