Aston Martin V8 S 2014.

Aston Martin V8 S 2014.

Maintaining the classic Vantage exterior, V8 Vantage S introduces new track inspired design features. A new lower front bumper is finished in perfectly-aligned carbon fibre. Revised side sills optically widen the car. The rear splitter combined with the extended deck lid ‘flip’ produce a more aggressive rear profile. New 19 inch ‘V’ spoke wheel styles are available as standard, with an optional 10-spoke lightweight forged wheel.

Standard interior features include a full grain leather interior throughout, embroidered "Vantage S" seat and carpet logos, an Iridium Silver center console with Graphite inner finish, organic electroluminescent displays, a weave alloy fascia trim, an HDD navigation system, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity,standard navigation, auto-dimming mirrors, three-position memory seats, and various carbon fiber and titanium interior and exterior accents.Standard audio arrives in the form of a 160-watt Aston Martin audio system with six-CD changer, iPod integration and USB connector.

The Vantage S  is powered by 430 hp and 361 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the base car, while a seven-speed single-clutch automated manual transmission is optional on the base Vantage and standard on the Vantage S.

At the core of V8 Vantage S is the new seven speed Sportshift II automated manual transmission, delivers exceedingly rapid gear changes, twenty percent quicker than Sportshift. An extra gear permits shorter well-spaced ratios taking advantage of the optimum torque, combined with a final drive ratio of 4.182:1 delivers quicker acceleration. Sportshift II allows the driver to take an increased level of control, modulating the throttle pedal to achieve the desired type of gear change.

There are no chassis rigidity distinctions between Vantage and Vantage S, and none was needed. The bonded aluminum tub is as stiff as a railroad trestle. But the elements attached to the tub dampers, springs, and bushings are a bit more stern . Allied with a quicker steering rack, the sum of the upgrades is an exceptional level of response.

The standard brakes are up-sized for duty in the V8 Vantage S, with 15-inch front rotors clamped by six-piston calipers and 13-inch rear rotors with four-piston calipers. The rotors are vented and grooved for improved performance.