Aston Martin AMV8 Vantage concept
by Gary M. Vasilash

When the AMV8 Vantage hits the roads – or perhaps it is better put “motorways” when it goes into production in 2005, it will, says Henrik Fisker, Director of Design for Aston Martin, closely resemble the concept. While that sort of claim is made by a variety of people at car companies, there is probably a little more in this case, for, he explains, Aston Martin is a comparatively small company, one where decisions are made, not endlessly debated. He notes, for example, than when it came to creating the design of this concept, it wasn’t based on the input of focus groups or the like. It is probably helpful that Fisker sits on the board of Aston Martin. And to say “goes into production” is perhaps a bit too assembly-line sounding: the car will be hand assembled in the company’s Gaydon, UK, facility.

Another important aspect of the vehicle is its underpinnings, the aluminum spaceframe that, Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez notes, will serve as the platform for a series of future vehicles from the builder. Apparently, the spaceframe will permit the modification of various attributes, including the length, width, overhang, and accommodation of various engines, and transmissions. In the concept version, there is a 4.3-liter V8 under the long hood. The mid-mounted engine is connected to the transmission that’s located in the rear via a torque tube; this setup results in a 50:50 weight distribution.

Unlike the tendency being shown by some automakers, the AMV8 Vantage is not in the least bit retro in its design. “We want to make a statement,” Fisker says: “That there’s something new at Aston Martin.” To be sure, it looks like an Aston Martin. Fisker suggests that it is possible to put one’s hand over the badge on the hood and the vehicle is unmistakably an Aston Martin. There’s the long hood and short overhang of the wheels.

Also contrary to what seems to be occurring in other design studios, the coupe is comparatively small. The vehicle is 4,347- mm long, 1,874 -mm wide, 1,298 -mm high, and has a 2,600-mm wheelbase. Its weight is under 1,500 kg. “I felt like I was creating an athlete in a tailor-made suit,” Fisker says, adding, “Not a body builder.”

On the inside, there is a proliferation of natural materials, primarily leather, even on the instrument panel, which, even in the case of other upscale vehicles, tends to be clad in injection-molded polymer. “I want to take as much injection molded plastic out as I can,” Fisker says. There metal trim accentuates the clock-like guages.

Fisker says that the AMV8 Vantage is meant to be “an everyday car.” In addition to providing room for two passengers in comfort, there is also sufficient cargo capacity to carry two sets of golf clubs and luggage.

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