2011 Aston Martin Vantage

U.S. Tuner Elite has come up with a Bond car (as in James Bond in a LeMans racer) inspired by the Ferrari Scuderia and Ferrari Stradale as well as the Lamborghini Superleggera. They call it the 2011 Aston Martin LMV/R (Le Mans Vantage Racer).

Elite claims the car will be lighter than the production model through extensive use of carbon fiber parts. And one has to assume that performance is, at least, marginally improved by way of the weight reduction as well the aerodynamic/body kit, a sport exhaust system and lowering springs. A big brake kit hints at increased performance too but Elite does not provide any info on that front.

Also included in the package is a an Alcantara interior along with carbon fiber paneling in the cabin and 20-inch wheels to fit the wide body kit. But this package really seems to be about that carbon fiber body paneling which, along with the usual skirts, wings and rear diffuser, also comes with rear quarter panel extensions that are 2-inches (5 cm) wider.

Only 30 of these Aston Martin LMV/R’s will be made. They will be distributed through Aston Martin dealers in the United States. The price is a tad…no, it’s an outright million miles beyond reasonable at 173,000 U.S. dollars, not including the original Aston Martin Vantage. But it does include transport to Elite for the installation job and back to the dealer purchase point where one buys the car.

Well, that makes it worth it then.