As if Aston Martin’s sensationally stylish, dazzlingly quick V8 Vantage Roadster wasn’t uncommon enough, the boutique sports car maker from Gaydon, England, has collaborated with Robb Report to create a version of its airy two-seater that takes exclusivity to new heights. The Robb Report Limited Edition V8 Vantage Roadster commemorates the rakish Brit’s rapturous reception by the magazine’s editors during this year’s Best of the Best judging. Production is capped at a mere seven handcrafted examples, sequentially numbered from “001” to an Ian Fleming-approved “007.”
Each of the seven cars will wear a dramatic triple-black color scheme—body panels, interior trim, and power-operated fabric top—brightened by subtle accents of hand-polished chrome. Inside, the Robb Roadster shows off its glossy black wood veneer trim and a racy three-spoke steering wheel from Aston’s V12-powered flagship, the DBS. Distinct color contrasting stitching contrasts supple black hide on the seats, dash, door panels, and wheel, and in the trunk, there’s a full complement of bespoke luggage, designed and crafted especially for the Robb Report Limited Edition.
Naturally, this most limited of limited editions balances its ample beauty with ample brawn, motivated by Aston’s mellifluous 4.7-liter V8 engine. Tuned to 420 horsepower and matched to a paddle-actuated six-speed Sport Shift Transmission that’s capable of executing a gearshift in a scant 200 milliseconds, this formidable power plant will swing the Roadster’s speedometer needle past the 60-mph mark in 4.7 seconds and keep it moving all the way to 180 mph—even with the top down. Then again, when you look this good, what’s the hurry?
The Robb Report Limited Edition V8 Vantage Roadster is available for special order through Aston Martin dealers, priced from $153,000. (888.703.9660, www.myastonmartindealer.com)
