Aston Martin confirmed technical specifications of 2012 V12 Vantage GT3, the car that replaces the successful DBRS9.

In terms of power there will be little difference between the two, as the Vantage gets the same modified 6.0 liter V12 based on the production engine, with 600 bhp with 700 Nm of torque. It comes with a Xtrac 6 speed sequential transmission with semi-automatic paddle shift gear change.

The engine in the Vantage however has a better position to improve weight balance. It also features a carbon fibre propshaft that delivers the power efficiently.

What’s more, the Vantage has a shorter wheelbase and better aerodynamics than the DBRS9, which means enhanced handling and performance. The new car will also provide enhanced driveability with the latest race-developed ABS and Traction Control systems which are fitted to the V12 Vantage GT3 as standard.

With this specs, Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 is qualified for the FIA GT3 Championship, ADAC Masters, Nürburgring VLN, Blancpain Endurance Series, British GT, Belcar and Open GT among others.The car’s main rivals include Mercedes SLS GT3, Ferrari 458 GT3, and the McLaren MP4.

Private teams can now place their orders for one. Pricing start at £298,000. Deliveries of the first cars will commence in early 2012.

V12 Vantage GT3 Specification

Engine

–           Lightweight V12

–           Dry sump oil system

–           Engine repositioned to optimise weight distribution

–           Target power 600 bhp

–           Target torque 700 Nm

Transmission

–           Xtrac 6 speed sequential transmission

–           Racing clutch

–           Limited slip ramp/plate differential

–           Easily accessible drop gears

–           Semi-automatic paddle shift gear change

–           Carbon fibre propshaft

Chassis

–           Lightweight aluminium chassis

–           Steel roll cage to FIA safety standards

High speed pneumatic jack system

Steering

–           Hydraulic power assisted steering

–           Quick release steering wheel

Suspension

–           Double wishbone suspension arms front

and rear with uniball bearings

–           2-way adjustable dampers front and rear

–           Optimsed geometry for lower race ride height

Fuel system

–           110 litre fuel cell to FIA safety standards

–           Twin quick release couplings

–           Fuel cell location optimised for performance and safety

(behind the driver’s seat, inside the safety roll cage)

Brakes

–           6 pot front calipers

–           Ventilated front brake disc

–           4 pot rear caliper

–           Ventilated rear brake disc

–           Floor mounted pedal box

–           Manually adjustable front/rear brake bias

–           Adjustable motorsport ABS

Wheels

–           12.5″ x 18″ front

–           13″ x 18″ rear

Tyres

–           Front 30/68-18

–           Rear 31/71-18

Cockpit

–           Steering wheel mounted controls

–           Driver display / data logger / shift lights / beacon

–           6-point safety harness

–           Adjustable steering position

–           Adjustable seat position

–           Adjustable pedal box position

–           Light weight battery

–           Carbon fibre dash

–           Fire extinguisher system

Aerodynamics

–           Front splitter

–           Adjustable full width carbon fibre rear wing

–           Aerodynamically optimised bumpers, fenders and sills

Weight

–           Target dry weight 1250kg