Prodrive Display 'Enhanced' V8 Vantage at
Autosport International
04 January 2007
David Richards, Chairman of Prodrive, will be at Autosport International,
NEC, Birmingham on January 11-14, where his company will display to
the public for the first time a stunning range of products for the Aston
Martin V8 Vantage. Banbury-based Prodrive, which for more than 20 years
has been running race and rally programmes for some of the biggest names
in motorsport, will have a huge presence at the four-day motorsport
extravaganza with emphasis on carrying through its motorsport technology
onto road car projects.
The V8 Vantage package, announced on November 30, will improve the car’s
performance and enhance its driving dynamics and includes a performance
pack for the engine; new driver-adjustable suspension; unique forged
wheels; and a discreet aero package. The 4.3 litre V8 engine has been
tuned to raise peak power to 425bhp, which reduces the car’s 0-100
km/h time from 5.0 seconds to 4.7 seconds (est.) and increases the top
speed by 13 km/h to 293 km/h (est.).
A new throttle map, combined with the increase in torque, also make
the engine more responsive throughout the rev range. Prodrive has worked
with suspension specialists, Bilstein and Eibach, to develop new driver-adjustable
suspension. A switch in the cockpit allows the driver to choose between
normal and sports mode. The normal mode has been designed to enhance
the V8 Vantage’s existing ride and handling characteristics; while
the firmer sports mode delivers an even more focused driving experience
on the road or for track use.
In addition to the V8 Vantage, Prodrive will also display a truly magnificent
array of Aston Martins including the DBR9, DBRS9 and the Aston
Martin Rally GT, which is the very latest competition car from Prodrive
and will arrive fresh from its appearance at the Race of Champions at
Stade de France.
Prodrive also runs the Aston Martin Racing Team which will play a major
role in the ground-shaking, jaw-dropping Live Action Arena performances
which take place on all four days. If you're into live racing action,
then this is the place to see it. Situated within the largest hall of
the NEC, the indoor racing track with around 5500 seats allows you to
see an array of motor racing action.
Aston Martin Racing Team driver Darren Turner will drive a DBR9 Le Mans
Car and Prodrive’s SWRT test driver Terry Kaby will be driving
a Subaru World Rally Car in the performances as well as making guest
appearances throughout the four days of the show.
Avoid the queues and book online at www.autosport-international.com
or by phoning the ticket hotline on 0870 380 2244. Tickets are £26.00
per adult including entry to the Live Action Arena children’s
(5 – 15 years) tickets are £18.50.
The elite Paddock Pass is available at £32.00 for adults and £24.50
for children. The Paddock Pass gives exclusive access to the Driver
Signing Area; access to the Live Action Arena Paddock back stage; priority
seating and fast-track entry to the Live Action Arena, and a show guide
lanyard including pictures of celebrities and a detailed floor plan
of the show. There are a limited number of Paddock Passes available,
so book early to avoid disappointment.
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