What's new from Aston?
On the eve of the 2018 Nürburgring 24-hour race, Aston Martin has taken the covers off its new DB11 AMR. If you've been paying attention to us, you'll know that stands for Aston Martin Racing and it's a sub-brand under which Aston markets more driver-focused variants of its series-production models. So, the DB11 AMR gets revisions to the engine, chassis and styling and costs from £174,995.
Tasty - start with the engine...
As the number plates in our image gallery might have revealed, the DB11 AMR is based on the V12 Coupe, so it's powered by the company's relatively new twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre unit. For the AMR, power output has been increased 30hp to 639hp. Torque remains at 700Nm. Aston quotes a top speed of 208mph and a 0-62mph time of just 3.7 seconds. Not that the standard car needed more straight-line speed, of course.
So, is the AMR better in the corners?
We don't yet know, but, while stopping short of telling us what's new about the chassis, Aston claims to have made it more engaging to drive without losing suppleness. That's quite a balancing act, as always. We do know that the exhaust has been tweaked to be louder, especially in Sport mode.
Why are there two versions pictured?
One, the Sterling green and lime car, is the AMR Signature Edition, featuring extra equipment and a unique finish inside and out. Only 100 of those will be made. The dark blue version is an example of the three new Designer Specifications (this one called Mariana Blue) that have been created specifically for the DB11 AMR. Buyers will have the usual seemingly endless list of personalisation options, of course, but the standard AMR gets some subtle, but effective visual tweaks to set it apart, including a gloss black roof, darkened lights, unique 20-inch forged alloys and even some exposed carbon fibre.
And inside?
There are AMR-embossed seats, a lime green feature stripe down the middle, a leather sports steering wheel, plus monotone leather upholstery with dark Alcantara detailing.
Anything else to add?
We should mention that the DB11 AMR was unveiled at Aston Martin's development base next to the Nürburgring, the newly named AMR Performance Centre.
Shane O' Donoghue - 11 May 2018