Aston Martin Revs Up AMR Performance Sub-Brand

Following the success of recent limited-edition models, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. has created a new performance-based sub-brand that eventually will include variants of all the carmaker’s vehicles.

Called AMR after the company’s Aston Martin Racing motorsports unit, the sub-brand will feature cars with more power, enhanced driving dynamics and aggressive styling. Aston Martin’s Q division, which specializes in low-volume and customized cars such as the Vantage GT12 and Vantage GT8, will develop the AMR models and test them on Germany’s famous Nurburgring track.

The first two models to get the AMR treatment will be performance variants of the Rapide sedan and Vantage sports car, both of which were introduced in concept form at the Geneva auto show. The company will make only seven of the Vantage AMR Pro models and says it will build 210 of the Rapide AMR to reflect that model’s top speed of 210 mph.

The Vantage AMR will be powered by a 500-hp version of Aston Martin’s 4.7-liter V-8 race car engine. The car also features racing-spec engine and transmission mounts, an adjustable suspension, 19-inch center lock wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Cup 2 tires, a roll cage and carbon fiber interior trim.

The Rapide AMR gets an upgraded version of Aston Martin’s 5.9-liter V-12 engine with a revised exhaust system that boosts output from 552 hp to 591 hp. Cosmetic highlights include a reworked grille, front splitter, rear spoiler, 21-inch alloy wheels and a host of carbon fiber add-ons.