2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT2
2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT2
Brand
Aston Martin
Year
2008
Country
Great Britain
Generation
V8 Vantage (VH2)
2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT2
Brand
Aston Martin
Year
2008
Country
Great Britain
Generation
V8 Vantage (VH2)
About this car
Discover the history
The 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT2 marked Aston Martin’s entry into the competitive GT2 class of sports car racing, a category known for its intense rivalry and high-performance vehicles. The GT2 version of the V8 Vantage was designed to compete in both the FIA GT Championship and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), showcasing Aston Martin’s engineering prowess and commitment to motorsport.
The V8 Vantage GT2 was based on the road-going V8 Vantage, a car already celebrated for its blend of performance, luxury, and design. However, the GT2 variant was heavily modified to meet the rigorous demands of endurance racing. At the core of the V8 Vantage GT2 was its engine, a 4.5-liter V8, which was an evolution of the 4.3-liter unit found in the standard V8 Vantage. This racing engine was capable of producing around 480 horsepower, depending on the race series’ regulations and balance of performance adjustments. The engine featured dry-sump lubrication, which allowed it to sit lower in the chassis, improving the car’s center of gravity and handling characteristics.
One of the key aspects of the GT2 car was its versatility in terms of fuel options. It was designed to run on both standard racing fuel and bio-ethanol (E85), making it one of the first racing cars to offer this flexibility. This capability not only demonstrated Aston Martin’s commitment to performance but also highlighted their interest in exploring more sustainable fuel options in motorsport.
The chassis of the V8 Vantage GT2 was a modified version of the road car’s bonded aluminum structure, chosen for its combination of lightness and rigidity. The bodywork was extensively reworked with carbon fiber components to further reduce weight and improve aerodynamic efficiency. The car’s aerodynamics were optimized with the addition of a large rear wing, a front splitter, and side skirts, all designed to enhance downforce and stability at high speeds.
The suspension system was race-tuned with adjustable dampers and springs, allowing teams to fine-tune the car for various tracks and conditions. The braking system was upgraded with larger, ventilated discs and racing calipers to provide the necessary stopping power during the intense conditions of endurance racing. The car rode on lightweight racing wheels wrapped in high-performance Michelin tires, ensuring maximum grip and responsiveness.
Inside, the V8 Vantage GT2 was stripped of non-essential elements to save weight, featuring a minimalist interior focused purely on racing. A full roll cage, racing seat, and harness were installed to meet safety regulations and protect the driver during high-speed competition.
The V8 Vantage GT2 made its racing debut in 2008 and quickly became a competitive entry in the GT2 category. Although it faced stiff competition from established rivals like Porsche and Ferrari, the V8 Vantage GT2 demonstrated solid performance, securing several podium finishes and proving the car’s capability on the track.
