Fernando Alonso was impressed by the Aston Martin Valour, unveiled last year, however it didn’t quite meet the two-time Formula One winner’s needs. Desirous of a lightweight, more extreme version of the one-off release, Alonso commissioned Aston Martin Q, the marque’s bespoke division, to create a model to his exact requirements. And so, the Aston Martin Valiant was born.
A limited-edition model, only 38 examples of the Aston Martin Valiant have been produced. Like the Valour, it’s powered by a turbocharged 5.2-litre V-12 engine churning out 734 hp (slightly more than the Valour) and 555 ft-lb of torque, which is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Lighter and more muscular than its inspiration, the Aston Martin Valiant combines the brute power of V12 performance with contemporary engineering and materials to create a driver’s car that delivers on the racetrack while being road-legal. Taking on a more aggressive aesthetic, the Valiant features a full-width carbon fibre grille designed to enhance cooling and reduce front-end weight, complemented by carbon ceramic brakes and lightweight 21” magnesium alloys. Notably, an oversized rear spoiler rises from the sculptural fenders, making for a more dramatic appearance.
The engineers at Aston Martin Q employ several weight-reducing techniques on the chassis, with the adoption of a 3D printed subframe reducing weight without compromising stiffness. Recalibrated electronics and an extensive use of carbon fibre components further reduces weight. Set to improve the on-road driving experience, the Valiant introduces Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, which offer motorsport-level damping control and ensure a smooth ride.
Paired with the new suspension setup and greater downforce are a trio of pre-set driving modes—Sport, Sport+,and Track—which have been recalibrated to “aid the driver in progressively exploring the car’s full performance.”
“With Valiant we’ve shifted the emphasis towards much increased track capability while retaining enough useability to remain enjoyable on the road,” said Simon Newton, Director of Vehicle Performance at Aston Martin. “We’ve moved the dial in every key area to extract greater performance and deliver more excitement; increased power delivery from the V12 to develop 745PS; perfecting the chassis set-up with Multimatic ASV dampers; re-sculpting the body to produce more downforce; and employing lightweight materials and processes to reduce mass. Above all we have put the driver right at the heart of the action; honing control weights for maximum satisfaction; perfecting the shift action of the manual transmission; ensuring the increased handling limits remain accessible and rewarding.”
The Aston Martin Valiant will make its public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, with Fernando Alonso in the driver’s seat. Priced at USD$2.5 million (approx. AUD$3.8 million), all 38 cars have already been spoken for.
Words by Henry Blake
