2012 Aston Martin V12 Zagato

Aston Martin has revealed the production-ready V12 Zagato that will appear in showrooms later in 2012. The new Aston Martin V12 Zagato becomes Aston Martin's new range-topping car and is a modern day descendent of the original 1961 Aston Martin DB4GT Zagato.

Aston Martin will ensure the new V12 Zagato is equally special by strictly limiting production numbers and hand-building it in the same dedicated area as the outgoing One-77 supercar. The styling of the V12 Zagato, overseen by Aston Martin design director Marek Reichman, is unique. It both pays homage to the old DB4GT Zagato, but also shows a modern twist.

Key features include the trademark double bubble roof, distinctive side glass shape and a rear window that has a curved surface to continue the lines of the roof. All brightwork is finished in black and all the exposed carbonfibre outside has a symmetrical weave. The front grille is made from a unique 3D mesh, creating a standout 'Z' effect in tribute to the iconic Zagato 'Z' logo. Inside, the Seven Bridge of Weir leather has been hand-stitched with an eyecatching red weave: this detail extends even to the door panels and roof.

Based on the Vantage V12, power output of the V12 Zagato's engine has not been revealed but it is expected to retain the standard 6.0-litre car's 380kW output. This will help it accelerate to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds and reach a top speed of around 305km/h. How many V12 Zagato will be made? Well, rarity comes as standard: Aston Martin says just 150 will be built in total. This isn't quite as rare as the original DB4GT Zagato, though - just 20 of those were built.