2018 Aston Martin Vantage race cars showcased at Le Mans

Most car manufacturers publicise their new car with a press release or test drive event, but Aston Martin went just that step further.

As part of the 24 Hours of Le Mans celebrations, Aston Martin hosted a support race featuring its high tech track racers, while also debuting its new Vantage GT3 and GT4 track cars.

The new GT3 joined forces at the circuit with the GT4, GTE, and ludicrous V12 Vulcan.

The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 features the now widely used Mercedes-AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, but this one has been tinkered with and optimised by Aston Martin Racing.

The engine produces a significant 399kW and 700Nm of torque. The V8 is linked to a 6-speed sequential gearbox and features four-way adjustable Ohlins dampers and Alcon brakes.

The Vantage GT3’s big brother, the Vulcan, also featured in the special festival race for Aston Martin.

3

Gone is the twin-turbo V8, now replaced by a powerful V12 engine, pushing out 611kW in the highest power mode. Again power is connected to the wheels through a 6-speed sequential gearbox.

The car weighs just 1350kg, making the Vulcan one seriously fast bit of kit. The car will accelerate to 100km/h in around 3 seconds.

The 45-minute race at Circuit La Sarthe featured 38 Aston Martin cars. Celebrities including former Le Mans winner Martin Brundle and Olympic gold medal winner Sir Chris Hoy raced alongside Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer.

“I’d never miss a chance to race on the full Le Mans circuit, I love that track,” said Brundle before the event.

“This will be particularly special partnering Sir Chris Hoy in a beautiful Aston Martin Vantage GT4. Chris is a good friend and handy on the pedals in every respect.”

The race was won by Top Gear presenter Chris Harris and British racing driver Peter Dumbreck, who is infamous for backflipping a Mercedes CLR at Le Mans the day after Mark Webber.