Aston Martin has unveiled a new motorsport-inspired special edition - the V8 Vantage N420.  The car is a successor to the special edition V8 Vantage N400 of 2007, which had huge success across the Aston Martin owners. N420 is based upon the standard 4.7-litre V8 engine delivering 420bhp and capable of doing - 180mph available as a Coupe or Roadster. The power unit is fitted either with a six-speed manual or optional Sportshift automated manual transmission.

The Vantage N420 is inspired by the company's experiences at the Nurburgring  24-hour race.

In the 2006 running the V8 Vantage was driven by a team of employees, including Aston Martin's CEO, Dr Ulrich Bez, – named "Rose" by the team – finished 4th in class and 24th overall from a field of more than 200 specialised racing cars.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 includes rich standard equipment, while also offering a 27kg weight saving – achieved through the application of carbon fibre – over the standard V8 Vantage.

The exterior has slight touches - wider sills combined perfectly with a carbon fibre splitter, side strakes and diffuser, while bold 10-spoke diamond turned alloys finished in with gloss black, black mesh vents and "Graphitic" tailpipe finishers complete the co-ordinated look.

The interior features an Iridium package consisting of graphite instruments, leather or Alcantara® steering wheel, special N420 sill plaques and lightweight carbon fibre seats, complete with ‘Race Track' stitching as in the V12 Vantage. Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control and Park Distance Control are also standard.

Furthermore, the Sports Pack is fitted as a standard for N420. It includes revised springs, dampers and anti-roll bars for even more responsive and dynamic handling, while retaining the V8 Vantage's renowned poise, balance and long distance ability. Finally, a new sports exhaust system delivers a suitably rousing soundtrack.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 will be put on sale in August priced at £96 995.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 1 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 2 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 3 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 4 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 5 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 6 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 7 of 10
Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420 (2010) - picture 8 of 10