![5.2-liter V12 DOHC twin-turbo 3-pedal 6-speed manual transmission “Vala” [Aston Martin Archive]](https://wheelfeed.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/4330-1761210471214.jpg)
VALOR (2023) / VALIANT (2024)
Not just a nostalgic model
Equipped with a rear vortex generator, large diffuser, etc.
On July 13, 2023, Aston Martin announced the Valor, a limited edition model of 110 units, to commemorate its 110th anniversary. Its greatest feature is not only that it is equipped with a 5.2-liter V12 DOHC twin-turbo engine, which was once rumored to be discontinued, but also that it is the first V12 turbo transaxle FR model to be combined with a three-pedal, six-speed manual transmission.
According to Aston Martin, the all-carbon fiber body is designed based on the 1970s V8 Vantage and the DBS V8 RHAM/1 that Robin Hamilton took to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1977 and 1979, but there is also a strong influence from the one-off Victor model created in 2020 based on the One-77 prototype.
Of course, this is not just a nostalgic model; the U-shaped air vent in the center of the hood and two NACA ducts contribute to the intake and cooling of the V12, which generates a lot of heat. In addition, the front splitter, rear vortex generator, large diffuser, and other features ensure sufficient downforce, and the car is designed using the latest aerodynamics.
A special offer from Fernando Alonso
While the chassis is based on the V12 Vantage, it features reinforcement panels called shear panels on the front and rear floors, a strut tower bar on the rear suspension, and a reinforced fuel tank to enhance torsional and lateral rigidity. Additionally, it features specially tuned adaptive dampers, springs, a suspension fitted with an anti-roll bar, enhanced steering precision, specially calibrated electronic traction and stability control, a mechanical limited-slip differential, special 21-inch lightweight forged alloy honeycomb wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires, and carbon-ceramic brakes (six-pot front and four-pot rear), resulting in sporty handling with high roll rigidity that allows you to fully enjoy the car’s maximum power output of 715 PS and maximum torque of 753 Nm.
Like other Aston Martins, the Valor can be customized in a variety of ways, both inside and out, including a shift knob that can be chosen from several materials such as aluminum and walnut, lightweight performance seats made of tweed fabric inspired by the DBR1, and 21 body colors available.But the story doesn’t end there.
This is because Fernando Alonso, the star of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 team, made a special offer: “I want a Valor that is lighter, more extreme, and incorporates elements of a racing car.”
Double the downforce
[1]
[2]
[1] In response to Alonso’s request, the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel has been changed to a round type. [2] The Valiant is lighter and more radical than the Valar, incorporating elements of a racing car.
In response, Q by Aston Martin began development of a special Valor. First, the 5.2-liter V12 twin-turbo engine was tuned up to produce 745 PS of peak power while maintaining maximum torque. The car also achieved a weight reduction of 95 kg through the use of a 3D-printed rear subframe, magnesium torque tube, racing lithium-ion battery, and magnesium wheels. The chassis was also significantly modified, with the addition of Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, which enable precise and wide-ranging damping and operation control.
In addition, the carbon fiber body has been thoroughly redesigned with a huge front diffuser, rear spoiler, and aero discs mounted on 21-inch forged magnesium wheels, resulting in twice the downforce of the V12 Vantage.
In response to Alonso’s request, the interior has also been redesigned with an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel that has been changed to a circular type without switches. The H-pattern gears now use a spherical shift knob with carefully considered weight and feel. Other features include Recaro Podium bucket seats and a steel half cage that can be used as an anchor point when wearing a four-point harness. The Valiant, which was announced in June 2024, will be delivered to 38 happy owners, including Alonso.
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