Vantage N430

Previous Aston Martin ‘N’ limited editions – the N400 and N420 – proved a hit with fans of the marque and the new N430 triggers the same positive associations. The front grille, headlamp bezels, side window trim surround and tailpipe finishers are finished in black, for a purposeful look that’s complemented by the graphite 10-spoke forged alloy wheels. Forget about travelling under the radar in the N430; there are five striking exterior finishes but it’s the optional graphic pack that will turn heads in the pit lane. Each finish has its exclusive N430 painted accent colours for the front grille surround, mirror caps, rear diffuser blade and (on the coupé) A-pillar and cantrail. Choose Alloro Green with yellow accents if you’re aiming to rekindle the spirit of the 1959 Le Mans-winning DBR1…and take your choice of black, silver, yellow or red brake callipers for the finishing touch.

Inside, driver and passenger are snugly encased in carbon-fibre and Kevlar composite seats, which contribute towards a 20kg weight saving. There’s a choice of Dark or Light leather – Obsidian Black or Argento Grey - teamed with Plissé Alcantara for the seat and door inserts. N430 embroidery and accent colour stitching come as standard, while the carbon fibre fascia and Piano Black interior trim are complemented by black rotary dials and pedals. As a finishing touch, the sill plaque is a cured block of carbon with a laser-cut N430 logo embedded in stainless steel.

As with every Vantage, the combination of compact dimensions, light, rigid body architecture and perfect weight distribution gives the N430 superlative handling and agility. These qualities are further enhanced by sports suspension as standard, while each of the graphite 10-spoke forged alloy wheels saves a useful 2kg in unsprung mass for improved handling.

The N430’s 430bhp (436PS) 4.7 litre V8 is matched to a sports exhaust for a spine-tingling engine note. Power and torque are up 10bhp and 20 Nm respectively compared with the V8 Vantage, paring the 0-60 time down to 4.6 seconds. Dry sump lubrication is perfect for track-day action and there’s a choice between 6-speed manual and 7-speed Sportshift II transmissions.

Aston Martin owners enjoy feeling they belong to an exclusive club of like-minded people – and the N430’s looks and specification will appeal to all those who use their car’s performance to the full.

2016 model upgrades include the updated AMi II Infotainment system which offers improved driver interface controls with additional vehicle information. Updates also include the introduction of a new style fascia, this stylish one-piece console now flows through the centre of the car, offering a more useable interface for both the driver and the passenger.