Following on from the Vantage GT12, the GT8 is Aston Martin’s most track-focused version of its V8-powered Vantage. Drawing on experience from its competition department in GTE, GT3 and GT4 series racing, the GT8 is part of the marque’s Special Projects and Motorsport division, taking direct inspiration from those GTE class cars.
Full carbon fibre bodywork, and powered by a 4.7-litre, naturally-aspirated V8 engine, developing 440bhp at 7,300rpm, this GT8 is quick, but Jason is happy to point-out one of its perceived disadvantages.
“People feel they are slightly underpowered, but I don't think it's all about power. I've had faster cars than this in the past. But I just really love the car. I love the sound. I love the look. It’s a fabulous toy!”.
The aero pack adds a definite element of aggression to the squat, purposeful shape of the GT8, and a rear wing and extended front corner splitters look the business.
“It's a bit lairy and a bit unique. If you're going to have something like this then you've got to have something with a wing on it, too,” smiles Jason.
He’s right, it does look lairy, and you can certainly tell this is a track-inspired supercar, but unlike some of its contemporaries the GT8 manages to bridge the gap between brash and sophisticated.