WHEN it launched its exquisite DB11 GT car last year, Aston Martin offered it only with a V12 engine.
It has now got round to slotting a V8 under its long, elegant bonnet, which should help emphasise the sporting side of the car's character.
The V8 is a 4.0-litre unit which, like the 5.2-llitre V12, has been breathed on by twin-turbochargers and makes 503bhp and 498lb.ft of torque.
It completes the benchmark 0-62mph sprint in 4.0 seconds and has a quoted top speed of 187mph. Giving the V8 a dynamic edge in terms of handling is the fact that it weighs 115kg less than the V12-engined DB11.
Company boss Dr Andy Palmer said the DB11 was "the most complete and sophisticated car Aston Martin has ever made".
"Now, with this new V8 engine option we have broadened its appeal by offering a car that will bring the DB11 to more customers around the world while still blessed with the exceptional performance and memorable character that sets Aston Martin apart from its rivals," he said.
"Having driven the car during its development phase, it is not just the engine that has changed the character of the car, but also the resulting dynamic changes to create a remarkable GT car with its own distinct personality from the V12."
Prices for the V8 DB11 start at £144,900, which is £13,000 less than the V12.
