Aston DB12 AMR Unleashed

The New Aston Martin DB12 AMR

There’s something thrilling about a car that combines speed, elegance, and a touch of racing pedigree. The Aston Martin DB12 AMR prototypes were recently spotted racing around the Nurburgring, showcasing the brand’s commitment to its front-engine roots despite its new mid-engine Valhalla making waves in the automotive world. AMR, which stands for Aston Martin Racing, is the badge reserved for the sportier, more power-packed versions of their vehicles. Think of it like the amped-up, adrenaline-soaked sibling in the Aston family.

Revving Specs

The standard DB12 is no slouch, featuring a 4.0-liter AMG bi-turbo V8 engine, boasting a hearty 671 horsepower. That’s already more muscle than the outgoing DB11 AMR could generate with its V12 engine. It wouldn’t be surprising if the DB12 AMR dials it up even more, possibly touching numbers seen in the DBX 707 SUV’s 697 horsepower.

Pricing expectations? Well, the standard DB11 Coupe and the Volante convertible start around $252,000 and $272,000, respectively. The AMR variant could tiptoe towards the $300k mark, a worthy fee for those who crave an extra punch of automotive prowess.

Design Tweaks

The DB12 AMR inherits the sleek design of its predecessor but with a few notable tweaks. The front end already boasts an aggressive look with a lip spoiler, but the AMR introduces a sharper front lip with slats. In a nod to Aston’s racing legacy, the grille swaps its horizontal lines for an egg-crate design, reminiscent of classic race cars. At the rear, the exhaust opts for a stacked tailpipe layout, further enhancing its sporty credentials.

On the Road

Driving the AMR is an experience that attracts enthusiasts who love precision and raw power. Compared to Aston’s V12 offerings, the V8 in this model may offer a slightly different tone—less growl and more bellow. But make no mistake, the sensation is electrifying and direct, especially on winding roads where the chassis tweaks are most appreciated. It’s a car that feels at home on the track but doesn’t shy away from the open highway.

While the Valhalla might engage a different crowd with its mid-engine layout, the DB12 AMR holds the torch for those who love the front-engine distinction. Aston Martin proves once again that old-school charm doesn’t have to compromise on modern performance, making the DB12 AMR an enticing option for those looking to mix luxury with that thrilling edge.