Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin Valiant: The Track Beast You've Never Heard Of
In the realm of automotive excellence, where bespoke creations and limited editions rule the day, the Aston Martin Valiant emerges as a paragon of track-ready performance. Commisioned by none other than Aston Martin's own Formula One star Fernando Alonso, this exceptional machine stands as a testament to what happens when racing pedigree meets masterful engineering.
Genesis of the Valiant
The journey of the Valiant began when Alonso tapped into the Q by Aston Martin personalization program. This initiative allows clients to bring their most extravagant automotive visions to life. For Alonso, the vision was simple yet ambitious: a lighter, more extreme version of the already powerful Valour that could dominate the racetrack while still being road-legal. The result was the Valiant, an epitome of precision and power.
The Valiant offers not just rarity but also exclusivity. Only 38 units of this extraordinary beast will be built, making it even rarer than its predecessor, the Valour, which saw 110 units. Aston Martin has confirmed that all 38 units are already spoken for, a clear indication of the car's unprecedented appeal.
Performance and Mechanics
At its heart, the Valiant is propelled by Aston Martin's revered twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V-12 engine. This powertrain delivers an impressive 734 horsepower, marking an increase of 29 horsepower over the Valour. The front-mounted engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transaxle that not only enhances performance but also offers driving purists the tactile joy of a manual shifter with exposed gear linkage.
Weight reduction was a focal point in the design of the Valiant. Aston Martin employed some remarkable methods to cut down weight, including a 3D-printed rear subframe, a magnesium torque tube, a lightweight battery, and 21-inch magnesium wheels. Collectively, these innovations provided significant weight savings, culminating in a more agile and responsive car.
Advanced Chassis and Aerodynamics
Enhancing the driving dynamics further, the Valiant features the latest in advanced chassis technology. The car's chassis benefits from Multimatic's Adaptive Spool Valve dampers, a cutting-edge system capable of adjusting each damper to 32 separate profiles in a lightning-quick six milliseconds. This technological marvel ensures that the Valiant remains composed and controlled, whether it's tearing up the track or cruising on the open road.
New aerodynamic elements such as a splitter, rear wing, and rear diffuser enhance the car's downforce, making it stick to the track like glue. The diffuser now accommodates four exhaust tips instead of the three seen on the Valour. Combined with the lightweight titanium exhaust system, these features not only improve performance but also reduce weight.
Craftsmanship Inside and Out
The Valiant is a masterclass in craftsmanship. Its body is predominantly crafted from carbon fiber, a material that offers both strength and lightness. The aesthetic appeal of carbon fiber is emphasized by its exposed sections, both on the exterior and within the cabin. Inside, the cabin is appointed with Recaro Podium seats and a steel half-cage equipped with anchor points for four-point harnesses, ensuring both safety and style.
Despite Aston Martin phasing out manual transmissions from its core lineup, the Valiant—along with other special editions like the Valour—keeps the spirit of manual driving alive. As long as enthusiasts demand it, Aston Martin appears committed to offering vehicles that deliver a true driving experience.
The Aston Martin Valiant is not just a car; it's a marvel of modern engineering and a fitting tribute to Fernando Alonso's vision for the ultimate track machine. With its blend of power, precision, and exclusivity, the Valiant redefines what a track car can be.