vantage n420

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420

Given their svelte shape and classic lines, it'd be all too easy to think that Aston Martins are strict boulevard cruisers. But they're not. The British marque has enjoyed unprecedented success on the race track, and to the point has released the new N420 edition of its entry-level model, the V8 Vantage.

Like the N400 that preceded it back in 2007, the new N420 commemorates Aston victories on the legendary Nurburgring race track in Germany. While power carries over unchanged from stock at 420 horses, the N420 includes the Sports Pack suspension as standard, a new exhaust system, carbon fiber aerodynamic upgrades, and is freed of 27 kilograms of excess weight. New wheels are also part of the package, along with black grille inserts and a unique range of racing-inspired color options.

The N420 can be had in either coupe or roadster body-styles, with either manual or Sportshift semi-automatic transmissions, and fetches an approximately $20k premium over the $120,000 base price.

Gallery: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N420