While we’ve witnessed several bespoke Aston Martin models, this one truly takes it to the next level with its bold, edgy design and a unique twist: it’s a manual transmission model. The bespoke V12 Aston Martin boasts a unique specification handcrafted for none other than Fernando Alonso, the esteemed staff driver of Aston Martin Aramco Components One.
The Valiant has been reimagined as an extremely exclusive, track-focused, and road-legal exceptional model, crafted through Aston Martin’s bespoke Q service. Despite initial reservations, enthusiasts can now pre-order one of only 38 bespoke, limited-edition beasts, set to start rolling out globally this autumn 2024. The bespoke Aston Martin vehicles, such as the Valour, seem to be. The Valkyrie is, in fact, a bespoke creation commissioned by Fernando Alonso for an ultra-lightweight, highly exclusive version of the Aston Martin Valkyrie.
Fernando Alonso, an Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One driver, stated: “Valour was a truly spectacular celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, inspiring me to create a more extreme, track-focused racing car-inspired model that delivered both thrilling on-track performance and exhilarating drives on the road.” Born from my passion for precision, Valiant was crafted through intense collaboration with the Q by Aston Martin team, and I’m thrilled to have co-created a masterpiece in both design and technical specification.
True to its name, the Valiant is a fully homologated racing car designed for the street, boasting an array of distinctive features. The heart of this high-performance machine lies in its twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 powerplant, boasting a substantial boost to 745 horsepower and 753 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. The Valiant also features standard-fit Carbon Ceramic brakes, boasting a generous size of 410mm x 38mm at the front and 360mm x 32mm at the rear.
By shedding weight without compromising rigidity, the 3D-printed rear subframe slashes 3kg from the overall load, while the magnesium torque tube brings down the mass at the car’s core by a significant 8.6kg. Upon closer inspection, one discovers the lightweight 21-inch magnesium alloy wheels, fitted with 275/35R19 front and 325/30R20 rear tyres, which collectively shed a significant 14 kilograms of weight. You’ll even get a motorsport-grade lithium-ion battery that saves a whopping 11.5 kilograms.
The 911 GT2 RS features a newly developed suspension system, which includes the incorporation of Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, as well as three pre-set driving modes: Sport, Sport+, and Monitor.
Inside the vehicle, the interior design resembles that of a high-performance sports car, boasting an exposed satin-finish carbon fiber trim and lightweight, aerodynamic upholstery. The Valiant’s newly designed steering wheel features a sleek, fully spherical shape with a slender diameter and unobstructed spokes, providing an intuitive driving experience with zero visual distractions.
A stunning glimpse into the mechanical soul of this vehicle has been meticulously maintained through a clever design element – the transparent transmission tunnel, which thoughtfully exposes the gear linkage as it moves seamlessly rearward to engage the six-speed transaxle. The Valiant features a standard half-cage construction and comes equipped with specially designed Recaro Podium seats, complete with tailored trim.
In reality, the vehicle features custom-designed door panels boasting intricate sculpting and mesh inserts, strategically engineered to reduce weight, accompanied by lightweight fabric door pull handles.
Even the exterior is adorned with numerous intricate details, featuring the distinctive Kamm tail and an upswept deck lid capped by a rigid wing. The sleek, one-piece clamshell design at the rear features a hinged rear display panel, allowing effortless access to a spacious load area perfect for storing racing helmets and attire.
With 20/20 vision, the Valiant stands as the ultimate embodiment of racing excellence, its V12 heartbeat harmonizing with the thrill of driving like a Formula One champion, where every moment feels like the perfect blend of performance and passion.
