Originally introduced in 2005 with a V-8 engine, the current Vantage gained a V-12 two years later in 2007. The V12 Vantage S model arrived in 2013 as an upgrade, receiving not only a more powerful engine and a quicker automatic transmission, but cosmetic updates as well. The 2017 model year brought more changes to the grand tourer, with highlights including a new visual package and, for the first time, a manual transmission. Although the platform it is based on is more than a decade old, the Vantage is still regarded as one of the best grand tourers in the premium segment.

As it is the case with most Aston Martin products, the Vantage has spawned numerous limited-edition models in the last couple of years. Highlights include the track-ready GT12 and GT8, but the Brits have also launched a handful of Q-developed versions with bespoke paint jobs and interiors. One such example is the Spitfire 80, which celebrates eight decades since the iconic Spitfire fighter aircraft made its first flight.

Widely regarded as one of Britain's most important engineering achievements, the Spitfire played an important role in defending the United Kingdom during World War II. Introduced in 1938, two years after its first flight, the Spitfire was primarily used by the Royal Air Force (RAF), but the Royal Canadian Air Force and the U.S. Air Force had some too. The fighter remained in service until 1961.

Having had a prodigious career serving many countries and playing a huge role in defeating Nazi Germany, the Spitfire is more than worthy of a special edition Aston Martin and the Spitfire 80 that the Q division just created will most definitely get WWII aircraft enthusiasts excited.

Update 08-02-2016: We, unfortunately, made an error in the source of this article. Source information has been updated. For those interested, Aston Martin Cambridge is exclusive dealer for the V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80.

Continue reading to learn more about the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80.

2016 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2016 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80
  • Engine/Motor: V12
  • Horsepower: 565
  • Torque: 457
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80 special

The Spitfire 80 edition is nothing more than a regular V12 Vantage S with a new paint job on the outside, but the livery is as unique as it gets. Aston Martin's Q division painted the coupe in a metallic, glossy dark green that is similar to the iconic British Racing Green and is named Duxford Green after the RAF base where the first Spitfire squadron was stationed.

The stunning color is complemented by yellow pinstripes on the door and front fenders, similar to those found on the wings of the original Spitfire plane. The same yellow stripe can be found under the trunk-lid spoiler and on the front grille. The car also comes with an array of components hand-built by Duxford’s Aircraft Restoration Company, including the tailpipe finishers which, according to Aston Martin, have a “rainbow ‘bloom’ effect to match the Spitfire exhaust”. This is not visible in the official photos, but we'll take the brand's word for it.

Inside, the Spitfire 80 comes with the usual features you'd expect to find in a Q-made Aston Martin. Highlights include specially embroidered logos on the headrests and the RAF’s roundel integrated into the central stack. The seats are wrapped in brown leather that is stitched together with black thread, while the center tunnel and center stack feature black leather with brown stitching. The latter also complements the black Alcantara on the dashboard. By contrast, the door panels are carbon-fiber with brown leather inserts. The dark-gray roof and pillars round off the cabin and give it an authentic British contrast.

Under the hood, the Spitfire 80 edition comes with the standard 5.9-liter V-12 offered in the regular V12 Vantage S models. The naturally aspirated mill cranks out 565 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque and mates to either a seven-speed manual or the trademark seven-speed Sportshift III automatic. This combo enables the coupe to hit 62 mph from a standing start in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 mph.

Limited to only eight units, the Spitfire 80 will retail from around £180,000 according to TopGear, which is £40,000 more than the standard Vantage S. A "small percentage" of that sum will be donated to the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The sticker also includes delivery at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford and a special program including a talk from a veteran pilot, an armored vehicle driving experience, and a private display from an Mk I Spitfire. Customers will also be able to buy accessories such as a pilot’s Irvin Jacket, flying goggles, and a helmet.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage S

Read our full review on the Aston Martin V12 Vantage S here.