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Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80 salutes WWII icon

Aston Martin Cambridge marks 80 years since the Supermarine Spitfire’s maiden flight with a limited run of eight V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80s, finished in Duxford Green.

By Editorial Desk Updated
2016 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80
2016 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80 Calreyn88 / CC BY-SA 4.0

Aston Martin Cambridge has commissioned a run of eight V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80 special editions to honour the 80th anniversary of the Supermarine Spitfire’s first flight. Each car is finished in a bespoke Duxford Green paint, referencing the aircraft’s history at RAF Duxford, and features details inspired by the iconic WWII fighter.

Design details inspired by the Spitfire

The Spitfire 80’s exterior is finished in Duxford Green, a near-black shade developed for this project. Yellow pinstripe accents on the grille, side sills, rear wing and brake calipers echo the markings of the original Spitfire aircraft. Tailpipe finishers and other trim pieces are supplied by the Aircraft Restoration Company, also based at Duxford, further linking the car to its aviation inspiration.

Inside, the Q by Aston Martin division has specified brown leather upholstery, carbon fibre and Alcantara trim, and Spitfire embroidery on the headrests. The specification is exclusive to these eight cars and is not available elsewhere in the Vantage range.

Performance and delivery

Mechanically, the Spitfire 80 remains unchanged from the standard V12 Vantage S. The 5.9-litre naturally aspirated V12 delivers 565bhp and 457lb ft, sending the car from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds. Buyers do not receive a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, but the Vantage’s powertrain remains one of the most characterful in the segment.

The price is set at £180,000, a premium of around £40,000 over a standard V12 Vantage S. A portion of the proceeds is donated to the RAF Benevolent Fund, supporting former servicemen and women. Only eight examples are being made, and demand has already outstripped supply, according to Aston Martin Cambridge.

Aston Martin’s history of special editions

Aston Martin has a track record of producing limited-run models that reference British heritage and motorsport, including the Vulcan track car and various bespoke commissions. The Spitfire 80’s combination of historical tribute, unique specification and charitable element sets it apart among recent special editions.

For more on Aston Martin’s recent limited editions, seethe V12 Vantage Roadster announcement.

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