2018 Aston Martin V8 Vantage AMR

One of just 38 manual UK cars and among the last truly analogue, race-inspired Aston Martins.

The V8 Vantage AMR represents one of the final evolutions of Aston Martin’s highly successful first-generation VH-platform Vantage and one of the last truly analogue sports cars the marque ever built. Introduced in 2017 under the newly established AMR sub-brand, it was conceived as a celebration of the brand’s GTE racing success, taking design inspiration directly from the works cars that had recently triumphed at Le Mans.

Based on the acclaimed V8 Vantage S, the AMR focuses on enhancing character and driver involvement, retaining the naturally aspirated 4.7-litre V8 engine producing 430 bhp, paired with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed Sportshift II automated gearbox.

A choice of five striking exterior schemes was offered, most famously the ‘Halo Pack’ a Stirling Green and Lime Green livery echoing the 2016 Le Mans-winning #95 Vantage GTE, paired with a matching Alcantara and leather interior. Carbon-fibre bucket seats, carbon exterior trim and bespoke 5-spoke alloy wheels were fitted, with an optional Union Jack-enamelled Aston Martin wings badge, previously worn by the competition cars.

On the road, the AMR retains everything that made the Vantage S such a favourite among keen drivers. Its compact footprint and hydraulic steering deliver precision and confidence, while the naturally aspirated V8 rewards commitment with crisp throttle response and a throaty soundtrack.

First registered in January 2018, this V8 Vantage AMR is finished in the desirable Halo Pack colour scheme and six-speed manual gearbox. The Stirling Green paintwork is paired with Lime Green details, including a central stripe and Brembo brake callipers, visible through gloss black 5-spoke alloy wheels. The car features Union Jack-enamelled Aston Martin wings badge as well as many carbon fibre elements such as the front splitter, grille, side strakes and rear diffuser, giving it a purposeful look.

Just 62 right-hand-drive V8 Vantage AMRs were delivered to the UK, and only 38 were specified with the manual transmission, making this a rare example of one of the last analogue-era Aston Martins.

Inside, the interior Halo Pack combines leather and Alcantara. The lightweight carbon fibre seats are upholstered in Copper Tan leather on the bolsters, Pure Black Alcantara in the centres and Lime Green piping, with metal Aston Martin badges and AMR embroidery on the headrests.

The dashboard and steering wheel are finished in Pure Black Alcantara, and being a later model, it comes with the updated haptic-touch ski slope centre console. The carbon centre fascia and floor mats also carry Lime Green piping. The door cards are trimmed in black and tan leather with a gloss black armrest.

Equipment includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, two USB ports, parking sensors front and rear and a reversing camera.

This specification added over £25,000 to the list price when new. The car also has full Aston Martin service history and will be supplied with a fresh service.

The AMR feels like the perfect analogue antidote to modern driving. Fast enough to entertain, yet exploitable on real roads. As one of the last naturally aspirated Aston Martins offered, the V8 Vantage AMR stands as a fitting send-off to the marque’s analogue era.

Available now for viewing and demonstration at Pendine’s Bicester Heritage showroom.