Bonhams to Auction One of Just 40 Aston Martin V600s at Revival
One of the highlights of this coming Saturday’s Bonhams sale of collector’s motor cars at the sell-out Goodwood Revival will be an unusual and rare Aston Martin Vantage Le Mans V600 Coupe, one of only 40 examples built in 1999-2000 to mark the 40th anniversary of the celebrated Newport Pagnell marque’s famous Le Mans 24-hour victory in 1959 with Works drivers Salvadori and Shelby in a DBR1/2.
The fastest Aston Martin ever made at the time, this special Le Mans V600 coupe was distinguished from the standard Vantage by its front wing side vents – recalling those of the DBR1 racer – ducted bonnet, 'nostril' front grille and improved high-downforce air dam. The model also received unique five-spoke magnesium alloy wheels and an upgraded 'Driving Dynamics' chassis package to help tame the huge performance increase that the Vantage gained over its Virage progenitor.
For the Vantage, Aston Martin engineers developed a blown version of the proven 5340cc V8 engine to pump out a serious power output of 550bhp. For those who found 550bhp insufficient, there was the Works Service-developed 'V600' enhancement that brought with it an additional 50 horsepower together with upgrades to the wheels, suspension and brakes.
One of 40 made, this limited edition 200mph Vantage Le Mans was delivered new with the factory's V600 package installed. Finished in Aston Martin Racing Green with Magnolia hide piped in Forest Green with green carpets and Parchment Alcantara headlining, noteworthy additional features include burr walnut veneer inserts to the fascia installed by Works Service (in place of the stock silver-painted items) together with power-fold door mirrors, and an Alpine navigation system.
This Aston Martin is estimated by Bonhams to sell for between £350,000 and £450,000.
