When the metal near the top of the pile gets an upgrade now and then, a self-respecting petrolkop can’t help but drool over it. We all grew up with those supercar pictures on the wall and this is just more of that.
For those who suspected that the iconic Ford Mustang Shelby 350 was going to hit that old pasture, latest news proves the pony car is set for a 2019 refresh with precision performance in mind, focusing on suspension and handling improvements.
In fact, the upgrade seems to centre on increasing handling capabilities, while the steering and suspension tweaks are there to keep pace.
The styling remains the same as does the 526hp 5.2-litre V8. Grip is upped with a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that are specifically designed for the car. Suspension is refined with new springs and a recalibrated MagneRide computer-controlled system, sharpening up the damping. Electronic stability settings have also been enhanced.
The redesigned rear wing gets a Gurney flap for increased downforce, while the grill opening is made smaller to reduce drag. Sounds like a track day hero this one.
Talking about the track, the sedan that Aston Martin announced it will be making a whole 210 of later this year deserves a mention. The Rapide AMR is lower, more powerful and represents the highest-tuned production version of a concept seen at last year’s Geneva show.
Here’s the down low. First, the engine is a 463kW V12 that promises a 4.2 second zero to hero sprint time, which is not all that rad if you compare it to the 3.6 seconds for Porsche’s Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo or Tesla’s Model S P100D at a ludicrous 2.5 second (both four-door vehicles). And they’re both a lot less to fork out than Aston Martin’s almost
R3.2 million price tag.
But when it comes to looks and that 007 debonair style, there’s nothing to touch the Aston Martin. From the screaming centre stripe to the special exterior badging, interior stitching and Alcantara seat trimming, the vehicle just oozes style and sophistication.
Sitting 10mm lower than the run-of-the-mill Rapide S (hardly!), the new version is way more agile with optimised suspension, as well as aerodynamic -enhanced bodywork such as the front splitter, side sills, rear diffuser, spoilerand lid on the trunk all of which are done in carbon fibre.
If you ever had a hankering after the life of niks niks sewe, this is the way to go. Or if you’re into Marvel, then get the Tesla.