The Aston Martin V12 Speedster will have the power of a DBS Superleggera but no roof

The open-top Le Mans-winning DBR1 earned its place in Gaydon’s history books in 1959, when it became the manufacturer’s most notable motorsport triumph, an accolade it still holds to date. Incredibly, it was one of just three cars in the 1950s to win both the World Sports Car Championship and Le Mans 24 Hours in the same year. The new V12 Speedster combines this historic racing influence with modern design and materials – expect to see plenty of carbon-fibre

It’ll be powered by a variant of Aston Martin’s 5.2-litre, twin-turbo V12, the same basic engine you’ll fine in the DB11 and the DBS Superleggera, but in the V12 Speedster Aston has said it produces “in the region of 700PS and 700Nm”. Interestingly, while the DB11 produces the same torque and slightly lower power at 600PS, the DBS Superleggera makes roughly the same power but less torque, suggesting the V12 Speedster could be the most driveable iteration of the engine yet.

Mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, Aston claims the car will be driver-focussed and offer “a compelling breadth of performance, superb response and thrilling V12 soundtrack”. With a big V12 and no roof to speak of, you’d certainly hope so.

Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, said: “The V12 Speedster we’re proud to confirm today once again showcases not only this great British brand’s ambition and ingenuity, but also celebrates our rich and unrivalled heritage.

“The 88 enthusiast drivers and collectors who secure the keys to these cars can be confident that in doing so, they are also securing an iconic new piece of Aston Martin history.”

Orders are open, with deliveries scheduled for early 2021.