Aston Martin Valor: A Rare Gem with a Turbocharged V12 Engine and Manual Gearbox

With only 110 units produced, the Aston Martin Valor is a rare and exclusive car that boasts a unique combination of a turbocharged V12 engine and a manual gearbox.

The Valor’s price tag of £1 million (approximately 1.772 billion won) is certainly steep, but for those who crave exclusivity, this car offers something that few others can match.

The Valor was designed as a tribute to the Aston Muncher, which began life as a V8 DBS in 1970 and morphed into a racing car, competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1977 and 1979.

Structurally, the Valor is based on the V8 Vantage, with a 6-speed manual gearbox from the original V12 Vantage and a manual differential lock. The engine, taken from the DBS 770, has been detuned to a maximum output of 705bhp and peak torque of 76.7kg m.

Chief engineer Simon Newton explained that the engine could have been beefed up, but that would have compromised shift quality. The interior is pure old-school Aston Martin, with a range of customization options available.

The Valor’s performance is impressive, with a compliant ride and smooth gear changes. The chassis has been rated as excellent, with soft damping providing excellent ride comfort.

The Valor’s gearbox is fantastic, with smooth and precise gear changes. The shifting from second to third is exceptionally precise, making it a joy to drive on well-paved roads.

While the Valor’s performance is impressive, there is still room for improvement. A rev-matching program would be a welcome addition, and the throttle and clutch could be adjusted for a more satisfying response.

the Aston Martin Valor is a unique and exclusive car that offers a driving experience like no other. While it may not be perfect, it is certainly a special car that is worth experiencing.

Written by Andrew Frankel