Billed as a champion of pure driving passion, Aston Martin has whipped the wraps off the Valiant, an “ultra-exclusive” creation by the British luxury marque’s Q division. Only 38 examples will be produced, each priced at £2 million. As the current Rand-Pound exchange rate, the latter figure translates to a whopping R45 213 850.50.
But before we continue, it’s worth mentioning where the idea for this special edition originated. In short, a personal commission — for a “lightweight” and “more extreme” version of the Valour, which was limited to only 110 units — by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team driver Fernando Alonso.
“[The] Valour was a spectacular celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, and stirred me to create a more extreme, race car-inspired version that was track focused, while also delivering a thrilling drive on-road,” said Fernando Alonso. The two-time F1 world champion added: “[The] Valiant is born from my passion for driving at the limit and I have enjoyed working closely with the Q by Aston Martin team on both the design and technical specification and believe we have created a masterpiece.”
Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer of Aston Martin, agreed with the latter. “[The] Valiant is a modern masterpiece,” said Mattiacci. “[The Valiant] focuses on placing the driver in a truly unique, intense and emotional driving experience,” he continued.
Mattiacci also says that the Valiant offers the “ultimate” blend of performance, track-focused dynamics and hypercar intensity. “[The] Valiant embodies Aston Martin’s determined commitment to build rare and extraordinary cars for true drivers,” he concluded.
Sited below the sculpted bonnet of the Valiant sits Aston Martin’s V12, which is exclusively coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox. The 5.2-litre petrol unit produces 584 kW and 753 N.m of torque. Carbon-ceramic discs, measuring 410 mm and 360 mm front and rear, provide stopping power. The latter items are housed in 21-inch magnesium wheels, fitted with 275/35 and 325/30 tyres at the front and rear.
The Valiant will make its dynamic debut (with Alonso at the helm, no less) at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, which will take place from 11 July to 14 July, 2024.
