Everett auto repair shop helping buyers for about fifty many years: First Drive: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

Sunday, March 13, 2011

First Drive: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, First Drive

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2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nestled in a secluded valley in the south of Spain is the Ascari Race Resort. Celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful tracks, the private 3.2-mile ribbon of perfectly smooth blacktop challenges drivers with 26 corners, 10-degree climbs and 18-degree banks as it weaves through the mature oak trees that dot the landscape. Named after Alberto Ascari, the first double world Formula 1 champion, the well-manicured decade-old venue is the type of circuit enthusiasts fantasize about.

Our private shuttle takes us through the manned guard gate towards the main clubhouse. As we round the corner, and head down the shallow hill, the sun reflects off something in the distance. Parked in the paddock are a dozen glistening sports cars - some coupes, some roadsters - each still dripping wet from the overnight shower that leaves the air fresh and crisp. The vehicles, the latest offering from Aston Martin, are the enthusiast-targeted Vantage S Coupe and Roadster.

Nine times zones from home with jet lag extinguished by a morning café grande, I figure it is time to get behind the wheel. Only one thing is more enjoyable than driving the new Aston Martin Vantage S through the mountains of Spain - spending a long afternoon with the sports cars on the wide-open Ascari race circuit.

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Gallery: 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage S: First Drive