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Saturday, April 07, 2007

Aston Martin sold - Dr Ulrich Bez to remain CEO

Aston Martin annouced new shareholders - Official press release

Gaydon March 12, 2007 - Aston Martin is pleased to announce the start of a new chapter in its illustrious history following the announcement today that the prestigious sports car manufacturer has been sold to a consortium led by David Richards, John Sinders, Investment Dar and Adeem Investment, ending almost twenty years as part of Ford Motor Company.

After 20 years of ownership, Ford divested itself of the brand, its facilities and its products, in a deal valuing Aston at £479m.

Most important part of the deal is that Dr. Ulrich Bez will remain CEO over the coming years. He has been the key in defining the modern Aston Martin shape.

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The current model line-up of the award-winning V8 Vantage, DB9, DB9 Volante, Vanquish S and V8 Vantage Roadster will soon be enhanced by the eagerly awaited high performance DBS model. Voted the UK’s coolest brand in 2006, Aston Martin has a fast-expanding dealership network of 126 dealers representing in 27 countries.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster

Source: Aston Martin site News - here.

Los Angeles - Nov 2006 - The new Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster - ww most wanted convertible has been unveiled at the LA Auto Show on November 29th 2006.

Aston Martin Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The V8 Vantage Roadster is a pure sports car, a car that heightens the senses and provides a dynamically thrilling driving experience.

“The Vantage Roadster adds to the unbeatable thrill of open air motoring and by combining engineering excellence, technological innovation and physical perfection, will ensure every journey is one to remember.”

Perfectly proportioned, with a low purposeful stance, the Vantage Roadster is uncompromisingly modern yet also incorporates classic Aston Martin design cues. The elegant lines are fused with traditional craftsmanship and striking 21st century style, with an interior hand-trimmed and finished in the finest quality genuine materials.

The Vantage Roadster will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, near Warwickshire in the UK, joining the current Aston Martin line-up. This now comprises the flagship Vanquish S, the elegant DB9 and the agile V8 Vantage Coupe.

some tech specs

- Weight:1710kg
- Max power: 283kW (380 bhp) @ 7000 rpm
- Max torque: 410 Nm (302 lb.ft) @ 5000 rpm
- Acceleration: 0-60mph – 4.9 seconds 0-100km/h – 5.0 seconds
- Max speed: 175mph (280 km/h)

more info here