12 Oct 00
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The Vanquish is the first Ford model to utilise aluminium spaceframe construction, supplemented with carbon fibre componentry. This new chassis type - which Ford has long been developing with aluminium-bodied Mondeos, among other things - comprises a central monocoque safety cell built from extruded aluminium bulkhead sections. Carbon fibre windscreen pillars, a carbon fibre transmission tunnel and composite inner body side sections make up much of the inner body construction, this cell incorporating deformable crumple zones front and rear. Ford claims a level of rigidity and strength comparable to that of a Formula One car, as well as a useful weight saving over a traditional body structure.
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Upon this base, a steel, aluminium and carbon-fibre subframe is bolted to the front bulkhead to house the engine, transmission and front suspension, while the composite luggage compartment provides a protective crumple zone at the rear. The Vanquish's exterior panels are made from a mix of composite materials and pressed aluminium, each panel tailored and attached by hand for a perfect fit. In all, the Vanquish's body is lighter, stiffer and stronger than the DB7's, promising enhanced handling and roadholding as well as improved crash performance.
In an effort to prevent high-speed lift, the flat underfloor channels air into a rear venturi section to create downforce by sucking the car onto the road - a neat solution that avoids the need for a huge and unsightly rear spoiler.
The back axle features a limited-slip differential and traction control; if potential wheel slippage is sensed, engine power to that wheel is reduced and the rear brakes applied if necessary. The tyres' temperatures and pressures are monitored automatically, while stopping power comes from ventilated and drilled Brembo disc brakes, and ABS. Forged aluminium wishbones and cast aluminium front suspension uprights make up the lightweight suspension itself.
The Vanquish's electronic systems are controlled by the most sophisticated control system yet to be fitted in an Aston; a Visteon ECU monitors the engine, transmission and braking systems, the mechanical performance and the safety and security of the car. Aston claims that information can be communicated in just 8 milliseconds, and that 2 million commands can be processed per second. The system also incorporates an instrumentation "message centre", a telematics system (which communicates in no less than 11 different languages), the stereo and climate control. The lights and windscreen wipers can be programmed to operate automatically, and satellite navigation is also on offer.
Of course, all the clever gadgets will be showcased in unostentatious fashion inside the old-school cockpit (a 2+2, or 2-seater with rear luggage room). There will be, however - gasp! - a few touches of alloy for a slightly more modern touch besides the wood 'n' leather. And if the subtlety and restrained demeanour is all a bit much, bespoke specifications are encouraged (the degree of vulgarity is up to you) and there is an unlimited choice of interior and paint colours available. Just don't ask for Ferrari red.
