When Fernando Alonso, the renowned Formula One driver with two world championship titles, desired a personalized Aston Martin, his visions led to the creation of the Aston Martin Valiant. This vehicle is not merely a modified car but a bespoke marvel combining high performance and exclusive engineering, reflective of Alonso’s expertise and refined taste.
Aston Martin’s elite Q division has meticulously crafted the Valiant, inspired by the race-winning prowess of the Muncher Le Mans racer. At the heart of this machine is a 735 horsepower, 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 engine. This formidable powertrain is paired with a six-speed manual transmission by Graziano, channeling all that power to the rear wheels, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience akin to that of controlling a race car on the open road.
The Valiant distinguishes itself from the Aston Martin Valour, from which it draws its lineage, by boosting its horsepower by 30, despite sharing the same mechanical components. This enhancement is credited to advanced software modifications that optimize performance without altering the fundamental engineering.
What truly sets the Valiant apart are its meticulous design tweaks aimed at optimizing track performance without compromising its road legality. The car features a boldly designed full-width carbon fiber grille, engineered to enhance airflow to the engine while also improving weight distribution by reducing mass at the front axle.
The chassis and aerodynamics of the Valiant have undergone significant upgrades, emphasizing precision and control – qualities befitting a car associated with Alonso. This is achieved through the integration of Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) shocks, which adjust damping in milliseconds to suit driving conditions, offering a tailored response that matches Alonso’s exacting standards.
In terms of weight reduction, the Valiant has shed approximately 220 pounds compared to the Valour. This feat is accomplished through the use of lightweight materials like magnesium wheels, a motorsport-spec lithium-ion battery, and a 3D-printed rear subframe. These components not only lessen the car’s weight but also enhance its agility and speed.
The Valiant’s aerodynamic prowess is evident in its exterior modifications, which include a large front splitter, broad side sills with vortex generators, and an upswept rear deck lid topped with a fixed wing. These features collectively enhance downforce and stability, particularly at high speeds, generating 424 pounds of downforce at 150 mph.
Inside, the Valiant continues to reflect Alonso’s influence with a bespoke interior that includes a built-in steel roll cage, 4-point race harnesses, and Recaro Podium seats designed for superior support and comfort during high-speed maneuvers. The tactile experience is refined with a custom spherical aluminum knob atop the exposed shifter linkage and a uniquely designed steering wheel.
The Aston Martin Valiant, limited to just 38 units globally, represents a pinnacle of bespoke automotive design and engineering. Priced at around $3 million each, it stands among the most expensive cars in the world. These cars, already sold out, will first meet the public eye at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, with Alonso himself showcasing its capabilities. This event not only marks the debut of a remarkable vehicle but also celebrates the close collaboration between a legendary driver and one of the most storied names in luxury automobiles.
