Aston Martin

Aston Martin: Luxury British Sports Cars

Based in Gaydon, Warwickshire, Aston Martin’s full company name is Aston Martin Lagonda Limited. Purchased from the Ford Motor Company on March 12,2007, for £479 million, it is co-owned by businessman John Sinders and Investment Dar. Ford Motor Company has retained a $77 million stake in Aston Martin, which is valued at $925 million USD.

A Distinguished History

Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, and originally called Bamford & Martin, the company’s first true Aston Martin was created by outfitting the chassis of a 1908 Isotta-Faschini with a four cylinder Coventry Simplex engine. Since then, the question “Who is Aston Martin?” has been answered in a variety of ways, and the answer has changed dramatically as time has passed.

One of the most compelling things about Aston Martin is its history. During World War One, and again during World War Two, the company placed a larger focus on building aircraft components, although a series of successful race cars was produced. During the David Brown era, Aston Martin and Bentley shared components and shop space, gradually regaining strength as performance motor sports enthusiasts from the world over stood up and took notice. James Bond movies starred Aston Martin models, adding even more appeal to the already distinguished name.

Aston Martin Today

Still popular, and even more performance oriented than ever, Aston Martin’s current models include the Lola-Aston Martin B09/60, and the Aston Martin One 77, which first appeared at Paris’ 2008 Motor Show. Pricing for the One 77 is in the area of £1,050,000, or $1,700,000.00 USD. Capable of a maximum speed of more than 354 kilometers per hour, and with a 10.9 / 1 compression ratio, the One 77 is equipped with an alloy quad overhead camshaft, 48-valve, 7312 cc V12 front mid-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive. With a fully catalyzed stainless steel lightweight sports exhaust system with active bypass valves, it is a two-seat, two-door coupe.

When compared with Ferrari and Lamborghini, only the Aston Martin Cygnet, which comes in at a modest $40,000.00 has less visual appeal. The Aston Martin V8 Vantage coupe comes in at $138,000.00 and the 2011 Aston Martin Virage Volante is priced at $224,000.00. With a wide range of appeal as far as pricing is concerned, it is clear that Aston Martin is destined to continue on what has been a smooth ride, albeit with twists and turns along the way.