Aston Martin Racing will be back on track next year with this new V12 Vantage GT3 racer. The V12 Vantage GT3 marks a new vehicle for Aston’s customer racing efforts, as the new car will replace the previous DBRS9 racer.

The V12 Vantage GT3 will use a modified version of the six-litre V12 production Aston engine for racing, combining dry-sump lubrication and a 6-speed sequential transmission to deliver around 447 kW and 700 Nm of torque. The engine has also been repositioned within the car’s chassis to improve balance and handling, while attention to new aerodynamics is also expected to bring improved results on track.

Additional features of the new V12 Vantage GT3 include, a shorter wheelbase and lower centre of gravity, with the engine having been lowered in the chassis, as well as a race-spec ABS and traction control system. The new customer racer will undergo endurance testing in October and will be ready for deliveries in 2012, with prices starting from £298 000.

Aston Martin Racing has announced plans to replace the DBRS9 with the new Vantage GT3.

Details are fairly light, but the car is based on the V12 Vantage and as such, features a 6.0-litre V12 engine that is targeted to produce 447 kW and 700 N.m of torque. It will be connected to a semi-automatic transmission that should ensure the 1250 kg racer is competitive with newer rivals.

According to Aston Martin Racing Managing Director John Gaw, “The DBRS9 has been a very successful GT3 racing car and, despite being more than six years old, is still competitive today. However, the competition has moved on and we needed to create a new car that combines our six years’ experience in this category with the latest race technology to continue Aston Martin’s success in GT3 for many years to come.”

The first car is slated to be built in July and will undergo an extensive round of testing. Upon a successful outcome, Aston Martin will build ten customer cars for the start of the 2012 racing season.

via WorldCarFans