On June 13, Aston Martin is set to reveal the limited edition 2019 Rapide AMR, a model inspired by Aston Martin Racing, during the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans event. This unveiling will follow closely after the debut of the DB11 AMR. The production of the Rapide AMR will be restricted to just 210 units, resembling the concept showcased at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.
Much like the concept from 2017, the Rapide AMR will feature a bold and substantial front grille akin to the track-exclusive Vantage AMR Pro. It will also include circular daytime running lights reminiscent of those on the latest Zagato models.
In comparison to the less powerful Rapide S, the Rapide AMR boasts enhanced aerodynamic features, including a carbon fiber front splitter, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a trunk lid lip spoiler. These elements work together to minimize lift and maintain a balanced ride at high speeds. Additionally, to further reduce weight, Aston Martin has swapped the aluminum hood for a carbon fiber version equipped with large ventilation inserts.
The Rapide AMR is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.0-liter V12 engine, sharing technology with the Vantage GT12 race car. With upgraded inlet manifolds and a new calibration for the engine and transmission, it now generates an impressive 580 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 465 pound-feet of torque. A redesigned quad exhaust amplifies the car’s sound to a level similar to that of its AMR race counterparts. Aston Martin claims the Rapide AMR can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, with a top speed reaching 205 mph.
Aston Martin makes history with the Rapide AMR as it will be the first model to feature 21-inch wheels. These wheels are fitted with high-performance Michelin Super Sport tires, measuring 245/35 ZR21 in the front and 295/30 ZR21 in the rear. The large, multispoke forged wheels are designed for both stiffness and enhanced brake cooling. To complement this, the Rapide AMR will incorporate an evolved cooling system derived from the Vanquish S, featuring modified brake ducts and dust shields for improved thermal management. The car is equipped with carbon ceramic brakes as standard, with front rotors measuring 400 mm paired with six-piston calipers, and rear rotors measuring 360 mm with four-piston calipers.
Beyond the improved tires and braking system, the Rapide’s suspension has been specially modified for the AMR variant. It rides 10 mm lower than the Rapide S but retains the three-stage adaptive dampers. These dampers have been re-engineered to enhance agility and responsiveness, with much of the setup developed at the AMR Performance Center at the Nurburgring.
The 2019 Aston Martin Rapide AMR will be available for purchase later this year in three distinct design schemes: Standard, Silhouette, and Signature. Both the Standard and Silhouette options come in four colors: Marina Blue, Scintilla Silver, Lightning Silver, and Onyx Black. The Standard scheme includes AMR Lime accents, while the Silhouette features a full-length contrasting stripe in China Grey or Clubsport White. The Signature scheme showcases Stirling Green paint complemented by Lime accents and a Lime stripe, echoing the livery of Aston Martin Racing’s competition vehicles.
Interior customization will also reflect the chosen exterior scheme, offering either AMR Lime or Galena Silver accents and stitching. For the first time on the Rapide, the car will feature a full-length carbon fiber center console, with Alcantara covering the seats. An optional One-77 style steering wheel will be available as well.
No matter the design scheme chosen, each 2019 Aston Martin Rapide AMR will come with subtle AMR logos stitched into the seats, a limited-edition AMR inspection plaque, and AMR branding on the carbon sill plaques.
“AMR takes technology and inspiration from our motorsport program to enhance the performance of our road cars, which is evident in the Rapide AMR, Aston Martin’s most extreme four-door sports car,” stated Dr. Andy Palmer, president and CEO of Aston Martin. He added, “With improved performance, sharper dynamics, and a more powerful design language, Aston Martin has elevated the Rapide to exciting new heights.”
In addition to the available design options, customers can personalize their Rapide AMR further through Q by Aston Martin.
The 2019 Aston Martin Rapide AMR will be sold globally, with the exceptions of China and Russia. In the United States, it will start at a price of $240,000, with customer deliveries expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2018..
