In today’s automotive world, where vehicles often look alike and are packed with driver assistance technologies and touch-sensitive controls, the Aston Martin Valour stands out as a remarkable exception. Priced around $2 million, this model serves as a tribute to Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary and is limited to just 110 units. The Valour is a throwback to the days of pure, unadulterated driving pleasure, combining a robust design that harks back to the muscular DBS V-8 Vantage and the Vantage-based RHAM/1 “Muncher” Le Mans race car from 1980. Aston Martin describes the Valour’s design approach as “retro futurism at its finest.”
The Valour also carries design elements from the one-off Aston Martin Victor, a track car introduced in 2020. However, unlike the Victor, which uses a modified carbon-fiber monocoque chassis from the Aston Martin One-77, the Valour shares much of its bonded-aluminum underbody and suspension components with the previous year’s limited-edition V-12 Vantage.
Inside the Valour, the ambiance is reminiscent of classic motoring heritage. The cabin features woolen tweed inspired by the seat materials of the 1959 Le Mans-winning DBR1, creating a nostalgic yet sophisticated environment. The manual shifter’s exposed linkage protruding from the center console serves as a striking reminder of the car’s commitment to driving purity and mechanical engagement.
At the heart of the Valour is a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine, which offers a visceral driving experience akin to that of a race car. Unlike modern vehicles with electronically controlled automatic transmissions that often obscure the true character of the engine, the Valour’s manual transmission preserves the raw essence of the V-12. This engine produces 705 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque, figures that are 7 percent lower in horsepower and 16 percent lower in torque compared to the DBS 770 Ultimate. The reduction is due to the custom Graziano six-speed manual transaxle, positioned at the rear. This transmission, while not capable of handling the engine’s full torque potential, provides a satisfying shift feel that enhances the driving experience. The trade-off is between maintaining the car’s distinctive personality and delivering the ultimate in performance.
The Valour’s driving experience is accompanied by an engaging soundtrack. Although there is a slight hint of turbo lag that is less noticeable in automatic transmission versions of this engine, the power plant truly excels as the revs climb past 2,800 rpm. By 4,000 rpm, the engine propels forward with a relentless surge of power, complemented by the subtle growl of the triple exhaust system. The driving experience is heightened by the direct connection between the driver and the car, free from the excessive insulation and electronic aids that often dull the senses in modern vehicles. The Valour represents a masterful example of traditional driving pleasure, showcasing a blend of classic motoring traits with contemporary engineering.
