Aston Martin Debuts V8 Vantage Roadster

We’re still a few weeks out from the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show, but automakers can’t keep their excitement under wraps. Aston Martin just sent over information on the V8 Vantage roadster it will display at the show. Based on the Vantage coupe, the roadster version features the same 380-­hp engine as its hardtop brethren and hits 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. Not too shabby for a convertible. Plus, it’s quite a looker. For those who want a British exotic, you can’t go wrong here.

Prices haven’t been announced, but we’d guess there will be around a $10,000 - $20,000 increase on the coupe’s $107,400 sticker. Expect the V8 Vantage roadster to arrive at an upscale dealer near you around the middle of 2007. We’ll bring you more on the V8 Vantage roadster during our coverage of the L.A. Auto Show at the end of the month. For now, enjoy the photos below.

Aston Martin Debuts Two New Cars with Zero Details

If a car debuts at a private function with no specifications, price, production schedule or any other relatively vital information, do we blog about it? Well, of course we do. Last week, Aston Martin showed the new DBS coupe and previously unseen V8 Vantage Roadster to a group of 300 VIPs.

Forbes was there and has published large photo galleries of both models. The DBS will star in the upcoming James Bond film “Casino Royale.” While the model on display was made for the movie — gun-holster glove box and all — the DBS will go into regular production along with the striking V8 Vantage Roadster. We just don’t know when, or for how much, or with how much horsepower …

[New Aston Martin DBS Bond Car and V8 Vantage Roadster Unveiled, Forbes.com via Jalopnik]