Next Aston Martin Vanquish Could Venture Into Ferrari Territory

A mysterious Aston Martin prototype was recently spotted on the Nürburgring and now we're starting to learn more about the model.

Initial speculation suggested the car was a prototype for the DB11 S but Autocar is reporting the vehicle is actually a mule for the next-generation Vanquish.

Expected to be launched next year, the Vanquish will reportedly become a hardcore performance model to help distance itself from the svelte DB11.

Aston Martin hasn't said much about the car but the report says it will use an upgraded version of the company's twin-turbo 5.2-liter V12 engine. The engine normally produces 600 hp (447 kW) but the new version will reportedly "edge it towards the realm occupied by the Ferrari 812 Superfast" which has a 6.5-liter V12 developing 789 hp (588 kW). This enables the prancing horse to rocket from 0-100 km (0-62 mph) in 2.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph).

To help it deal with the increased power, the Vanquish will reportedly have an aggressive exterior with a front splitter and a large rear spoiler. The chassis will carryover from the DB11 but it will likely see some modifications due to its sporting focus.