Editor’s Choice: Aston Martin Vantage 550bhp Twin Supercharged

While more recent Astons have combined elegance with restrained power, there was a period in the Nineties when the then-Newport Pagnell-built cars looked their most aggressive. Cars such as the twin-supercharged Vantage you see here.

Yes, it carried a few pounds in weight, but, my goodness, the sight of a 550bhp Aston on full chat is a thing of wonder. And the best place to view the rising bonnet and flashing scenery is from behind the wheel, set deep in the ‘Gentleman’s Club’ ambience of the hand-built cockpit.

Classic Driver dealer Byron International has this 1996 example for sale in the classic colour of Mendip Blue with silver-piped-blue-hide interior. Complete with ‘short shift’ conversion by Aston Martin Works, the car personifies the British Officer Class’s spirit of brutally effective strength in a hand-made suit.

Photos: Byron International