It’s already the fastest brit this side of the F1

It was remarkably easy to get up to the speed and maintain it.’ This was Chris Porritt, One-77 programme manager and the man who was at the wheel when Aston’s $ 1.6million hypercar hit 335kph at Nardo in Southern Italy.

‘As well as computer modelling, we used a 40 per cent model for aerodynamic testing, but for this high speed test we used the first dynamic chassis we’ve built so far,’ said Porritt. ‘Aerodynamically, the car’s balance was as predicted and high-speed stability was beyond expectation.’

Moreover, the engineering team believe the One-77 can go faster still – although it’s already not only the fastest Aston ever made, but the fastest British production car this side of the McLaren F1.

Conditions were dry but windy for Porritt’s drive on the 12.8-km banked circle, the test forming part of the One-77’s stringent development process ahead of its launch later this year. The unique 7.3-litre V12 is believed to develop over 700bhp, delivered to the rear wheels via a six- speed automated manual transmission.

One-77 also uses a full carbonfibre monocoque – a feature not shared by Aston’s newly announced Carbon editions. Instead these versions of the V12 Vantage and DBS feature smart Carbon Black paintwork outside and plenty of Obsidian Black leather inside. Both will fetch a five per cent premium over the standard car. Meanwhile, we wait for news of Middle East prices for the new Rapide, but you’ll find a full report of Aston’s new four-door in next month’s issue of evo.