Aston Martin Launching One-Make Race Series for Vantage Racecars

The two Aston Martin Vantage models in question are the GT4 racecar, which is homologated to the FIA GT4-class regulations, and the N24, which is, surprisingly, street legal in some countries. The entrance fee for the racing series -- which while just for fun, will be extremely competitive and fully FIA sanctioned -- is a rather low £12,950 ($19,839), and includes up to two drivers, a competition specified ECU, racing suits, gloves, and hospitality. Aston Martin also offers full pit and paddock services as part of the entry fee as well.Although many items are included in the entry fee, some of the larger expenses are not. Fuel, tires, parts, and service items must be paid for separately, although they can be ordered through the one-make race series. Aston Martin will sell the competitors regulation fuel and tires at the track. If a competitor blows an engine during the series Aston Martin will sell them a new one for a hefty £15,000 ($23,000). Aston Martin Racing is even offering Vantage N24 owners the opportunity to replace their 4.3-liter V-8 with the larger and more powerful 4.7-liter unit found in the GT4 cars.“There are lots of people out there with Vantage GT4s and N24s,” Ben Sayer, Aston Martin Racing spokesperson, told Piston Heads. “This is designed to give them a platform to race each other in a really competitive environment.”Even though the environment will be extremely competitive, it won’t be quite as hot as Aston Martin’s other one-make race series in Asia. Aston Martin’s Asia Cup awards the winning driver a spot behind the wheel of a Vantage GT4 in the FIA GT4 Championship. The Aston Martin Challenge champion only gets the chance to test drive either a Vantage GT2 or the GT3-class DBRS9.The Aston Martin Challenge begins at Snetterton Motorsports Park in Norfolk, England in April with a total of six 90-150 minute races planned. The series ends in October and includes a trip to Belgium’s famous Spa Francorchamps, the only circuit outside of England.Source: Piston Heads