Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante revealed

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Symphony of 12 cylinders

Aston Martin describes its latest model as 'the ultimate super GT'. Some would describe it simply with the expression 'phwoar'.

Called the Vanquish S Volante, it's a convertible version of the coupe model unveiled two months ago and is possibly the best way to indulge your ears in a symphony of 12 cylinders.

It uses the same 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 powerhouse engine as its hard-top sibling, generating a quiff-inducing 600bhp with the roof down. So what else do you need to know about Aston's new soft-top tourer?

The British car maker has drip fed on information on its new model, suggesting it could be an equal match for the coupe despite having the roof lopped off.

Power (595bhp) and  torque (465 lb ft) are unchanged, though the performance figures of 0 to 62mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 201mph are yet to be confirmed for the rag-top Volante.

However, a glimpse through some of the other vital statics reveal there may not be too much in it if you find yourself in a head-to-head battle with the hard top.

Aston Martin claims the convertible has a combined fuel economy figure of 21.6mpg, CO2 emissions of 302g/km and a kerb weight 1739kg - a copy and paste of the numbers quoted for the Vanquish S coupe.

But while the loss of a rigid roof might not have much of an impact on how brisk the Vanquish S is, it certainly adds to the drama and visual impact of an already striking car.

Elements we like most include the finned side vents - the winglets extending from the cut-out behind the wheel arch and arrowing into a prominent line that runs into the door panel.

The rolling shoulder line follows the rise and fall of the hunched arches and the 20-inch alloy wheels with gloss black centres give an illusion of the spokes floating in mid air.

At the ends of the car you're greeted by lashings of carbon fibre, including a rear diffuser around quad exhaust outlets that will emit a chorus of V12 thunder at the dab of a throttle.

What isn't so impressive is the lack of rear legroom on offer. From these shots you'd have to be a contortionist to find a ride in the back-seat as anything other than agonisingly uncomfortable.

So how much is Aston Martin demanding for the privilege? It hasn't yet revealed the on the road fee, though expect there to be a 5 to 10 per cent premium over the £199,950 coupe, which would bring the total to anything between £210,000 to £220,000.

-Daily Mail