The changes made by Aston Martin to the Vantage GT3, introduced in 2018, are so extensive that it effectively feels like a brand-new car and not just a mid-cycle refresh. While many call it the Evo, some, like Danish driver Sorensen, argue that it’s more than that. According to Sorensen, the car looks a little like its predecessor, but everything else feels different. From suspension to bodywork, practically every aspect of the car has been overhauled, making it a significantly different driving experience.
The new Vantage GT3 may share its mechanical underpinnings and engine with the older model, but Aston Martin has made substantial changes to the suspension, aero package, and electronics system. This has resulted in a car that not only looks different but also drives differently. Heart of Racing’s Ian James, who has driven the 2024 Vantage at Daytona and Losail, highlights the improved driveability of the new model. He mentions that the car is easier to drive than its predecessor, closing the gap between different driver levels and improving consistency on the track.
The new Vantage GT3 made its debut in the World Endurance Championship grid at the Qatar 1812km event, just a month after appearing at the Daytona 24 Hours in Florida. While it faced challenges in its first IMSA SportsCar Championship round, the WEC performance was much more promising. Teams like Heart of Racing and D’station managed to secure podium finishes in the LMGT3 class, showcasing the capabilities of the new Vantage on an international stage.
Despite a few small mistakes during the races, drivers like Sorensen are proud of what the new Vantage GT3 has achieved so far. Finishing on the podium in international competitions like the WEC is a testament to the improvements made by Aston Martin in the latest model. The car’s performance, driveability, and overall handling have been positively received by drivers and teams, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the season.
The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 has undergone significant changes that have transformed it into a highly competitive and capable racing car. With improvements in driveability, performance, and overall handling, the latest model has proven its worth on the international racing stage. As drivers continue to push the car to its limits in different competitions, the true potential of the new Vantage GT3 is expected to be fully realized, making it a formidable contender in the world of GT racing.
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