Aston Martin CC100 concept hits the track

MOST people would be happy with chocolates and a letter from the Queen, but Aston Martin has celebrated its centenary with a 290kmh bespoke one-off supercar.

The CC100 Speedster concept has a 6.0-litre V12 capable of propelling it to 100km/h in little more than four seconds, but testing its performance is a breezy exercise with the absence of a windscreen or complete doors.

The design of the two-seater was inspired by the 1959 Le Mans-winning DBR1, although the modern-day version uses a combination of both traditional and modern construction materials.

Carbonfibre bodywork hints at the advanced technology under its skin while leather door release straps and transmission tunnel cappings are a nod to the heritage of previous vehicles.

The large triangle vent that characterised the DBR1 has returned, but this time it has been extended through the doors creating an exposed passenger space.

Starting with a clean sheet of paper, Aston’s designers completed the concept in just six months. However, the CC100 is more than just an exercise in aesthetics.

The concept has lapped the legendary Nurburgring, accompanied by its spiritual predecessor, the DBR1, with formula one ace Sir Sterling Moss at the wheel.

Aston Martin chief executive Dr Ulrich Bez said the CC100 was more than a simple birthday present to the British luxury car-maker.

“It shows that the soul of Aston Martin – the thing that differentiates us from all the other car makers out there – is as powerful as ever and I very much hope that everyone who catches a glimpse of it at the Nurburgring today enjoys seeing it,” he said.

Carbonfibre specialist Multimatic was heavily involved in the production of the CC100’s bodywork, and was one of 10 companies advertised on the flanks of the concept car – a first for the luxury marque.