the Aston-Martin Rapide was undoubtedly one of the most stylish four-door sports sedans on the planet. In 2018, the British sports car maker unveiled a hardcore version of the Rapide, the AMR (Aston Martin Racing) edition. Being only the third Aston to receive the special AMR treatment, it became one of the fastest four-door sedans in the world, with a claimed top speed of 205 mph.
The Rapide AMR is a practical alternative to a conventional high-performance Aston Martin Coupe with the same streamlined silhouette and monstrous performance. While the Rapide S was almost enough, for its final iteration, the specialists at Aston Martin Racing department increased the power output of its sensational V12, making the Rapide AMR a more extreme four-door supercar. What’s more, the Rapide AMR model was the last Aston fitted with a naturally aspirated V12. The Rapide AMR’s rivals in this segment included the hugely capable Porsche Panamera GTS and the prestigious Bentley Continental GT.
Production of the Rapide AMR ended in 2020 after a limited run of only 210 units. No doubt, the high-performance Aston is certainly a rare sight on the roads. Upon release, prices of this super sedan started at around $240,000, that’s $40,000 more than the Rapide S version. According to classic.com, the price of a used Rapide AMR today is around the $153,000 mark.
The Racing Inspired Styling Of The Rapide AMR Looks Sensational
Aesthetically, the Rapide AMR’s design language is aggressive with its imposing road presence and unique character. Measuring approximately five meters in length, and sitting 10mm lower than the standard Rapide, the silhouette of the AMR is instantly recognizable as an Aston Martin product. However, the Rapide AMR comes with a black mesh grille, that’s reminiscent of the track-only Vantage AMR Pro. In addition, the distinctive circular daytime running lights are similar to those used on the special Zagato models. The racing-inspired acid green livery distinguishes it from the standard Rapide, though optional.
Whilst most of the structure is aluminum, the front splitter, side sills, diffuser, and hood are all carbon fiber. The aggressive quad exhaust with black tips completes the look. Aston has also fitted enormous 21-inch alloy wheels on each corner with ultra-high performance Michelin Super Sport rubber.
The Rapide AMR’s Four Seater Cabin Is More Sport-Focused
The motorsport theme continues in the cabin, which is an amalgamation of race car and luxury sedan. The interior has a premium feel featuring Alcantara bucket seats with green piping and AMR printed on all four seat backrests. In addition, the center console is all carbon fiber and comes with a unique AMR inspection plaque. While the dashboard is typical Aston Martin, the switchgear and tech feel a little dated compared to its rivals. However, new Aston owners were also given the option of a One-77 style steering wheel, which further adds to its exclusivity.
What’s more, the Aston Martin Rapide AMR comes with two sculptured seats in the back that can accommodate two children or shorter adults, as the rear headroom is, somewhat, compromised for taller passengers.
Last Of Aston’s Naturally Aspirated V12’s
What makes an Aston Martin special is its majestic V12 engine. The Rapide AMR comes with an old-school 5.9 liter naturally aspirated powerplant up front, churning out 595 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. That’s an increase of 43 horses over the Rapide S. Moreover, the engine is front-mid mounted for excellent weight distribution. Furthermore, an enhanced eight-speed automatic transmission delivered power to the rear wheels. Aston Martin engineers have modified the muscular V12, which includes new engine calibration and better airflow for optimized performance.
In addition, the AMR features new dampers, massive carbon ceramic brake discs, and a new sports exhaust system.
Four Door Practicality With Supercar Pace
Once you fire up the glorious V12, the symphony from the quad pipes makes you forget all the AMR’s flaws. Without a doubt, the Aston Martin Rapide AMR is all about performance, which is explosive. The sensational V12 propels the Rapide AMR to 60 mph in a mere 4.2 seconds. No doubt, impressive for a car weighing 1995 kg. What’s more, the super sedan boasts a top speed of an incredible 205 mph.
The Rapide AMR is a weapon on the road. Thanks to its excellent weight distribution, the heavyweight Aston is remarkably agile, with sublime body control, smooth gear shifts, and communicative steering. No doubt, the AMR rides a lot firmer though not displeasingly harsh as expected. You also have the reassurance of carbon ceramic brakes to provide superior stopping power.
The Aston Martin Rapide AMR makes an excellent four-seater GT combining high levels of luxury, comfort, and style. Moreover, with that magical V12 up front, it’s also a hardcore performance machine when it wants to be, with a massive 595 horses on tap.
Should you buy a Porsche Panamera GTS or Continental GT over the Rapide AMR? This depends entirely on personal and practical requirements. The Panamera is the most accomplished of the three and would be easier to live with daily. The Bentley has more space and grace. However, I am sure many will agree that the Aston Martin is the most attractive with its timeless design and exclusivity. What’s more, it also has one of the best sounding engines in the world.
The Rapide AMR has to be the ultimate 205 mph four-door supercar!
