ASTON MARTIN has lifted the wraps on its most potent and uncompromising Vantage yet - the track-inspired GT3 special edition.

This monster of a machine is powered by a new version of the brand's 6.0-litre V12 engine, capable of generating up to a whopping 600PS.

Yet the car weighs in at 100kg less than a standard V12 Vantage S.

Comprehensively re-engineered, as well as being heavily restyled, the special edition is lower and wider than any of its Vantage stablemates.

A broader track - front and rear - brings even more composed cornering thanks to a reduction in lateral load transfer, while the use of Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres provides more assured handling.

Motorsport-inspired features include carbon fibre both inside and out while an aerodynamics pack features a prominent rear wing and pronounced front splitter making for greater downforce.

Inspired by Aston Martin Racing's successful campaigns, the new car will be strictly limited to 100 examples and has been designed and engineered exclusively at the company's Gaydon headquarters.

Inside there's a carbon fibre centre stack and touch-sensitive control set-up, carbon fibre racing seats; Alcantara trim and various options.

Aston chief Andy Palmer said: "Motorsport is in our blood at Aston Martin. The Vantage is the car we campaign in top level sports car racing around the world and so it seems only fitting that we offer an exclusive, limited edition Vantage that expertly fuses our motorsport know-how with our road car prowess."

The Vantage GT3 special edition will make its public debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show with first customer deliveries beginning in early autumn.