Aston Martin pays tribute to Red Arrows

Aston Martin's bespoke 'Q' division has unveiled a limited-run special-edition based on its the Vanquish S that has been inspired by the British Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team.

Called the Vanquish S Red Arrows Edition, all 10 V12-powered coupes come painted in a non-metallic colour called 'Eclat Red' -- that was created especially for the limited Aston and takes its name from the Red Arrow's 'Eclat' motto.

Contrasting with the red paint are subtle white and blue paint highlights and, even, a playful white 'smoke trail' that extends from the front wing's side strakes.

Perhaps the most dramatic feature of the Red Arrow's design features is the naked carbon-fibre roof that mimics the complex line of explosive charge that the display team's Hawker aircraft's glass canopy contains.

Inside, the Pinewood green trim inserts and seat belts pay tribute to the Red Arrow's pilot's flight suits.

Finally, the Red Arrow's logo is embroidered onto the seat backs and transmission tunnel while, Aston claims, some of the switchgear has an aviation theme.

Under the bonnet, aside from a full titanium sports exhaust, the normally aspirated 5.9-litre V12 engine remains untouched. That means that, paired with its eight-speed auto, it produces 444kW/630Nm -- enough for a 0-100km/h sprint of just 3.5 seconds and a 323km/h top speed.

Although 10 Vanquish S Red Arrows Editions will be built, only nine will be offered for sale. The last car, the British car-maker says, will be donated to the RAF Benevolent Fund to be auctioned at a later date.