Aston Martin's Veyron fighter exposed

Aston Martin has released official images of its mega-expensive One-77, and what they reveal is a brutal looking coupe with a menacing aero kit befitting its 320km/h-plus v-max capabilities.

Due on sale towards the end of 2009, just 77 units will be offered for sale (hence the One-77 moniker) priced at $2.36m -- putting it in Bugatti Veyron territory.

Helping justify the exorbitant price is a bespoke 7.0-litre V12, derived from the DB9's 6.0-litre unit, and the enlarged unit will reportedly kick out in excess of 520kW and 700Nm.

"The engine is a magnificent piece of work," Aston Martin boss Ulrich Bez was quoted as saying by respected UK publication Autocar. "It looks like art, like a watch where you can see all the parts."

Dr Bez told Autocar that 200mph (320km/h) capability would be "unavoidable" for the flagship model.

"It's not all about power or being in a performance race with Bugatti," Dr Bez said. "It's a fabulous, hand-built car that's the pinnacle of what Aston Martin can achieve."

The magazine reports the One-77 will measure 4576mm long and 1223mm high, which means it will be shorter and lower than the DB9 from which it's derived. However, the bulging guards mean it spans almost 2m across the bows.

Autocar reports the low-volume range-topper will weigh a relatively sprightly 1500kg, thanks to a carbonfibre tub clothed in aluminium body panels.

Other sources suggest the bespoke Aston will come armed with a sequential manual gearbox, a retractable rear spoiler, carbon ceramic brakes and adaptive suspension.

The coupe will also debut all-new electronic instrumentation that will in due course filter down to the DB9 and Vantage replacements.

Earlier reports suggested the One-77 was already sold out, but Autocar states the company has so far received 100 "expressions of interest" from potential buyers. No cash has allegedly been forked over for now.

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