by The powerful Aston Martin Rapide AMR sedan is a rare sight in today’s market, where the dominance of SUVs is gradually displacing such cars. Here are the key facts about this model:
The Decline of the Super Sedan Segment
Although the market for high-performance sedans from exotic brands still exists, the mass shift of buyers to SUVs is gradually making this segment forgotten. The Aston Martin Rapide is one of the most interesting examples.
The car was produced for ten years, from 2010 to 2020, and during that entire time, fewer than 10,000 examples left the factory. For comparison, the Aston Martin DBX, which effectively replaced it, surpassed that figure in just four years. The Rapide was never a mass-market success, but it retains a special appeal, especially in the top AMR version.
This is the only Aston Martin Rapide “shooting brake” in the world.
Aston Martin introduced the Rapide AMR version in mid-2018. Only 210 cars were built, and one of them is now offered for sale in the United States. This rare find is a much more interesting alternative to yet another luxury SUV.
The Sedan’s Heart – A Naturally Aspirated V12
Like all Rapide models, the AMR is equipped with a 5.9-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine. However, this engine was upgraded: new intake manifolds were installed, the software was updated, and different dual intake ports were applied to improve airflow. This allowed it to produce 580 hp and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque.
The V12 engine works in tandem with an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels. The only modern family car with a V12 engine that can be considered an alternative to the Rapide AMR is the Ferrari Purosangue, but used examples of the latter cost well over $500,000.
Description of the Specific Example
This Rapide AMR has a mileage of 28,000 miles (45,000 km) and is painted black, which is combined with black 21-inch wheels. The interior is also executed predominantly in black tones with numerous matte carbon fiber inserts on the dashboard and transmission tunnel. The car is also equipped with a powerful Bang & Olufsen audio system, although we suspect the sound of the V12 engine will be more than sufficient for the future owner.
If you are interested in owning this rare Aston Martin, you have the opportunity to bid on the relevant auction before it’s too late.
The story of the Rapide AMR clearly demonstrates the shift in priorities in the luxury car market. Once, an elegant four-door sedan with a supercar engine was considered the pinnacle of achievement, but today even brands like Aston Martin are focused on SUVs. This makes existing Rapide examples, especially limited series, not just a means of transportation, but future collectible exhibits. Their value may increase precisely because of their rarity and because they symbolize the last bastion of the “old school” in the era of electrification and utility vehicles.
