Aston Martin Celebrates A3 Centenary with New Vantage Roadster

Aston Martin Celebrates the Centenary of the A3

The History of the A3

Aston Martin is commemorating the centenary of the A3, the oldest and most distinguished car in its lineup, by showcasing the new Vantage Roadster, one of the brand's most dynamic and exceptional sports models.

Today, Aston Martin reflects on 100 years since the introduction of chassis number 3, now known as the A3, which was produced at their facility on Abingdon Road in Kensington, London. This vehicle was the third of five prototypes developed by Aston Martin before the actual production of the series began, and was driven by Lionel Martin, the co-founder of the company.

Specifications of the A3

The A3 was equipped with a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine generating 11 horsepower, often characterized by its racing-specific streamlined body. It participated in various races and set multiple records for light car speeds. Its notable achievements include:

• First place at the Essex Motor Club – Cup Hill Climb in 1922.
• Completing the famous Brooklands circuit at a speed of 84.5 miles per hour in 1923.

The Legacy of the A3

After a century since its development, the A3 stands as a proud symbol within the Aston Martin Heritage Trust archive, to which it was donated at an auction in 2002. Following its addition to the archive, the car underwent restoration to bring it closer to the original manufacturing specifications developed by the pre-war modification company, Ecurie Bertelli.

Centenary Celebration Event

In celebration of this historical milestone, and in collaboration with the Aston Martin Heritage Trust, Hersham Walton Motors – Aston Martin commissioned the Q by Aston Martin customization department to define the specifications for the A3 and incorporate them into the all-new Vantage Roadster model.

This remarkable initiative will be highlighted for the first time later this month during a special event organized by the Aston Martin Heritage Trust to celebrate the centenary of the A3, supported by the Aston Martin Owners Club.

Event Details

The celebratory event will take place on Saturday, June 26, at the Dallas Burston Polo Club in Southam, Warwickshire. The event will feature a showcase of rare and exceptional Aston Martin models on a coordinated schedule, with opportunities for visitors to join guided tours to learn more about these magnificent cars.

Official Statements

Commenting on this significant occasion, Simon Lin, Sales Director of Q by Aston Martin and Special Projects at Aston Martin, stated: "We are thrilled to seize this wonderful opportunity to celebrate the centenary of the oldest Aston Martin model ever produced; we are excited to partner with the Aston Martin Heritage Trust and Hersham Walton Motors – Aston Martin to present this unique celebratory event, which serves as a fitting tribute to this historic model."

Ordering the Vantage Roadster

Orders are now being accepted for the Vantage Roadster inspired by the A3 design, available in a limited edition of just three models offered by Hersham Walton Motors – Aston Martin.