Week Ending 18th October 2026
Your guide to Issue 46
Settle in for another journey through the Aston Martin world — championship celebrations, Valkyrie and Vantage at Barcelona, the DBX707's changing values, unusual road cars and the people who make the marque so special.
There's plenty to explore. Make yourself a coffee, take your time, and use the Issue 46 Navigator to move between stories whenever you wish.
Take your time.
There's plenty worth discovering.
Image © Fuel the Passion. Screenshot taken from the ‘More Than Just Cars’ new FTP YouTube Video. AMOC Festival 2026, British Motor Museum.
Editor’s Introduction, Dan - Fuel the Passion
Welcome to Issue 46 of the Fuel the Passion Weekly Roundup.
It's been another eventful week in the Aston Martin world, with championship celebrations, contrasting fortunes on the racetrack and some fascinating questions about the value of the cars we admire.
In motorsport, Racing Spirit of Léman has delivered another Michelin Le Mans Cup GT3 championship for Aston Martin, while the DTM season has concluded with Nicki Thiim's historic victories at the Norisring providing a memorable highlight. Formula 1, meanwhile, remains a rather more frustrating story, as Aston Martin continues to work through the challenges of its new partnership with Honda.
There's plenty to look forward to this weekend, too. Valkyrie arrives in Barcelona showing increasingly encouraging pace, with The Heart of Racing's Vantage GT3 crews also fighting for honours in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Over in Portugal, the GT World Challenge Europe and GT4 European Series seasons reach their conclusions at Portimão.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX707
Away from the circuits, we explore Aston Martin's latest collaboration with Breitling, revisit three thought-provoking YouTube films and examine the considerable depreciation affecting the DBX707. It's a subject that raises an interesting question: can a car become significantly more affordable without becoming any less desirable?
Our Car of the Week approaches the subject of Aston Martin values from a completely different direction. It's one of the marque's most unconventional creations, with an asking price that deserves a little investigation.
We also have something special to share from Fuel the Passion, including our latest film celebrating the Aston Martin Owners Club Festival and news of an exciting trip to Barcelona with Blackthorn Racing.
So, whether you're here for the racing, the cars, the history or the people who make this community what it is, I hope you enjoy this week's edition.
FORMULA 1 | SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX
Another Frustrating Weekend for Aston Martin as Verstappen Triumphs - 11th October 2026 | Marina Bay Street Circuit
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd & Aston Martin Aramco. Used for editorial purposes. Fernando Alonso. Singapore Grand Prix 2026.
Aston Martin endured another difficult weekend in Singapore, with Fernando Alonso finishing 16th and Lance Stroll retiring after 36 laps. Following Alonso's encouraging eighth-place finish in Bahrain, hopes of building some momentum quickly faded as the AMR26 continued to struggle with performance and driveability.
The problems began before Sunday's Grand Prix. Alonso finished 11th in Saturday's Sprint, while Stroll retired, and neither driver progressed beyond the opening qualifying session for the main race. Subsequent changes to both cars meant they started from the pit lane, with Alonso also receiving a replacement turbocharger following concerns about inconsistent power delivery.
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd & Aston Martin Aramco. Used for editorial purposes. Lance Stroll. Singapore Grand Prix 2026.
Despite making some early progress, Alonso could only finish 16th, one lap behind the winner. Stroll's race ended prematurely with a clutch problem, leaving Aston Martin without points for the weekend.
More concerning were the continuing technical difficulties. Alonso reported inconsistent engine response, while the team acknowledged challenges involving power delivery, gear changes and electrical energy management. These remain important areas for Aston Martin and Honda to address as their new partnership develops.
At the front, Max Verstappen secured victory ahead of Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antonelli, with the Mercedes youngster extending his Drivers' Championship advantage over teammate George Russell to 102 points.
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd & Aston Martin Aramco. Used for editorial purposes. Fernando Alonso. Singapore Grand Prix 2026.
For Aston Martin, attention now turns to the United States Grand Prix at Austin on 23rd–25th October, where the team will be hoping to rediscover the competitiveness briefly demonstrated in Bahrain. Singapore, however, was another reminder of just how much work remains.
For our full Singapore Grand Prix race report, technical analysis and championship standings, visit the Formula 1 section of the FTP Motorsport Hub.
MICHELIN LE MANS CUP | PORTIMÃO SEASON FINALE
Aston Martin Celebrates GT3 Championship Glory as Blackthorn Endures a Difficult Finale
10 October 2026 | Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, Portugal
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Silhouette of Claude Bovet, Portimao.
Aston Martin added another championship title to its growing list of motorsport achievements as Racing Spirit of Léman secured the 2026 Michelin Le Mans Cup GT3 crown at Portimão. However, while one Vantage team celebrated, the season ended in disappointment for Blackthorn Racing and Code Racing, with both retiring from the final race.
Driving the No. 10 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo, Philipp Sager and Valentin Hasse-Clot entered the two-hour finale with the championship lead. Their race wasn't straightforward, particularly when an unfortunately timed Safety Car left them a lap behind their principal rivals.
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Two Vantages out on track, Portimao.
Nevertheless, a determined recovery brought the Aston Martin home sixth in class, securing sufficient points for Racing Spirit of Léman to claim its second Michelin Le Mans Cup GT3 team championship, following its previous triumph in 2023. Sager also secured the drivers' title, while Hasse-Clot finished runner-up after missing the earlier Spa-Francorchamps round.
There was less to celebrate elsewhere in the Aston Martin camp. Blackthorn Racing's No. 91 Vantage, driven by Claude Bovet and Tom Canning, retired after 28 laps, bringing a challenging championship campaign to an unfortunate conclusion. Code Racing's No. 11 Aston Martin also suffered an early retirement, completing just one lap.
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Two Vantages out on track, Portimao.
The GT3 race victory went to Kessel Racing's No. 17 Ferrari, but it was Racing Spirit of Léman that departed Portugal with the biggest prize.
For Aston Martin, the championship represents another significant achievement for its customer racing programme. The Vantage GT3 continues to demonstrate its competitiveness across international championships, even when individual race weekends don't go to plan.
For our complete Portimão race report and 2026 championship coverage, visit the Michelin Le Mans Cup section of the FTP Motorsport Hub.
DTM | HOCKENHEIM SEASON FINALE
A Quiet Finale for Aston Martin, but a Historic Season for Nicki Thiim
10th–11th October 2026 | Hockenheimring, Germany
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Comtoyou Aston Martin Vantage GT3 out on track.
The 2026 DTM season concluded at Hockenheim with a challenging weekend for Comtoyou Racing, although Aston Martin can look back on a campaign that delivered some memorable achievements.
Driving the No. 7 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo, Nicki Thiim finished 16th in Saturday's race and 14th on Sunday, adding two points to his championship tally. Teammate Nicolas Baert, competing in the No. 8 Vantage, finished 17th and 19th respectively.
Neither Aston Martin was able to challenge the frontrunners during the final weekend, but those results shouldn't overshadow the team's achievements earlier in the year.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Thiim greeted by team mates - Norisring, July 2026.
The undoubted highlight came at the Norisring in July, where Thiim delivered a remarkable double victory, winning both races and securing Aston Martin's first-ever DTM triumph. It was a landmark moment for the British manufacturer and a demonstration of the Vantage GT3's potential in one of Europe's most fiercely contested championships.
Thiim ultimately completed the season sixth in the Drivers' Championship with 149 points, while Baert finished 21st with eight points. Elsewhere, the championship battle reached its conclusion as Porsche's Thomas Preining secured his second DTM title. Mercedes-AMG driver Maro Engel won Sunday's final race, ahead of Ricardo Feller, but Preining's third-place finish was sufficient to secure the crown.
For Aston Martin and Comtoyou Racing, 2026 will be remembered for contrasting fortunes. There were difficult weekends, including the finale, but Thiim's historic Norisring victories demonstrated what the team could achieve when everything came together.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Donought celebrations for Thiim, Norisring, July 2026.
A championship title remained out of reach, but Aston Martin's first DTM race wins made this a season worth remembering.
For our complete Hockenheim race report, final championship standings and 2026 season coverage, visit the DTM section of the FTP Motorsport Hub.
Affiliate link note: Some links may be affiliate links, which means Fuel the Passion may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.
FIA WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP | BARCELONA PREVIEW
Valkyrie and Vantage Head to Spain with Momentum Building
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. WEC Aston Martins 2026.
Aston Martin heads to Barcelona this weekend with encouraging momentum on both sides of its FIA World Endurance Championship programme, as the Valkyrie Hypercar and Vantage GT3 prepare for the series' first visit to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. THOR Valkyrie.
For Aston Martin THOR Team, the headline story remains the continued development of Valkyrie. The British hypercar arrives in Spain on a run of eight consecutive points finishes, a sequence that underlines just how far the programme has progressed during its debut campaign. That momentum was especially clear at Fuji, where both Valkyries started inside the top six for the first time, the #007 car of Harry Tincknell and Tom Gamble led the race, and the #009 of Alex Riberas and Marco Sørensen was firmly in the podium conversation before a late Safety Car reshaped the contest.
Those performances have lifted Aston Martin to sixth in the Hypercar World Endurance Manufacturers' Championship on 54 points, and with Barcelona and Monza still to come, the team will be keen to keep applying pressure on the manufacturers ahead.
There was further encouragement during Friday's opening practice session in Barcelona, when Alex Riberas set the second-fastest time overall in the #009 Valkyrie, finishing just 0.107 seconds behind Robert Kubica's Ferrari. The sister #007 of Harry Tincknell and Tom Gamble was fifth-fastest, placing both Aston Martins comfortably among the leading Hypercars. Although practice times offer no guarantee of race performance, it was another promising indication of Valkyrie's improving competitiveness as the team approaches the final two rounds of the season.
There’s also a particularly appealing local angle this weekend. Alex Riberas heads into his first home WEC race, giving Aston Martin an obvious home hero as Valkyrie makes its Spanish competition debut. More broadly, Barcelona should provide another useful test of a car that continues to establish itself as one of the most fascinating projects in modern endurance racing. Valkyrie remains the only road-derived hypercar competing in both the WEC and IMSA's premier class, and its blend of a race-developed carbon-fibre chassis and modified 6.5-litre V12 gives the programme a character all of its own.
Alongside Valkyrie, Aston Martin also travels to Spain with plenty at stake in LMGT3, where The Heart of Racing Team's Vantage GT3s remain firmly in the championship fight.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. #27 Vantage in action.
The #27 Vantage, driven by Ian James, Mattia Drudi and Zach Robichon, has emerged as a genuine title contender. Victory at COTA and a superb second place at Fuji have helped lift the crew to second in the LMGT3 Teams' standings on 62 points, 24 behind the leaders with two races remaining.
Aston Martin's LMGT3 campaign has gathered impressive momentum since Le Mans, with a win, three podiums and strong qualifying pace, and Barcelona offers another chance to keep the pressure on.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. #23 Vantage in action.
The sister #23 Vantage, shared by Gray Newell, Jonny Adam and Dudu Barrichello, faces a more difficult route to championship glory, but it remains theoretically in contention and will be chasing a breakthrough victory of its own. With two podium finishes already this season, it has shown enough speed to suggest that result is far from impossible.
Taken together, the picture is increasingly encouraging. Valkyrie continues to make measurable gains in Hypercar, while Vantage remains a serious force in LMGT3. With just two WEC rounds left in the season, Barcelona offers Aston Martin another opportunity to strengthen what is becoming an increasingly impressive endurance racing story.
We'll be following both Aston Martin's Valkyrie Hypercars and the Vantage LMGT3 teams throughout the Barcelona weekend. Full race reports, results, updated championship standings and our analysis of both classes will be available in the FIA World Endurance Championship section of the FTP Motorsport Hub early next week, once the racing has concluded.
GT WORLD CHALLENGE EUROPE | PORTIMÃO SEASON FINALE
Five Aston Martins Join Record Grid as Comtoyou Racing Chases a Strong Finish
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Portimão Race Track Statue.
Aston Martin will be represented by five Vantage GT3 Evos at this weekend's GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup season finale at Portimão, where an impressive field of 61 cars is set to bring the championship to a close.
Comtoyou Racing enters three Aston Martins, while Walkenhorst Motorsport fields a further two. Among the leading contenders will be Comtoyou's #7 Vantage, shared by Mattia Drudi, Nicki Thiim and Ross Gunn in the Pro class.
There was an encouraging start to the weekend in Friday's opening practice session, when Valentin Hasse-Clot set the fastest time in the Bronze Cup category aboard Comtoyou's #11 Vantage. His lap placed him seventh overall, demonstrating promising early pace in a highly competitive field.
There's also a championship incentive for the Belgian squad. Comtoyou Racing entered the finale retaining a mathematical opportunity to win the Endurance Cup Teams' Championship, although doing so would require an exceptional combination of results. The team's qualifying performance and the fortunes of its principal rivals will ultimately determine whether that possibility remains alive heading into Saturday's race.
Image © Fuel the Passion Max Verstappens Mercedes-AMG GT3 on display at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026.
The event has attracted additional attention with Max Verstappen making his GT World Challenge Europe debut in a Mercedes-AMG GT3, adding another high-profile competitor to an already formidable entry list.
For Aston Martin, Portimão represents another opportunity to demonstrate the Vantage GT3's competitiveness and bring the European Endurance Cup season to a successful conclusion.
The three-hour race takes place on Saturday 17th October, with the start scheduled for 5pm BST. We'll bring you the results, final championship standings and Aston Martin's performance analysis in the GT World Challenge Europe section of the FTP Motorsport Hub early next week.
ASTON MARTIN MOTORSPORT THE WEEKEND AHEAD
From the Algarve to Barcelona, Aston Martin machinery is back in action across three championships. Here's your guide to the racing taking place on 17–18 October 2026.
Saturday 17 October
| Championship | Race | UK Start |
|---|---|---|
| GT4 European Series Portimão, Portugal | Season Finale — Race 1 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 teams contest the penultimate race of the season. | 3:10 PM UK time (BST) |
| GT World Challenge Europe Portimão, Portugal | Endurance Cup — Season Finale Three-hour GT3 showdown featuring Aston Martin Vantage GT3 machinery. | 5:00 PM UK time (BST) |
Sunday 18 October
| Championship | Race | UK Start |
|---|---|---|
| FIA World Endurance Championship Barcelona, Spain | 6 Hours of Barcelona Aston Martin Valkyrie Hypercars and Vantage LMGT3 cars compete at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. | 11:00 AM UK time (BST) |
| GT4 European Series Portimão, Portugal | Season Finale — Race 2 The concluding race of the 2026 GT4 European campaign. | 11:45 AM UK time (BST) |
ASTON MARTIN & BREITLING | PRECISION MEETS PASSION
An Exclusive Super Chronomat Experience for Valhalla Owners
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Breitling Aston Martin Valhalla.
For the fortunate few who will take delivery of an Aston Martin Valhalla, personalisation doesn't necessarily end with the specification of their extraordinary supercar. Aston Martin and Swiss watchmaker Breitling have unveiled an exclusive opportunity for Valhalla owners to commission a bespoke Super Chronomat timepiece, designed to complement their individual car and reflect their personal tastes.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin and Breitling ignite a shared legacy.
The announcement marks another development in the partnership between the two luxury brands, bringing together British automotive engineering and Swiss watchmaking craftsmanship.
Regular FTP readers may remember that we first explored Aston Martin's partnership with Breitling in Issue 10 of the Weekly Roundup, back in February, when the two brands announced their new multi-year relationship. We returned to the story in Issue 34 in July, examining the DB5-inspired Top Time chronographs and the historical connections between the two marques. This latest announcement takes the collaboration in another direction, moving beyond watches celebrating Aston Martin's heritage to an exclusive personalisation experience for owners of its latest mid-engined supercar, the Valhalla.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Valhalla.
With production limited to just 999 examples worldwide, Valhalla is already one of Aston Martin's most exclusive creations. Its 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 combines with three electric motors to produce a formidable 1,079PS, delivering 0–62mph in just 2.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 217mph.
Now, owners can extend that sense of individuality to something considerably smaller, but no less intricate.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Breitling Super Chronomat Perpetual Calendar Chronograph. Aston Martin Valhalla Lime Green.
Two Watches, Two Distinctive Approaches
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Breitling Super Chronomat Perpetual Calendar Chronograph.
For the first time, Breitling is opening its Super Chronomat design process exclusively to Valhalla customers. Using a dedicated configurator, owners can commission a watch incorporating personalised colours and detailing inspired by their own vehicle.
Two models are available. The Super Chronomat B19 44 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph is the more technically elaborate of the pair. Housed in a 44mm titanium case, it features a carbon-fibre dial, Breitling's distinctive Rouleaux bracelet and a transparent caseback revealing the movement within.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Breitling Super Chronomat Perpetual Calendar Chronograph.
Its most impressive feature is the perpetual calendar, a sophisticated mechanical complication that automatically accounts for different month lengths and leap years. Correctly maintained and set, it requires no manual calendar adjustment until the year 2100. A substantial 96-hour power reserve also allows the watch to continue operating for four days without being worn.
Owners can personalise the colours of selected dial elements and hands, together with an engraving on the movement's rotor.
The second option, the Super Chronomat Automatic 38, offers a different interpretation of the same design philosophy. Its 38mm stainless-steel case incorporates a textured carbon-fibre dial, titanium crown and diamond-set bezel, while the automatic movement provides a traditional three-hand display with a date window at six o'clock.
Personalisation includes selected dial and hand colours, alongside a bespoke caseback engraving.
Extending the Valhalla Ownership Experience
What makes this collaboration particularly interesting is that these aren't simply standard Breitling watches carrying an Aston Martin badge. Owners are being invited to participate in the design process, creating a timepiece with a personal connection to their own Valhalla.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Breitling Aston Martin Valhalla.
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin's Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, describes the initiative as an extension of the individuality that defines the supercar itself.
It also reflects a wider shift within ultra-luxury motoring, where exclusivity increasingly extends beyond the vehicle. Bespoke craftsmanship, personal commissions and experiences unavailable to the wider market have become important parts of what manufacturers offer their most prestigious customers.
There's something appealing about the partnership's geographical connection, too. Valhalla is manufactured at Aston Martin's Gaydon headquarters in Warwickshire, while the Super Chronomat is crafted at Breitling's Chronometrie in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.
Aston Martin hasn't disclosed the price of either bespoke watch, and the programme is an exclusive commissioning opportunity rather than an accessory automatically supplied with every Valhalla.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Breitling Super Chronomat Perpetual Calendar Chronograph.
For most enthusiasts, both the car and its accompanying timepieces will remain objects of admiration rather than ownership. Nevertheless, the collaboration offers a fascinating insight into the world of contemporary Aston Martin luxury.
One extraordinary machine built to master speed, another created to measure time. For Valhalla owners, the two can now share something uniquely personal.
ASTON MARTIN ON SCREEN
Three Videos Worth Watching This Week
From the unmistakable soundtrack of a naturally aspirated V12 to the challenges facing Aston Martin's modern business, we've selected three videos offering very different perspectives on the marque.
TWELVE CYLINDERS, SIX GEARS AND PURE DRIVING PLEASURE
AutoTopNL | Aston Martin V12 Vantage Manual
Some cars seem to improve with age, and the original Aston Martin V12 Vantage is making a convincing case for joining that particular club. AutoTopNL's Max gets behind the wheel of a beautiful Carbon Black Edition, exploring everything from its timeless styling to the extraordinary soundtrack of its naturally aspirated 5.9-litre V12.
What makes this review particularly enjoyable is Max's enthusiasm for the six-speed manual gearbox and the car's surprisingly accessible performance. Despite being a design from another era, he finds it remarkably rewarding to drive, even suggesting it could be one of the finest sports cars Aston Martin has ever produced.
A wonderful reminder that outright speed isn't everything.
WHAT ARE VIEWERS SAYING?
The response to AutoTopNL's V12 Vantage review has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, with viewers praising its timeless styling, magnificent naturally aspirated V12 soundtrack and increasingly rare six-speed manual gearbox. Many describe it as a dream Aston Martin, while others believe it represents one of the finest cars the marque has ever produced.
Interestingly, several viewers recalled Jeremy Clarkson's celebrated Top Gear review of the same model, which regular FTP readers may remember we revisited in Weekly Roundup Issue 44, following its recent re-release on the Top Gear Classic YouTube channel. That film clearly continues to resonate with enthusiasts, just as this latest review demonstrates. Some commenters also speculate about future collectability and rising values, although others raise concerns about purchase prices and maintenance costs. One former owner even admits regretting selling theirs.
The overwhelming impression is of a car whose combination of beauty, character and analogue driving pleasure has only grown more appealing with time.
ONE ASTON MARTIN. ONE OWNER. ONE EXTRAORDINARY MACHINE.
JWW Clips | Driving the World's Rarest Aston Martin
There are rare Aston Martins, and then there's the Victor. Built as a one-off commission by Q by Aston Martin, this extraordinary creation combines engineering derived from the One-77, influences from the track-only Vulcan and a magnificent 7.3-litre naturally aspirated V12 producing 836bhp.
Perhaps most remarkable of all, it has a manual gearbox. In this fascinating driving feature, James explores the Victor's spectacular engineering, handcrafted interior and extraordinary soundtrack before experiencing the car on a circuit.
The result is a memorable glimpse into what Aston Martin can achieve when imagination, engineering expertise and an exceptionally generous budget come together.
WHAT ARE VIEWERS SAYING?
The response to JWW's Aston Martin Victor video is dominated by admiration for this extraordinary one-off creation. Viewers are particularly enthusiastic about its thunderous V12 soundtrack, dramatic side-exit exhausts and distinctive blend of retro styling and modern engineering. Several celebrate the inclusion of a manual gearbox, with one describing the Victor as a road-going Vulcan with a gearstick, while others wish Aston Martin would offer more manual transmissions in its most exclusive cars.
There's also curiosity about whether a limited production version could ever become reality, alongside more practical questions about ground clearance and the challenges of maintaining such a unique machine. A few recognise the footage from an earlier release, but that hasn't diminished the enthusiasm of most commenters.
The prevailing sentiment is simple: the Victor represents the kind of bold, characterful Aston Martin that enthusiasts would love to see more often.
GREAT CARS, DIFFICULT ECONOMICS — IS ASTON MARTIN GETTING THE BALANCE RIGHT?
Will Kennedy | Something Is Very Wrong at Aston Martin
How can Aston Martin produce some of the world's most desirable cars while continuing to struggle financially? That's the question specialist car dealer Will Kennedy explores in his latest video, combining a drive in the new Vantage S with an examination of Aston Martin's substantial debt, showroom discounts and depreciation.
Will's perspective is particularly interesting because he experiences the market firsthand. He discusses how some new Aston Martins lose considerable value during their first year, while those same reductions can create attractive opportunities for second-hand buyers. His conclusion is that Aston Martin builds excellent cars, but still faces considerable commercial challenges.
Regular FTP readers will recognise much of this territory. In Issues 34 and 36, we examined Aston Martin's £550 million financing arrangements and their implications. Our September Featured Article, Adrian Hallmark: Two Years On, went considerably further, assessing the company's financial performance, debt burden, management strategy and prospects for recovery.
Our findings suggest a more complicated picture than the financial headlines alone convey. Aston Martin's debt remains substantial, its borrowing costs are significant, and the business has yet to demonstrate sustained profitability and positive cash generation. Nevertheless, its first-half 2026 results also showed improving revenue, gross profit and margins.
There are genuine signs of operational progress, but the financial turnaround remains unfinished.
One further distinction is worth making. Depreciation affects an owner's investment, while corporate debt affects the manufacturer's finances. They may influence one another indirectly, but one doesn't automatically explain the other.
Will provides an engaging dealer's perspective on these challenges, and his enthusiasm for the Vantage S is encouraging. It's a worthwhile contribution to a conversation FTP has been following closely throughout 2026.
Time for a cuppa?
We've reached the halfway point of Issue 46. From championship celebrations and Valkyrie's growing momentum to some fascinating perspectives on Aston Martin, there's already been plenty to explore.
Why not put the kettle on before continuing? Still to come, we'll take a closer look at DBX707 depreciation, discover an unusual Car of the Week, catch up on the latest heritage news and see what's happening at Fuel the Passion as Blackthorn Racing prepares for Barcelona.
Half the journey completed.
Plenty more to enjoy.
WHAT ARE VIEWERS SAYING?
The discussion beneath Will's video reveals a fascinating mixture of admiration and concern. Many viewers, including existing Aston Martin owners, praise the latest cars for their styling, character and sense of occasion, with several arguing that an Aston offers an emotional appeal that Porsche simply cannot match. However, depreciation is a recurring concern, particularly among potential new-car buyers reluctant to absorb substantial early losses.
Some owners also share less encouraging experiences involving reliability, software problems and aftersales support, while others report excellent ownership and dealership experiences. There are differing views on Aston Martin's financial strategy, with some questioning its pricing and ultra-luxury ambitions and others remaining optimistic about the current model range.
Several viewers also challenge technical details in the video, particularly the quoted Vantage S power output. Perhaps the clearest message is that enthusiasm for Aston Martin's cars remains strong, but confidence in the ownership proposition and the company's financial future is considerably less unanimous.
Affiliate link note: Some links may be affiliate links, which means Fuel the Passion may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.
ASTON MARTIN DBX707 | THE DEPRECIATION PARADOX
An Extraordinary Performance SUV at Almost Half Its Original Price
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX707.
The Aston Martin DBX707 has earned considerable praise for combining extraordinary performance with genuine everyday practicality. Yet despite its impressive abilities, depreciation remains one of the biggest considerations for prospective owners.
In an article published online on 15th October, evo magazine's Stuart Gallagher revisits the publication's long-term experience with the DBX707, drawing on more than 20,000 miles accumulated across the original DBX and its more powerful successor.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX707.
His assessment is particularly revealing. Gallagher remains convinced that the DBX707 is among the finest performance SUVs available, praising its steering, chassis balance and ability to deliver an engaging driving experience despite its considerable size and weight.
Nevertheless, he identifies some shortcomings in the earlier car's interior quality, exterior detailing and ride comfort. These observations help explain why subsequent improvements to Aston Martin's SUV have been welcome, but they do little to diminish his enthusiasm for its fundamental driving qualities.
£108,000 in Depreciation
The financial figures accompanying evo's assessment are striking. Its DBX707 originally cost £223,000. Having covered 10,085 miles, the car now has an estimated value of approximately £115,000. That's a reduction of £108,000, or around 48% of the original purchase price.
For the original purchaser, such depreciation would be difficult to ignore. For someone entering the used market, however, the same figures suggest an opportunity to acquire an exceptionally capable Aston Martin for considerably less than its original cost.
It's important to recognise that evo's figure is an estimated value for one particular car, not a verified sale price or evidence that every DBX707 depreciates at the same rate.
A Familiar Conversation for FTP Readers
Image © Fuel the Passion. Screenshot from Issue 35.
Regular readers may remember that we explored the changing DBX market in FTP Weekly Roundup Issue 35, published on 2nd August 2026, when our Car of the Week feature compared four very different examples under the headline “Four Aston Martin DBXs — How Much DBX Do You Really Need?”
Our selection ranged from a 2020 DBX advertised at £69,989 to an almost-new DBX S carrying an asking price of £249,995. Between those extremes were a later original DBX at £97,980 and a DBX707 at £157,990. The difference between the least and most expensive examples was an extraordinary £180,006.
That comparison demonstrated how Aston Martin's expanding used SUV market was beginning to offer very different buying opportunities. Those prepared to consider earlier cars could potentially secure substantial savings, while newer, more powerful and heavily personalised examples continued to command premium prices.
The latest evo assessment adds another useful perspective to that earlier discussion.
Great Cars, Difficult Economics
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX707.
There's also a natural connection with Will Kennedy's recent video, Something Is Very Wrong at Aston Martin, which we examine elsewhere in this Roundup. Both stories explore the uncomfortable relationship between Aston Martin's considerable product appeal and the depreciation experienced by some owners.
But a car losing value doesn't automatically mean it's a poor car. Indeed, Gallagher's enthusiasm for the DBX707 suggests quite the opposite. His assessment describes a vehicle that continues to impress dynamically, even while its estimated market value has fallen considerably.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX707.
For prospective buyers, that creates an interesting contrast. A used DBX707 may represent exceptional value compared with its original purchase price, but ownership costs, maintenance, warranty provision and the possibility of further depreciation still deserve careful consideration.
Perhaps that's the real paradox. The qualities that make the DBX707 such an extraordinary Aston Martin haven't disappeared simply because its market value has fallen. For anyone considering their first Aston Martin SUV, that may make the used market more interesting than ever.
Source: evo, Stuart Gallagher, 15th October 2026. Originally featured in evo magazine, Issue 318.
FTP CAR OF THE WEEK - 2012 ASTON MARTIN CYGNET LAUNCH EDITION
Small Car. Big Personality. A Surprisingly Complicated Price Tag.
Image © Fuel the Passion. For illustrative purposes.
There are Aston Martins that attract attention through breathtaking performance, extraordinary engineering or the unmistakable soundtrack of a V12. Then there's the Cygnet, a car that manages to turn heads for entirely different reasons. Our selection this week is a particularly unusual 2012 Aston Martin Cygnet, advertised as a Launch Edition by Aston Martin Bristol, with an asking price of £55,990.
Image © Fuel the Passion. For illustrative purposes.
Finished in Stratus White with a striking Spicy Red leather interior, it has covered just 1,200 miles in 14 years. That's fewer than 100 miles annually. Clearly, this is one little Aston Martin that hasn't spent much of its life negotiating supermarket car parks.
But beyond its remarkable mileage and rather ambitious asking price lies an interesting story about rarity, collectability and the difference between a car increasing in price and genuinely increasing in value.
THE ASTON MARTIN THAT BROKE THE MOULD
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
Introduced in 2011, the Cygnet was unlike anything Aston Martin had produced before. Based on the Toyota iQ, it was conceived as a bespoke luxury commuter car, designed to combine the practicality and efficiency of an ultra-compact city vehicle with the craftsmanship, personalisation and exclusivity traditionally associated with Aston Martin.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
As the company itself explained, the Cygnet was intended to take owners into the heart of the city, combining compact dimensions and relatively low-emission engine technology with the attention to detail expected from the famous British marque.
Beneath its distinctive grille sat a modest 1.33-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 97bhp. With its continuously variable automatic transmission, 0–62mph took approximately 12 seconds, while its top speed was 106mph. Despite measuring barely three metres long, the Cygnet even offered usable rear seats.
Performance, however, was never the point. Produced at Aston Martin's Gaydon headquarters in Warwickshire, the Cygnet received extensive attention to its interior materials, finishes and detailing. Customers could personalise their cars with virtually any colour and trim combination, alongside a wide selection of optional extras.
It was this freedom of personalisation that helped distinguish the Cygnet from its Toyota origins. Rather than simply applying Aston Martin badges to an existing city car, the company sought to create an entirely different ownership experience within an unusually compact package.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
Unfortunately, the Cygnet never achieved the commercial success Aston Martin had hoped for. Production ended in 2013, bringing one of the company's most unconventional experiments to a close.
Just how many were produced remains a subject of some debate. Specialist sources report totals of 786 and 798 cars, although we haven't been able to establish a definitive factory figure.
What we can say with reasonable confidence is that approximately 800 Cygnets were built worldwide.
That makes Aston Martin's smallest modern production car considerably rarer than many of its more celebrated models.
A LITTLE ASTON MARTIN WITH AN EXTRAORDINARY SPECIFICATION
Image © Fuel the Passion. For illustrative purposes.
Our featured example certainly makes an impression. Its Stratus White exterior contrasts beautifully with the Spicy Red leather upholstery and matching stitching. The 16-inch Graphite Diamond Turned alloy wheels complement the exterior, while Dark Chrome and Piano Black interior detailing provide a suitably luxurious finishing touch.
Given Aston Martin's willingness to accommodate virtually any colour and trim combination, the Cygnet offered buyers considerable freedom to create something individual. Our featured car's striking specification is a particularly good illustration of that approach. First registered in July 2012, the car is advertised with two previous owners and an exceptionally low mileage of 1,200 miles. It's being offered through Aston Martin Bristol's approved Timeless programme, with a 12-month warranty and roadside assistance among the advertised benefits.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
As a Launch Edition, this particular Cygnet represents an especially interesting example of Aston Martin's approach to luxury and personalisation. While the original White and Black Launch Editions were introduced with distinctive colour schemes, customers could specify virtually any exterior colour and interior trim combination.
Our featured car's Stratus White paintwork and striking Spicy Red leather interior demonstrate just how individual these little Aston Martins could be, adding another dimension to its appeal as a modern collector's car.
But to understand its £55,990 asking price, it's worth revisiting what these little Aston Martins cost when they first arrived in showrooms.
£55,990 FOR 97BHP? LET'S LOOK AT THE NUMBERS
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
When Aston Martin launched the Cygnet in 2011, prices started at £30,995 for the six-speed manual, rising to £32,115 for the CVT automatic. The specially appointed White and Black Launch Editions were more expensive still, originally advertised at £39,995. Those figures attracted considerable attention at the time, particularly when compared with the much cheaper Toyota iQ upon which the Cygnet was based.
But something interesting happens when we revisit those prices in 2026. Using the Office for National Statistics Consumer Prices Index, UK consumer prices increased by approximately 54% between the 2011 annual average and August 2026. That means the original £30,995 manual Cygnet would need to cost approximately £47,650 today simply to keep pace with general inflation.
The £39,995 Launch Edition price translates to approximately £61,500 in 2026 money. Suddenly, our featured car's £55,990 asking price looks rather different. In ordinary monetary terms, it's approximately 40% higher than the original Launch Edition list price. But compared with that original price adjusted for inflation, it's actually around 9% lower.
That's an important distinction, although it doesn't establish whether this particular car has gained or lost value, because we don't know its original purchase price. To understand the wider market, we also need to examine what buyers have actually been paying.
THE CYGNET VALUE STORY
From its controversial 2011 launch price to today's collector market. Has Aston Martin's smallest car really increased in value?
| Cygnet Model | 2011 Price | 2026 Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Six-Speed Manual | £30,995 | £47,654 |
| CVT Automatic | £32,115 | £49,376 |
| White / Black Launch Editions | £39,995 | £61,491 |
| Date / Measure | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded Auction Median | Aston Martin Cygnet Median of 14 recorded sales in The Classic Valuer dataset | £26,934 |
| November 2025 | 2011 Cygnet Launch Edition White Recorded auction result | £36,181 |
| March 2026 | 2013 Aston Martin Cygnet Recorded auction result | £29,250 |
| October 2026 | Our 2012 Featured Cygnet 1,200 miles | Dealer asking price, not a completed sale | £55,990 |
The featured Cygnet is advertised for approximately 40% more than the original £39,995 Launch Edition list price. However, that original price is equivalent to approximately £61,500 in 2026 money. On that inflation-adjusted comparison, the £55,990 asking price is around 9% lower. Recent completed auction sales also sit considerably below this exceptional low-mileage example's advertised price. Collectability has developed, but consistent real-terms appreciation remains unproven.
HAS THE CYGNET BECOME A COLLECTOR'S CAR?
There's evidence that the Cygnet has developed a following far removed from the scepticism that greeted its introduction. Its unusual place in Aston Martin history, distinctive character and limited production have all contributed to its appeal. But the recent sales evidence is particularly revealing.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
According to specialist valuation platform The Classic Valuer, its database of 14 recorded Cygnet auction sales has a median transaction value of approximately £26,934. The highest recorded result in that dataset is £36,181, achieved by a 2011 Launch Edition White in November 2025. That car had covered approximately 74,000 miles. Another Cygnet, a 2013 example, sold for £29,250 in March 2026. Those figures suggest that Cygnets remain desirable enough to command substantial sums, although they also demonstrate how far typical completed sales can sit below exceptional dealer asking prices.
Our featured Cygnet occupies a very different position. With just 1,200 miles recorded, a distinctive specification and the reassurance of an Aston Martin main dealer, its asking price reflects a considerable premium over those recent transactions. Whether a buyer is prepared to pay that premium remains to be seen.
SO, HAVE CYGNET VALUES REALLY INCREASED?
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
The answer depends on what we're measuring. In simple monetary terms, some desirable Cygnets are now advertised for considerably more than they cost when new. However, inflation accounts for a substantial part of that apparent increase.
The original £30,995 manual Cygnet would need to be worth around £47,650 today to preserve its original purchasing power. Even the highest recorded auction result in the sample we've examined falls below that figure. The evidence therefore suggests that while the Cygnet has developed genuine collector appeal, the model as a whole hasn't demonstrated consistent appreciation in real, inflation-adjusted terms.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Cygnet.
A car becoming rarer, more interesting or more sought-after doesn't automatically mean it has become a successful financial investment. Nor can a relatively small sample of auction transactions establish a dependable upward trend in values. Nevertheless, the Cygnet has something few other modern Aston Martins can claim. It occupies a unique position in the marque's history, represents an extraordinary departure from traditional Aston Martin thinking and remains remarkably scarce.
What was once criticised as an expensive curiosity has become an intriguing collector's proposition. For the right buyer, that appeal may have little to do with financial returns. After all, there aren't many cars that can offer genuine Aston Martin craftsmanship, usable rear seats and the ability to squeeze into a parking space that would defeat almost anything else wearing the famous wings.
It may possess only 97bhp, but it has character in abundance. Park it alongside a Vantage, DB12 or Vanquish at an Aston Martin gathering, and we suspect the little Cygnet would attract just as many questions. Perhaps even more.
Our featured Cygnet is advertised by Aston Martin Bristol at £55,990. Price, availability and vehicle details are subject to change.
ASTON MARTIN HERITAGE TRUST JOINS THE HISTORIC & CLASSIC VEHICLES ALLIANCE
A New Partnership to Help Protect Aston Martin's Heritage for Future Generations
Image © Fuel the Passion. Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) Museum, Oxfordshire, UK.
Preserving Aston Martin's extraordinary history involves much more than protecting rare cars, photographs and historic documents. It also means ensuring that future generations have the knowledge, skills and opportunities to maintain, restore and enjoy the vehicles that have helped shape Britain's motoring heritage.
With that ambition in mind, the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) has announced its affiliation with the Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA), joining a growing network of organisations working to safeguard the future of Britain's historic vehicle sector.
The partnership, originally announced on 1st October, brings together two organisations with complementary objectives. While the AMHT concentrates on preserving and sharing Aston Martin's history through its museum, archives, collections and educational activities, the HCVA addresses the wider challenges facing historic motoring.
What Is the HCVA?
Established in 2021, the Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance is a not-for-profit organisation representing the interests of Britain's historic and classic vehicle community.
Its membership includes specialist businesses, restoration companies, museums, owners' clubs and enthusiasts, united by a shared ambition to protect the future of classic motoring. One of its most important roles involves engaging with government and regulatory bodies on issues affecting historic vehicles. These include registration requirements administered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), restoration and modification rules, environmental legislation and the continued availability of suitable fuels.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes.
The organisation also champions the specialist craftsmanship required to maintain older vehicles, recognising that traditional engineering, coachbuilding, trimming and restoration skills must be passed to younger generations if Britain's motoring heritage is to survive.
What Could This Mean for Aston Martin?
Image © Fuel the Passion. FTP Vantage at the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) Museum, Oxfordshire, UK.
For the Heritage Trust, joining the HCVA presents several potentially valuable opportunities. Perhaps the most immediate is greater collaboration with other heritage organisations. The alliance's network includes the British Motor Museum, Brooklands Museum, National Motor Museum and Heritage Skills Academy, creating opportunities to share expertise, develop educational initiatives and strengthen relationships across the historic vehicle community.
The partnership could also help the AMHT contribute to wider discussions about the challenges facing owners and restorers of historic Aston Martins. Regulations surrounding vehicle registration, preservation and modification can have significant consequences for classic-car ownership, making informed representation increasingly important.
Image © Fuel the Passion. Aston Martin DB4, in need of restoration, Classic Car Show, Birmingham NEC.
Equally valuable is the opportunity to support heritage skills and education. Restoring an early Aston Martin requires specialist knowledge that cannot always be acquired through modern automotive training. Encouraging apprenticeships, sharing traditional techniques and inspiring younger enthusiasts will be essential to keeping these cars on the road. The Aston Martin Owners Club is already represented within the HCVA's membership, providing another connection between the alliance and the wider Aston Martin community.
Importantly, affiliation doesn't automatically provide additional funding or guarantee changes to government policy. Its value lies in the opportunities for cooperation, knowledge-sharing and contributing to a stronger collective voice for historic motoring. For an organisation dedicated to protecting Aston Martin's past, this seems a particularly appropriate partnership.
After all, preserving the cars themselves is only part of the challenge. Ensuring that future generations can understand, maintain and experience them is just as important.
ASTON MARTIN HERITAGE TRUST | LOOKING AHEAD
Historic Bamford & Martin Set for Public Display as Museum Announces New Visitor Experiences
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes.1924 B &M Aston Martin (similar to the vehicle acquired by AMHT).
Regular FTP readers may remember that in Weekly Roundup Issue 39, we reported on the Aston Martin Heritage Trust's acquisition of a remarkable 1924 Bamford & Martin, chassis 1944, which had been bequeathed to the organisation.
The Trust has now confirmed that this historically significant car will go on public display at its museum in early 2027, giving visitors an opportunity to see an important survivor from Aston Martin's earliest years.
Image © Fuel the Passion. Aston Martin Heritage Trust Museum, 2025.
There's further news for enthusiasts planning a visit. From 4th January 2027, the museum will introduce revised opening arrangements, including guided tours on Thursdays, Fridays and the first and third Saturdays of each month. The second and fourth Saturdays will become Free Flow Days, allowing visitors to explore the collection independently between 10am and 4pm without advance booking.
The Trust is also introducing a new programme of evening talks. The inaugural event, Secrets, Spies and Mince Pies, takes place on Friday 27th November 2026, from 6pm to 7.30pm. Tickets cost £17.50, with proceeds supporting the Trust's preservation work. Places are limited, and reservations can be made through info@amht.org.uk.
Looking further ahead, a special temporary exhibition is planned for spring 2027, guest-curated by volunteer and university student Noah as part of his final-year studies.
For those interested in exploring Aston Martin's history firsthand, these developments offer several welcome opportunities to visit the museum and discover more about the cars and people behind the marque.
FTP UPDATE | MORE THAN JUST CARS AND A CHAMPIONSHIP DECIDER
Our Latest Film Celebrates the People Behind the Passion
It's been another busy week at Fuel the Passion, and I'm delighted to share our latest YouTube film, More Than Just Cars — Aston Martin Owners Club Festival 2026, released on Friday 16th October. Filmed at the British Motor Museum, the event celebrated 25 years of the Aston Martin Vanquish, bringing together a wonderful collection of first- and second-generation examples alongside Aston Martins spanning the marque's history.
Image © Fuel the Passion. Former Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez, speaks to FTP at the AMOC Festival, British Motor Museum, 2026.
One of the highlights was the opportunity to speak with former Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez, who shared his recollections of the original Vanquish, his involvement with the second generation and his thoughts on inspiring younger generations of Aston Martin enthusiasts.
But as the film's title suggests, this was about considerably more than the cars. I met Pascal, who had travelled from Belgium in his beautiful Minotaur Green DBS; Mark, who explained why a second-generation Vanquish became his first Aston Martin; and Liz, whose story of buying her dream Vanquish Volante was particularly enjoyable.
We also met Mike, whose passion began with a childhood encounter with an Aston Martin V8 Vantage on a London street. Decades later, that enthusiasm has become something he's shared with his son.
These are the stories I particularly enjoy telling through FTP. The cars bring us together, but the friendships, memories and experiences are what make the Aston Martin community so special.
Watch our latest film, click on the image below;
Next Stop: Barcelona with Blackthorn Racing
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Charles Bateman getting ready, Monza 2026. International GT Open.
There won't be much time to put the cameras away, because next week I'm heading to Spain to join Blackthorn Racing for the final round of the 2026 International GT Open Championship, taking place at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on 24th–25th October.
It's shaping up to be a particularly exciting weekend. Blackthorn's Charles Bateman leads the Pro-Am Drivers' Championship, holding an eight-point advantage over his nearest rival heading into the final two races.
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Pit Stop, Monza 2026. International GT Open.
After a season that has included some outstanding results for the team, there's a real possibility that Blackthorn could leave Barcelona as Pro-Am champions. I'll be joining the team behind the scenes, filming the people, preparations, pressure and emotions of a weekend where so much could be decided.
It's another wonderful opportunity for Fuel the Passion to take viewers beyond the racing itself and share what life is really like inside an Aston Martin GT3 team. Whatever the outcome, I'm looking forward to capturing the experience and bringing you another film that tells the story from a perspective we don't often get to see.
From celebrating 25 years of Vanquish to following a potential championship triumph in Barcelona, it's an exciting time for FTP — and there's plenty more to come.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
As we reach the end of another Weekly Roundup, I'm reminded just how many different reasons there are to be fascinated by Aston Martin.
This week's stories have taken us from the intensity of international motorsport to the remarkable craftsmanship behind a bespoke watch, from the realities of depreciation to the extraordinary variety of cars that have carried the famous wings over the years.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. 009 Valkyrie.
Not every story has been positive. Aston Martin's Formula 1 struggles continue, and the financial challenges surrounding the company's road cars deserve careful examination. But there's equally plenty to celebrate, particularly the achievements of Aston Martin's customer racing teams and the increasingly impressive progress of Valkyrie.
For me, though, one of the most enjoyable moments of the week has been finishing our latest film from the Aston Martin Owners Club Festival. Listening to owners explain what their cars mean to them, hearing how their interest first began and discovering the friendships that have developed along the way was a lovely reminder of why I started Fuel the Passion.
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Vantage waiting to shine prior to racing. 2026. International GT Open.
It's easy to become absorbed in performance figures, specifications, values and championship standings. They're all fascinating subjects, and we'll certainly continue exploring them. But behind every Aston Martin there's usually a story worth hearing.
Next week brings another opportunity to discover some of those stories as I travel to Barcelona with Blackthorn Racing. With a championship potentially on the line, I'm expecting a fascinating few days, whatever the final result.
A quick note about next week's Roundup. With a few busy days ahead in Barcelona filming behind the scenes with Blackthorn Racing, Issue 47 may be a little shorter than usual. I'll still aim to bring you the key Aston Martin stories from the week. Hopefully, the footage and stories I bring back will more than make up for a slightly slimmer edition.
Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read the Roundup, watch our films and support Fuel the Passion. Whether you've followed us for months or discovered the website for the first time today, I'm grateful you're here. 💚💛
Enjoy the racing, have a wonderful week and, if you're fortunate enough to get your Aston Martin out on the road, make the most of every mile.
Until next Sunday, keep fuelling the passion. See you on the next one!👆
Kind regards,
Dan
Fuel the Passion. Where Every Drive Tells a Story.
3 Questions From This Week
We'd love to hear your thoughts. Answer any of the questions above, or share something else that's caught your attention in Issue 46. Whether you're reflecting on Aston Martin's historic DTM season, considering the opportunities in the used-car market or have a soft spot for the extraordinary Cygnet, your perspective is always welcome.
