At Monza, Top Gear brings together two of Aston Martin’s most extreme track machines, the Valkyrie AMR Pro and the new Valkyrie LM, to examine how engineering developed for outright circuit performance translates into two distinctly different driving experiences. Although both share the same naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 foundation, their aerodynamic philosophies, power delivery, and chassis development reveal how differently Aston Martin has approached the pursuit of speed.
Valkyrie AMR Pro: Unrestricted Track Performance
Originally conceived as a dedicated track machine, the Valkyrie AMR Pro was developed without the constraints of racing regulations. Its Cosworth-developed V12 produces approximately 1,000 horsepower, supported by an extensive aerodynamic package designed to generate substantial downforce.
The AMR Pro combines extraordinary performance with carefully calibrated driver-management systems, making it a particularly compelling proposition for experienced amateur drivers. On track, it delivers explosive acceleration and impressive stability, allowing drivers to exploit its enormous performance capabilities with greater confidence.
Valkyrie LM: Le Mans Engineering for Customers
The Valkyrie LM takes a different approach. Derived directly from Aston Martin’s Le Mans Hypercar program, it is effectively a customer-focused interpretation of the machine competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Its naturally aspirated V12 is restricted to approximately 671 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, but the lower output is offset by sophisticated aerodynamics, revised suspension geometry, and a torque-focused power delivery. Weighing approximately 1,030 kg, the LM prioritizes cornering performance and aerodynamic efficiency over outright horsepower.
Limited to just 10 customer examples, it retains much of the competition car’s hardware, including its carbon-fiber construction, racing cockpit, and advanced suspension architecture. Its unsilenced exhaust system also delivers an extraordinary soundtrack from the high-revving V12.
Aerodynamics and Performance at Monza
Data comparisons at Monza highlight the fundamental differences between the two cars. The LM demonstrates significantly higher cornering speeds, benefiting from its more sophisticated aerodynamic package and race-derived chassis development. Through certain corners, its apex speeds are notably higher, while the more powerful AMR Pro recovers ground on the straights through its additional horsepower.
Despite their shared mechanical foundations, the LM benefits from years of competition development, including revised suspension pickup points, updated kinematics, and refinements to its aerodynamic architecture.
Two Different Approaches to Extreme Performance
The comparison reveals two interpretations of uncompromising performance. The AMR Pro delivers explosive power, exceptional stability, and a more confidence-inspiring driving experience, while the LM feels sharper, more agile, and closer to a genuine Le Mans prototype.
Ultimately, the Valkyrie LM represents an extraordinary opportunity for customers to experience the engineering of a modern endurance-racing hypercar. With only 10 examples planned, its combination of naturally aspirated V12 performance, extreme aerodynamics, and competition-derived engineering makes it one of Aston Martin’s most compelling track-only creations.
Source: Top Gear
