Formula 1 veteran Fernando Alonso recently made headlines with his purchase of the Vantage DTM, one of the five chassis ever built by R-Motorsport with a license from Aston Martin. While the exact amount he paid remains undisclosed, there is no doubt that this acquisition showcases Alonso’s passion for high-performance cars. In this article, we will delve deeper into the details of Alonso’s purchase, the modifications made to the car, and its performance during a recent test drive.
Alonso’s Connection and Request
Fernando Alonso’s interest in acquiring the Vantage DTM came as no surprise to R-Motorsport, as he reached out to them directly. According to Martin Marx, the managing director at HWA, Alonso contacted them after learning that the cars were up for sale. As per Alonso’s request, HWA, the engine builder, installed a passenger seat in the car before the sale was finalized. This modification involved reducing the fuel tank’s size to allow for taxi rides, a standard conversion process.
In September, during a fan event held at the Jarama circuit near Madrid, the Vantage DTM was officially handed over to Alonso, much to the excitement of the attendees. Over 2,000 people witnessed this momentous occasion, which also featured Daniel Juncadella, a former member of R-Motorsport’s 2019 DTM campaign. Juncadella provided Alonso with insider knowledge of the car, further enhancing his understanding and connection to his new acquisition.
Following the handover event, Alonso wasted no time in taking the Vantage DTM for a test drive at Aragon. This test drive took place merely weeks after Alonso’s successful stint with Aston Martin in the 2023 F1 Constructors’ standings, where he helped the team secure a commendable fifth place. The test drive was not a solitary experience for Alonso, as he invited family members, friends, and fellow racing champion Marc Marquez to join him as passengers during several laps around the 5.3km circuit.
Feedback and Impressions
During the test drive, Fernando Alonso got his first proper experience of driving the 650bhp Vantage DTM. According to Juncadella, Alonso was impressed by the car’s performance, which exceeded his expectations. As someone accustomed to a significant amount of power and excellent braking, Alonso found the car to be incredibly direct. Contrary to his initial expectations, he did not have to make exaggerated steering wheel movements. Juncadella also highlighted Alonso’s love for any form of racing, stating that he would drive anything that presented a challenge and competition.
The Appeal of the Vantage DTM
Juncadella believes that the Vantage DTM’s versatility and ease of modification played a role in Alonso’s decision to purchase the car. He noted that the DTM Class 1 car is the best choice if one wants to experience a real racing car as a passenger. The fact that the Vantage DTM, originally intended for competition, could be converted into a taxi-like passenger experience was a significant factor in its appeal.
Alonso’s Fascination with Class One
While the Vantage DTM had a relatively short-lived racing career, Alonso’s interest in buying a DTM car from the Class One era is intriguing. It is speculated that his conversation with Gerhard Berger, then-boss of the DTM, about a guest outing may have influenced this decision. Additionally, Aston Martin’s F1 team principal, Mike Krack, has prior experience working on BMW’s M4 Class One car. These factors likely added to the allure of the Vantage DTM for Alonso.
Fernando Alonso’s acquisition of the Vantage DTM showcases his passion for racing and high-performance cars. With its unique history and versatility, the Vantage DTM presented an appealing opportunity for Alonso to experience a real racing car not just as a driver but also as a passenger. As the car continues to pique the interest of enthusiasts, it is clear that Alonso’s purchase has only added to its allure.
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