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The unique story of the Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2
The Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 is not just any car; it embodies a rich legacy of design and engineering. This remarkable concept car, created by the renowned Italian design house Bertone, is making headlines as it heads to auction on March 29, presented by Dore & Rees. First unveiled at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show, the Jet 2+2 was initially intended for production, celebrating a century of Aston Martin and a significant 60-year partnership with Bertone. Unfortunately, the financial turbulence that led to Bertone’s bankruptcy in 2014 halted these plans, leaving the Jet 2+2 as a unique piece of automotive art.
A celebration of collaboration and innovation
Commissioned by prominent Aston Martin collector Barry Weir, the Jet 2+2 was designed to mark two momentous occasions: the centenary of Aston Martin and the long-lasting relationship between the British carmaker and Bertone. This concept car draws inspiration from the Bertone Jet 2, introduced in 2004, which was based on the first-generation Aston Martin Vanquish. The Jet 2 itself was a nod to the Bertone Jet, a concept displayed at the Geneva Motor Show in 1961, based on the classic Aston Martin DB4. By connecting past and present, the Jet 2+2 represents the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship.
Performance and specifications of a one-of-a-kind car
As a shooting-brake variant of the Aston Martin Rapide, the Jet 2+2 combines elegance with impressive performance. The auction listing notes that this fully drivable vehicle has logged 24,169 miles, showcasing its mechanical integrity. Under the hood, it boasts the same powerful 6.0-liter V12 engine found in the standard Rapide, delivering an exhilarating 476 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This unique model can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.3 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience that few can match.
The rarity of the Jet 2+2 and its future
Originally, Aston Martin planned to produce a limited run of ten customer cars based on the Jet 2+2 concept. However, with Bertone’s unfortunate closure, this dream never materialized, elevating the Jet 2+2 to a one-of-a-kind status. Its rarity enhances its allure, making it a coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Bertone name has seen a resurgence with the introduction of the GB110 supercar project in 2022, which aims to produce 33 vehicles utilizing innovative fuel derived from waste plastic. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the legacy of Bertone lives on through this extraordinary concept.