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The 2004 Aston Martin Jet2 by Bertone is a custom creation based on the powerful Aston Martin Vanquish, yet wrapped in a uniquely luxurious "made-to-measure" design by the Italian coachbuilder. Taking inspiration from the 1961 Aston Martin Jet by Nuccio Bertone, which was based on the DB4 GT, the Jet2 pays homage to Bertone's long-standing tradition of designing exclusive one-off bodies on prestigious automotive platforms. The result is a three-door sports wagon, or "sports tourer," with an elongated wheelbase—stretched by 210mm—to accommodate two additional rear seats, transforming the Vanquish's two-seat setup into a practical yet refined four-seater.
Beneath the custom-designed exterior, the Jet2 maintains the Vanquish's mechanical core, including its powerful 6.0-liter V12 engine, delivering 450 horsepower to the rear wheels via a paddle-shifted automatic transmission. This adherence to the Vanquish’s performance and drivetrain helps minimize development costs, as Bertone focused on re-imagining only the body while preserving Aston Martin’s sophisticated engineering. The Jet2’s elongated body structure enhances its touring capability, allowing for a more spacious trunk, beautifully finished in fine wood and ideal for stylishly stowing travel essentials.
The Jet2 stands out with a series of luxurious design elements unique to Bertone's vision, such as a panoramic glass roof that bathes the interior in natural light and distinct rear lighting that flows into the rear window—evoking a British elegance with an Italian touch. Dr. Ulrich Bez, then-CEO of Aston Martin, saw the Jet2 as a concept worth exploring, recognizing its potential as a future direction for Aston Martin's high-performance vehicles with added versatility.
This collaboration between Aston Martin and Bertone embodies the Italian tradition of "coachbuilding," where luxurious, limited-edition custom bodies are crafted onto renowned automotive platforms. Lilli Bertone, chairman of the Bertone Group, emphasized the partnership's inspiration from history and the unique challenge of working with the Vanquish’s sporty pedigree. The Jet2 represents a rare fusion of Aston Martin's heritage with Bertone’s distinctive, bespoke design language, offering a refined interpretation of a high-performance sports car that can be equally at home on grand tours.
