The magnificent Aston Martin Vantage GT8 is a road-legal race car

Aston Martin has released a stripped-down, track-focused, limited edition version of its V8 Vantage sports car. It’s called the Vantage GT8 and its heavily inspired by the V8 Vantage GTE race car that Aston runs in the World Endurance Championship.

Aston’s special projects division added a ton of carbon fiber aerodynamic elements including a new front splitter, front and rear bumpers, fenders, side sills, and rear diffuser. Lined up next to its track-only brother, the GT8 looks nearly identical, right down to the optional center-lock magnesium rims, designed for racing.

It’s equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, so it is street legal (though not in North America), and six-speed manual or seven-speed paddle-shift transmissions are available. Under the hood is a tuned version of Aston’s 439 horsepower, 4.8-liter V8 engine. More weight savings sees the rear and rear side windows replaced with polycarbonate, along with carbon fiber door panels and seats, accounting for 160 pounds of weight shedding.

For those who plan to drive the GT8 on the road (or to and from the track), air conditioning, a stereo, and Aston Martin’s newest infotainment system mean you won’t have to give up all the creature comforts.

Just 150 will be made with prices starting at $235,000. Shipments begin late this year.