British automaker Aston Martin has just revealed their new Vantage GT3, which will be the basis for their customer motorsport business next year. According to U.K. publication Autocar, it takes cues from the DBRS9 and features a modified version of the 6.0-liter V12, the same engine that powers the automaker's V12 road cars. The new GT3 engine will likely produce around 600hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. It will be mated to a semi-automatic Xtrac six-speed sequential paddleshift gearbox.

Compared to the DBRS9, the new GT3 racer has a shorter wheelbase and its dry-sumped engine is mounted lower in order to enhance handling and performance. Its modular chassis is made from a light aluminum and composite structure, giving it a dry weight of 2,755 lbs. Aston Martin also claims they've improved the drivability along with its race-developed ABS and traction control systems. It will be eligible to compete in events such as the FIA GT3 Champion, the British GT Championship, and the Nurburgring-based VLN series. Priced at £298,000, it's reportedly set to begin testing in October and deliveries will begin in early 2012.