Elevating Elegance: Callum's Vanquish Shooting Brake Concept
Visionary Design: Reimagining the Vanquish Silhouette
Ian Callum, an acclaimed designer with a rich background at Aston Martin and Jaguar, now spearheads his independent design firm, Callum. His studio is celebrated for its masterful restomods and innovative redesigns, including notable projects based on the Vanquish and the iconic Mini Cooper. Callum's recent conceptual reveal on Instagram showcases a stunning shooting brake conversion of the Vanquish 25 restomod. This intriguing proposal seeks to gauge potential client interest for a bespoke production run.
Aesthetic Appraisal: Strengths and Contested Details
The core bodywork of this concept is largely commendable. The reshaped front end, featuring more prominent side air intakes, contributes to a powerful and aggressive stance. Equally impressive are the refined side skirts and the updated rear bumper, which seamlessly integrate with the extended wagon-style body, a feature universally lauded by enthusiasts of shooting brakes. However, not all design elements meet universal approval. The choice of wheels, characterized by their excessive size and width, and a two-tone finish, deviates from traditional Aston Martin elegance. Additionally, the prominent brake calipers, particularly in their vibrant color, seem more suited to a Ferrari than an Aston Martin. The revised headlights, incorporating modern projectors and circular LED daytime running lights, aim to modernize the Vanquish's classic lines. Yet, some critics suggest these updates give the vehicle an aftermarket appearance, contrasting sharply with the original's inherent sophistication.
Tailored Customization: Fulfilling Bespoke Desires
Despite these minor reservations, the flexibility of boutique manufacturers like Callum Design means that such aesthetic preferences could likely be accommodated. Customization is a cornerstone of their service, suggesting that clients desiring a Vanquish shooting brake with a closer adherence to the original car's design ethos would probably find a receptive ear. This commitment to bespoke tailoring indicates a willingness to adapt the concept to individual tastes, ensuring the final product aligns perfectly with the client's vision of luxury and style.
Performance Prowess: Power and Transmission Options
Should the Vanquish shooting brake concept move into production, it is anticipated to retain the formidable powertrain of the standard Vanquish 25. This includes a robust 5.9-liter V-12 engine, delivering an impressive 580 horsepower. Prospective owners would also be presented with diverse transmission choices: the original single-clutch automatic, a more refined six-speed GM torque-converter automatic, or an exhilarating six-speed manual gearbox. The prospect of a three-pedal shooting brake is particularly appealing to driving purists, promising an engaging and immersive experience regardless of external styling modifications.
Future Prospects: From Concept to Reality
The fate of the Callum Vanquish shooting brake remains uncertain, contingent on sufficient interest from potential buyers. Callum's Instagram post serves as a direct invitation for serious inquiries, highlighting the speculative nature of the project. Given the history of unique and audacious automotive designs progressing from concept to limited production, there is a distinct possibility that this striking Vanquish shooting brake could eventually see the light of day, adding another compelling chapter to the legacy of bespoke automotive artistry.