Aston Martin’s current Vantage sports car has been on the market since 2005 and will soon be in need of a successor. The British automaker has just launched its most potent version yet, the V12 Vantage S, which takes the car into the 2015 model year. But could an even more potent version be launched to give the car a proper send off? According to a new report, Aston Martin is considering just that, a hardcore GT3 version based on the V12 Vantage GT3 endurance racer.

Based on information learned from Aston Martin engineering boss Ian Minards, Autocar reports that a version of the V12 Vantage weighing considerably less than any existing version and producing more downforce is being considered.

“It would be relatively easy to lose 100 kilograms (220 pounds) from the current car,” Minards is quoted as saying. “That much could be saved by removing the air conditioning, simplifying the interior and fitting lightweight seats.”

Further weight gains could be achieved using carbon fiber for more components, adding light alloy wheels and perhaps even a titanium exhaust system. Combined with an increase in engine output, say to the tune of 600 horsepower, the hardcore V12 Vantage GT3 could rival Ferrari’s 458 Italia in terms of power-to-weight ratio.

The new V12 Vantage S will do 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 205 mph, so a lighter and more powerful version could deliver even better numbers, especially if the car was also fitted with the Vanquish’s launch control system.

Though Aston Martin engineers are likely keen to build such a car, production hasn’t been approved yet, and may never be.

_______________________________________

Follow Motor Authority on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.