Say It Aint So... An Aston Martin Hatchback?

In the old days, if a client wanted a specially-built custom car most manufacturers were happy to oblige. It really didnt matter what was desired - a stretched wheelbase, unique luxury appointments, or completely different sheetmetal, a customer could get what was wanted providing the necessary funds. A symbol of wealth and prestige, well to do clients would have their already upscale vehicles altered on a regular basis.

Many coachwork companies, such as Karmann and Pininfarina, originated this way, by crafting one-off vehicles built on rolling stock that was already in existence. They were tailors of sheetmetal, creating the automotive equivalent of a made to measure Armani suit or haute couture evening gown.

Todays high-end marques offer several different approaches to cater to the buyer who wants a made-to-order vehicle.

As it has always been in the luxury car market, if you have the money you can have your car customized to your hearts content. (Photo: Bertone)

But the fact of the

While the big manufacturers will do minor changes to cater to their clients whims, the classic coach builders can do almost anything. (Photo: Bertone)

Aston Martin has a long history with coach builder Bertone, naming its Jet2 after the original Jet concept styled by company head Nuccio Bertone in 1961. (Photo: Bertone)

After the Jets production, Aston Martin experimented with several different body style variations aside from the typical coupe and convertible, including a four-door luxury sedan called the Lagonda and a one-off two-door station wagon designated as the Virage "Shooting Brake." Most of the concepts stuck to the traditional coupe and roadster configurations, including those from rival design house Zagato who recently produced the DBR1. Also, a Vanquish Roadster highlighted Astons display at this years Geneva motor show. One variation that has never been produced before is that of a hatchback,

While a hatchback Aston Martin sounds far from appealing, in practice its simply gorgeous. (Photo: Bertone)

In theory, the idea of an Aston hatch does not work, but in practice the vehicle is simply gorgeous. Bertones starting point for the Jet2 was the Vanquish, however, in the customization process the wheelbase was stretched by a stately 8.3 inches. It also features a completely new body, although it is still unmistakably an Aston Martin. Alterations fabricated by the Italian coachwork company include flush headlight covers, an altered grille, and additional air vents, which supply extra air to the larger front brakes.

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