DP2055 was the code number that Aston Martin used for the development of the Twin Supercharged Vantage. In total 5 Prototype chassis numbers were reserved. DP2055/1 – DP2055/5. It looks like number 3 was never finished, number 4 was crash tested. DP2055/1, DP2055/2 and DP2055/5 still survive today.

DP2055/2 was in the spotlights from the start. It was shown at the Birmingham Motorshow of 1992 and it was the first Prototype which was almost of the same specification as the production cars. DP2055/5 was the production specification Aston Martin Press car.

DP2055/1 was body wise an Aston Martin Virage, but fitted with Vantage engine, transmission, suspension and Vantage front spoiler. Because it looked like a Virage, but was technically a Vantage, it was nicknamed “Virtage”. This Virtage was used for the technical testing of the Twin Turbo engine and other technical components.

The original registration number of H217 JKX, issued on 23 May 1991, is still with the Virtage. The Aston Martin also used the Bond registration number B549 WUU for a period.

The first Vantage production models were delivered in October 1992, this is 17 months after the registration of DP 2055/1.