Thank you, Redpants. I've played with tire pressures, and they aren't changing much of what I'm experiencing. So, for the sake of argument, let's assume lack of talent isn't the problem here and I can connect to what's happening between the big pedal and the back wheels -- let's eliminate that as a variable so we can focus clearly on the question: Is what I'm experiencing "normal" with a V8V, or is there something going on with my particular car? As an example, with E46 BMWs, the rear trailing arm bushings can go bad after about 70K, and you know it when (a) you chew through tires, and (b) the car's rear end steps out unexpectedly when pushed hard or when traction is compromised. Is there a "known" issue with these cars, or should I spend the money to have an Aston specialist look hard at my suspension? Make sense?

 

Disclaimer; I have not raced the Vantage, however to add to what Rich said, I'd actually probably lower both into the area of 29lbs cold. I have tracked the PSS's and at 36 cold, the rears are prob getting greasy and inconsistent quickly.

Also, if you really want to track the car a lot, and if you want to steer with the throttle, a lightweight flywheel would be a great help. The engine is somewhat slow to respond to throttle, compared to M3, s2000, or other feee revving cars.

Lastly, heel/toe room in the footwell seems less than optimal to me. Take some time to examine weather your foot is being hindered by the trans tunnel. This is somewhat dependent on your technique and foot size. The restriction for me is very subtle, and took me a while to realize why my normal technique wasn't producing results. Some don't have issues, others use a modified pedal.

Between the flywheel, and my heel/toe technique, I find myself to be less accomplished in this car than any of my racecars.