04/01/2004
The DB9, which debuts this summer, follows on the heels of the most successful Aston ever: the DB7. Powering the DB9 is an improved version of the 6-liter V-12 found in the Vanquish. The engine features new camshafts, crankshaft, inlets and exhaust manifold and produces 450 hp— 25 more than the DB7 Vantage’s V-12.
Though the Vanquish received some criticism for using parts from
less-expensive Fords, everything in the DB9 is pure Aston Martin. The new
aluminum instrument panel sports gauges that resemble a fine watch, while the
center console “has the structural look of modern furniture,” says Aston
Martin’s current head of design, Henrik Fisker.Like the DB7, the DB9 will be offered in coupe and convertible (called “Volante” by Aston) models. The company intends to build 2,000 to 2,500 DB9s annually. Each takes roughly 200 hours to hand-craft.
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