Aston Martin DB9 Review

Although there have been several models produced in Aston Martin's 90-plus-year history, none have been as famous as those with "DB" tattooed to their tails. The Aston Martin DB9 coupe and Volante convertible is in fact the ninth model to be sold with these hallowed letters, and carries on a sterling automotive tradition.

Sold throughout the 1950s and '60s, and then resurrected in 1994, the DBs were and still are some of the most drop-dead gorgeous and performance-capable sports cars on the road. Numerous examples have also been driven by a certain British super spy, making the words "Aston Martin" and "James Bond" synonymous terms. It could easily be argued that thanks to 007, the Aston Martin and DB names have remained relevant enough to survive through decades of tumultuous financial difficulties.

As such, the Aston Martin DB9 simultaneously represents the brand's past and future, with sexy styling inspired by (but not copying) previous models and a high-tech aluminum platform that has underpinned every subsequent new Aston. If this success continues, hopefully we can look forward to new DBs for years to come.

Current Aston Martin DB9

The Aston Martin DB9 is offered in 2+2 coupe and convertible body styles. The drop-top version is known as the Volante, which for those who skipped Italian 101 means "flying." All DB9s are powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with paddle shifters are available, and both transmissions are located at the rear transaxle for better weight distribution.

The Aston Martin DB9 comes with a healthy options list and a vast selection of customizable color combinations. The Volante's soft top can be had in seven different colors, while leather is available in so many shades that even Prince could find one that's too garish. All DB9s come standard with 19-inch wheels, xenon headlamps, an abundance of leather interior trim, a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and a premium audio system with six-CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod interface. Aside from the slew of options, the coupe is available with a Sports Pack that provides firmer spring, shock and antiroll bar settings. For those with athletic aspirations, this is definitely a worthwhile add-on.

Not that it comes as a shock, but this 470-hp, V12-powered GT is a rather fun automobile. The bellowing exhaust and voluptuous low-end power can make this civilized tourer into a heathenish beast with just a touch of the throttle. The DB9 changes directions easily and responds to steering and brake inputs with an immediacy not always associated with big, grand touring coupes. Yet, unlike the related but smaller V8 Vantage, the DB9 is not at its best when being flung around twists and turns. We found that the Volante suffers from having its roof lopped off, with a busy ride over rough pavement and a noticeably softer suspension.

Although buying an exotic car with a price tag of more than $100,000 is often a matter of taste, it is hard to argue with the Aston Martin DB9. It may not be as visceral or thrilling as some more sporting entries, but when it comes to motoring down a long stretch of gently bending two-lane motorway, it's almost impossible to match.

Used Aston Martin DB9 Models

The Aston Martin DB9 was an all-new model for 2005. Changes were few until 2008 when cupholders, an auxiliary audio jack and wheel-mounted audio controls were added to the standard features list. For 2009 both the coupe and Volante were significantly upgraded. Prior to that, the V12 produced 449 hp and 412 lb-ft of torque. Also, DB9s made from 2005-'08 feature less ergonomically friendly climate, stereo and navigation controls consisting of lower-quality switchgear (the dedicated iPod interface replaced the previous auxiliary audio jack). This midlife change also saw revised suspension tuning for a better ride, quicker and smoother automatic transmission shifts and greater torsional rigidity for the Volante.