Aston Martin DB11 Facts, figures, and a driving report
Meet the Aston Martin DB11
Step into the world of the Aston Martin DB11, where British elegance meets the thrill of the road. Launched in 2016, this grand tourer not only honors the DB9’s legacy but promises a future of luxury with its breathtaking design by Marek Reichman. Whether you choose the sleek coupe or the open-air Volante, the DB11 delivers with options of a spirited V8 or a mighty V12 engine. Crafted with care in Gaydon, it’s a car that’s as much about the journey as the destination, offering a blend of speed, style, and the soulful sound of a true sports car, making every drive an event to remember.
DB11 Origins: A Tale of British Luxury
In the quiet town of Gaydon, Warwickshire, the story of the Aston Martin DB11 begins. This car was born as the successor to the beloved DB9, which had graced the roads since January 2004. The DB9 wasn’t just any car; it was the first to ride on the innovative vertical–horizontal platform, a pioneering design that embraced aluminum, setting the stage for a new generation of Aston Martins, including the Vantage, DBS, Rapide, Vanquish, and even the exclusive Lagonda Taraf.
By 2015, whispers of a new chapter were in the air. Aston Martin announced the DB9’s heir would be called the DB11, part of their ambitious “second-century plan.” This plan was not just about making cars; it was about redefining luxury with a design philosophy led by Marek Reichman, who took the helm as lead designer in 2005. The aim? To craft vehicles that stood out, much like the distinctive models from Ferrari, their Italian rivals.
The DB9’s production curtains closed in July 2016, marking the end of an era with 16,500 units sold. Enter the DB11, making its grand entrance at the Geneva Motor Show that same year. Its production kicked off in late September 2016, back in Gaydon. Aston Martin’s CEO, Andy Palmer, took it upon himself to personally inspect the initial 1,000 cars, a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and excellence in every DB11 that rolled off the line.
The DB11 wasn’t merely a car; it was a statement of Aston Martin’s vision for the future, blending classic British elegance with modern performance. It promised drivers not just a journey, but an experience, echoing the legacy of the DB9 while setting its sights on new horizons.
Aston Martin DB11 Design Details
Exterior Details
The Aston Martin DB11 whispers elegance with every curve. Its design is a symphony of smooth lines and unified shapes, making it unmistakably an Aston Martin. Unlike its flashier counterparts, the DB11 opts for subtlety, showcasing beauty through delicate details like fine stitching and sleek design frames. Yet, it’s not all about being understated; with options like Frosted Glass Yellow or Kermit Green, you can make a bold statement. The DB11 AMR version adds a dash of futuristic flair with dark chrome and carbon elements. With 45 exterior and 24 interior color choices, it caters to everyone from the classic conservative to the vibrant visionary.
Interior Details
Inside the Aston Martin DB11, luxury takes center stage. It’s all about comfort with heated seats and steering wheel, wrapped in lush leather and accented with classy wooden panels. The cockpit features a sleek three-part digital display that changes color with your driving mood, creating a serene atmosphere for a relaxed drive or an intense vibe when you’re pushing the limits. Interestingly, there’s no glove compartment here; storage is cleverly integrated into the center console and doors.
Technical Details of Aston Martin DB11
Engine of Aston Martin DB11
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Type: 4.0-liter V8 Twin-Turbo (Mercedes-AMG) or 5.2-liter V12 (Aston Martin)
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Fuel Type: Gasoline
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Displacement: 3,982 cc (V8) / 5,204 cc (V12)
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Power:
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V8: 510 PS (503 hp) at 6,000 rpm
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V12: 608 PS (600 hp) at 6,500 rpm
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V12 AMR: 639 PS (630 hp) at 6,500 rpm
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Torque:
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V8: 675 Nm at 2,000-5,000 rpm
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V12: 700 Nm at 1,500 rpm
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V12 AMR: 700 Nm at 1,500 rpm
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Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
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Transmission: 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP)
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Emissions Standard: Meets current emission standards, varying by region
Body of Aston Martin DB11
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Vehicle Type: Grand Tourer Coupe (Convertible Volante version available)
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Seats: 4 people in a 2+2 configuration
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Dimensions:
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Length: 4,749.8 mm
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Width: 1,948.2 mm (excluding mirrors), 2,060 mm (including mirrors)
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Height: 1,290.3 mm (coupe), 1,281 mm (Volante)
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Wheelbase: 2,804.2 mm
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Track Width: Not specifically stated but optimized for stability
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Ground Clearance: Low, typical of GT sports cars
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Boot Capacity: 270 liters (coupe), 262 liters (Volante)
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Curb Weight:
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V8: 1,760 kg
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V12: Approximately 1,870 kg (dry weight)
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Performance of Aston Martin DB11
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Top Speed:
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V8: 300 km/h (186 mph)
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V12: Over 322 km/h (200 mph)
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V12 AMR: 334 km/h (207 mph)
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Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h:
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V8: 4.0 seconds
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V12: 3.9 seconds
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V12 AMR: 3.7 seconds
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Acceleration 0 to 200 km/h: Not specified, but expected to be competitive within its class
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Braking Distance: Not specified, equipped with high-performance steel brakes or optional carbon ceramic brakes
Reviews of Aston Martin DB11
Here are some synthesized highlights based on general insights from various discussions and reviews of the Aston Martin DB11.
The Top Gear review of the Aston Martin DB1 reflects on its historical significance as Aston Martin’s first sports car post-WWII. With limited production, the DB1 set the foundation for Aston Martin’s legacy in high-performance luxury cars. It’s celebrated for its classic design and pioneering role in the brand’s storied lineup.
The MotorTrend review of the 2017 Aston Martin DB11 highlights its blend of luxury and power, with options for a twin-turbo V12 or V8 engine. Known for its striking design and refined handling, the DB11 offers a grand touring experience that combines elegance with impressive performance.
The Aston Martin DB11’s Challengers
Porsche Taycan
Hop into the Porsche Taycan, and you’re immediately part of an electric revolution wrapped in luxury. With instant torque from its electric motors, it accelerates with the ferocity of a silent sports car, combining eco-consciousness with exhilaration. The handling? It’s like the car is an extension of your thoughts, gliding through bends with electric precision. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s both a tech showcase and a nod to Porsche’s heritage. The Taycan isn’t just a car; it’s your invitation to enjoy the future of driving today, with the kind of comfort and space that makes every journey, whether solo or with company, feel like a premium experience.
Porsche Panamera
Slide into the Porsche Panamera, and you’re not just driving; you’re commanding a machine where precision meets luxury. With engines like a V8 that can deliver up to 630 hp, this car is all about balance – power, comfort, and space. Its adaptive air suspension means it rides smooth on the highway or grips tight on twisty roads. Inside, it’s a tech haven with touches of Porsche’s racing heritage, wrapped in leather and comfort. The Panamera isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about enjoying every moment in between, making it a worthy rival to the Aston Martin DB11.
Maserati GranTurismo
Climb into the Maserati GranTurismo and you’re stepping into a world where the soulful song of a V8 engine harmonizes with the sleek lines of Italian design. This grand tourer packs enough punch to thrill, yet it’s refined enough to take you from a business meeting to a beach escape in style. Its handling is artful, with each curve navigated like a painter’s brushstroke. The interior? It’s where luxury meets sportiness, with top-notch materials and tech that respects Maserati’s heritage. The GranTurismo isn’t merely a car; it’s an experience that rivals the Aston Martin DB11, turning every drive into a celebration of the road.
How can you experience driving the Aston Martin DB11?
Option 1: Purchase an Aston Martin DB11
If your wallet’s up for it, you can march right into a dealership and drive away with an Aston Martin DB11. This choice gives you the keys to luxury, allowing you to tailor this beauty to your taste. The DB11 kicks off at around $205,600, which is your ticket into the world of grand touring with Aston Martin’s signature elegance and power. It’s not just a car; it’s your canvas for personal style and performance on the road.
Option 2: Aston Martin DB11 Test Drive
Why not pop into an Aston Martin dealership and ask for a test drive of the DB11? It’s a low-cost way to experience this grand tourer’s magic firsthand. With demo models available, you can feel the luxury and hear the roar yourself. It’s the perfect chance to see if the DB11’s spirit matches yours. Imagine cruising through town, soaking in the power and elegance, and deciding if this head-turner should be your next ride. It’s like trying on a bespoke suit – but for your driving pleasure.
