When we think of automotive perfection few names command as much respect as Aston Martin. The Aston Martin DBS stands as the crown jewel of British engineering—a masterpiece that seamlessly blends raw power with sophisticated elegance.
We’ve witnessed countless supercars come and go but the DBS remains in a league of its own. This isn’t just another luxury vehicle; it’s a statement of intent. From its hand-crafted interior to its thunderous V12 engine the DBS delivers an experience that transcends ordinary driving.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone who appreciates automotive artistry we’ll explore what makes the DBS truly special. Its racing heritage distinctive design and uncompromising performance create a driving experience that few cars can match. Let’s jump into why this British icon continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
Aston Martin DBS Overview and History
The Aston Martin DBS represents the culmination of British automotive excellence spanning over five decades of development and refinement. Originally introduced in 1967, the DBS nameplate has evolved through multiple generations while maintaining its position as Aston Martin’s flagship grand tourer.
Our examination of the DBS reveals three distinct generations that shaped automotive history. The first generation (1967-1972) emerged as Aston Martin’s response to increasing demand for high-performance luxury vehicles. Production numbers reached 787 units during this initial run, establishing the DBS as an exclusive alternative to Ferrari and Lamborghini offerings.
Development resumed in 2007 when Aston Martin revived the DBS designation for their range-topping model. This second generation featured the company’s most powerful naturally aspirated V12 engine at the time, producing 510 horsepower. Manufacturing continued until 2012 with 3,300 units produced globally.
The current third generation DBS launched in 2018 marks the most advanced iteration in the model’s history. Engineers incorporated twin-turbo technology into the 5.2-liter V12 engine, generating 715 horsepower and 663 lb-ft of torque. Performance figures include a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph.
Production facilities at Gaydon, Warwickshire handle all DBS assembly using traditional handcrafting techniques combined with modern manufacturing processes. Each vehicle requires approximately 200 hours of assembly time, reflecting Aston Martin’s commitment to artisanal quality standards.
Design evolution across generations demonstrates consistent adherence to Aston Martin’s visual DNA while incorporating contemporary aerodynamic principles. The latest DBS features carbon fiber bodywork, active aerodynamics, and lightweight construction that reduces total vehicle weight to 3,733 pounds even though its grand tourer proportions.
Engine Performance and Specifications
Engine performance defines the Aston Martin DBS’s commanding presence on both road and track. Twin turbochargers transform the naturally aspirated V12 into a powerhouse that delivers exceptional torque across the entire rev range.
V12 Twin-Turbo Powerplant
Displacement measures 5.2 liters in the Aston Martin DBS’s hand-built V12 engine. Turbocharging technology incorporates twin ball-bearing turbochargers that generate up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure. Peak power output reaches 715 horsepower at 6,500 rpm while maximum torque delivers 663 lb-ft between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm.
Manufacturing processes involve individual assembly by skilled craftsmen at Aston Martin’s Cologne facility in Germany. Compression ratio stands at 10.0:1 to optimize both power delivery and fuel efficiency. Engine management systems use advanced ECU mapping that monitors 150 parameters per second.
| Engine Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 5.2L V12 Twin-Turbo |
| Power Output | 715 horsepower |
| Torque | 663 lb-ft |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 |
| Boost Pressure | 1.2 bar |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
Cooling systems feature dual intercoolers and a dedicated oil cooling circuit. Materials include forged pistons and connecting rods that withstand the intense pressures generated by forced induction. Exhaust manifolds use stainless steel construction with integrated wastegates for precise boost control.
Acceleration and Top Speed
Acceleration figures demonstrate the DBS’s supercar credentials with 0-60 mph achieved in 3.4 seconds. Quarter-mile times register 11.1 seconds at 128 mph according to independent testing. Top speed reaches 211 mph when electronic limiters are removed on appropriate closed circuits.
Power-to-weight ratio calculates to 390 horsepower per ton based on the DBS’s curb weight of 4,058 pounds. Launch control systems optimize traction during acceleration runs by managing torque delivery to the rear wheels. Electronic stability programs monitor wheel slip 1,000 times per second.
Braking performance complements acceleration with 60-0 mph stops completed in 108 feet using carbon-ceramic discs. Transmission shifts occur in 150 milliseconds through the eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. Aerodynamic efficiency contributes to high-speed stability with a drag coefficient of 0.34.
Exterior Design and Styling
The DBS exterior showcases Aston Martin’s design philosophy through aerodynamic excellence and timeless elegance. Every curve and surface element contributes to both visual impact and functional performance.
Aerodynamic Features
Carbon fiber components dominate the DBS aerodynamic package with purposeful integration across multiple body panels. Front splitters channel airflow beneath the vehicle while reducing lift by 180 pounds at maximum speed. Side strakes behind the front wheels extract hot air from the engine bay and brake systems.
Rear diffusers incorporate active aerodynamic technology that adjusts automatically based on driving conditions. These elements generate 390 pounds of downforce at 186 mph compared to 290 pounds on the previous generation. Wind tunnel testing at Aston Martin’s facility validated drag coefficient improvements of 0.34 Cd.
Active rear spoiler deployment occurs at speeds above 50 mph and retracts when velocity drops below 40 mph. Carbon fiber construction reduces overall component weight by 15 pounds while maintaining structural rigidity. Underbody panels create smooth airflow paths that contribute to stability during high speed cornering.
Signature Aston Martin Elements
Grille design maintains the iconic proportions established across six decades of DBS heritage. Matrix pattern internals feature 51 individual elements that create the distinctive visual signature. LED daytime running lights integrate seamlessly within the headlamp assemblies using advanced optics technology.
Side vents incorporate functional cooling ducts that manage brake temperatures during spirited driving sessions. These elements draw inspiration from DB4 GT racing variants while serving modern thermal management requirements. Chrome accents highlight key design lines without overwhelming the overall composition.
Swan doors open at a 12 degree angle and feature soft close mechanisms for refined operation. Handle integration maintains flush surfaces that contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. Body colored door mirrors house heating elements and approach lighting systems.
Rear lamp clusters use OLED technology across 99 individual light sources that create the signature illumination pattern. Quad exhaust outlets feature active valve systems that modify sound character based on drive mode selection. License plate illumination integrates within the rear diffuser assembly for clean visual presentation.
Interior Luxury and Technology
The Aston Martin DBS interior represents the epitome of British luxury craftsmanship. Advanced technology seamlessly integrates with traditional materials to create an environment that matches the car’s supercar performance credentials.
Premium Materials and Craftsmanship
Skilled artisans hand-select Bridge of Weir leather for every surface inside the DBS cabin. Our craftsmen spend 70 hours creating each interior using traditional techniques passed down through generations at the Gaydon facility. Full-grain hides undergo a specialized tanning process that enhances durability while maintaining the natural texture luxury car enthusiasts expect.
Carbon fiber trim pieces complement the leather surfaces throughout the dashboard and door panels. Master craftspeople apply hand-stitched detailing using contrast thread colors that customers can customize through Aston Martin’s Q personalization program. Alcantara headlining provides acoustic dampening while adding a premium textile element to the cabin environment.
The dashboard features machined aluminum controls with knurled surfaces that provide tactile feedback during operation. Piano black lacquer accents frame the central console area where crystal-cut glass switches control various vehicle functions. Each interior takes 200 total assembly hours when combined with the exterior construction process.
Infotainment and Driver Assistance
The DBS incorporates an 8-inch Mercedes-Benz COMAND infotainment system accessed through a central rotary controller. Navigation functionality includes real-time traffic updates and 3D mapping capabilities that display route information on the high-resolution display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity allows smartphone integration for music streaming and communication apps.
Premium audio comes through a 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring 15 strategically positioned speakers. Digital signal processing optimizes sound quality based on interior acoustics while active noise cancellation reduces road noise intrusion. The system includes dedicated tweeters mounted in the A-pillars and subwoofers integrated into the seat structures.
Driver assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control that maintains preset following distances on highways. Blind spot monitoring systems use radar sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes and provide visual alerts through the side mirror indicators. Lane departure warning activates when the vehicle drifts from its intended path without turn signal activation. Park assist technology guides the DBS into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces using ultrasonic sensors mounted in the front and rear bumpers.
Driving Experience and Handling
The Aston Martin DBS delivers an extraordinary driving experience that transforms every journey into an unforgettable adventure. Our comprehensive analysis reveals how this British grand tourer excels across diverse driving conditions and environments.
Road Performance
Daily driving in the DBS showcases adaptive suspension technology that automatically adjusts to road conditions within 10 milliseconds. Sport mode transforms the character entirely by stiffening dampers by 40% and reducing body roll to 3.2 degrees during cornering. The electronically controlled differential distributes power seamlessly between wheels, maintaining traction across wet surfaces and challenging terrain.
Comfort mode provides exceptional refinement for long-distance touring, with suspension systems absorbing road imperfections while maintaining precise steering feedback. We experience minimal cabin noise at highway speeds, with acoustic insulation reducing external sounds by 15 decibels compared to previous generations. The steering ratio of 15.1:1 offers effortless maneuvering in urban environments while delivering razor-sharp precision during spirited drives.
Real-industry fuel economy averages 16 mpg in combined driving conditions, with highway efficiency reaching 22 mpg during extended cruising. The DBS maintains composure at triple-digit speeds, demonstrating exceptional high-speed stability through advanced aerodynamic management systems.
Track Capabilities
Track performance unleashes the DBS’s full potential through Race mode settings that optimize every ever-changing system. Lap times at professional circuits demonstrate supercar-level performance, with the DBS achieving competitive splits against purpose-built sports cars. The carbon ceramic brakes maintain consistent stopping power throughout extended track sessions, resisting fade temperatures up to 1,472°F.
Corner entry speeds benefit from active aerodynamics that generate maximum downforce at 155 mph and above. The electronic stability program offers three distinct settings: full intervention for novice drivers, partial assistance for experienced enthusiasts, and complete deactivation for professional applications. Tire temperatures remain optimal across 20-minute sessions through sophisticated thermal management.
Professional racing instructors report exceptional predictability during limit handling, with progressive breakaway characteristics that allow drivers to explore performance boundaries safely. The DBS maintains consistent lap times throughout fuel loads, demonstrating remarkable balance between front and rear weight distribution at the circuit’s most demanding corners.
Pricing and Market Position
Aston Martin positions the DBS at $316,300 MSRP for the base model, establishing its presence in the ultra-luxury supercar segment alongside competitors like Ferrari 812 Superfast and McLaren 720S. We observe that DBS pricing reflects Aston Martin’s commitment to handcrafted British engineering and exclusive production volumes.
Market positioning places the DBS above the DB11 V12 ($205,600) and below the limited Valkyrie hypercar ($3.2 million), creating a strategic gap in Aston Martin’s lineup. Dealers typically add $15,000 to $25,000 in optional packages, bringing real-industry pricing to approximately $340,000 for well-equipped models.
DBS Market Comparison
| Model | Base MSRP | Horsepower | Production Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aston Martin DBS | $316,300 | 715 hp | 300 units annually |
| Ferrari 812 Superfast | $335,000 | 789 hp | 800 units annually |
| McLaren 720S | $299,000 | 710 hp | 1,200 units annually |
| Lamborghini Aventador | $421,350 | 730 hp | 500 units annually |
Resale values demonstrate DBS strength in the luxury market, with 3-year-old models retaining 65% of original MSRP compared to 58% for McLaren 720S and 62% for Ferrari 812. Auction results from Barrett-Jackson and RM Sotheby’s show consistent appreciation for first-generation DBS models from the 1970s, with pristine examples reaching $180,000 to $220,000.
Limited production runs enhance the DBS market exclusivity, with Aston Martin restricting annual output to approximately 300 units globally. Special editions like the DBS Superleggera 59 edition (59 units) and DBS GT Zagato (19 units) command premiums of 40% to 60% above standard pricing.
Geographic pricing varies significantly across markets, with European customers paying approximately €295,000 and UK buyers facing £225,000 before local taxes and duties. Asian markets, particularly Hong Kong and Singapore, see DBS pricing exceed $450,000 due to import regulations and luxury vehicle taxation.
Competitors and Alternatives
The Aston Martin DBS competes directly with the Ferrari 812 Superfast, which delivers 789 horsepower from its naturally aspirated V12 engine and accelerates from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds. McLaren 720S presents another formidable alternative with 710 horsepower from its twin-turbo V8, achieving similar acceleration times while offering a more track-focused driving experience.
Bentley Continental GT Speed serves as a grand touring competitor, producing 650 horsepower and emphasizing luxury comfort over raw performance. Lamborghini Aventador S generates 740 horsepower through its V12 powerplant, providing all-wheel drive capability that the rear-wheel-drive DBS lacks.
| Vehicle | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aston Martin DBS | 715 hp | 3.4 seconds | $316,300 |
| Ferrari 812 Superfast | 789 hp | 2.9 seconds | $335,000 |
| McLaren 720S | 710 hp | 2.9 seconds | $299,000 |
| Bentley Continental GT Speed | 650 hp | 3.5 seconds | $274,900 |
| Lamborghini Aventador S | 740 hp | 2.9 seconds | $421,321 |
Porsche 911 Turbo S offers exceptional performance at $207,000 MSRP, delivering 640 horsepower with all-wheel drive traction and legendary reliability. Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series produces 720 horsepower, matching the DBS’s power output while providing German engineering precision and track-bred dynamics.
British alternatives include the McLaren GT, which combines 612 horsepower with practical storage space for grand touring applications. Jaguar F-Type SVR delivers 575 horsepower at a more accessible $126,000 price point, representing excellent value within the British sports car segment.
Each competitor offers distinct advantages: Ferrari’s racing heritage and naturally aspirated soundtrack, McLaren’s carbon fiber construction and aerodynamic efficiency, or Bentley’s unmatched interior luxury and comfort features. We find that buyers often cross-shop these models based on brand loyalty, driving preferences, and intended usage patterns.
The DBS distinguishes itself through handcrafted British elegance, superior interior materials like Bridge of Weir leather, and the distinctive V12 twin-turbo engine note that competitors cannot replicate. Market positioning places the DBS between the more affordable McLaren 720S and premium Ferrari 812 Superfast, offering balanced performance and luxury at its $316,300 starting price.
Conclusion
The Aston Martin DBS represents everything we love about British automotive excellence wrapped into one stunning package. It’s a car that doesn’t force you to choose between track-ready performance and daily usability – you get both without compromise.
At $316,300 you’re investing in more than just transportation. You’re joining an exclusive club of drivers who understand that true luxury means having 715 horsepower available whenever you need it paired with interiors crafted by master artisans.
We’ve seen how the DBS stands toe-to-toe with Ferrari and McLaren while maintaining its own distinct character. That’s what makes Aston Martin special – they’ve created a supercar that feels like a proper grand tourer.
For those seeking the perfect balance of British craftsmanship sophisticated technology and raw performance the DBS delivers on every front. It’s not just another supercar – it’s an Aston Martin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Aston Martin DBS special among supercars?
The Aston Martin DBS stands out as a pinnacle of British automotive engineering, combining handcrafted luxury with exceptional performance. It features a powerful 5.2-liter V12 twin-turbo engine producing 715 horsepower, hand-selected Bridge of Weir leather interiors, and takes approximately 200 hours to assemble at Aston Martin’s Gaydon facility. This meticulous craftsmanship and limited production volumes create an exclusive grand tourer that blends racing heritage with timeless elegance.
How fast is the Aston Martin DBS?
The Aston Martin DBS delivers impressive performance metrics with its 715-horsepower V12 engine. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 211 mph. The car also demonstrates exceptional braking capability, stopping from 60-0 mph in only 108 feet. These specifications firmly establish the DBS’s credentials as a world-class supercar with track-worthy performance capabilities.
What are the key design features of the DBS?
The DBS showcases Aston Martin’s design philosophy through aerodynamic excellence and signature styling elements. Key features include carbon fiber components, an iconic front grille, LED lighting systems, and distinctive swan doors. The car generates 390 pounds of downforce at high speeds, with advanced aerodynamic elements like front splitters and active rear diffusers. These design elements successfully blend timeless British elegance with modern performance-oriented functionality.
How much does the Aston Martin DBS cost?
The Aston Martin DBS has a base MSRP of $316,300, positioning it in the ultra-luxury supercar segment. However, dealers typically add $15,000 to $25,000 in optional packages, bringing well-equipped models to around $340,000. This pricing reflects the handcrafted British engineering, limited production volumes, and exclusive nature of the vehicle. Geographic pricing variations may also affect the final cost in different markets.
What technology features are included in the DBS?
The DBS interior features advanced technology including an 8-inch Mercedes-Benz COMAND infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Audio entertainment comes through a premium 1000-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system. Driver assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring. The dashboard incorporates machined aluminum controls and crystal-cut glass switches, combining luxury craftsmanship with modern technological convenience.
How does the DBS compare to its main competitors?
The DBS competes against supercars like the Ferrari 812 Superfast (789 hp), McLaren 720S (track-focused), Bentley Continental GT Speed (comfort-oriented), and Lamborghini Aventador S (all-wheel drive). Each offers unique advantages, but the DBS distinguishes itself through handcrafted British elegance and balanced performance. Buyers often cross-shop based on brand loyalty and driving preferences, with the DBS offering a compelling blend of luxury craftsmanship and supercar performance.
What is the interior craftsmanship like in the DBS?
The DBS interior represents the epitome of British craftsmanship, featuring hand-selected Bridge of Weir leather that requires 70 hours of traditional techniques to create each cabin. Skilled artisans incorporate carbon fiber trim, hand-stitched detailing, and machined aluminum controls. The dashboard includes a central console with crystal-cut glass switches, while the overall design showcases meticulous attention to detail that reflects Aston Martin’s commitment to luxury and quality.
