Aston Martin DB9
Aston Martin DB9 | |
---|---|
![]() 2005 Aston Martin DB9 | |
Overview | |
Manufacturer | Aston Martin Lagonda Limited |
Production | January 2004 – July 2016 |
Assembly | United Kingdom: Gaydon, Warwickshire |
Designer |
|
Body and chassis | |
Class | Grand tourer |
Body style |
|
Layout | Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive |
Platform | Aston Martin VH |
Doors | Swan-wing[1] |
Related | |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 5.9 L Aston Martin V12 |
Transmission | |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 2,740–2,745 mm (107.9–108.1 in) |
Length | 4,697–4,720 mm (184.9–185.8 in)[2][3] |
Width | 2,017–2,061 mm (79.4–81.1 in)[2][3][b] |
Height | 1,270–1,282 mm (50.0–50.5 in)[3][4] |
Kerb weight | 1,710–1,785 kg (3,770–3,935 lb)[5] |
Chronology | |
Predecessor | Aston Martin DB7 |
Successor | Aston Martin DB11 |
The Aston Martin DB9 is a two-door grand touring car that was produced by the British carmaker Aston Martin. Designed by Ian Callum and Henrik Fisker and produced between 2004 and 2016 in Gaydon, Warwickshire, the DB9 was available as both a coupé and a convertible, the latter known as the "Volante".
Succeeding the DB7, which Aston Martin produced from 1994 until 2004, the DB9 debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003, while the Volante debuted at the Detroit Auto Show in the subsequent year. The DB9, which is built upon Aston Martin's vertical/horizontal platform, employs extensive use of aluminium throughout the body. Aston Martin implemented several incremental updates to the DB9, termed "facelifts". The first two updates—which occurred in 2008 and 2010—involved minor changes to the headlights, tail-lights, engine and interior. The most noteworthy update occurred in 2012 when Aston Martin introduced a completely redesigned front fascia for the DB9. The headlights were the most significant update, which gave the car a design reminiscent of the 2011–2012 Virage.
The company's racing division, Aston Martin Racing, adapted the DB9 for sports car racing in the form of the DBR9 and the DBRS9 for the FIA GT1 and the FIA GT3, respectively. They were extensively modified; the interior features were removed and the aluminium body panels were replaced by carbon fibre panels. The engine was modified in both cars to produce more horsepower and torque. Aston Martin released three special editions of the DB9: the DB9 LM, the DB9 Zagato Spyder Centennial and the DB9 GT.
Name
[edit]The letters "DB" are the initials of David Brown, the owner of Aston Martin between 1947 and 1972.[6][7] Although the DB9 succeeded the DB7, Aston Martin did not name the car DB8 due to fears that the name would suggest that it featured a V8 engine—the DB9 has a V12.[8] Reports indicated that Aston Martin held the belief that naming the car "DB8" would suggest a progressive evolution, given that the DB9 marked the introduction of an entirely new vehicle.[9][10]
Background
[edit]![Front three-quarters view of a silver DB7.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b7/1999_Aston_Martin_DB7_Vantage_6.0.jpg/220px-1999_Aston_Martin_DB7_Vantage_6.0.jpg)
In 1994, Aston Martin, which Ford Motor Company owned at the time, began producing the DB7, a grand tourer positioned as an "entry-level" vehicle.[11][12][c] It was the only Aston Martin that incorporated a steel monocoque construction, which was designed by Jaguar—a company that Ford also owned at the time.[14] Designed by Ian Callum, the DB7 was available as both a coupe and convertible, the latter known as the Volante.[15][16] In 1999, Aston Martin began manufacturing the DB7 Vantage, which featured a V12 engine developed by Ford in the United States. It became so popular that it started diverting sales from the six-cylinder model, leading to the latter's discontinuation later that year. The DB7 remained in production until 2004, when Aston Martin had produced about 7,000 examples. It was the best-selling Aston Martin of its time, though it was eventually surpassed by subsequent models.[14]
In the latter part of the 1990s, Aston Martin established a model plan where the cars would introduce various new technologies.[17] Ford invested heavily in producing an improved engine and structural technology to create an all-new platform; this helped reintroduce Aston Martin's status as a more desirable automaker.[18][19] The first of this new era of cars was the Vanquish, introduced in 2001 to replace the Virage. Following the rejection of previous product proposals, the replacement for the DB7 was announced as the "DB9". This platform, namely the "vertical/horizontal",[d] would underpin every Aston Martin produced between 2003 and 2016.[19][e]
Development
[edit]We started working on this after we did a V8 mid-engined car, which was the AM305 concept – I worked on that car at TWR with a small V8 in the back. Then Ulrich Bez took over the company at this point, and he didn’t want a mid-engined car; he said Astons have to be front-engined. He obviously had an engineering strategy as well, where he could use the front end of the big car on the smaller one but I disagreed with him and said that it could be a mid-engined car […] and he had the view that British cars should never be mid-engined.
Ian Callum[22]
In July 2000, Ford appointed Ulrich Bez as chief executive officer and chairman of Aston Martin. The entry-level DB7 was due to be replaced by a car with the project codename "AM802", slated to be a 2+2 grand touring car.[23] During this time, a third project was in development, codenamed the "AM305". It was to be a smaller, two-seater car intended to compete with the Porsche 911 and the Ferrari 360. This car became the Vantage in 2005.[23][24]
Callum was appointed as lead designer for the AM802 project. With the abrupt death of the designer Geoff Lawson in 1999, Callum had to alternate between designing at Jaguar and Aston Martin. Between 2000 and 2001, Bez requested that he work on two cars, the DB9 and what would become the V8 Vantage in 2005. Much of this work occurred at the Jaguar design centre in Whitley. The appointment of Henrik Fisker as lead designer in 2001 allowed Callum to focus principally on Jaguar.[25] When asked by the magazine Car and Driver how much he had contributed to the vehicle, Callum replied, "I would say pretty much 100 per cent, including the interior. Maybe not the colour and trim and wood finishes but certainly the surfaces of the car."[25][26]
Numerous DB9 pre-production prototypes and concepts were tested over various locations globally, amassing over 1,000,000 miles (1,600,000 km) collectively. Aston Martin conducted testing at the Ford Lommel Proving Grounds in Belgium as well as high-speed testing at the Nardò Ring in Italy, the Nürburgring in Germany, the MIRA test track and the Millbrook Proving Ground, the latter two in the United Kingdom. Aston Martin subjected vehicles to hot-weather trials in Death Valley, the world's hottest location, and cold-weather evaluations within Sweden's Arctic Circle. Further tests occurred in New Zealand, encompassing both summer and winter conditions. Aston Martin deliberately destroyed most of the cars but three were retained and appeared in the 2006 film Casino Royale. Following their cinematic appearances, all three vehicles were rendered undriveable.[27]
The car debuted in September 2003 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.[28][29] The official series manufacture of the DB9 coupe began in January 2004 at the Gaydon facility in Warwickshire, England, marking the first model built there.[30][31] In a 2007 interview, Bez stated that, though Aston Martin was traditionally a maker of more exclusive automobiles, he believed that the company needed to be more visible and build more cars.[32] At launch, Aston Martin planned to produce between 1,400 and 1,500 examples annually.[33][34]
Design and technology
[edit]As opposed to its predecessor that featured a steel monocoque construction, the DB9, which uses the "vertical/horizontal" platform, employs aluminium extensively throughout its construction.[29][28][35] The body structure comprises aluminium and composite materials melded together by mechanically fixed self-piercing rivets and robotic-assisted adhesive bonding techniques. The bonded aluminium structure possesses more than double the torsional rigidity of its predecessor despite being 25 per cent lighter.[36][37] The DB9 also has anti-roll bars and double wishbone suspension supported by coil springs.[38][39] The rear suspension incorporates additional anti-squat and anti-lift technology to control heavy acceleration or braking.[40] While DB9's exterior skin mostly consists of aluminium, the front bumpers and bonnet are made of composite materials.[33] The DB9's platform is also used by the Rapide,[41] the DBS,[42] the Vantage,[43] the Virage,[44] the 2012 Vanquish[45] and the Lagonda Taraf.[46]
From the outset, Aston Martin intended for the front passenger cabin of the DB9 to incorporate a spacious, comfortable two-seater design; the rear passenger cabin—which also has two seats—was to be used more commonly as stowage space. The car's interior design was inspired by the 2001 Vanquish's but there were many alterations to differentiate the cars; for example, the air vents were mounted lower, leaving space for the pop-up satellite navigation positioned above. Instead of the Vanquish's red starter button, which was often described as "vulgar", Aston Martin opted for a clear glass button engraved with the brand's name, which illuminated blue when the ignition was on and red during engine operation.[47][48][49] The DB9's interior is upholstered in leather and has a walnut wood trim. Satellite navigation and Bluetooth were initially optional but became standard in later models. Later models also offered a Dolby Prologic sound system connectable to satellite radio, a six-CD changer, an iPod connector, a USB connector, or an auxiliary input jack. A seating package, which removes the back seats and replaces the front seats with lighter seats made of Kevlar and carbon fibre, was available, deducting 17 kilograms (37 lb).[50][51] The boot capacity is 187 L (6.6 cu ft) in the coupe or 136 L (4.8 cu ft) in the Volante.[52][53]
The Aston Martin DB9 uses a 5.9-litre V12 engine.[54][55][56] This generates 570 newton-metres (420 lb⋅ft) of torque at 5,000 rpm and a maximum power output of 456 PS (335 kW; 450 hp) at 6,000 rpm.[57] The DB9 can accelerate from 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 299 km/h (186 mph).[58][59] Its rear-wheel drive layout with a front mid-engine design improves weight distribution.[33] The DB9 could be equipped with either a six-speed conventional manual gearbox manufactured by Graziano Trasmissioni or a six-speed ZF Friedrichshafen 'Touchtronic' automatic gearbox featuring paddle-operated semi-automatic mode.[60] The automatic gearbox increases the 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time to 4.9 seconds, though the top speed remains the same.[33] The gearbox is rear-mounted and is driven by a carbon-fibre tail shaft inside a cast aluminium torque tube.[33] The DB9 launched with 483 mm (19 in) wheels, with the front ones measuring 216 mm (8.5 in) in width and the rear ones at 241 mm (9.5 in).[61][62][63] Featuring Bridgestone Potenza 235/40ZR19 tyres in the front and 275/35ZR19 in the rear,[64][65] the car's braking system relies on Brembo four-piston callipers.[66]
Updates
[edit]In 2008, Aston Martin implemented a facelift for the DB9.[67] The car was largely unchanged; the updates included stylistic tweaks such as door mirrors resembling those of the DBS model, revised wheels and a grille with new elements integrated into its traditional design.[68] The DB9's 5.9-litre V12 received an increase of 20 horsepower (15 kW) and 31 newton-metres (23 lbf⋅ft), achieved by increased compression and a deeper sump, reducing friction as the crankshaft moves through its oil bath.[67] The car's maximum speed was raised to 306 km/h (190 mph) and its 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration was increased to 4.6 seconds.[69][70][71] The car also received a revised "Touchtronic 2" gearbox with an electronic shift-by-wire control system.[71]
In June 2010, Aston Martin implemented another facelift for the DB9.[1][72] Adjusted by Marek Reichman,[73] the updates involved a refreshed front bumper, clear tail-lights and more defined wings.[73][74][75] A smoother body contour decorates the door sills, extending from the updated front fascia to the rear wings. Aston Martin updated the DB9's Bluetooth system, implemented a tyre-pressure monitoring system and included a new "Double Apex" aluminium trim finish.[74] Buyers could upgrade to a Bang & Olufsen stereo sound system.[53] About revising the styling of the DB9, Reichman quoted that "the beauty of an Aston Martin comes from harmonious proportions, a ground-hugging stance, taut surfacing and a complete and thorough attention to detail [...] The DB9 epitomises these qualities; it is beautiful but subtle—not attention seeking."[74]
In October 2012, Aston Martin unveiled the DB9's most substantial facelift, which replaced the second generation of the Virage.[76] Designed by Reichman,[77] the facelifted DB9's most prominent changes lie in its exterior. Aston Martin made significant changes to the bodywork by adapting design cues from the Virage such as enlarging the recessed headlight clusters with bi-xenon lights and LED daytime running strips, implementing a new five-bar grille and integrating a new rear spoiler with the boot lid.[78][79] The upgraded V12 increased its power output to 517 PS (380 kW; 510 hp) and torque to 620 N⋅m (457 lb⋅ft). The car's 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time decreased to 4.5 seconds, and the top speed stood at 295 km/h (183 mph).[80] Aston Martin also introduced three driving modes: normal, suitable for daily driving; sport, offering enhanced precision at the expense of comfort; and track, intensifying the characteristics of the sport mode.[81][82][83] The car's final update, the DB9 GT, increased its power output to 547 PS (402 kW; 540 hp).[84][85]
Variants
[edit]DB9 Volante
[edit]At the Detroit Auto Show in January 2004, Aston Martin unveiled the DB9 Volante convertible;[86] manufacture began in February 2005.[87] In case of a rollover incident, the Volante features reinforced windshield pillars and two deployable hoops behind the rear seats. These hoops remain active at all times and, if triggered, will shatter the car's rear window. Aston Martin has adjusted the Volante's suspension system for smoother cruising by softening the springs and reducing the weight of the anti-roll bars, resulting in a more gentle suspension. The convertible top of the Volante is made of folding fabric and opens in seventeen seconds. The Volante weighs 1,882 kg (4,150 lb), slightly heavier than its coupe counterpart.[88]
The coupe and Volante variants share the semi-automatic and automatic gearboxes along with the engine. Initially, the car's speed was limited to 266 km/h (165 mph) to retain the roof's integrity but Aston Martin removed this limitation starting with the upgraded 2007 model. Like the coupe, the original Volante has 570 N⋅m (420 lb⋅ft) of torque at 5,000 rpm and a maximum power of 456 PS (335 kW; 450 hp) at 6,000 rpm. The 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) takes 4.9 seconds due to the additional weight.[88] In 2008, the Volante's output increased to 477 PS (351 kW; 470 hp) and 600 N⋅m (443 lb⋅ft),[89] and in 2012, outputs increased to 517 PS (380 kW; 510 hp) and 620 N⋅m (457 lb⋅ft), and its kerb weight reduced to 1,815 kg (4,001 lb).[75]
DB9 LM
[edit]To commemorate Aston Martin's triumph in the GT1 category at the 2007 24 Hours of Le Mans, Aston Martin launched the DB9 LM (Le Mans) in early 2008. This special edition includes the DB9's optional sports pack as standard and is exclusively available in coupe body style with automatic transmission. It was only available in the "Sarthe Silver" exterior colour, named after the Circuit de la Sarthe, where the Le Mans takes place. It features red brake callipers, a chrome mesh grille, and a bespoke black leather interior with red stitching, featuring the Le Mans track intricately stitched onto the central console. The car has clear glass rear lights borrowed from the DBS.[90] Aston Martin initially intended for a production run of 124 units, each allocated to a different dealer. However, some dealers opted out of their allocations, leading to 69 cars being produced.[91]
DB9 Zagato Spyder Centennial
[edit]For Aston Martin's 100-year anniversary, Zagato unveiled a one-off car based on the DB9 Volante called the "Zagato Spyder Centennial".[92] Commissioned by the collector Peter Read,[93] the car was painted green and revealed alongside the Aston Martin DBS Coupe Zagato Centennial.[92] The car, with 2,300 miles (3,700 km) on the odometer, sold for $693,000 (including the buyer's fee) at RM Sotheby's Monterey auction during car week in 2015.[94]
DB9 GT
[edit]![A dark grey DB9 GT on a racing track](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ec/2015_Aston_Martin_DB9_GT_%2819839443910%29.jpg/220px-2015_Aston_Martin_DB9_GT_%2819839443910%29.jpg)
In 2015, Aston Martin unveiled the final iteration of the DB9, named the DB9 GT.[95][96] The engine possesses a power output of 547 PS (402 kW; 540 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 620 N⋅m (457 lb⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm.[97] It accelerates from 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) in 4.4 seconds, from 0 to 161 km/h (100 mph) in 10.2 seconds, and can run the quarter-mile in 12.8 seconds. Its top speed remains unchanged at 295 km/h (183 mph).[98]
Discontinuation
[edit]In 2015, Aston Martin announced that the DB9's successor would be named the "DB11".[99][100] The upcoming model range, which the DB11 was a part of, was to introduce a refreshed design approach directed by Reichman. Insider reports indicated that this model range aimed to address critiques of the existing lineup by emphasising distinctive differences among the models, aligning them more closely with the well-known Italian automaker Ferrari.[101] On 22 July 2016, Aston Martin posted a picture on Twitter of the final nine DB9s—dubbed the "Last of 9"—produced, all of which were painted dark grey.[102][103] On 27 July 2016, these last nine units had their final inspection before rolling off the production line later that day, marking the end of a twelve-year manufacture during which about 16,500 units were manufactured.[104][105]
Motorsport
[edit]DBR9
[edit]![A dark green racing car, the DBR9, with much livery. It is shown drifting in action.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3c/DBR9_Donut_2.jpg/220px-DBR9_Donut_2.jpg)
The DB9 has been adapted for use in sports car racing by Aston Martin Racing (AMR), a collaboration between Aston Martin and Prodrive. The DBR9, developed to follow FIA GT1 regulations, debuted in 2005.[106][107] AMR replaced most of the car's aluminium body panels with carbon fibre panels, and several external features, like a front splitter and a rear wing, have been added to increase the car's downforce.[108][109] AMR upgraded the brakes to lightweight Brembo discs and six-piston callipers. The transmission in the DBR9 is an Xtrac six-speed sequential manual mounted at the rear axle.[110] The engine modifications allow it to have a power output of 634 PS (466 kW; 625 hp). The increase in engine power and weight reduction allowed the DBR9 to accelerate from 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) in 3.4 seconds and 0 to 161 km/h (100 mph) in 6.4 seconds.[111][112] The DBR9 won in its debut at the 2005 12 Hours of Sebring[113][114] and has since secured victories in various other events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.[115][116][117]
DBRS9
[edit]![DBRS9 in white with a large, black spoiler, covered with livery, on the track.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0c/Blancpain_Endurance_Series_-_Aston_Martin_DBRS9_-_004.jpg/220px-Blancpain_Endurance_Series_-_Aston_Martin_DBRS9_-_004.jpg)
AMR developed a variant of the DBR9 to follow FIA GT3 regulations. The DBRS9 shares its carbon-fibre bodywork, chassis and suspension layout with the DBR9.[118][119] While the engine is shared with the DBR9, it has been detuned and has a power output of 558 PS (410 kW; 550 hp) and 620 N⋅m (457 lb⋅ft) of torque.[120][118] The DBRS9 featured a six-speed gearbox or a six-speed sequential gearbox and has a 0 to 97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 314 km/h (195 mph).[121] The DBRS9 competed in several endurance races and additionally raced in the FIA GT3 European Championship for which it was designed before being replaced by a GT3 version of the V12 Vantage in 2011.[122]
Reception
[edit]Car critics have generally lauded the DB9 coupe and Volante, commending their opulent interior and exterior designs. The automotive show Top Gear held the DB9 in high regard, even giving it a special mention in its "Cool Wall" segment. The presenters called the DB9 "too cool" for the wall, however, and it earned its own category dubbed "the DB9 Fridge", likened to a mini-refrigerator containing the car's card.[123] While reviewing the Volante, Richard Hammond called the interior of the DB9 "one of the best known to man", although he found the car to be less rigid than the coupe, leading to a somewhat "wobbly" experience.[124]
The car reviewers Edmunds and the magazine Road & Track criticised the DB9 for having poorer handling than its competitors, noting that the car is not firm enough. Nonetheless, Edmunds acknowledged that while the Mercedes-Benz SL600 and SL55 AMG were objectively better cars, the DB9 was more desirable.[125] In direct comparisons with faster cars like the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet and the Ford GT, the DB9 was ranked poorly; the Car and Driver reviewer noted that comparing it against faster cars "highlighted its shortcomings".[126] Similarly, compared to the Bentley Continental GT, Mercedes-Benz CL600, and the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti F1, the DB9 ranked poorly again, though reviewers said that "despite its problems, the DB9 would be [their] personal choice".[127] The stiffness issues were largely rectified in later iterations of the DB9, as observed by the magazine Autoweek.[128]
The DB9's interior has been called "dazzling",[129] with Edmunds saying, "[w]ords like 'rich' and 'crafted' just don't cut it, though 'decadent' and 'sculpted by the Almighty himself' get close".[130] Reviewers complained about the back seats, with the magazine Forbes stating that they "[thought] of it more as a padded parcel shelf".[8] Likewise, reviewers complained that the space for cargo was limited, though many quipped the small back seats could help hold luggage.[131] Another common complaint was the car's poor satellite navigation system, which the magazine Automobile described as the "Achilles' heel", noting that "selecting a route is painful at best".[132] Newer models contain a revised satellite navigation system sourced from Garmin.[133]
References
[edit]Notes
[edit]- ^ This includes the 2010 and 2013 facelifts.
- ^ Including the side-view mirrors
- ^ An entry-level luxury vehicle is the cheapest vehicle in a luxury automaker's lineup.[13]
- ^ The "vertical/horizontal" platform that primarily uses aluminium as the structure of its cars.[20]
- ^ Excluding the DB11, which was produced from September 2016 and featured an all-new platform and architecture[21]
Citations
[edit]- ^ a b Pollard, Tim (17 June 2010), "Aston Martin DB9 coupé (2011 model year) review", Car, archived from the original on 26 May 2023, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ a b "Aston Martin DB9 V12 2dr Volante", Top Gear, BBC, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ a b c "Aston Martin DB9 V12 2dr Volante Touchtronic Auto", Top Gear, BBC, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9 V12 2dr", Top Gear, BBC, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Llorella 2004, p. 124.
- ^ Vaughn, Mark (4 February 2013), "DB9 is fine", Autoweek, vol. 63, no. 3, Crain Communications Inc., pp. 32–33, ISSN 0192-9674, archived from the original on 4 April 2024, retrieved 4 April 2024
- ^ "Sir David Brown", The Independent, London, Greater London, England, 8 September 1993, p. 22, archived from the original on 20 April 2024, retrieved 20 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ a b Gorzelany, Jim; de Paula, Matthew, "2008 Aston Martin DB9 reviews", Forbes, ISSN 0015-6914, archived from the original on 28 June 2008, retrieved 5 July 2008
- ^ Taylor 2024, Chapter 6: The early DB9, 2003-2008.
- ^ Siler, Wes (17 July 2009), "Half a cutaway Aston Martin DB9 is twice as sexy", Jalopnik, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Ladbrook, Rob (April 2020), "Buying guide: Aston Martin DB7", Motor Sport, p. 140, ISSN 0027-2019, archived from the original on 4 April 2024, retrieved 4 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin DB7", Auto Express, 24 November 2010, archived from the original on 4 April 2024, retrieved 4 April 2024
- ^ Raynal, Wes (19 May 2020), "Here's what 'entry-level' means for these 20 luxury brand cars", Autoweek, archived from the original on 23 August 2020, retrieved 27 April 2024
- ^ a b Taylor 2024, p. 37.
- ^ Lamm 2008, p. 68.
- ^ "Motoring: The pleasure of driving the new Aston Martin DB7 convertible is almost too much to bear, says Neil Lyndon", The Sunday Telegraph, London, Greater London, England, 6 July 1997, p. 167, archived from the original on 25 May 2024, retrieved 14 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ Taylor 2024, Chapter 5: A New DB Model.
- ^ Krebs, Michelle (9 January 1998), "Aston becomes a lab for Ford's technology", The New York Times, p. 1, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ a b Taylor 2024, pp. 38–39.
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9 built with beauty, strength, performance", The Philadelphia Inquirer, 8 October 2004, p. N02, archived from the original on 13 April 2024, retrieved 13 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ Petrány, Máté (17 May 2018), "Why Aston Martin replaced the DB11 V12 with the hotter AMR after twenty months", Road and Track, retrieved 5 April 2024
- ^ Gooderham, Michael (25 March 2019), "The cars of Ian Callum: Aston Martin DB9", Car Design News, ISSN 1546-3117, archived from the original on 4 August 2020, retrieved 5 April 2024
- ^ a b Taylor 2024, Chapter 5: A new DB model.
- ^ Dowsey 2007, p. 260.
- ^ a b Taylor 2024, Chapter 5: A new DB model § exterior styling.
- ^ Dron, Will (12 December 2014), "Test your knowledge: Ian Callum designed the DB9, but which other designer is often credited?", The Sunday Times Driving, archived from the original on 5 April 2024, retrieved 5 April 2024
- ^ Taylor 2024, Chapter 5: A new DB model § testing and prototypes.
- ^ a b Noakes 2019, p. 187.
- ^ a b Dowsey 2007, p. 268.
- ^ Loveys 2015, p. 43.
- ^ "Gaydon's 'the future of Aston Martin'", Coventry Telegraph, 3 September 2003, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Weaver, Alistair (19 March 2007), "Inside Line Q&A: Aston Martin's Dr. Ulrich Bez", Inside Line, Edmunds, archived from the original on 22 February 2010, retrieved 26 October 2009
- ^ a b c d e Robinson, Peter (1 October 2003), "Aston Martin DB9 – car news", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 22 March 2014, retrieved 28 April 2013
- ^ Kiino, Ron (1 October 2003), "Virtual tour: Aston Martin Gaydon factory", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 29 January 2023, retrieved 6 April 2023
- ^ "But there's a waiting list to buy a car", Herald Express, Torquay, Devon, 16 September 1993, archived from the original on 16 May 2024, retrieved 14 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9 is aesthetic achievement", Washington Times, 16 September 2004, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Beauty at the core of Aston Martin DB9", The Province, Vancouver, British Columbia, 18 March 2005, p. 106, archived from the original on 13 April 2024, retrieved 14 March 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ Phillips 2012, p. 33.
- ^ "2011 Aston Martin DB9: 2dr Volante man specs", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "DB9", Aston Martin, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Beauty & brawn", Calgary Herald, Calgary, Alberta, 21 May 2010, p. 77, archived from the original on 27 April 2024, retrieved 11 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ "Carbon-fiber panels reduce car's weight", Palm Beach Daily News, Palm Beach, Florida, 1 May 2008, p. B004, archived from the original on 27 April 2024, retrieved 27 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ "AM Vantage two-seater joins Aston Martin lineup", Philadelphia Daily News, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 3 February 2006, p. 136, archived from the original on 1 May 2024, retrieved 27 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ DeLorenzo, Matt (2 March 2011), "2012 Aston Martin Virage - 2011 Geneva Auto Show", Road and Track, archived from the original on 29 January 2023, retrieved 27 April 2024
- ^ "Comfort sublime on bumpy roads", Calgary Herald, Calgary, Alberta, 19 October 2012, p. 83, archived from the original on 27 April 2024, retrieved 27 April 2024 – via Newspapers.com
- ^ "Car review: Lagonda Taraf", The Australian, 8 October 2016, retrieved 26 May 2024
- ^ Taylor 2024, Chapter 5: A new DB model § interior and passenger cabin.
- ^ "2008 Aston Martin DB9: interior", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Robson 2017, p. 243.
- ^ "Aston Martin Carbon Black Special Editions - web exclusive", Motor Trend, 21 December 2009, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Rix, Jack (4 June 2010), "Aston DBS Carbon Black", Auto Express, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Smy, Damion (16 November 2012), "Aston Martin DB9 Volante", Auto Express, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ a b "2011 Aston Martin DB9 interior", U.S. News & World Report, 18 May 2011, archived from the original on 12 August 2016, retrieved 29 April 2013
- ^ Dredge, Richard (19 July 2022), "Used Aston Martin DB9 (2004-2016) review", Auto Express, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Huntingford, Steve (1 January 2006), "Used Aston Martin DB9 2004 - 2012 review", Autocar, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "2005 Aston Martin DB9 review", Edmunds, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9 – 2003 Frankfurt Auto Show", Car and Driver, September 2003, ISSN 0008-6002, archived from the original on 2 June 2015, retrieved 28 April 2013
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9", Car and Driver, 1 December 2003, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9 styling", Forbes, 18 March 2005, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Robinson, Peter (1 June 2004), "Aston Martin DB9 – first drive review", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 9 December 2012, retrieved 29 April 2013
- ^ "2005 Aston Martin DB9: stirring, not shaken: Aston DB9 is as beautiful to look at as it is to drive", Autoweek, 19 March 2006, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Jennings, Jean; Tingwall, Eric; DeMatio, Joe; Skogstrom, Amy; Floraday, Phil (19 June 2009), "2009 Aston Martin DB9 Volante", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Used 2009 Aston Martin DB9 Volante - specs & features", Edmunds, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Stone, Matt (27 October 2005), "Road test luxury sport coupes comparison", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "2007 Aston Martin DB9 review", Edmunds, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ McCraw, Jim (23 September 2004), "Aston Martin DB9 - first look", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ a b Rendell, Julian (1 July 2008), "2009 Aston Martin DB9: incremental improvement", Autoweek, ISSN 0192-9674, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Towler, Adam (7 May 2008), "Aston Martin DB9 facelift (2008) driven review", Car, ISSN 0008-5987, archived from the original on 25 May 2023, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "2009 Aston Martin DB9", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "On the road with the Aston Martin DB9 Volante", WIRED, 21 May 2009, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ a b "2008 Aston Martin DB9 performance", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "2011 Aston Martin DB9", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ a b Prior, Matt (19 June 2010), "Aston Martin DB9 facelift", Autocar, ISSN 1355-8293, archived from the original on 7 December 2023, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ a b c "Ready for its closeup: Aston's DB9 gets a refresh for 2011", Motor Trend, 28 June 2010, ISSN 0027-2094, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ a b Bovingdon, Jethro (18 May 2011), "Aston Martin DB9 Volante (2011) review", Car, ISSN 0008-5987, archived from the original on 12 October 2020, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Sutcliffe, Steve (16 October 2012), "2013 Aston Martin DB9", Autocar, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Skura, Konrad (22 May 2015), "2015 Aston Martin DB9 Volante tested at frozen Nürburgring", Motor Trend, ISSN 0027-2094, archived from the original on 11 March 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin reveals 2013 DB9", Times of Malta, 23 September 2012, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Wakefield, Steve (16 October 2012), "Driven: 2013 Aston Martin DB9", Classic Driver, archived from the original on 24 September 2021, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Jurnecka, Rory (30 January 2013), "First test: 2013 Aston Martin DB9", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 7 May 2013, retrieved 29 April 2013
- ^ Brauer, Karl (28 February 2015), "2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT: precision engineering meets passionate expression", Forbes, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ "Aston refreshes the DB9", Top Gear, BBC, 19 September 2012, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Smy, Damion (16 October 2012), "New Aston Martin DB9", Auto Express, archived from the original on 6 April 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Marriage, Ollie (18 August 2015), "First drive: the Aston Martin DB9 GT", Top Gear, BBC, archived from the original on 23 January 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 24 December 2023, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin DB9 Volante", Car and Driver, 1 January 2004, ISSN 0008-6002, archived from the original on 24 November 2023, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Loveys 2015, p. 44.
- ^ a b Hutton, Ray (1 September 2005), "Aston Martin DB9 Volante – first drive review", Car and Driver, ISSN 0008-6002, archived from the original on 2 February 2018, retrieved 30 April 2013
- ^ Siler, Steve (1 October 2008), "2009 Aston Martin DB9 Volante", Car and Driver, ISSN 0008-6002, archived from the original on 1 January 2018, retrieved 31 May 2018
- ^ Phillips, Tom, "Two more Astons for Frankfurt show", Autocar, archived from the original on 17 July 2012, retrieved 30 April 2013
- ^ Siler, Steve (1 September 2007), "2008 Aston Martin DB9 LM and V-8 Vantage N400", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 13 May 2013, retrieved 30 April 2013
- ^ a b "Zagato reveals DBS and DB9 one-offs", Top Gear, BBC, 22 July 2013, archived from the original on 23 August 2016, retrieved 14 July 2024
- ^ "Meet the Aston Martin James Bond would be jealous of", HuffPost, 30 April 2015, archived from the original on 6 August 2020, retrieved 14 July 2024
- ^ "2013 Aston Martin Centennial DB9 Spyder Concept by Zagato", RM Sotheby's, 13 August 2015, retrieved 14 July 2024
- ^ Taylor, James (24 June 2015), "Aston Martin DB9 GT (2015): a 540bhp final fling for the DB9", Car, archived from the original on 1 October 2020, retrieved 7 October 2020
- ^ Nelson, Chris (18 September 2015), "2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT review", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 8 March 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Cropley, Steve (19 August 2015), "Aston Martin DB9 GT review", Autocar, archived from the original on 31 October 2020, retrieved 7 October 2020
- ^ Siler, Steve (19 January 2016), "2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT: aging gracefully", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 8 August 2019, retrieved 31 May 2018
- ^ Pollard, Tim (25 November 2015), "New Aston Martin DB11 readies for 2016 launch: all the latest on DB9 successor", Car, archived from the original on 26 May 2022, retrieved 8 April 2024
- ^ Golden, Conner (16 September 2015), "DB11 name confirmed for Aston Martin DB9 successor", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 23 March 2024, retrieved 6 April 2024
- ^ Holloway, Hilton (26 June 2014), "Reinvented Aston Martin to launch in 2016 with new models and tech", Autocar, archived from the original on 22 March 2024, retrieved 8 April 2024
- ^ @astonmartin (22 July 2016), "Farewell to an icon. The last nine Aston Martin DB9s are now ready for final inspection." (Tweet), retrieved 14 April 2024 – via Twitter
- ^ "Photo of the day: the last nine Aston Martin DB9s", Top Gear, BBC, 25 July 2016, archived from the original on 31 December 2022, retrieved 8 April 2024
- ^ Padeanu, Adrian (27 July 2016), "Aston Martin DB9 last nine wait for final inspection", Motor1, archived from the original on 11 December 2023, retrieved 8 April 2024
- ^ Noakes 2019, p. 190.
- ^ Henry 2005, p. 125.
- ^ Norris 2006, p. 199.
- ^ Dowsey 2007, p. 326.
- ^ "No rest for the wicked", Octane, no. 205, July 2020, pp. 74–84
- ^ Dowsey 2007, p. 299.
- ^ Dowsey 2007, p. 305.
- ^ Gillies, Mark (1 February 2007), "Aston Martin DBR9 – sport", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 9 August 2018, retrieved 4 May 2013
- ^ Phillips 2012, p. 35.
- ^ Quinlan 2013, p. 6.
- ^ "Classified spotlight: Aston Martin DBR9", Motor Sport, 4 August 2015, archived from the original on 25 October 2021, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ Quinlan 2013, p. 7.
- ^ "DieCast X", DieCast X, Wilton: Air Age Media, Spring 2009, p. 14, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ a b "2006 Aston Martin DBR9", RM Sotheby's, archived from the original on 13 August 2023, retrieved 8 April 2024
- ^ Frankel, Andrew (May 2007), "Aston Martin DBR9, DBRS9 & N24", Motor Sport, p. 38, archived from the original on 16 January 2022, retrieved 7 April 2024
- ^ "Aston Martin Racing launches new GT race car", Classic Driver, 25 June 2005, archived from the original on 7 December 2021, retrieved 8 April 2024
- ^ Dowsey 2007, pp. 304–307.
- ^ Timmins, Ben (25 August 2011), "Aston Martin replaces DBRS9 with V12 Vantage GT3 racer", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 6 July 2012, retrieved 5 May 2013
- ^ Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond (9 May 2004), Top Gear, series 4, episode 1, BBC
- ^ Richard Hammond (12 June 2005), Top Gear, series 6, episode 3, BBC
- ^ "2008 Aston Martin DB9 review", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 9 March 2018, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ Winfield, Barry (1 August 2005), "Aston Martin DB9 vs. Ferrari F430, Ford GT, Lamborghini Gallardo, M-B SL65 AMG, Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 20 May 2013, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ Hutton, Ray; Quiroga, Tony; Robinson, Peter; Webster, Larry (1 August 2004), "2005 Aston Martin DB9 vs. Bentley Continental GT, Ferrari 612 Scaglietti F1, M-B CL600", Car and Driver, archived from the original on 15 August 2012, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ Rendell, Julian (2 September 2010), "2011 Aston Martin DB9 Volante, an AW Flash Drive", Autoweek, archived from the original on 30 May 2013, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ "2009 Aston Martin DB9 review", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 7 April 2024, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ Brauer, Karl (18 March 2005), "2005 Aston Martin DB9 First Drive", Edmunds, archived from the original on 7 January 2014, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ "2011 Aston Martin DB9 Interior", U.S. News & World Report, archived from the original on 12 August 2016, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ Floraday, Phil (6 April 2009), "Review: 2009 Aston Martin DB9 coupe", Automobile, archived from the original on 11 October 2015, retrieved 6 May 2013
- ^ Jurnecka, Rory (30 January 2013), "First test: 2013 Aston Martin DB9", Motor Trend, archived from the original on 7 May 2013, retrieved 29 April 2013
Bibliography
[edit]- Dowsey, David (2007), Aston Martin: Power, Beauty and Soul, Peleus Press, ISBN 978-0-9578-7595-1
- Henry, Alan (2005), Driven Man: David Richards, Prodrive, and the Race to Win, Motorbooks International, ISBN 978-1-6106-0915-9
- Lamm, John (2008), Exotic Cars, Motorbooks, ISBN 978-1-6167-3073-4
- Llorella, Anja (2004), Luxury Toys, Kempen, Germany: teNeues Publishing Company, ISBN 978-3-8238-4591-1
- Loveys, Richard (2015), Aston Martin, Bloomsbury: Bloomsbury Publishing, ISBN 978-1-7844-2074-1
- Noakes, Andrew (2019) [2017], Aston Martin DB: 70 Years, London: Quarto Publishing Group UK, ISBN 978-1-7813-1928-4
- Norris, Ian (2006), Automobile Year 2006/07, Christian Philippsen, ISBN 978-2-9162-0604-2
- Phillips, Adam (2012) [2005], Supercars: Driving the Dream, New York: Rosen Publishing Group, ISBN 978-1-4488-9218-1
- Quinlan, Julia J. (2013), Aston Martin, New York: Rosen Publishing, ISBN 978-1-4777-1060-9
- Robson, Graham (2017), Cosworth: The Search for Power (6th ed.), Dorset, UK: Veloce Publishing, ISBN 978-1-8458-4895-8
- Taylor, James (2024), Aston Martin DB9 and Vanquish: The Complete Story, Wiltshire, UK: Crowood Press, ISBN 978-0-7198-4316-7
External links
[edit]![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- Aston Martin DB9 – Official Aston Martin webpage
- Aston Martin DB9 at the Internet Movie Cars Database