Aston Martin DBS V12

Overview

The Aston Martin DBS V12, produced from 2007 to 2012, is a high-performance grand tourer that succeeded the Vanquish S as the flagship of the marque. It was introduced to the public in 2007 and quickly gained fame for its appearance in the James Bond film "Casino Royale," which helped to cement its iconic status. The DBS V12 was developed to offer a blend of high performance, luxury, and daily driving usability, showcasing Aston Martin's craftsmanship and engineering prowess.

The design of the DBS V12 was an evolution of the DB9's elegant form, featuring a more aggressive stance and aerodynamic enhancements that distinguished it from its less powerful sibling. It included carbon-fiber front splitters and rear diffuser, a bulging bonnet with functional air vents, and side skirts that enhanced its sporting appeal. The interior continued Aston Martin's tradition of handcrafted luxury, with extensive use of leather, alcantara, and carbon fiber.

The heart of the car was a 6.0L naturally-aspirated V12 engine producing 510 horsepower, later upgraded to 572 horsepower in 2011. This provided exhilarating acceleration and a distinctive, powerful sound. A 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters delivered smooth and responsive gear changes, allowing for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving. While prioritizing comfort, the DBS V12 offered agile handling with features like adaptive suspension and Brembo brakes, ensuring a confident and engaging driving experience.

The DBS V12 featured a lightweight construction, with extensive use of carbon fiber and aluminum, which helped to reduce weight and improve handling. The car was fitted with Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which offered selectable driving modes, allowing the driver to adjust the car's setup to suit different driving conditions. Carbon ceramic brakes were standard, providing exceptional stopping power.

During its production run, several special editions and variants of the DBS V12 were introduced, including the DBS Volante in 2009, adding a convertible option to the lineup. The Volante maintained the coupe's performance while offering an open-top driving experience. Limited edition models, like the DBS Carbon Black Edition, featured unique color schemes and enhanced trim options, further elevating its exclusivity.

The Aston Martin DBS V12 is remembered as one of the brand's most desirable models, embodying the essence of a modern British grand tourer with its blend of performance, style, and luxury. It served as a halo model for Aston Martin during its production years and laid the groundwork for future high-performance models from the marque. The DBS name was revived in 2018 with the introduction of a new DBS Superleggera, which continued the legacy of Aston Martin's ultimate grand tourer, combining cutting-edge technology with breathtaking design.