2004 Aston Martin DB9 The first Aston to come from Aston’s new Gaydon facilities is the 2+2 DB9 Coupe. It is made on Ford’s all-aluminum VH platform with an aluminum/composite body. First launched to market as a 2004 model, Aston upgraded it in 2008 with a more powerful engine 470...
Aston Martin DB9
2004 - 2016
In early 2000, the core plan for Aston Martin was development of a totally new and unique bonded and riveted aluminum platform which could easily be be made in differing lengths for different cars in the range. This platform, now known as VH architecture was used for a host of cars from 2003 till 2019. The DB9 was undoubtedly the star of the 2003 Frankfurt Motor show where it was unveiled to the public for the very first time and it was the first to be built on the VH platform. The stunning body was designed by Ian Callum and is still considered by many the best looking car of all time. Production of the coupe started in early in 2004, with the DB9 Volante starting a year later.
Overview / Model & Variant List / Models In-Depth / Image Gallery / More Updates
Overview
The Aston Martin DB9 is a quintessential grand tourer that played a pivotal role in defining the modern era of Aston Martin under Ford's ownership in the early 2000s. Introduced in 2003 and manufactured until 2016, the DB9 was designed to replace the DB7 and represented a significant technological and stylistic advancement for the brand. It was the first model to be built at Aston Martin's new facility in Gaydon, Warwickshire, UK.
The DB9's design, led by Ian Callum and finished by Henrik Fisker, was widely praised for its elegant and timeless aesthetics. It featured a classic long bonnet, a short tail, and a low, sleek profile that embodied the essence of a British grand tourer. The body construction used bonded aluminum, a technique that offered rigidity and lightweight benefits, improving performance and handling.
Initially powered by a 5.9L naturally-aspirated V12 engine producing 450 horsepower, later upgraded to 6.0L with varying power outputs depending on the model year and variant. The powerful engine was paired with a smooth automatic transmission, delivering effortless acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. While capable of spirited driving, the DB9 prioritized comfort with a relaxed suspension setup and luxurious interior, making it ideal for long-distance journeys.
Under the hood, the DB9 was powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine, which initially produced 450 horsepower, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds, with a top speed of around 186 mph. Throughout its life, the car saw several updates, including increases in power and efficiency, culminating in the DB9 GT variant, which boasted 540 horsepower.
Over its production run, the DB9 was offered in both coupe and convertible (Volante) forms. It received multiple updates to its styling, engine performance, and interior technology. The DB9 GT, introduced in 2015 as one of the final versions, represented the peak of the model's development, with enhanced performance and luxury features.
The DB9 is considered a landmark model for Aston Martin, embodying the brand's revival in the 21st century and setting the stage for subsequent models like the DB11. Its design language influenced many Aston Martins that followed, and its technological advancements in aluminum construction have been foundational for the brand's future developments.
What They Said
"Honestly, regardless of how much power resided under its long hood, this car wouldn't have lasted this long if it weren't so damn pretty..." - Car and Driver
"The V12 sounds fantastic...a glorious bellow that seems to emanate from the very depths of hell." - Top Gear
"The DB9 may not be the last word in outright sporting ability, but it rewards a smooth and flowing style of driving with immense satisfaction." - Autocar
"The Aston Martin DB9 is a head-turner, guaranteed to elicit admiring glances wherever it goes." Edmunds
"But ultimately, the DB9 is about effortless grace and easy speed." - SportCarDigest
Aston Martin DB9 Models & Derivatives
The DB9 enjoyed a long and successful production run, ending in 2016 after being succeeded by the DB11. Over its production life, there were essentially two generations, one built on the VHI platform and then the second on the VHIII platform. Several special edition cars were created, including the DB9 GT, a more affordable and performance-oriented option with slightly less power and simpler specifications. The DB9 AMR was a high-performance variant with increased power, sharper handling, and sportier aesthetics, while the DB9 Volante was the totally expected convertible version of the DB9, offering the same performance and luxury with the added pleasure of open-air driving.
Aston Martin DB9 (1st Gen)
VH Generation I (2004–2012)
DB9 coupe prototypes
DB9 coupe (MY2004 on)
DB9 Volante (2005MY to 2008MY)
DB9 Sportmodificato
DB9 Coupe by Mansory
DB9 Sports Pack & Premium Sports Pack
DB9 Volante by Mansory
DB9 LM
Mansory Cyrus
DB9 Coupe (2009MY & 2010MY)
DB9 Volante (2009MY & 2010MY)
DB9 Works Service Tailored
DB9 Coupe (2011MY & 2012MY)
DB9 Volante (MY2011 & MY2012)
DB9 Stratstone
DB9 SE 'Sports' (Carbon Black / Quantum Silver)
DB9 SE 'Luxury' (Morning Frost)
DB9 1M - 'the Facebook car'
DB9 Sport Edition
Aston Martin DB9 (2nd Gen)
VH Generation III (2012–2016)
DB9 coupe (2013MY on)
DB9 Volante (2013MY on)
DB9 coupe Centenary Edition
DB9 Volante Centenary Edition
DB9 Spyder Zagato Centennial
DB9 Volante 'Q by Aston Martin'
DB9 Carbon Edition coupe
DB9 Carbon Edition Volante
DB9 GT
DB9 GT Volante
DB9 GT Bond Edition
Kahn Vengeance
DB9 GT Coupe 'Last of the 9'
DB9 GT Volante 'Last of the 9'
Our Favorite Aston Martin DB9 Images
