In 2018, Aston extended the V8 upgrades to the V12; it also bestowed upon it an extra 30bhp, thanks to a less restrictive exhaust, and the 0-60mph time dropped to 3.7sec. In 2021, the V8 received a boost to 528bhp and 513lb ft. Both engines sound excellent, the V12 being slightly more special – and particularly so in the drop-top Volante. Maybe the DB9’s atmospheric powerplant has the aural edge, but these newer cars are more drivable and well behaved.
The outdated interior was always a weak point of the DB11. In 2016 it was just about acceptable, but even then it didn’t use Mercedes’ latest infotainment system. By the end of production the tech was very dated, being slow, small and lacking phone connectivity. Happily, the rest of the cabin is much better, with solid-feeling build quality and extensive use of leather, wood and Alcantara, although the Mercedes column stalks do feel a little plasticky.
Now is a great time to buy: there’s a plethora of low-mileage, as-new cars with few owners and full service histories. Put your money into a high-spec, classic colour combo and it should be a relatively sensible extravagance, but be aware that even the best examples are likely to carry on depreciating for now, not least because the Aston Martin DB12 that took over in 2023 is improved in most areas.
What to look out for
Engine and gearbox: The Mercedes-Benz V8, Ford-built V12 and eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox are all familiar units and come with a proven reliability record. But even so, look for cars with a minimum of one service per year, because main dealers are more likely to fix a fault for free if the car is out of warranty but has a full Aston Martin service history.
Interior: Mostly very well built, but some owners have reported the dashboard leather shrinking if left in the sun. Aftermarket Apple CarPlay/Android Auto conversions are a boon.
By
