DB9 Volante

Heralding in a new era of sophisticated open-top motoring, the DB9 Volante replaces the DB7 Vantage Volante in the Fall of 2004. The DB9 is Aston Martin's 13th convertible in the company's history. The DB9 Volante will be built alongside the DB9 Coupe in Aston Martin's new Gaydon production facility.

The DB9 Volante shares the VH Platform Strategy of the DB9 Coupe, incorporating technology originally developed to produce the V12 Vanquish. This system is based upon the forming of extruded aluminum panels. These panels are then bonded together with great precision, forming the chassis. The DB9 chassis is more than double the stiffness of some rivals, yet lighter, which contributes to superior agility and road handling. The result: one of the stiffest, strongest road car chassis ever produced, particularly for a convertible.

The convertible hood (top) retracts via push-button controls within 17 seconds, stowing within the trunk cavity and allowing the hood cover to lie flush with the rear deck lid. In the unfortunate event of an accident involving a rollover, roll hoops will deploy from the rear headrest area to protect the occupants. To further enhance safety, the A-pillar of the DB9 can withstand twice the vehicle's weight.

DB9 Volante power will be shared with the Coupe. The DB9 engine is a 450bhp version of Aston Martin's newly developed 6.0L V12. A new crankshaft, cams, manifolds, lubrication, and engine management are among the featured improvements. The V12's are produced in a new purpose-built Aston Martin engine facility in Cologne, Germany.

Available transmissions will be 6-speed automatic (w/paddle shift), and a 6-speed manual. The automatic incorporates a new ZF 'drive-by-wire' technology that does away with the traditional gear lever. Drive, Park, Neutral, and Reverse controls are therefore selected by buttons in the center console.

There are a total of 20 new Bridge of Weir leather colors offered for the DB9. Wood of three types, walnut, mahogany, and bamboo are offered. The center console is wood, and door caps in matching wood are available as an option.

Technological innovation, beautiful lines, and traditional craftsmanship define the new DB9 Volante. Although still lovingly assembled in the best traditions of Aston Martin, the DB9 showcases new materials and build techniques at the very leading edge of today's technology. For spirited open-top motoring, the DB9 redefines the class.