Overview & Reviews

Although there have been several models produced in Aston Martin's 90-plus-year history, none have been as famous as those with "DB" tattooed to their tails. The Aston Martin DB9 coupe and Volante convertible is in fact the ninth model to be sold with these hallowed letters, and carries on a sterling automotive tradition.

Sold throughout the 1950s and '60s, and then resurrected in 1994, the DBs were and still are some of the most drop-dead gorgeous and performance-capable sports cars on the road. Being driven by a certain fictional British super spy certainly enhanced the car's fame and even helped keep the company afloat. As such, the Aston Martin DB9 simultaneously represents the brand's past and future, with sexy styling inspired by (but not copying) previous models and a high-tech aluminum platform that has underpinned every subsequent new Aston. If this success continues, hopefully we can look forward to new DBs for years to come.

Current Aston Martin DB9
The Aston Martin DB9 is offered in 2+2 coupe and convertible body styles. The drop-top version is known as the Volante, which for those who skipped Italian 101 means "flying." All DB9s are powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 470 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic with paddle shifters is the only transmission available, and is located at the rear transaxle for better weight distribution.

The Aston Martin DB9 comes with a healthy options list and a vast selection of customizable color combinations. The Volante's soft top can be had in seven different colors, while leather is available in so many shades that even Prince could find one that's too garish. All DB9s come standard with 19-inch wheels, xenon headlamps, an abundance of leather interior trim, a Garmin-sourced navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and a premium audio system with six-CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod interface.

Not that it comes as a shock, but this 470-hp, V12-powered GT is a rather fun automobile. The bellowing exhaust and voluptuous low-end power can make this civilized tourer into a heathenish beast with just a touch of the throttle. The DB9 changes directions easily and responds to steering and brake inputs with an immediacy not always associated with big, grand touring coupes. Thanks to its new adaptive suspension, the DB9 delivers a better balance between ride and handling than older DB9s.

Although buying an exotic car with a price tag of more than $100,000 is often a matter of taste, it is hard to argue with the Aston Martin DB9. It may not be as visceral or thrilling as some more sporting entries, but when it comes to motoring down a long stretch of gently bending two-lane motorway, it's almost impossible to match.

Used Aston Martin DB9 Models
The Aston Martin DB9 was an all-new model for 2005. DB9s made between then and '08 feature less ergonomically friendly climate, stereo and navigation controls consisting of lower-quality switchgear (there was also an auxiliary audio jack rather than a dedicated iPod interface). This midlife change also saw revised suspension tuning for a better ride, quicker and smoother automatic transmission shifts and greater torsional rigidity for the Volante. Prior to 2009, the DB9's V12 produced 449 hp and 412 lb-ft of torque, while a manual transmission was available from 2007 through 2011.

Until 2011, when the current car's adjustable suspension was added, the coupe was available with a Sports Pack that provided firmer spring, shock and antiroll bar settings. For those with athletic aspirations, this is definitely a worthwhile option to search for.

Also noteworthy is the navigation system prior to 2012. Sourced from Volvo, it was slow and finicky to operate.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 17.00

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  The DB9 volante is a 10 - 2005 Aston Martin DB9
  By antoniodelgad68 - December 21 - 12:20 am

  I purchased this car with 1200 miles and it has been a joy, the power prestige and comfort are beyond reproach. If you want a quality super car, this is the one, you cant go wrong. TD

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  My First Luxury Sports Car - 2009 Aston Martin DB9
  By chippern73 - November 27 - 5:26 am

  In December I purchased my first true sports car: Aston Martin DB9 2door coupe. I was able to get it in black with black and grey interior. To say the least, I was blown away! I have never owned a fast car like this before. I had to learn to drive all over again. Keeping it under the speed limit is the hardest thing to do when you can step ever so lightly on the gas peddle and have it up to 120 in no time. The specs says 0-60 in 4.7 seconds, Ill tell you that its true. Passing cars is a breeze. They never know what hit them. Great car and worth the price.

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  Simple fun with refinement - 2005 Aston Martin DB9
  By T. Patrick - August 5 - 6:13 am

  Great car! Fun to drive for a GT! If looking for sweet ride you can take anywhere, this is it. Comfortable and fun for long distant driving. Loves the road at high speed. Had no problems with car except for an occasional low tire warning and head-lights were replaced. They are automatic leveling and got stuck in down position. Replaced with no cost. Aston Martin Headquarters called to apologize personally for the inconvenience and gave me another Aston Martin until it was replaced. Interior is first rate with every convenience.

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  Weekend Car - 2006 Aston Martin DB9
  By Robb G - May 17 - 3:40 pm

  My Aston Martin has been a great weekend car. I say this because it is usually in the shop with electrical problems during the week!

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  Ashton Martin for 2005 - 2005 Aston Martin DB9
  By NwEnglndRe-l-t - April 11 - 12:16 pm

  We preordered the 05 DB-9, auto-tran so the wife can drive it. I was originally skeptical about ordering an AstonM after their merger with Ford a year or few back and losing their designer to Jaguar. However, AstonM has not lost their edge. Soon as I started the car after its initial delivery, it purred so solidly (the only way to describe it). There was no way to say how getting in the car and whisking away, becoming the center of attention on the mediocre streets of reality feels.This car let loose effortlessly as I took off, tearing up the onramp going from 0-80 in only a few seconds.

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  Superb long distance grand touring car - 2006 Aston Martin DB9
  By Richard - December 30 - 4:43 pm

  I was seeking a distinct and intensely pleasurable driving experience on my road test and wasnt disappointed. The car combines heft and agility with more performance than I need. Both the sound and smoothness of the engine are an experince to be savored and remembered. The fit and finish are exquisite (10+). The seats give great support. Most limitations relate to storage and are: small trunk space (luggage will be shipped), poor cup holder placement, a miniscule glove compartment. Poor local mile age (11.8 MPG)is also a compromise, but hwy milage is better than promised (21+). Its truly an uncommon beautiful car that makes a powerful and unique impression at any speed. Its worth the money!

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  Understated Performance Car - 2005 Aston Martin DB9
  By Chuck - April 5 - 6:36 am

  Its a head turner but fun to drive even at longer distances. Not as many on the road as the Ferrari. The convertible is a pleasure after having the DB7. I love the car.

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  A real thrill - 2005 Aston Martin DB9
  By financesniper - January 26 - 7:26 pm

  Excellent quality and a beautiful design are the high points. The most superb exhaust notes Ive ever experienced. The ONLY draw back Ive found is a quirky automatic AC system that seems to have a little trouble keeping the cabin as cool as I select, but you can easily compensate by setting it a little bit cooler than you would normally.

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  Martin ... Aston Martin - 2005 Aston Martin DB9
  By Peter Afeiche - October 10 - 6:46 am

  Defintely the most beautiful car designed by Aston Martin so far ... and one that does not disappoint in terms of handling, engine power, or finishing. Owning the Aston DB9 is a pure pleasure and it gives me a thrill to see it from the vantage point of another car driving beside it. It is a sight for sore eyes on any day, and gives the driver fantastic control and responsivness. A perfect 10 !!

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  007 Heaven - 2006 Aston Martin DB9
  By sjg - May 18 - 2:10 am

  I have owned my meteor grey DB9 for 6 months and I find it to be an excellent automobile. It is fast, corners extremely well and is a real head turner. It may not be quite as fast as some super cars, but it is more comfortable and a joy to drive on long trips. Did I mention you also get a great deal of attention?