Still one of best-looking cars of its kind and now temptingly affordable, the Aston Martin DB9 is a fine choice. Here’s our essential owner’s guide
Sponsored editorial in association with Beverly Hills Car Club
First revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003 and the first model to be built at Aston’s new headquarters in Gaydon, the Aston Martin DB9 maintained a family aesthetic but certainly moved the conversation forwards.
The V12 engine first seen in the DB7 Vantage and Vanquish reappeared, here in 5.9-litre 450bhp guise, with power rising to 470bhp in 2008, then 510bhp for the final facelift of 2013 before the model was replaced in 2016 by the all-new DB11. At launch the engine was mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed Touchtronic transmission.
All told the DB9 was a leap forwards in many ways over the DB7 before it. Time has been kind, thanks in part to Aston honing the essence of the design for over a decade after it launch. Today, a good DB9, whether coupe or Volante (convertible), represents potentially excellent value.
Engine, transmission and mechanicals
Like any prestige car, service history is important. The DB9 needs servicing at least every 10,000 miles or annually. The gearbox oil on manual transmission cars often gets overlooked and needs changing every fourth service, while automatic cars need the rear diff oil changed too. It’s worth keeping on top of maintenance to avoid major issues, even on cars that don’t move much.
Coil pack failures are not uncommon, and clutches last 20,000–25,000 miles. Replacement of the latter is a costly job, so expect a bill for between £1500–2000.
It also pays to be prepared for hefty fuel bills, with consumption of around 15mpg average, or 20mpg on the motorway. Be ready to spend around £200 to £250 per corner on decent tyres when the time comes – skimping on quality is a real false economy on such a high-performance machine.
Bodywork and interior
The DB9’s aluminium bodywork generally fares well, but check for signs of historical accident damage and aluminium-oxide corrosion on the panel edges, as well as bubbling paintwork around door handles, wing mirror mounts and wheel arches. Panel repairs can be expensive generally, so proceed with caution when choosing your supermarket parking space.
The 2+2 layout means rear space is limited in comparison with rivals like the Bentley Continental GT, but it’s possible to fit small children, a baby seat or a smaller adult in the back for a short trip, similar to the rear seats of the Jaguar XKR or Porsche 911.
Finding a good example
More than 20,000 DB9s were built, so choice is relatively plentiful when compared to other models from Aston Martin. Prices start at around £20,000 but we reckon it’s worth buying a well looked-after from a reputable dealer if you want more piece of mind.
While you’ll be spoiled for choice in the UK for DB9 examples in the UK, its worth remembering that buying from drier climes can yield cars in great condition. At time of writing, Beverly Hills Car Club has a particularly nice 2007 example for sale, priced at $39,950, complete with all-red interior.
“This exquisite supercar is a true embodiment of luxury and performance, boasting a sleek and timeless design that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes,” said BHCC owner Alex Manos.
Sponsored by Beverly Hills Car Club
The automobiles sold at Beverly Hills Car Club combine all the elements of its exclusive address in Los Angeles: cars for sale that are the very last word in tasteful elegance, chic and impressive sophistication, with careful attention given to each vehicle and each client. Both national and international customers are catered for, with a huge stock of classics to choose from.
For more information and to view the Beverly Hills Car Club stock, visit www.beverlyhillscarclub.com
