The Aston Martin DB9 gets an extra 40 hp for 2013.
The general rule of thumb is that coupes and sports cars have a shelf-life only slightly longer than the radioactive elements at the top of the Periodic Table. Yet the Aston Martin DB9 has shown surprising durability. But after eight years it is clearly time for an update, and the British maker has confirmed it will offer one up at the Paris Motor Show next week.
The 2013 Aston Martin DB9 will replace the Virage as the pinnacle of the marque’s line-up. The updated model will be offered in both coupe and convertible versions – the later dubbed a Volante — and go on sale, the maker says, in November, carrying a $185,400 price tag.
For your money you’d get a 2013 DB9 that clearly resembles the outgoing model. The most immediate visual changes come in the form of a new new bi-xenon headlamps and a new grille inspired by the One-77 “hypercar.” Technical updates include new carbon ceramic brakes. But the big news is hidden under what the British like to call the bonnet
There the maker has made room for a 5.9-liter V12 that, in the 2013 remake turns out 510 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque. That’s a bump of 40 hp and 15 lb-ft. And it’s enough to propel the new model from 0 to 100 kmh (62.5 mph) in 4.6 seconds, about 0.2 seconds faster than the outgoing model. The 2013 DB9 has a rated top speed of 183 mph.
Other updates for the new model include a backup camera, rain-sensing wipers, a leather headliner and new 20-inch alloy wheels.
“Aside from the undeniably beautiful exterior styling and now even more luxurious interior, there are many important and impressive engineering changes that demonstrate Aston Martin’s renowned ability to create compelling cars in the modern era,” proclaims Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez.
The new Aston Martin DB9 weighs in 3,935 with its automatic transmission. In fact, that’s the only gearbox it will offer. There are no plans for a manual, though paddle-shifters do come standard.