A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.7
Comfort & Interior
4.6
Running Costs
2.8
Practicality
3.5
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a grand tourer that combines breathtaking performance with timeless elegance? The Aston Martin DB9 represents the pinnacle of British automotive craftsmanship. This stunning coupe delivers a naturally aspirated V12 experience that few modern supercars can match. With its hand built construction and classic front engine layout, the DB9 offers a more traditional driving experience compared to rivals like the Mercedes-Benz CLS or BMW 6 Series. The 6.0 litre V12 produces around 470 bhp, delivering genuine supercar performance with refined grand touring manners. Inside, you’ll find sumptuous leather trim and real wood veneers that showcase Aston Martin’s attention to detail. While running costs are substantial, the DB9 provides an ownership experience that’s as much about emotion as transportation. Whether you’re seeking weekend thrills or cross continental cruising, this Aston Martin delivers a level of sophistication and drama that makes every journey special. The DB9 represents excellent value in the luxury GT market, offering genuine Aston Martin heritage at a more accessible price point than newer models.
What's the Aston Martin DB9 Like to Drive?
The Aston Martin DB9 is powered by a magnificent 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine producing around 470 horsepower in early models, rising to 510 horsepower in later versions. This translates to a 0-60 mph time of around 4.6 seconds and a top speed of nearly 190 mph. The engine’s character is simply sublime. It delivers smooth, linear power with an incredible soundtrack that builds to a crescendo as you approach the redline.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
6.0L V12 Naturally Aspirated
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Power Output
470 - 510 bhp
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0-60 mph
4.6 seconds
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MPG Combined
15 - 20 mpg
- Boot Space
- 186 litres
- Safety Rating
- Not tested by Euro NCAP
Inside the Aston Martin DB9: Comfort & Features
Step inside the DB9 and you’re immediately surrounded by luxury. The cabin is a masterclass in traditional British craftsmanship, with hand-stitched leather covering almost every surface. The seats are beautifully sculpted and offer excellent support for long distance touring. The driving position is spot-on, with all the major controls falling naturally to hand. Despite its exotic nature, the DB9 feels surprisingly user-friendly once you’re settled behind the wheel.
The Aston Martin DB9 is a masterclass in grand touring, blending a thunderous 6.0-litre V12’s raw power with timeless elegance. Its 0-60 mph sprint in under five seconds and near-200 mph top speed are unmatched, while the engine’s symphonic growl elevates every drive. Yet, high running costs and limited practicality offset its allure, making it a niche choice for purists who prioritize heritage and performance over modern efficiency.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Aston Martin DB9?
There’s no escaping the fact that the DB9 is an expensive car to run. Fuel economy ranges from around 15-20 mpg depending on how you drive, and with a large V12 engine, you’ll be visiting petrol stations regularly. Insurance costs are high due to the car’s value and performance, typically falling into the highest groups. Servicing costs are substantial, with major services often costing several thousand pounds at Aston Martin dealerships.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Aston Martin DB9
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Ferrari F430
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Porsche 911 Turbo
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| Starting Price | £35,000 | £90,000 | £45,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 6.0L V12 | 4.3L V8 | 3.8L Flat-6 Turbo |
| Power | 470 bhp | 490 bhp | 500 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 4.6 seconds | 4.0 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 17 mpg | 16 mpg | 24 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 186 litres | 110 litres | 125 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Grand touring comfort, V12 soundtrack, British luxury | Raw performance, Italian passion, Track focus | Daily usability, All-weather grip, German precision |
Aston Martin DB9 Practicality & Boot Space
For a supercar, the DB9 is surprisingly practical. The 186-litre boot can accommodate a reasonable amount of luggage for weekend trips or longer tours. There are also small storage areas in the cabin for everyday items. The fuel tank is generous at 78 litres, giving decent range despite the thirsty V12 engine. The DB9 works well as a genuine grand tourer, capable of covering long distances in comfort and style.
Owning a DB9 has been a dream come true. The sound of that V12 engine never gets old, and the looks still turn heads everywhere I go. Yes, it’s expensive to run, but the experience is absolutely worth it. Pure automotive theatre.
The Aston Martin DB9 stands as one of the most desirable grand tourers ever made, combining breathtaking beauty with genuine supercar performance. It offers an ownership experience that goes far beyond mere transportation, delivering emotion and excitement in every journey. The handcrafted interior, thunderous V12 engine, and timeless styling create something truly special that modern cars struggle to replicate.