With its rich reserves of effortless performance,
the V12-engined DB11 already fulfils the role of
consummate high-performance luxury Grand Tourer.
This provided the ideal opportunity to explore the
more dynamic side of the DB11’s character and
capabilities with the V8-engine option.
To this end Aston Martin engineers designed new
engine mounts, which together with the bespoke,
slimline wet sump system enables the V8 to be
mounted as low as possible for an optimised centre-of-
gravity. The V8 engine is also lighter and more
compact than the V12, which contributes to a saving
of 115kg and a kerb weight of 1760kg.
With more of that mass centred within the
wheelbase, the V8-engined DB11 has an increased
sense of agility - a quality that has been fully exploited
with detailed revisions to the suspension bushing,
geometry, anti-roll bars, springs, dampers and ESP
software. By carefully crafting its dynamic character to
be distinct from that of the V12, the V8 appeals to those
customers drawn to a refined and comfortable GT with
a more sporting bias.
There are subtle visual differences between the two
variants that include a unique alloy wheel finish, dark
headlamp bezels and a pair of bonnet vents instead of
the quartet featured on the V12. These vents come in a
choice of black or titanium-finish mesh, again different
from that fitted to the twelve-cylinder variant.
Inside, both V8 and V12 customers have the same
standard equipment levels and the same extensive
choice of colour and trim options. They can also elect
to enhance the specification of their car via the same
Option Packs and Designer Specification packages,
plus a suite of Q by Aston Martin - Collection options.
Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer
said of the V8-engined DB11: “The DB11 is the most
complete and sophisticated car Aston Martin has
ever made. Now, with this new V8 engine option we
have broadened its appeal by offering a car that will
bring the DB11 to more customers around the world
while still blessed with the exceptional performance
and memorable character that sets Aston Martin
apart from its rivals. Having driven the car during its
development phase, it is not just the engine that has
changed the character of the car, but also the resulting
dynamic changes to create a remarkable GT car with
its own distinct personality from the V12.”
In October 2017, Aston Martin also announced
a new chapter of the Aston Martin convertible,
revealing the all-new DB11 Volante, setting new
standards of performance, innovation, engineering
and style to create the definitive open-top Sports GT.
The DB11 Volante is also powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo
510PS V8 engine.
82 | Pindara Magazine ISSUE 12 | 2018