5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About the Aston Martin DB11
The Aston Martin DB11 represents a huge leap forward for the fabled British builder of grand touring cars. It’s the company’s first completely new car in what seems like forever — because it is — which also makes it a big milestone in Aston’s history. Let’s take a closer look.
5. Almost everything is totally new
That’s really saying something for Aston Martin. The DB11 is the replacement for the Vanquish, which was built on the company’s VH platform. The VH chassis was first used by the DB9 all the way back in 2004. Likewise, the V12 is new, too. It replaces the previous V12, which was developed while Aston was part of Ford’s Premium Auto Group, and was basically two fused-together Ford V6s.
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4. Aluminum is used everywhere
The DB11’s bonded aluminum chassis is both lighter and stiffer than the one it replaces. Body panels are made from the same stuff. In fact, Aston says the hood is one of the largest pieces of stamped aluminum in the world. Curb weight hasn’t been announced, but expect it to be light for a car of its size.
3. The engine is smaller but it gains two turbos
The new 5.2-liter is complete blank-sheet redesign. With the help of a pair of turbos, the V12 produces an even 600 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Look for future DB11 variants to produce even more power.
2. It’s both faster and more efficient
The DB11 puts its power to good use by accelerating to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 200 mph. Stop-start engine tech and intelligent cylinder bank activation should also make it reasonably fuel efficient for those trans-continental blasts.
1. It’s pushed to the ground at high speed by what Aston calls a “virtual spoiler”
It has a rear spoiler, but not in the traditional sense. AeroBlade is Aston speak for what it describes as a “virtual spoiler.” Basically, air is forced into two intakes at the base of each C-pillar. It’s then channeled through the body work and out a barely noticeable vent on the trailing edge of the rear deck, creating what is essentially a spoiler made of air.
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This story originally appeared on Luxury4Play.com
More by James Wolfcale
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*aluminium Couldn't resist.
The problem is this turbocharged V12 probably won't sound as glorious as the naturally aspirated unit they're phasing out, which is a great tragedy! That exhaust note is a primary reason to get an Aston Martin.