The Aston Martin DB11, once a symbol of high-end luxury and performance, is now surprisingly affordable on the used market. This shift makes the car, originally costing upwards of £150,000, available for around the same price as a new Ford Mustang or Alpine A110 – a dramatic depreciation reflecting its age but also opening it to a wider range of buyers.
The DB11’s Arrival and Significance
Launched in 2016, the DB11 was Aston Martin’s attempt to revitalize its iconic ‘DB’ line, which began with the DB1 in 1948. The car arrived at a time when Aston Martin’s sales were flagging, and the DB9, though elegant, felt outdated. The DB11 represented a bold step forward: a more aggressive design under Marek Reichman, integration of proven Mercedes-Benz technology, and – crucially – a powerful V12 engine.
The DB11 wasn’t just a facelift; it featured a new aluminum platform, electric power steering, and advanced torque vectoring. Its impact was immediately recognized, earning it accolades like Autocar’s “Game Changer” award in 2017 and a spot among the top five cars of that year.
Engine Options: V12 vs. V8
The original DB11 came exclusively with a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12, producing 600 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. While based on an engine design dating back to the mid-1990s, it was extensively modified to remain competitive.
A year later, Aston Martin introduced a V8 variant, sourced from Mercedes-AMG. This model offered 503 horsepower and 498 lb-ft of torque, weighing 115 kg less than the V12. Performance differences are minimal – the V12 hits 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the V8 takes just 0.1 seconds longer. Fuel economy also improves slightly with the V8, from 24.8 mpg to 28.5 mpg.
Handling and Distinguishing Features
Early DB11 models faced criticism for somewhat soft suspension and overly assisted steering. The V8 variant addressed these issues, enhancing sporting credentials without sacrificing comfort.
Visually, the V12 and V8 can be differentiated by their bonnets: the V12 has four vents, while the V8 has two.
The DB11’s depreciation is a rare opportunity to own a genuinely era-defining GT at a fraction of its original cost. It represents a compelling value proposition for those seeking luxury, performance, and a touch of Aston Martin prestige.
