Fully-independent suspension used double-wishbone configurations and, again, the components are fabricated from aluminum. The steering rack is mounted ahead of the front wheels to increase performance, especially under hard braking. Four-piston calipers bind 14-in. rotors in front and 13s out back. Those discs are not cross-drilled, but instead ventilated and grooved. Additionally, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and Brake Assist provide electronic assistance. Ultimate stopping power relies on 19-in. tires, measuring 235/40 at the bow and 275/35 towards the stern.
If the unthinkable occurs, and the seamlessly designed DB9 body acquires crumples, airbags assure occupant safety. Dual-stage units emerge in front of the driver and front passenger, while seat-mounted ones provide lateral buffering. The seatbelts also include pretensioners. Volante models deploy roll-hoops from the rear seat headrests in the event of a rollover. The A-pillars are also built to support twice the weight of a DB9. So what do you get when you combine the latest and best structural technology, a potent but refined powertrain, a quirky yet extravagant cockpit, and one the most unencumbered body designs ever? You get the all-new DB9. Coupe versions will be available in the spring and Volante versions in the fall. Nearly all of the 2,000 being produced for this model year are spoken for.
2005 Aston Martin DB9 Reviewer's Notes:
Base price: $155,000 (Coupe, manual); $168,000 (Volante)
Engine: 6-liter V12 (450 hp @6,000 rpm, 420 lb.-ft. @5,000 rpm)
Transmission: 6-speed manual; 6-speed automatic with Touchtronic
Wheelbase: 107.9 in.
Length: 184.9 in.
Width: 73.8 in.
Height: 51.9 in.
Curb weight, lbs.: 3,769 (manual); 3,880 (automatic)
Fuel economy: N/A
Safety equipment: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, EBD(Electronic Brake Distribution), EBA (Emergency Brake Assist); DSC (Dynamic Stability Control; Traction Control; dual-stage driver and passenger airbags; side airbags; seatbelt pretensioners; rollover protection
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