Aston Martin’s DB11 has received a new addition, the drop-top Volante version, powered exclusively by the AMG-sourced 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine.
The new car is its sportiest open-top model yet, according to Aston. To ensure handling is as keen as possible, it has chosen to launch the DB11 Volante with the lighter V8 engine rather than a V12.
Reportedly the V12 version is not currently in the product plan, but it would be a likely addition later in the car’s life.
The V8 unit in the 2+2 DB11 Volante matches the 503bhp at 6000rpm and 513lb ft at 2000-5000rpm produced by the DB11 V8 coupé.
The engine is connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and drives the rear wheels.
The DB11 Volante weighs 110kg more than the V8 coupé on which it is based, coming in at 1870kg. The British manufacturer says the DB11 Volante is some 26kg lighter and 5% stiffer than its V12-powered DB9 Volante predecessor. The weight distribution is claimed to be 47% front and 53% rear.
Performance is strong, too; 0-62mph takes 4.1secs, 0-100mph is done in 8.8secs and the top speed is 187mph, making the car pretty much a match for the coupé.
The roof and its mechanism are a new design for Aston.
The folding soft-top, which has been tested in the Arctic Circle and Death Valley to prove its ability to keep out the cold and heat, consists of eight layers and can be lowered in 14sec and raised again in 16sec. It can be operated at speeds of up to 31mph and buyers can choose from a colour selection of red, black silver and grey silver.
The Aston Martin DB11 Volante is on sale now, priced from £159,900 — an increase of £15,000 over a V8-powered DB11 coupé. Initial deliveries are expected to take place in the first quarter of next year.
