Destined to replace the most successful Aston Martin model in the British company's history, the DB7, is the all-new aluminum and composite-intensive DB9. This ultra stylish 2+2 gran turismo will slot into the lineup above the upcoming AMV8 Vantage, and below the flagship Vanquish. Power comes courtesy of Aston's 6.0-liter/450-horsepower DOHC V-12; transmission choices include a six-speed sequential manual gearbox and a conventional six-speed stick. The company claims the smg-equipped DB9 will hit 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds (4.9 seconds with the manual) with a top speed for both of 186 mph. Beginning a new era for Aston Martin, the DB9 will be the first car hand-built at the new Gaydon, Warwickshire, facility, where all future Astons will be developed and constructed. The DB9 comes to market next spring in coupe form, with a convertible version likely to follow in 12-18 months.
