Aston Martin's goal when developing the new DB9 was to make a beautiful, distinctive car that was also outstandingly nimble and fast, while also striving to be a worthy successor to the DB7 -- the best-selling car in Aston Martin's history. That's no short order! As far as beautiful and distinctive... its appearance speaks volumes. For nimble and fast, it's powered by the latest version of Aston Martin's 6.0-liter/441-hp V-12 (developed from the engine found in the Vanquish), the DB9 promises a top speed of 186 mph and 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds. Two transmissions are offered: a six-speed ZF automatic paddle-shifter and a conventional six-speed manual gearbox. Built entirely from aluminum for strength, torsional rigidity, and light weight, instead of traditional spot welding, a new type of ultrasonic welding was used to join the upper and lower C-pillars, whereby high-frequency vibrations actually agitate the molecules of the two aluminum panels until they are joined by a molecular bond. The new DB9 will go on sale in Spring 2004.