Detroit debut for DB9 drop-top
25 November 2003 The rear-wheel-drive Volante is the convertible version of the DB7's replacement, and has a two-plus-two seating layout. It will be built alongside the DB9 coupe at Aston's new Gaydon plant in Warwickshire. Aston expects to sell around 1000 Volante models next year, and first deliveries are due to begin next autumn, around six months after the launch of the coupe. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but Aston says the new DB9 is likely to cost around 10% more than the current DB7. That would give the coupe a price of £95,500, while the Volante would cost £103,000. Standard equipment will include an electronic folding roof that closes in 17 seconds, plus roll-over hoops fitted in the rear head restraints which automatically deploy if sensors detect the risk of an accident. Like the coupe, the Volante is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 engine that should be capable of propelling the car to 60mph in less than five seconds and on to a top speed of more than 180mph. The DB9 is only a little bigger than the car it replaces, although the wheelbase is a significant 149mm longer and the front track is 52mm wider. This should help to improve the car's handling and free up extra space for rear-seat passengers. |
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