INGENIOUS OPERATOR
DB11 NOW OFFERED WITH MERCEDES-AMG V8 POWER
We’ve known for some time that Mercedes-AMG would be assisting Aston Martin as a technical partner, but its only now that we are seeing which model has benefited. This is the 2018 Aston Martin DB11, powered by the very same motor that drives the Nurburgring destroying Mercedes-AMG GT R, albeit in a slightly different tune.
The DB11 is the first car to benefit from Aston Martin and Mercedes-AMG’s technical partnership. The V8 DB11 joins the V12 engined DB11 as the second model in Aston Martin’s successful GT model line-up. While the 5.2-litre V12 boasts power of 442kw, the 4.0-litre biturbo V8 that has now become a mainstay of the AMG product line-up outputs 375kw and 675nm in the V8 DB11. However, to differentiate it from the AMG GT’s, Aston Martin has created a bespoke air intake, exhaust and wet sump lubrication system specific for the DB11. The powertrain will also be tailored to the DB11’s GT performance, with unique throttle mapping and power delivery.
Despite the massive difference in power between the V12 and V8 DB11s, performance is actually very close. The V8 saves roughly 115kg over the V12 model, allowing a 0-100kph dash of 4.0 seconds versus 3.9 for the V12, while top speed is 300kph and 338kph respectively. The lighter weight V8 model has a lower center of gravity and consequently an increased sense of agility, and is claimed to offer a more dynamic and engaging drive relative to the big V12 GT.
There are subtle visual differences between the two variants that include a unique alloy wheel finish, dark headlamp bezels and a pair of bonnet vents instead of the quartet featured on the V12. These vents come in a choice of black or titanium-finish mesh, again different from that fitted to the twelve-cylinder variant. Inside, both V8 and V12 customers have the same standard equipment levels and the same extensive choice of colour and trim options. They can also elect to enhance the specification of their car via the same Option Packs and Designer Specification packages, plus a suite of Q by Aston Martin - Collection options.
Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer said of the V8-engined DB11: "The DB11 is the most complete and sophisticated car Aston Martin has ever made. Now, with this new V8 engine option we have broadened its appeal by offering a car that will bring the DB11 to more customers around the world while still blessed with the exceptional performance and memorable character that sets Aston Martin apart from its rivals. Having driven the car during its development phase, it is not just the engine that has changed the character of the car, but also the resulting dynamic changes to create a remarkable GT car with its own distinct personality from the V12."
The V8-powered DB11 will debut this weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, with deliveries commencing late in Q4 2017.
Join In
Comments (2)
great post!
I bet it isn't as fast as a Ford Aspire.