Seriously, turn around don't drown, though. Look for more advice on how not to die from flood waters soon.

(Hat tip to Travis for the tip!) [WAVY]

This is also the first time Aston's dropped a complete spec sheet for the Rapide, you'll find it below.

(Photo credit: Noble Draper)

[DailyMail]

[via Autogespot]

[via NotCot]

This DB9 was cut in half and displayed outside a recent NYC event launching the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

Well, not quite in half, looks like they erred enough to the right to preserve the Aston badge.

That's quite a crumple zone. Combined with a super-strong aluminum box frame, excellent handling and strong brakes, supercars like this are among the safest passenger cars around.

Like a beautiful woman, the Aston looks better with its clothes off.

Unlike the Jaguar XJS-based DB7, the DB9 uses an all-new bespoke platform. Aston skipped using the DB8 designation because they wanted to emphasize the dramatic change rather than indicate a gradual evolution.

Look at this attention to detail, even on an engineering cutaway. No raw edges here, they even painted the cuts and smoothed the glass.

The hand-built 5.9-liter V12 makes 450 HP, 420 Lb-Ft of torque and sits way back in the chassis for perfect 50:50 weight distribution.

Note the added lightness.

Carbon fiber drive shaft reduces rotational mass.

If you have to ask, you can't afford one. The shaft sits in a rigid torque tube that boosts chassis stiffness.

The drastically sloped frame enables the DB9's low hood line.

Built in 1957, only two Aston DBR2s were ever made. A larger capacity version of the DBR1, it could only compete in a few races where it had very little success, most notably being driven to a couple of sports car racing victories by Stirling Moss. The original car ended up with different bodywork and disappeared into a private collection some time ago, while the second vehicle, the DBR2/2 was sold at auction recently for $2.9 million and won the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance's People's Choice award.

Now, American firm Rizk is recreating the DBR2 with an aluminum honeycomb/carbon fiber monocoque chassis, fully adjustable independent suspension, bespoke interiors and a choice of classic Jaguar engines or even a modern, fuel-injected 6.2-liter Corvette engine.

When we say "space age technology" we really mean it. If the carbon/aluminum chassis isn't enough for you, there's also NASA Aerogel heat insulation under the hood, body panels are made from a carbon fiber/Nomex composite and the seats are modeled after Herman Miller's famous Aeron chair.

But it's not that technology that we're so excited about. It appears that Rizk has struck the right mix of the classic and the modern. Ignore the ‘Vette engine for a moment and focus instead on the 4.2-liter Jaguar straight-six with triple SU carbs, 265 HP and 257 Lb-Ft of torque. Power goes to the skinny rear cross-plys without the aid of traction or stability control, meaning the driving experience should be totally in-line with that of the classic car, only elevated by the newly found chassis stiffness and safety. No word on how much this is all going to cost, but can you really put a price on this level of classic looks and driving experience combined with the most advanced modern technology? [Rizk Autovia Autocar]

Could this be the perfect summer grand tourer? Would you question its merits when prior to its roof getting the ol' heave hoe, it miraculously delivered 007 to safety in Quatum of Solace?

It's brute force styling over a delicately sculpted DB9 body makes no promises to cloak the twelve angry cylinders exploding every 6500 revolutions per minute, nor does it make any compromises in its delivery. With the Emotion Control Unit, you, the driver and tamer of the beast, control the DBS Volante while perched inside a svelte and lavishly appointed leather interior while the sculpted leather buckets hug you in return through every off camber turn in an attempt to let you know how much it appreciates getting abused and put away slightly wet.

We'll let you decide whether the DBS Volante deserves such a worthy title after you spend a few minutes fantasizing over these mouth watering, newly released images. Hand towels will not be provided upon the end of the ride.

2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph
2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante
6.0-liter V12
Weight 3737 lbs
Aspiration natural
Torque 420 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm
HP 510 hp @ 6500 rpm
HP/Liter 85 hp per liter
0-62 mph 4.3 seconds
Top Speed 191 mph

We can only describe the noises coming out of the DBS-sourced V12 as pure, dirty, unadulterated sex causing us to search for the nearest red light district. If you're anything like Andy Samberg, you might want to watch this one in the privacy of your own home. [via YouTube]

Making its quasi-production reveal in Geneva earlier this year, the actual production 2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage features exposed carbon fiber hood vents, instead of the painted ones seen earlier, that match nicely with the carbon fiber front lip spoiler, rear diffuser and various interior bits. Initially based on the V12 Vantage RS Concept, which itself was based on the V8 Vantage, the 2010 V12 Vantage provides stout acceleration via a DBS-sourced 510-horsepower, 420 lb-ft of torque, 6.0-liter V12. 0-60 is reached before you can finish reading this sentence, or 4.2 seconds, and a license-revoking 190 mph top speed is standard. Created to celebrate Aston Martin's 95-year history, we can only wonder what mad beast they're working on for their centennial.

[via Driver's Republic, Aston Martin]

The long brewing Rapide resembles the original show car in nearly every way, with modern Aston styling stretched out over a four door platform and a snazzy glass roof up top. Those rear doors open in a novel way, what Aston calls "swan doors," and open like normal doors but swing up for dramatic effect. Judging from the press release, which says rear seats are "for children or two adults on shorter journeys," we're assuming leg room in the back is less than stellar, which makes us wonder what the point of the whole thing is. In any case, the car gets the monster 6.0-liter V12 with 470 HP and 442 lb-ft of torque turning a paddle shifted automatic transmission, which drives the rear wheels.

Additional specs are forthcoming, but for now you can make do with the high resolution image HERE and the available details below.

It looks like the interior will match the slick design of the One-77's exterior, looking nothing like any Aston Martin before it. you can check out the presentation document below.

(Hat Tip to Alexander)

[via 925]

Aston Martin Reveals Spectacular One-77 Technical Showcase

Gaydon, Warwickshire – Tuesday 3 March - Aston Martin will present a One-77 technical showcase at the Geneva Auto Salon on 3 March 2009. Chassis no.1 will be on display as an exposé throughout the show detailing the quintessence of Aston Martin engineering and design expertise.

The One-77 is Aston Martin's definitive sports car, one that epitomises everything Aston Martin from technology, the hand-craftsmanship of the hand rolled aluminium panels to the attention to detail. A culmination of all the marque's know-how, the One-77 delivers effortless beauty guaranteed to stir the senses with performance potential eclipsing any previous Aston Martin.

With the performance and durability phase of the One-77's intensive development programme soon to commence, the 79th Geneva Auto Salon provides the perfect stage on which to reveal the remarkable engineering, advanced technology and exotic materials that lie beneath the One-77's extraordinary exterior.

For Aston Martin's Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, revealing the One-77's secrets is a proud moment: "Right from the very beginning of the project the vision for One-77 was very simple: It had to combine high-technology with hand-built craftsmanship, and demonstrate the unique capabilities and passion of our designers, engineers and
technical partners.

"Quite simply it had to be the ultimate expression of Aston Martin. As you can now see, we have achieved that goal in magnificent style."

Chris Porritt, One-77 Programme Manager continued: "We wanted to create something that wows you as much when you see what's under the skin as the exterior styling itself. We started by identifying the most technologically exciting front-engined, rear-wheel drive cars in the world: those from the DTM race series. We then applied the principles and technology that feature heavily in their design and translated it to a road car application."

Consequently the One-77's structural core is a lightweight and immensely rigid carbon fibre monocoque. Conceived and designed at Aston Martin's Gaydon HQ, the monocoque, or 'tub', has been built in partnership with Multimatic (MTC). As world leaders in carbon composite technology, advanced vehicle analysis and dynamic
simulation, MTC brings unrivalled specialist capabilities to the exacting challenge of the One-77 programme.

Employing the classic formula of double wishbones at each corner, the One-77 features inboard suspension front and rear, with pushrods employed to transfer vertical suspension movements to the horizontally mounted spring/damper units. A practice taken directly from racing car design, the main advantages of inboard suspension are a reduction in unsprung weight and the ability to package the suspension components more effectively.

The dampers are fully adjustable and feature advanced Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) technology; a world-first for a road car application. These special valves are state-of-the-art even at the highest levels of motorsport, and use high-precision machined components to enable the shock-absorbing characteristics of the damper to be changed without having to remove them from the car, as is the norm.

Underlining the truly bespoke nature of the One-77, once delivered to its owner, the car's suspension characteristics will be precisely set-up by Aston Martin engineers to suit their exact requirements, from settings suitable for the ultimate long-distance GT, to a machine capable of conquering the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

While functionality and efficiency are paramount in the design and construction of the One-77', so too is aesthetic beauty. To this end every single component has been crafted from the finest materials with absolute attention to detail. From the mesmerising weave of the glossy carbon fibre tub and the abstract, sculptural beauty of the dry
sump's oil reservoir, to the unerring precision of the billet machined aluminium suspension mounts, the One-77's rolling chassis is an automotive masterpiece.

Of course the irony is that the vast majority of these exquisite components will be hidden from view in the finished car, yet each and every piece is a work of art in its own right. It's this extraordinary workmanship and money-no-object commitment to quality that makes the One-77 unique.

Naturally, such a spectacular chassis demands – and gets - an equally exceptional drivetrain. It comes in the form of an immensely potent 7.3-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine. Thanks to the adoption of a dry-sump oil system the engine is mounted 100mm lower than in any previous V12-engined Aston Martin road car, which helps keep the One-77's centre-of-gravity as low as possible. To further aid agility and endow the One-77 with progressive handling and stable, predictable on-limit behaviour, the engine is also mounted 257mm aft relative to the front wheel centreline. In so doing the front-midengined layout shared by all of Aston Martin's current road car range has been taken to a new level.

The One-77's magnificent power unit is an extreme evolution of the 6.0-litre V12 engines fitted to the DBS, DB9 and new V12 Vantage models. Like the collaboration with MTC for the build of the chassis, Aston Martin has chosen a world-leading partner with which to develop the motor: legendary engine builders, Cosworth. It has proved to be the perfect collaboration, as Chris Porritt explains.

"Our brief to the engine team was for them to take the 6.0-litre V12 as far as it could go,both in terms of output and weight reduction. The targets were a power output of no less than 700bhp with a 10 per cent reduction in engine mass. Incredibly, the Aston Martin and Cosworth engineers achieved a mass reduction of some 25 per cent, and although we've yet to complete the final engine calibration work, I'm confident we'll see in excess of 700bhp. It's an awesome accomplishment, but one that's typical of the One-77 project, for it has consistently brought out the very best in everyone involved."

Wearing Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres (255/35 ZR20 front, 335/30 ZR20 rear) developed specifically for the One-77, all 700+bhp is transmitted to the road through the rear wheels via a new six-speed gearbox. Controlled via column-mounted paddles behind the steering wheel, this robotised sequential manual is a new generation of Aston Martin's familiar transmission. Though it is made specifically for the One-77 and features specially strengthened internals to cope with the tremendous power and torque, the lessons learned in its development will ultimately find their way into the company's series production models.

It's a mark of the inherent capabilities of Aston Martin's acclaimed lightweight Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake technology that it has been used as the basis for the One-77's braking system. The internals of the calipers have been re-engineered to transmit less heat from the brake pads into the brake fluid, while the discs themselves have been developed to ensure the maximum possible contact area between the face of the disc and the brake pads for improved stopping power. Due to the One-77's increased performance, special attention has also been paid to brake cooling, as the brakes have less time to cool between bursts of acceleration.

With a projected weight of 1,500kg the One-77 will occupy the very highest echelons of road car performance. Top speed is confidently predicted to be in excess of 200mph, with a 0-60mph time in approximately 3.5sec. Perhaps more importantly, thanks to the purity of a front-engined, rear-drive layout, the responsiveness and immense tractability of a naturally aspirated V12 and the low mass, high-rigidity properties of a carbon fibre chassis, the One-77 promises a driving experience of unrivalled intensity and excitement while representing the world's most desirable automotive art form.

Photo Credit: Autoblog.nl

Aston Martin is ready to debut its 16th convertible in the company's 95 year history and she's a beauty. The 2010 Aston Martin DBS Volante blends all the comfort and luxury of the standard open-air DB9 Volante with the raw sports car power delivery of 007's favorite ride, the DBS. As with the DB9 Volante, the motorized retractable fabric roof can be opened in as little as 14 seconds, just enough time to get your phone ready to take down that hotty's phone number who's parked next to you at the light. The top stows underneath a sculpted tonneau cover and will make her wonder what else you have hiding in there. She might even want to find out for herself.

Inside the DBS Volante is a leather cocoon with features like a Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 13-speaker audio system, integrated iPod/iPhone connector, USB connector and a Hard Disc Drive-equipped GPS navigation system.

The DBS Volante carries on with the same 510 horsepower, 420 lb-ft 6.0 V12 found in the (anything but) standard car and will ruin your new hair style in 4.3 seconds, or enough time to hit 60 mph. It'll carry on until a 191 mph topspeed, but the fun doesn't have to stop there as you can blip the throttle while you downshift through the car's 6 manual gears. If you're more into letting the car do most of the work, then an available automatic six-speed 'Touchtronic' paddle shift gearbox might suit your fancy.

To keep this sex machine rolling down the road, Aston Martin's wrapped a set of Pirelli P Zero tires around the new 20-inch 10 spoke wheels. Those new wheels do a pretty bad job of hiding the standard carbon ceramic brakes, but wouldn't you want to show them off anyhow?

As with the standard DBS, there is an extensive use of carbon fiber throughout the bodywork including the front fenders, hood and trunk lid. All of this black carbon weave helps reduce the weight of the DBS Volante down to a mid-size sedan weight of 3,990 pounds.

If you're dying to know more, feel free to read Aston Martin's novel of a press release below, but if not, stay tuned as we'll have more info and images in the next couple of weeks.

Aston Martin Press Release:

Aston Martin DBS Volante makes its debut at the 2009 Geneva Auto Salon. Completing the Aston Martin DBS line-up, the new Volante will afford customers the combination of the DBS's already-established benchmark sports car characteristics with all the thrills of open-air motoring.

Broadening the DBS's character, the Aston Martin DBS Volante will appeal to drivers who wish to combine the excitement of driving a finely-tuned sports car with the invigorating feeling of being open to the elements. This juxtaposition of ultimate performance and openness stirs the senses on any drive whether an exhilarating jaunt on favoured roads or cruising on lengthy journeys. 'Volante', meaning 'moving with light rapidity', perfectly defines the performance potential and the dynamic characteristics of the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

Featuring a motorised retractable fabric roof, the DBS's beautiful profile is preserved whether up or down. When the roof is closed, it provides a warm comfortable ambience and when open, it neatly disappears behind the new tonneau cover at the touch of a button.

Aston Martin's Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: "The Aston Martin DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection.

"The Aston Martin DBS Volante offers a subtle mix of power and performance. Adding to this, the fine craftsmanship - it is an unparalleled ownership and driving experience."

Conceived as a Volante from the outset, Aston Martin engineers opted for a fabric hood to closely follow the silhouette of the DBS coupe and due to its lightweight properties, minimise overall weight gain. Fully retractable in only 14 seconds and at up to speeds of 30 mph (48 km/h), the roof will automatically stow under the newly sculpted tonneau, maintaining the Aston Martin DBS Volante's perfect form - hood up or down.

Power is provided by Aston Martin's hand-built all alloy 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 191 mph (307 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.3 seconds. The nature of the V12, and in particular the torque available at all engine speeds, serves to provide effortless driving in all situations.

Aston Martin's 16th convertible in 95 years, the Aston Martin DBS Volante draws on the marque's extensive experience in designing iconic 'Volantes' and is a 2+2 featuring two occasional rear seats, ideal for young people or extra luggage. In standard specification, the DBS has a rear-mounted six-speed manual gearbox, while an automatic six-speed 'Touchtronic' option is also available. As with the coupe, the Volante is offered with carbon ceramic brakes as standard providing exceptional stopping power. Benefitting from materials derived from the motorsport and aerospace industries, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are made from carbon fibre all helping to reduce weight.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante also comes with Bang & Olufsen's renowned 'BeoSound DBS' in-car entertainment system, featuring 13 speakers as standard equipment. The BeoSound DBS has been expertly tuned by Bang & Olufsen's Tonmeisters and Aston Martin's acoustic engineers specifically for the Volante resulting in a system that senses when the roof has been retracted and adjusts the sound stage to compensate for extra wind noise, providing an unrivalled automotive audio experience.

Design

Although the DBS was originally conceived as a two-seater sports GT, the potential for a Volante version was always in the minds of the design team. Holding a purposeful stance, the muscular shapes and forms of the DBS have been retained exuding confidence.

Aston Martin's 16th convertible, learning taken from the engineering of previous soft-top cars has resulted in the Aston Martin DBS Volante possessing Aston Martin's quietest and most refined roof system to date. When raised, the fabric roof is insulated with a layer of Thinsulate® material relieving cabin noise and protecting the inhabitants from the elements. The hydraulic pump has been cocooned in a noise and vibration enclosure reducing noise when raising and lowering the hood.

The newly choreographed hood has resulted in an opening time of only 14 seconds due to a new five-piston hydraulic pump. The roof effortlessly stows below the newly-sculpted tonneau cover which has been redesigned to enhance the muscular attributes of the Aston Martin DBS Volante. Housing the Roll-Over-Protection-System (ROPS) which deploys two roll bars in the event of the car rolling over, the rear humps lead your eye to the new carbon fibre deck lid which has been re-styled for the Aston Martin DBS Volante. Particular to the DBS, a line flows from the leading edge of the bonnet past the elegantly sloped windscreen flowing into the carbon fibre deck lid and to the rear boot 'flip'.

As with the DBS Coupe, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are formed from carbon fibre. Preventing the weave protruding the paint finish, Aston Martin employs a patented 'surface veil' technology applying a 200 micron thick layer of epoxy glue to the carbon fibre, before the application of seven layers of paint producing a class A level of finish.

The interior of the DBS represents the epitome of Aston Martin's commitment to using materials honestly, without disguise or embellishment. Lightweight materials are used throughout to save weight; door pulls are made from carbon fibre, for example, and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibres to save valuable kilograms.

The Volante features 2+2 seating as standard. The beautifully leather trimmed rear seats are ideal for younger persons or extra luggage making the Aston Martin DBS Volante a practical everyday sports car.

Delivered as standard with Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound DBS audio system and seamlessly integrated into the Aston Martin DBS Volante's bespoke interior, the system provides the driver and passengers with an unrivalled audio experience. Consisting of 13 individual speakers and Bang & Olufsen's unique Digital Signal Processing system, the system transforms the Aston Martin DBS Volante into an acoustically sophisticated venue, capable of conveying subtle and striking musical dynamics from every source. The BeoSound DBS has been specifically revised for the Aston Martin DBS Volante and senses when the roof is up or retracted and adjusts the sound stage to compensate for wind noise and change in acoustics.

The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS system has been developed exclusively for Aston Martin. The system is acoustically and physically matched to the Aston Martin DBS Volante, with a design that follows the inherent quality and material honesty of the Aston Martin interior. The loudspeaker grilles are finished with smoothly contoured aluminium so as to integrate seamlessly with the fluid lines and curves of the cabin. When the system is turned on, the twin acoustic lens speakers emerge silently and swiftly, adding a touch of theatre and technological panache that is the perfect complement to the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

As with the coupe, the Volante affords customers the prospect of specifying the optional 10-spoke 20" forged aluminium lightweight wheel with diamond-turned surface - available in either silver or graphite finishes. With an overall unsprung mass reduction of 8 kg, the option aids enhanced handling, improved acceleration, and braking performance.

Performance

The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low kerb weight defined the DBS's form and construction. The Aston Martin DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0-litre V12 engine at the heart of the DBS which was launched in 2007. Producing 510 bhp (517 PS / 380 kW), peak power is delivered at 6500 rpm and the 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque is delivered at 5750 rpm. Tractable at any time, the DBS possesses a 'flat' torque curve providing 85% of the torque from 1500 rpm.

The 3.71:1 (manual) and 3.46:1 (Touchtronic) final drive ratio assures that all the Aston Martin DBS Volante's power is useable, while also enhancing in-gear acceleration.

Adding to the sonorous V12 enhances the aural soundtrack. Special by-pass valves in the exhaust allow a quieter exhaust note at low speeds; at 4000 rpm these open to reduce the pressure in the exhaust system, raising the power output as well as generating a rousing aural accompaniment.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante is available as standard with a rear-mounted 6-speed manual gearbox with gear ratios optimised to extract the very best from the 6.0-litre engine. Providing customers with even greater personalisation capabilities, a 'Touchtronic' 6- speed automatic featuring a torque converter is also available as an option.

Derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the Aston Martin DB9, the system has been substantially re-engineered to accommodate the power and performance characteristics of the DBS.

System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with 'Park', 'Reverse', 'Neutral' and 'Drive' modes selected via facia mounted controls.

When in 'Drive' mode, pulling either of the leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column will activate Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles. Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up. Alternatively, the 'Drive' mode can be selected at any time by pressing the 'D' control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.

The system also includes a 'Sport' mode - activated by a button on the centre console - which engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy as gear changes feel sharper and more forceful, engine speed matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds. The Sport setting also incorporates a more responsive throttle map to match the high-performance characteristics of the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

Control

Contributing to the class-leading levels of rigidity, the VH-platform (Vertical - Horizontal) upon which all Aston Martins are founded, ensures a dynamically accomplished convertible translating into an exciting and communicative chassis. The VH architecture is a bonded aluminium structure that provides outstanding strength and rigidity. In comparison to its coupe sibling, the Volante retains 75% of the rigidity equating to 20kNm per degree. This has been achieved by rigidly mounting the rear sub frame and optimising the front and rear shear panels. Working together these components contribute to more than 20% of the total torsional rigidity.

Augmenting the Aston Martin DBS Volante's supreme handling characteristics is the near perfect weight distribution - achieved by mounting the 6-speed gearbox at the rear placing 85% of the weight between the front and rear axle.

To take full advantage of its extremely precise and rigid platform, the DBS employs a sophisticated Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which is specifically tuned for the Aston Martin DBS Volante maximising ride comfort. It uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car's ride and handling characteristics. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond instantly to different driving conditions. The dampers can be 'softer', with a corresponding improvement in ride quality, or 'firm', providing improved body control for more spirited driving.

The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car's systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante's Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car's sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during 'normal' driving conditions. A designated 'Track' mode automatically sets all dampers to their firmest positions, making it ideal for circuit driving. The DBS Volante is fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres that have been developed especially for the car.

The Aston Martin DBS Volante also has a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system specifically tuned to the Volante to help maintain maximum traction in challenging driving conditions. In default operation, the DSC is automatically on. Select and press the button for two seconds and DSC 'Track' mode is engaged, raising the threshold at which the system intervenes to allow the experienced driver to explore the car's limits. Hold the button for four seconds and DSC is disengaged entirely.

Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes are featured as standard. Providing shorter stopping distances with excellent resistance to fade in even the most demanding driving conditions, the CCM brakes are some 12.5 kg lighter than a conventional system. This results in reducing the overall weight of the car and, in particular, the unsprung weight and rotational masses, further enhancing the Aston Martin DBS Volante's dynamics.

Technical Specification

* Body
o Two-door convertible body style with 2+2 seating
o Bonded aluminium VH structure
o Aluminium, magnesium alloy and carbon-fibre composite body
o Extruded aluminium door side-impact beams
o High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps (main beam)
o LED rear lamps and side repeaters
* Engine
o All-alloy, quad overhead camshaft, 48-valve, 5935 cc V12
o Compression ratio 10.9:1
o Front-mid mounted engine, rear-wheel drive
o Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves
o Max power: 380 kW (510 bhp / 517 PS) @ 6500 rpm
o Max torque: 570 Nm (420 lb.ft) @ 5750 rpm
* Performance
o Acceleration: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.3 seconds
o Max speed: 307 km/h (191 mph)
* Transmission
o Rear-mid mounted, six-speed manual gearbox. Rear-mid mounted 'Touchtronic 2' six-speed gearbox with electronic shift-by-wire control system
o Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft
o Limited-slip differential
o Final-drive ratio 3.71:1 (manual) 3.46:1 (Touchtronic)
o Wheels and Tyres
o Front: 8.5" x 20" Pirelli P Zero 245/35
o Rear: 11" x 20" Pirelli P Zero 295/30
* Steering
o Rack and pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, 3.0 turns lock-to-lock
o Column tilt and reach adjustment
* Suspension
o Front: Independent double wishbone incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
o Rear: Independent double wishbones with anti-squat and anti-lift geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
o Adaptive Damping System (ADS) with Track mode
* Brakes
o Front: Ventilated carbon ceramic discs, 398 mm diameter with six-piston callipers
o Rear: Ventilated carbon ceramic discs, 360 mm diameter with four-piston callipers
o Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Track mode
o Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
o Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
o Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
o Traction control
* Dimensions
o Length: 4721 mm (185.9")
o Wheelbase: 2740 mm (107.9")
o Width:
+ 1905 mm (75") (exc. Mirrors)
+ 2060 mm (81.1") (inc. Mirrors)
o Fuel tank capacity: 78 litres (17.2 Imp.galls, 20.5 US galls)
o Height: 1280 mm (50.4")
o Weight: 1810 kg

Equipement

* Interior
o Full grain leather interior
o Matrix alloy facia trim and Iridium Silver centre console surround
o Carbon fibre door trims and door pulls
o Auto-dimming rear-view mirror & garage door opener (USA & Canada only)
o Sports seats with electric adjustment
o Memory seats & exterior mirrors (three positions)
o Dual-stage driver/passenger front airbags
o Side airbags
o Heated seats
o Heated rear screen
o Automatic temperature control
o Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays
o Trip computer
o LED map lights
o Cruise control
o Hard Disk Drive (HDD) satellite navigation system
o Bluetooth telephone preparation
o Powerfold exterior mirrors
o Front and rear parking sensors
o Tyre-pressure monitoring
o Alarm and immobiliser
o Remote-control central door locking and boot release
o Wind deflector
o Battery disconnect switch
o Battery conditioner
o Tracking device (UK only)
o Boot-mounted umbrella
o Lamy pen and pen holder (Touchtronic only)
* In-Car Entertainment
o Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS sound system
o Integrated Apple iPod® connector
o USB connector with Waveform Audio Format (WAF), Windows Media Player (WMA) and MPEG (MP3) audio file compatibility
o 3.5 mm auxiliary input socket
* Options
o 20" 20-spoke alloy wheels with graphite finish
o 20" 10-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels
o 20" 10-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels with graphite finish
o Satellite radio system (USA only)
o Piano Black facia trim and centre console surround
o Personalised sill plaques
o Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror
o Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with garage door opener (Europe only)
o Alarm upgrade (volumetric and tilt sensor)
o Tracking device
o First-aid kit
o Ashtray and cigar lighter

[via Aston Martin]

Lagonda was founded in 1906, but was purchased and integrated by Aston Martin in 1947. The Lagonda name has been affixed to Aston Martins since then, and graced the quirky 80s-era Aston Martin Lagonda, but has never been its own brand. According to Aston Martin, the Lagonda nameplate is preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary next year (no, that makes no sense to us either) and to commemorate the occasion, an all-new concept will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

There's no telling what this concept could be other than a competitor in the luxury car market filled with Bentleys and Rolls Royces, but Aston Martin is already talking about a production schedule for a 2012 on-sale date. We'll keep our eyes peeled.

Aston Martin Press Release:

Aston Martin CEO confirms the revival of the Lagonda Marque

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer Dr Ulrich Bez has today confirmed his intention to revive the Lagonda marque.

In a statement today he said, "After my eight years with Aston Martin, four with profitability, and 16 months of independence, it's time to think about a longer term future. Aston Martin is an honest, authentic brand which builds the most beautiful sportscars combining modern technology with craftsmanship. Next year we will launch the four door Rapide sportscar, and this will be followed by the project 'one 77', the most spectacular Aston Martin ever. Aston Martins are currently available in 32 countries but we will remain limited in our market penetration by the pure character of our cars - sportscars.

"We have now investigated and concluded that the revival of the Lagonda brand would allow us to develop cars which can have a different character than a sportscar, and therefore offer a perfect synergy. Lagonda will use a unique design language as Aston Martin does. We will take elements of DNA from the past but will be very future orientated as we are with Aston Martin. With Lagonda offering exclusive, luxurious and truly versatile products with high quality and usability and suitable for both existing and emerging markets, I believe we can be present in more than 100 countries in the world.

"In 2009 Lagonda is about to celebrate its 100th birthday and in its centenary year we are confident that we will show the first concept of a car which could be in the market in 2012," he confirmed.

[via Aston Martin]

We've seen an official image of the new Aston Martin Rapide super saloon already, and if these images purport any differences than those older, much larger images, we can't see them. Well, except this set is rendered in white so you can actually see all the lines.

The production version gets a more radical vent strake treatment stretching through drivers door and terminating at the leading edge of the passenger door, much longer than the concept. It also does away with the machined exterior fuel cap, which is no surprise, and surprisingly goes to clear lens tail lamps from colored ones on the concept (not a choice we would have made). The full length roof glass still remains so expect some suspension wizardry to counteract all that roll-center raising heft. [

Aston Martin will arrive in France for the 86th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in June with two new factory-backed cars. The historic Gulf Oil-liveried blue and orange cars are built upon a Lola chassis and feature the same V12 engine as is used in their successful GT1 DBR9.

There's been some fierce competition brewing between the Audi R10 (replaced this year with the R15) and the Peugeot 908 HDi and Aston Martin hopes to cash in on the fight. Audi has managed a five-year winning streak with the French 908 diesel following strongly behind, so can the Aston Martin team really pull one out of the hat?

Aston Martin chairman, David Richards, looks forward to the challenge and has this to say:

“2009 is a hugely significant year for Aston Martin at Le Mans and the challenge of reclaiming victory in this famous race for Aston Martin and Great Britain was simply too great to ignore. However, we do not underestimate the task. While we have won the GT1 class for the last two years, competing against the proven speed and endurance of the diesel-powered cars with all their years of winning the prototype class, will be a massive undertaking. Nonetheless, I see this as a great opportunity to showcase the ingenuity of British engineering talent.”

We're just happy that we'll be seeing a streaking prototype body in Gulf blue and orange flying down the Mulsanne Straight again.

Gaydon, 27 January 2009. On the 50th anniversary of its outright win at Le Mans, Aston Martin will return to La Sarthe with two Works LMP1 cars bearing the iconic blue and orange livery of Gulf Oil.

In an ambitious attempt to emulate the legendary achievements of the 1959 DBR1 driven by Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori, Aston Martin will endeavour to bring the Le Mans title back to Britain.

“2009 is a hugely significant year for Aston Martin at Le Mans and the challenge of reclaiming victory in this famous race for Aston Martin and Great Britain was simply too great to ignore,” said Aston Martin Chairman, David Richards. “However, we do not underestimate the task. While we have won the GT1 class for the last two years, competing against the proven speed and endurance of the diesel-powered cars with all their years of winning the prototype class, will be a massive undertaking. Nonetheless, I see this as a great opportunity to showcase the ingenuity of British engineering talent.”

Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer commented: “Racing has been, and still is at the heart of Aston Martin. Our cars today are subtle, elegant and handcrafted but they still have the genes for competition. I am happy that we have found partners who, with their support, will enable us to compete at the highest level of endurance racing. We will put all our heart and skill behind this project to demonstrate the essence of Aston Martin: Power Beauty and Soul.”

The new car which is based on the 2008 Charouz Racing System Lola will be powered by the same production-based Aston Martin V12 engine which, last year, helped Aston Martin secure its second successive Le Mans GT1 title with the DBR9. It also powered the Charouz car to a new La Sarthe lap record for a petrol car.

Aston Martin Racing is developing the car in conjunction with Lola, Michelin, Koni and BBS and continues its relationship with major partner Gulf Oil and official clothing partner Hackett.
In 2009, the ACO is introducing new regulations aimed at balancing the performance of petrol and diesel engined prototypes making the LMP1 category more appealing and relevant to Aston Martin.

Signalling ongoing commitment to motorsport, in addition to the Le Mans 24 hour race, the team will also compete throughout the year in the Le Mans Series (LMS), which opens with the 1000 km de Catalunya on the 5th of April.

Aston Martin Racing Works drivers, Jan Charouz (CZ), Tomas Enge (CZ), and Stefan Mücke (DE), who raced the Charouz car last year will renew their relationship with the team along with Darren Turner (GB) who was part of the winning DBR9 GT1 crew in 2007 and 2008. Harold Primat (CH) joins the team for the first time in 2009 with the remaining driver to be announced imminently.

To focus maximum energy on the LMP1 programme, the Works team will not defend its GT1 title at Le Mans. However, Aston Martin Racing will support any of its official partner teams and customers competing at the race.

Aston Martin Racing partner, Drayson Racing, has expressed its desire to compete at Le Mans with the new Vantage GT2. This follows confirmation of the team’s LMS entry and American Le Mans Series programme with a bio-ethanol powered Vantage GT2. Further announcements are expected in the weeks ahead as other Aston Martin Racing partner teams and customers confirm their plans for racing in the GT1, GT2, GT3 and GT4 classes of national and international racing series.

The Le Mans 24 hour race will be held over the weekend of 13-14 June.

[via Aston Martin]

As expected and as indicated by multiple spy shots, the Rapide stays remarkably similar to the original concept, full-length glass roof and all.

As we told you before, we're told to expect a two-intake, stacked front grille, a new crease that runs from the front wheels back through both doors, a redesigned trunk and rear clip with a chrome accent between the taillights. The interior should, more or less, resemble a four seat DB9, since that’s exactly what this car is.

Power will come from a 6.0-liter V12 making around 500 HP and 420 Lb-Ft of torque. While that sounds like more than enough, a faster version of the Rapide, tentatively called the Rapide R (get it?) is allegedly in the cards. Production will be carried out by Magna Steyr in Austria, meaning the Rapide stands half a chance of having quality that’ll live up to its near $300,000 price tag.

[via 4wheelsnews]

CAR says to expect a two-intake, stacked front grille, a new crease that runs from the front wheels back through both doors, a redesigned trunk and rear clip with a chrome accent between the taillights. The interior should, more or less, resemble a four seat DB9, since that’s exactly what this car is.

Power will come from a 6.0-liter V12 making around 500 HP and 420 Lb-Ft of torque. While that sounds like more than enough, a faster version of the Rapide, tentatively called the Rapide R (get it?) is allegedly in the cards. Production will be carried out by Magna Steyr in Austria, meaning the Rapide stands half a chance of having quality that’ll live up to its near $300,000 price tag. [via CAR]