Best Car Reviews - 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Volante

Introduction

The 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Volante is a car that effortlessly combines elegance, luxury, and performance. Released during a period when Aston Martin was redefining itself, the DB9 Volante was tailored for enthusiasts of opulence and speed who appreciated British craftsmanship. The DB9 Volante stands out with its exquisite design, impeccable engineering, and the ability to provide both a thrilling and comfortable ride. It's targeted at car aficionados who value prestige and traditional automotive artistry, along with a healthy dose of performance.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Volante is a testament to timeless automotive design. Despite being classified as a minicompact car, its presence is anything but small. The car's sleek, aerodynamic body is seamlessly sculpted, giving the DB9 Volante an attractive and commanding road presence.

Key design elements include:

Distinctive Grille: The signature Aston Martin grille sets the tone for the car’s sophisticated look.
Flowing Lines: Its streamlined silhouette is complemented by gracefully flowing lines that emphasize speed and agility.
Convertible Top: The soft-top roof provides flexibility between a coupe and a cabriolet feel, adding a sense of freedom to the drive.
Attention to Detail: Features like flush door handles and detailed wheel designs highlight Aston Martin's commitment to craftsmanship.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the DB9 Volante is a paradise of luxury and craftsmanship. The cabin is adorned with luxurious materials like hand-stitched leather, real wood trim, and aluminum accents that offer a tactile and visual treat.

Features include:

Seats: Plush, supportive leather seats ensure comfort on long journeys.
Dashboard: An elegantly designed dashboard features intuitive controls.
Space: While rear seating is best suited for occasional use, the front seats provide ample space and adjustability.
Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control enhances comfort for all occupants.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the DB9 Volante boasts a 6.0-liter V12 engine delivering breathtaking power and rich sound. This engine propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 4.9 seconds, which reaffirms its high-performance capability.

Driving experience details:

Engine Power: The V12 generates a robust 450 horsepower, offering exhilarating acceleration and a top speed of around 299 km/h.
Transmission: Automatic (S6) ensures seamless gear shifts, enhancing driving comfort.
Fuel Efficiency: Recorded at about 22.9 l/100 km, this V12 beast prioritizes performance over economy.
Handling: Rear-wheel drive provides exciting dynamics, ensuring precise handling in city streets and twisty roads alike.

Highlights:

Powerful and smooth acceleration
Impressive braking performance
Agile cornering capabilities

Technology and Connectivity

Although primarily designed for luxury and performance, the DB9 Volante offers a decent level of technology and connectivity for its era.

Technological features include:

Infotainment System: A basic yet functional audio system compatible with modern portable devices through auxiliary input.
Connectivity: Options like Bluetooth 1.0 for phone connectivity.
Driver Assistance: Minimal, focusing more on the driving experience than on assistance technologies.

Key tech highlights:

Basic navigation features
Quality sound system
Climate control interfaces

Safety Features

Safety was not compromised in the DB9 Volante, which includes several features to ensure a secure driving experience:

Standard Safety Features:

Airbags: Front and side-impact airbags for overall protection.
Braking Systems: Advanced ABS and stability control systems.
Chassis: High-strength aluminum construction for superior crash protection.

Unfortunately, crash test ratings for the DB9 Volante were not widely available, but the build quality and safety features contribute to a reassuring drive.

Pricing and Variants

With a base price of approximately $155,000 USD upon its release, the DB9 Volante sat firmly in the luxury segment of minicompact cars. Compared to competitors in the same category, the price reflects the luxury brand and the engineering prowess embedded in the vehicle.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Powerful V12 engine provides thrilling performance
Outstanding design and craftsmanship
Luxurious interior materials and finish
Convertible flexibility with a responsive power top
Prestigious brand value

Cons

High fuel consumption
Limited rear seating space
Modest tech features by modern standards
High maintenance costs
Limited cargo capacity

Maintenance and Common Issues

The maintenance of a DB9 Volante involves considerable costs, typically around $2,000—$4,000 USD per annum depending on usage and care. Some common issues reported for this model include:

Electrical system glitches
Soft-top mechanism malfunction
Regular need for brake replacements
Suspension component wear
Cooling system issues

Rating

Assigning an overall rating of 8.5/10, the DB9 Volante is marked by several strengths and a few drawbacks:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8.5/10
Performance: 9.5/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The V12 engine is pure magic. A joy to drive on open roads."
"Luxury and style in spades, but the tech feels a bit outdated."
"Beautiful car, but be prepared for high maintenance costs."
"It's a head-turner. Excellent design, but not very practical for daily use."
"The drive is incredibly smooth, and the engine sounds are addictive!"

Best Cars in this Category

2005 Ferrari F430 Spider
2005 Porsche 911 Cabriolet
2005 Bentley Continental GT
2005 Maserati Spyder
2005 Jaguar XK Convertible

Summary

The Aston Martin DB9 Volante is a dynamic blend of luxury and performance, ideal for consumers seeking an iconic, high-end driving experience. While not perfect in every area—particularly tech and economy—its stunning design, exhilarating driving dynamics, and exclusivity make it a worthy classic. Despite maintenance considerations, the DB9 Volante remains a compelling choice for those who appreciate the finer aspects of automotive engineering and design.