Best Car Reviews - 2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante Manual

Introduction

The 2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante Manual is a distinguished member of the Aston Martin family, designed to offer luxury, performance, and elegance. Released as part of Aston Martin's lineup during the mid-2000s, this convertible is aimed at enthusiasts who appreciate both the driving thrill and the opulence that comes with a high-end sports car. What sets the DB9 Volante Manual apart from its peers is its timeless design, manual transmission, and the exhilarating experience provided by its V12 engine.

Design and Exterior Features

The Aston Martin DB9 Volante Manual embodies elegance and classic sports car allure. Its sleek silhouette and aerodynamic shape make it a head-turner on any street. The car's dimensions maintain a minicompact size, enhancing agility and drivability without compromising on luxury.

Distinctive Aston Martin grille and emblem
Power-operated soft-top convertible roof
Elegantly crafted alloy wheels
Sculpted side panels and rear diffuser for improved aerodynamics
High-quality metallic paint options with a polished finish

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the DB9 Volante, and you're greeted by a cabin that blends craftsmanship with luxury. The interior layout exudes sophistication, featuring carefully selected materials and expert craftsmanship.

Hand-stitched leather upholstery and walnut trim
Heated, adjustable leather seats for ultimate comfort
Premium sound system with crystal-clear audio
Automatic climate control for consistent comfort
Ample legroom for a pleasant driving experience

Performance and Handling

Under the hood of the 2006 DB9 Volante roars a formidable 6.0-liter V12 engine. This powerhouse churns out an exhilarating 450 horsepower, enabling the car to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The thrill of driving the manual transmission model cannot be overstated—it offers complete control over the power delivered to the rear wheels, ensuring a pure driving experience.

The DB9 Volante feels at home cruising city streets and open highways, with its precise handling and a well-tuned suspension. Its fuel efficiency stands at approximately 24.79 l/100 km, which, though not frugal, is expected from a high-performance convertible.

Responsive six-speed manual transmission
Enhanced cornering due to a balanced chassis
Refined high-speed stability
Tactile steering with excellent feedback
Smooth power delivery across the rev range

Technology and Connectivity

The 2006 DB9 Volante Manual doesn't prioritize technology as aggressively as modern vehicles, but it still includes features that amplify its luxury purview.

Basic infotainment with a user-friendly interface
Integrated navigation system
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls
Cruise control for effortless long drives
Analog clock for a classic touch

Safety Features

Safety is a key consideration in the design of the DB9 Volante. Although detailed crash test ratings from official bodies might be limited, it comes equipped with vital safety elements.

Dual-stage driver and passenger airbags
Traction and stability control systems
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Roll-over bars for occupant protection
Advanced braking assist features

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante Manual was approximately $170,000 USD at release. Despite its steep pricing, it stood as a competitive offering against rivals like the Bentley Continental GT and Jaguar XK.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exquisite design and luxurious feel
Powerful V12 engine performance
Engaging manual transmission
High-quality interior materials
Prestigious Aston Martin badge and exclusivity

Cons

High fuel consumption
Limited technological advancements compared to modern vehicles
Expensive maintenance and repair costs
Tight rear-seat space
High initial purchase price

Maintenance and Common Issues

Routine maintenance of the DB9 Volante can cost around $2,500 annually, encompassing regular servicing and unexpected repairs. Some common issues include:

Electrical component failures
Cooling system issues
Wear and tear of suspension parts
Potential roof mechanism problems in older cars
Chronic oil leaks

Rating

Overall, the 2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante Manual earns a solid 8 out of 10.

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 7.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The V12 engine's roar is music to my ears. Pure driving bliss!"
"Interior materials are top-notch, making every drive a luxury experience."
"Handling is excellent, although the tech could have been improved."
"Expensive maintenance, but worth it for the performance you get."
"It's a weekend car for me, due to its fuel consumption, but what a fantastic car to enjoy!"

Best Cars in this Category

2006 Bentley Continental GT
2006 Jaguar XK
2006 Porsche 911 Carrera
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
2006 Maserati GranSport

Summary

The 2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante Manual is ideal for those who desire an exquisite blend of luxurious craftsmanship and dynamic performance. While not the most technologically advanced, it excels in delivering an unforgettable driving experience. For enthusiasts who appreciate classic design and powerful engines, this model is a compelling choice with its combination of charm and capability. Despite minor drawbacks, its prestige and allure make it a noteworthy investment in the world of high-end convertibles.