ASTON MARTIN DBS VOLANTE | Aston Martin DBS Volante Overseas Test Drive (Part 2)

ASTON MARTIN DBS VOLANTE

International Test Drive (Part 2)

Elegant and Sporty

Aston Martin's flagship model, the DBS, now has a full-open-top variant, the DBS Volante. This report comes from a press event held in the UK.

By Fumio OgawaPhotos by Aston Martin Asia Pacific

Top Speed 307 km/h, 0-100 km/h in 4.3 Seconds

As mentioned previously, the DBS Volante is a sports car that allows for an elegant driving experience. However, its 6-liter V12 engine boasts an astonishing 517 horsepower and 570 Nm of torque, reaching a manufacturer-claimed top speed of 307 km/h and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. When you press the accelerator, a distinctive, high-pitched exhaust note rings out above 4000 rpm, revealing its side as a sports car capable of circuit driving.

A notable feature is the 'Adaptive Damping System,' which instantly switches between ride comfort and handling characteristics by adjusting the damper's damping force in five stages according to driving conditions. When the driver actively desires a sporty drive, revs the engine, and increases the speed of steering input as vehicle speed rises, the suspension stiffens accordingly. For the driver, it's not surprising to praise the DBS Volante as 'a superb sports car that feels great in any situation!' without even realizing it has revealed its 'other face,' transitioning from comfortable to sporty.

Body Rigidity Unmatched for a Convertible

For drivers with the skills for circuit driving, there is a 'Track' mode, the hardest setting. The Dynamic Traction Control system can be disengaged, ensuring drive power is maintained at the limit. This is characteristic of Aston Martin, which achieved 4th overall in this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans and actively participates in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race. However, those who prefer this mode might be wiser to opt for the more rigid coupe.

The body rigidity is said to be 75 percent of that of the coupe. Aston Martin is known for its design that incorporates a thick torque tube in the center of the body, enhancing torsional rigidity. Furthermore, the DBS Volante achieves even higher rigidity by bolting the subframes that support the front and rear suspension and the engine directly to the chassis, without the use of bushings. It was impressive how solid the body felt, even when driving at high speeds on the motorway or on poorly maintained roads, far exceeding expectations for a convertible.

Manual and Automatic Transmissions

The manual shift in the DBS Volante is precise. The gate feel is distinct, and the balance of the gear knob and shaft is optimal, making shifts feel like they slide in with a light touch. The clutch also has ample capacity, so there's no need to be nervous when engaging it. Personally, if I were buying this car to enjoy driving, I would choose the manual. On the other hand, the automatic transmission, which is the market mainstream, is a torque converter type. I wonder if they have no plans to adopt the DCT (Dual Clutch Technology, like Porsche's PDK) that is becoming common?

'Of course, we are considering it, but the current Touchtronic is advantageous in terms of weight,' says Ian Minards, Head of Product Development. 'Also, DCT can surprisingly take time for shifts. We believe the Touchtronic offers sportier driving at present.' Indeed, there is no impression that the Touchtronic diminishes sportiness, so as Minards suggests, if refinement has increased, there may be no need to chase 'trends' unnecessarily.

Like a Bespoke Suit

The interior is comfortable, and the three-dimensional seats fit the body perfectly. There's a sense of adequate protection without feeling insecure due to a windshield frame that is too low. Furthermore, when the soft top is closed, the cabin becomes remarkably quiet. The audio system has sensors that automatically detect whether the top is open or closed and adjust the volume accordingly. It's like having an excellent butler.

You can order any color you like for the body, soft top, seat materials and colors, dashboard materials and colors, and more, both inside and out. At the factory, skilled craftsmen manage these choices to create a car that is as unique as a bespoke suit. A car made just for you. That is the true essence of Aston Martin.

The designer described this DBS Volante as a 'tough guy in a dinner jacket,' and that impression is spot on. It can be used elegantly, or it can be enjoyed with spirited driving. It's truly impressive how a low-volume manufacturer like Aston Martin, producing around 5,000 cars a year, can create such a versatile sports car.

Pricing and other details for Japan are yet to be determined. We will report further.

Aston Martin DBS Volante International Test Drive (Part 1)here