The Evolution of the Aston Martin DBS Volante: A Century of Elegance and Performance

Aston Martin

The Aston Martin DBS Volante has long stood as a symbol of British luxury, engineering excellence, and automotive artistry. Over the decades, it has evolved from a limited-production grand tourer to a distinguished model in Aston Martin’s lineup, embodying the marque’s commitment to craftsmanship, performance, and design. This article chronicles the history of the Aston Martin DBS Volante, detailing its production years, models, and trim levels across its various generations.

Origins and Early History (1960s – 1970s)

The Original DBS Volante (1967-1972)

The story of the Aston Martin DBS Volante begins in the late 1960s, a period marked by the marque’s transition from the DB series to more modern grand tourers. The DBS nameplate was first introduced in 1967, replacing the DB4/5/6 series, as Aston Martin sought to create a more powerful, contemporary flagship.

  • Production Years: 1967–1972
  • Model Overview: The original DBS was a two-door, 2+2 coupe that combined sleek styling with a potent engine. The open-top version, the DBS Volante, was introduced as a convertible variant, though it was produced in limited numbers compared to the coupe.
  • Design & Features: The early DBS Volante was characterized by a lightweight, fabric-lined folding roof (or occasionally a fixed hardtop in some variants), with a focus on elegance and performance. It shared the chassis and engine lineup with the coupe, notably featuring the 4.0-liter (in early models) or the 4.2-liter (later models) inline-six engine, and later, the more powerful 5.3-liter V8 in some versions.
  • Models & Trims: The original DBS Volante was available primarily as a standard model, with limited options for customization. Special editions, such as the DBS V8 Volante introduced in the early 1970s, elevated performance further.

Key Highlights:

  • The 1969 DBS V8 Volante was notable for adopting Aston Martin’s legendary V8 engine, marking a significant performance upgrade.
  • Limited production makes original DBS Volantes highly collectible today.

Revival and Modern Era (2007–2018)

After a hiatus spanning over three decades, Aston Martin revived the DBS nameplate in the early 2000s, culminating in the modern DBS Volante that has become an icon of contemporary luxury sports cars.

The Modern Aston Martin DBS Volante (2007–2018)

The modern DBS Volante was introduced as a flagship grand tourer, blending cutting-edge automotive technology with classic Aston Martin design cues. It was derived from the DB9 platform but distinguished by enhanced performance and exclusive styling.

  • Introduction Year: 2007
  • Production Years: 2007–2018
  • Design & Features: The 2007-2012 models showcased a sleek, aggressive yet refined design with a muscular stance, characterized by a distinctive grille, sweeping lines, and a retractable soft top. The soft-top roof could be lowered in approximately 14 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph.
  • Engine & Performance: Powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine, producing 510 horsepower in early models, enabling 0-60 mph times of around 4.3 seconds. The car featured rear-wheel drive and an 6-speed automatic transmission.
  • Models & Trim Levels: Throughout its production, the DBS Volante was offered primarily in a single, well-equipped trim, with optional packages and bespoke customization options through Aston Martin’s Q division.

Special Editions and Variants (2007–2018)

During its modern production run, the DBS Volante saw several special editions and bespoke variants, often tailored for collectors and enthusiasts.

Notable Variants:

  1. Carbon Black Edition (2010):
  • Features: Matte black paint, gloss black exterior trim, unique interior with black leather and Alcantara.
  • Purpose: A more aggressive, stealthy aesthetic.
  1. Ultimate Edition (2018):
  • Features: Final production run model, with bespoke interior trim, unique badging, and optional carbon fiber accents.
  • Significance: Marked the end of the DBS Volante’s second generation.
  1. Bespoke and Custom Models:
  • Aston Martin’s Q division allowed extensive personalization, offering bespoke paint colors, interior materials, and exclusive finishes.

Trim & Features Summary:

  • The standard DBS Volante was well-equipped with luxury features such as premium leather upholstery, advanced infotainment (for its time), and bespoke interior options.
  • Optional packages included carbon fiber accents, upgraded audio systems, and customized stitching.

The New Generation: Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante (2018–Present)

The latest iteration of the DBS Volante represents a significant leap forward in design and performance, integrating Aston Martin’s latest engineering advancements.

Introduction and Production:

  • Debut: 2018 Geneva Motor Show
  • Production Years: 2018–Present (as of 2023)

Design & Engineering:

  • The DBS Superleggera Volante is based on the DB11 platform but heavily re-engineered for higher performance.
  • Features a more aggressive and aerodynamic body, with a focus on weight reduction and downforce.
  • The soft top is an electrically operated, triple-layer fabric roof that can open or close in approximately 14 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.

Performance & Powertrain:

  • Equipped with a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 engine delivering 715 horsepower and 663 lb-ft of torque.
  • 0-60 mph acceleration in around 3.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest convertibles in its class.
  • Rear-wheel drive with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Trim Levels & Options:

Unlike earlier models, the 2018+ DBS Superleggera Volante offers a range of customization options:

  • Standard Trim: Features include high-grade leather, carbon fiber interior accents, and advanced driver assistance systems.
  • Luxury & Performance Packages: Optional features such as upgraded suspension, bespoke paint, and interior stitching.
  • Bespoke Personalization: Aston Martin’s Q division offers extensive bespoke options, including unique paint finishes, interior materials, and even bespoke embroidery.

Special Editions:

  • V8 Colette Edition (2020): Limited to 60 units, featuring unique styling cues inspired by the French fashion house Colette.
  • Ultimate Edition (2023): Announced as a final special series with exclusive features and bespoke detailing.

Notable Features Across Generations

  • Convertible Top: The hallmark of the Volante models is their retractable soft or hardtop, blending coupe elegance with open-air driving.
  • Luxury Interior: Rich leathers, wood veneers, carbon fiber, and bespoke tailoring define the cabin experience.
  • Performance: From the original inline-six and V8s to the modern twin-turbo V12, the DBS Volante has consistently prioritized exhilarating performance alongside luxury.

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Conclusion: The Legacy Continues

The Aston Martin DBS Volante has evolved significantly since its original appearance in the late 1960s. Its early models epitomized British elegance coupled with raw performance, while the modern iterations have pushed the boundaries of speed, technology, and bespoke craftsmanship.

From the limited-production, V8-powered classics of the 1960s and 70s to the contemporary, high-performance super GTs of today, the DBS Volante remains a testament to Aston Martin’s relentless pursuit of automotive perfection. Its evolution reflects changing tastes, technological advancements, and an enduring commitment to creating vehicles that are as beautiful as they are exhilarating to drive.

As Aston Martin continues to innovate and expand its lineup, the DBS Volante’s legacy as a flagship convertible grand tourer remains firmly entrenched in the brand’s storied history.

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