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Aston Martin has released further details of its new DBS, a high performance version of the DB9 that effectively replaces the company's Vanquish coupe, the last example of which has just been built, as the company's ultimate model.
The DBS's development has been part-guided by what the company has learned from racing the DBR9.
Its 6.0 V12 engine produces 380kW, usefully more than the 335kW of the standard DB9, much of the bodywork is now made from carbonfibre, saving 30kg, while various panels have been restyled to improve the car's aerodynamics and the effectiveness of its brake cooling.
The brakes themselves are carbon ceramic - a first for Aston - and the wheels are 20in alloys. The car's aluminium core structure has been strengthened, programmable adaptive suspension damping is standard, and the dynamic stability control system has been modified to provide a track setting.
The interior has also been reworked for a more luxurious finish.
The DBS is good for 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 307km/h. Price will be revealed next month, and deliveries begin in the first quarter of 2008.
- REUTERS