General Description
In January 2006, Aston Martin made a tantalising announcement: the DBS would soon be joining the family. With only a design sketch revealed, the buzz intensified with news that James Bond would drive the car in the upcoming film, Casino Royale. By May, spy shots were avoided as official photographs surfaced, but it wasn't until November, with the film's release, that the world truly caught a glimpse of what the next-in-line Aston Martin would look like.
The DBS, designed to phase out the V12 Vanquish, made its grand debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in summer 2007. Externally, it matched the on-screen version from Casino Royale, resembling a DB9 but exuding a more menacing aura. Its V12 engine, fine-tuned to produce 510 bhp and 420 lb ft of torque, paired with a close-ratio six-speed gearbox, offered a top speed of 191 mph and a 0–60 time of just 4.3 seconds. Initially, the DBS featured a traditional manual transmission, but by late 2008, the Touchtronic 2 option also became available.
Innovative for its time, the DBS was Aston Martin's first road car to feature vented carbon ceramic brakes and carbon fibre composite body panels, resulting in a significant weight reduction. This design, coupled with a patented Surface Veil process, ensured the car's finish was as smooth as expected from the brand. Three special colours – Lightning Silver, Casino Royale, and Storm Black – were introduced, adding exclusivity to the early models.
Inside, the DBS continued its pursuit of lightweight luxury. Semi-aniline leather and carpets lightened the interior, while a polished sapphire ‘emotional control unit’ replaced the conventional key. The revamped centre console featured cast metal surrounds and new graphics, further elevating the car's aesthetic. The public first saw the production DBS at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007, with deliveries starting shortly after.
Further adding to the overall package available for the car, Jaeger-LeCoultre introduced the AMVOX2 DBS Transponder watch in 2009, allowing owners to lock and unlock their cars with a touch. Later that year, the DBS lineup expanded with the introduction of the Volante convertible, offering a 2+2 seating option and advanced Bang & Olufsen audio equipment.
Despite weight-saving measures, the later models, equipped with rear seats, Touchtronic transmission, and premium audio, were heavier than the initial series. The 2012 model year saw further updates, including improved Garmin sat-nav and Bosch Aerotwin wiper blades. The Touchtronic 2 became the standard transmission, with the rare manual gearbox remaining a no-cost option.
Production of the DBS concluded in the summer of 2012 with the Ultimate editions, totalling an estimated 2,533 coupes. These included special editions like the Carbon Black, Carbon Edition, Dragon 88, and UB-2010. While marketed simply as the DBS, for historical clarity, the Aston Martin Heritage Trust classifies this model as the DBS V12, distinguishing it from the 1967 six-cylinder DBS.
About this specific vehicle
With just 22,870 miles on the odometer, this right-hand drive grand tourer is a rare find, especially with its sought-after manual gearbox. In Storm Black over Obsidian Black semi-aniline leather and Alcantara interior, this 2008 DBS V12 is an excellent example of an iconic model from an iconic marque, truly representing the best of British in every possible way.
Under the carbon fibre bonnet lies a 5.9-litre V12 engine, delivering 510 bhp to the rear wheels through the iconic six-speed manual transmission. The car’s full Aston Martin main dealer service history underscores its well-maintained condition and reliability, ensuring this DBS is ready for any journey that may come its way.
A plethora of carbon fibre accents pepper this car throughout, including the front splitter, rear diffuser, door mirror stalks and door cars, as well as its bonnet, boot and front wings. This not only enhances the car’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its lightweight design.
The 2+0 seating configuration provides extra luggage space behind the front seats, making it as practical as it is luxurious. Factory features include satellite navigation, electrically adjustable and heated front sports seats with three-position memory, 20-inch alloy wheels, ventilated carbon-ceramic disc brakes, and front and rear parking sensors. The Piano Black interior trim adds a touch of sophistication to the already plush interior.
An added Larini sports exhaust ensures this DBS not only looks the part but sounds it too, delivering a thrilling auditory experience both inside and outside the cockpit. The car also comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including the handbook, service history, MOT certificates, a trickle charger, a tailored indoor fleece car cover with DBS embroidery, an Aston Martin umbrella, and two keys.
Service history highlights include recent maintenance at Stratstone Aston Martin London in October 2023 at 22,752 miles, and previous services at reputable Aston Martin dealers throughout its life, ensuring the car's pristine condition and continued ongoing care.
This 2008 Aston Martin DBS V12 is a rare and well-maintained example featuring a manual gearbox and a striking all-black colour scheme, making it an exceptional vehicle for any enthusiast. Now ready for its next stable, it’s an excellent addition to any collection.
Service history:
- 05/2008 24 miles - Stratstone London Aston Martin (PDI)
- 09/2008 976 miles - Stratstone London Aston Martin
- 01/2010 7,721 miles - Stratstone London Aston Martin
- 03/2011 11,351 miles - Stratstone London Aston Martin
- 04/2012 14,168 miles - Stratstone London Aston Martin
- 05/2013 15,765 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 06/2014 16,875 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 06/2015 17,917 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 06/2016 20,185 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 04/2017 20,364 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 06/2018 21,006 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 11/2019 21,693 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 08/2021 21,847 miles - H.R. Owen Aston Martin Cheltenham
- 06/2022 22,638 miles - Grange Aston Martin Hatfield
- 10/2023 22,752 miles - Stratstone Aston Martin London Western Avenue
