Aston Martin DBS Superleggera V12

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera V12

The Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, launched in 2018, revived one of the most evocative names in the Aston Martin lexicon while establishing a new benchmark for the super grand tourer class. Sitting above the DB11 in the range, the DBS combined extraordinary performance with a more aggressive character that pushed the boundaries of what a grand touring car could achieve.

The twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 was tuned to produce 715 horsepower at 6500 rpm and a remarkable 664 lb-ft of torque at just 1800 rpm. This made the DBS Superleggera the most powerful production Aston Martin ever built at its launch, capable of accelerating to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 211 mph.

The Superleggera name referenced the construction technique pioneered by Touring of Milan and used on classic Aston Martins. While the modern DBS didn't use the traditional tube-and-panel method, it did employ extensive carbon fiber construction for its body panels, creating a car that was lighter than the standard DB11 despite its additional performance hardware.

Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the DBS Superleggera's character. The car generated 180 kg of downforce at maximum speed, more than any previous production Aston Martin. A deep front splitter, Aeroblade rear airflow management, and a prominent rear diffuser worked together to keep the car planted at extraordinary speeds.

The chassis was stiffened compared to the DB11, with stiffer springs, recalibrated adaptive dampers, and a wider track. Carbon ceramic brakes were standard, providing fade-free stopping power even under extreme use. The electronic differential was tuned for more aggressive torque distribution, allowing the driver to exploit the rear-wheel-drive layout with confidence.

Inside, the DBS Superleggera featured sports seats, carbon fiber trim, and a combination of leather and Alcantara. The cabin retained the hand-crafted quality that distinguished Aston Martin from its competitors, with every surface finished to an impeccable standard. The driving position was lower and more focused than the DB11's, reinforcing the car's more sporting intent.

The DBS Superleggera competed directly with the Ferrari 812 Superfast and Bentley Continental GT Speed, offering a distinctly British alternative to Italian flair and German engineering. Critics praised its combination of devastating performance, stunning design, and emotional engagement, with many rating it the finest car Aston Martin had produced in the modern era.

Special editions including the OHMSS (celebrating the James Bond film) and the Ultimate Specification further enhanced the DBS's appeal. As one of the last naturally aspirated V12 super GTs from any manufacturer, the DBS Superleggera is likely to become an increasingly significant car in Aston Martin's history.