This has enabled the DB9 to keep abreast of technological, efficiency, performance and equipment upgrades over the ensuing decade-and-a-bit, as well as spawned the Vantage, Vanquish, Rapide, Virage and DBS.
In short, it’s the ultimate flexible underpinning system – essential for an independent company that’s as necessarily cost-conscious as Aston.
DB9 has kept abreast of technological, efficiency, performance and equipment upgrades over the last decade-and-a-bit
So even if the current VH-based model line-up is not as diverse as company bosses would like (something CEO Andy Palmer plans to change very soon, starting with the arrival of the DB11), the DB9 marked an important point in the marque’s progression from small sports car specialist to world-class manufacturer. And it’s going to be a wrench to see it go.
Styling is a subjective thing, but few would disagree that the DB9 is a mighty handsome machine, even – or perhaps especially – in its most basic incarnation. In this final GT form, though, a classy black front splitter and rear diffuser only enhance its sleek lines.
It looks just right.
Inside, those incremental improvements we mentioned before are most apparent. Certain cheap-feeling parts bin components of earlier machines have been replaced by specially designed items, while in-car tech, fit and finish have come on in leaps and bounds.
Mst importantly, the DB9 GT lives up to its Grand Tourer name on the road. Its performance is composed and controlled, and it eats the miles with ease.
The naturally aspirated 540bhp 5935cc V12 has 30bhp more than the standard car, and is teamed with a six-ratio auto rather than the latest eight-speeder. It’s beguilingly smooth, and its spread of power is perfectly complemented by superb chassis balance.
Most importantly, the DB9 GT lives up to its Grand Tourer name on the road
Negating the possible adverse effects of a heavy engine sitting low in the front of a not-exactly-lightweight car, the Aston steers beautifully.
While the handling may not be the last word as far as agility goes, it’s reassuring, does what you tell it to and makes you smile – just as a GT should. Newer rivals take note.
Times move on, though, and soon the DB9 will be gone. It will be much missed – but wow, what an exit!
