About the Aston Martin DB9
Produced from 2004 to 2016, the DB9 established itself as Aston Martin's flagship GT, sitting on the VH platform that underpinned much of the brand's range. Power comes from a 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 producing between 450bhp and 517bhp depending on the model year, paired with either a six-speed manual or the Touchtronic automatic gearbox.
The DB9 was available as both a coupe and Volante (convertible), with the latter commanding a premium of around £5,000 to £10,000. A facelift in 2013 brought revised styling, improved interior materials and extra power, making these later cars particularly sought after. Build quality improved notably over the production run, with earlier cars requiring more attention to maintenance.
What Affects the Price of a Used DB9
Mileage plays a significant role in pricing, with sub-30,000-mile examples fetching top money whilst cars approaching 80,000 miles drop considerably. Service history is critical - a full Aston Martin main dealer history adds substantial value, whilst gaps in servicing can knock £10,000 or more off the asking price.
Model year creates clear price brackets, with pre-facelift cars (2004-2012) starting from £35,000 and post-facelift models (2013-2016) commanding £70,000 upwards. Colour combinations matter too, with classic shades like Tungsten Silver and Meteorite Silver more desirable than unusual hues. Specification affects value, particularly options like carbon ceramic brakes, Bang & Olufsen sound systems and sports packs.
Condition of consumables such as tyres, brakes and the clutch (on manual cars) can indicate deferred maintenance. Any paintwork or bodywork repairs should be professionally executed, as costs to rectify panel damage at Aston Martin specialists are substantial.
Tips for Buying a Used Aston Martin DB9
Always insist on a comprehensive inspection by an Aston Martin specialist before purchase. Common issues include battery drain from the alarm system, suspension bushing wear, and gearbox concerns on early Touchtronic cars. Budget at least £1,500 to £2,000 annually for servicing, with major services costing upwards of £3,000.
Check for evidence of corrosion around the rear wheelarches and beneath the door sills, particularly on higher-mileage cars. The interior should be free from excessive wear to the leather and electronic faults - replacement parts are expensive. Verify that all electrical functions operate correctly, including the seat adjustment, climate control and navigation system.
Manual gearbox cars are rarer and often more valuable to enthusiasts, though the later Touchtronic III automatic (from 2013) is vastly improved over earlier versions. Consider buying from established Aston Martin specialists or dealers who offer warranties, as repair costs can easily exceed the value of cheaper examples if major components fail.