Aston Martin DBS: Models and Specs

The DBS name first appeared in 1967 as the intended successor to the DB6, a fastback‑bodied GT with a four-litre straight‑six engine that shared its basic architecture with the DB6 but introduced a more modern, squared‑off silhouette. In 1970, Aston introduced the DBS V8, swapping the six‑cylinder for a 5.3‑litre V8 and adding an automatic transmission option. Production ended in 1972 as Aston shifted focus to the V8‑based Aston Martin V8, but that certainly wasn’t the end of the story.

The name was revived in 2007 with the DBS V12, a grand tourer based on the DB9/VH platform and positioned above the DB9 as Aston’s new flagship. This generation gained global fame as James Bond’s car in Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, cementing its status as a modern classic. The current DBS Superleggera of 2018 onwards has similarly built on the DB11 platform, using a 5.2‑litre twin‑turbo V12 to deliver supercar performance in a GT body.

Across all three generations, the DBS has featured lightweight aluminium‑rich structures, powerful front‑mid‑mounted engines and rear‑wheel drive, with escalating power and sophistication across its three generations. 

The 1967–72 DBS started out with a 283 bhp straight‑six that still feels brisk for its era, though the subsequent 315 bhp V8 blew it away. Similarly, the 2007–12 DBS V12 delivers 510‑bhp to reach 0–62 mph in 4.3 seconds, sitting midway between the DB9 and the DBR9 race car in character. As for the current DBS Superleggera/770 Ultimate, it can hit 0–62 mph in 3.2 seconds before going onto a top speed of 211 mph.

The Aston Martin DBS is instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, albeit with a more aggressive take on the signature fastback GT proportions. The first-generation DBS introduced a squared‑off fastback silhouette, whereas the 2007–12 V12 had a muscular front end, prominent air intakes and a wider stance that hinted at its race‑car underpinnings. The current DBS Superleggera/770 Ultimate has a sculpted front bumper, larger air intakes and a more pronounced rear diffuser.

Stepping into any DBS reveals a world of hand‑stitched leather, machined metal and modern technology that prioritises driver engagement without sacrificing comfort. The driving position is more sporting than in a DB9 or DB11, but the shared DNA with each non-DBS model is always evident.

The Aston Martin DBS spans three distinct generations:

• Aston Martin DBS (1967–1972). A 4.0‑litre straight‑six and later 5.3‑litre V8 fastback GT based on the DB6 platform.

• Aston Martin DBS (2007–2012). Powered by a 5.9‑litre V12, this VH‑platform grand tourer was positioned above the DB9.

• Aston Martin DBS (2018–present). A 5.2‑litre twin‑turbo V12 powers this DB11‑based super‑GT.

The 1967–72 DBS predates electronic safety aids, with only the driver’s skill keeping the show on the road. By contrast, the 2007–12 and 2018–present DBS models feature the full roster of modern driver aids, including stability and traction control. The DBS 770 Ultimate adds adaptive cruise control and lane‑keeping assist, though the latter may not be particularly welcome on the Stelvio Pass.

Pros:

• Three distinct generations with different character and appeal; classic, modern and super‑GT

• Strong club and specialist parts network sustained by Aston Martin marque enthusiasm

• Rear‑wheel drive and well‑resolved suspension give rewarding driving dynamics

• Always among the most coveted Astons, given their flagship status

Cons:

• Build quality can vary from one car to the next, depending on past owners

• Sheer level of performance on offer demands respect and attentiveness

• Prices are very high, especially for modern examples

Think of the DBS as a flagship model - a Ghia or a Sovereign - rather than a range of cars. It’s the ultimate derivation of three high-performance Astons - the DB6, DB9 and DB11.

In the eight years since it debuted, there have been three: the DBS Superleggera, DBS GT and DBS 770 Ultimate. Each has its own performance specifics but broadly similar design, interior fitments and road manners.

The 1967–72 DBS shares components with the DB6 and V8, while the 2007–12 DBS V12 and 2018–present DBS Superleggera/770 Ultimate share components with the DB9 and DB11. The latter also benefits from relatively recent manufacture, which means parts should be readily available.