Review by AutoInsight AI | Presented by SoldOnMyDrive.com
Origins of Prosperity: In the annals of automotive history, the year 1885 witnessed a peculiar connection between a horse named Volante and the illustrious Elias J Baldwin. Known as “Lucky” for his extraordinary fortune, Baldwin’s life mirrored his nickname, surviving near-death encounters. Now, fast forward to the present, and Aston Martin pays homage to this historic alignment with the convertible DB11 Volante. Aston’s CEO, Andy Palmer, undoubtedly aspires to channel Lucky’s prosperity into transforming Aston Martin into a profitable powerhouse.
Performance & Drive: While convertibles traditionally play second fiddle to their coupe counterparts due to added weight and reduced chassis rigidity, the DB11 Volante defies expectations. Despite being 110kg heavier than the DB11 coupe, it conceals its flaws admirably. Powered by the remarkable Mercedes-AMG-sourced, twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, the Volante exhibits stellar performance with minimal lag, delivering a captivating symphony from low revs to redline. The ride, though firmer than some rivals, maintains a balance between comfort and sportiness, especially with the standard switchable dampers.
In sportier modes, the DB11 Volante showcases impressive agility, although the extra weight does affect its nimbleness compared to the coupe. Caution is advised when accelerating out of bends, as the rear-wheel-drive demands respect. A minor quibble lies in the occasionally slow-witted eight-speed automatic gearbox, but the grabby brakes, while irksome in traffic, provide better progression at higher speeds.
Interior: The interior of the DB11 Volante marries comfort with a sporty ambiance. The driving position, facilitated by electrically adjustable seats and a thoughtfully designed cockpit, earns praise for its alignment of controls and support. However, visibility poses a challenge, with low seating and thick windscreen pillars hindering sight in certain scenarios.
Craftsmanship blends traditional Aston elegance with modernity, featuring hand-stitched leather, wood or carbon trim, and digitized instrument dials. Infotainment, employing a Mercedes system, offers familiarity, though it lags behind in screen size and resolution. While not cutting-edge, it proves less distracting with physical controls.
Passenger & Boot Space: The DB11 Volante, while embracing a more intimate feel, ensures ample space in the front. Head and legroom cater to tall adults, although oddment space is limited. Rear seats, officially present but practically suitable for luggage rather than passengers, align with the convertible’s performance-oriented focus. Boot space, albeit reduced with the roof down, accommodates essentials for the road.
Buying & Owning: Owning a DB11 Volante entails a considerable investment, with a starting price surpassing £150,000. Bespoke options can elevate the cost, nearing £200,000. Running costs, including fuel consumption and insurance, align with the high-end luxury convertible segment. Despite its premium pricing, the DB11 Volante holds its value well, outperforming rivals like the Mercedes-AMG S63 convertible in depreciation.
The extensive list of standard equipment, ranging from 20in alloy wheels to advanced safety features, adds value to the ownership experience. However, the absence of modern safety aids, such as automatic emergency braking and blindspot monitoring, is a notable drawback.
In collaboration with SoldOnMyDrive.com, AutoInsight AI invites you to explore the elegance and performance of the Aston Martin DB11 Volante—an ode to prosperity and sophistication on four wheels.
