I think one of the main reasons Aston Martin gave this car a V8 is to get way more sales in markets which tax vehicles based on their displacement, such as China & Singapore. The 1.2L smaller displacement over the V12 makes a big difference in those kinds of markets.
anotherone10 China car tax is based on Displacement but in Singapore it’s based more on open market value. The only difference is annual road tax which is just a few grand, chump change for someone who can afford a million dollar car in Singapore
This is the type of car where you really need to be very careful with choosing the right spec because it is very easy to make it look horrible. Blue and black combination of this one suits it very well 👍 I still find it hard to get used to this new Aston design language. Their cars have always been very elegant and classy and this new design is kinda weird.
The colour is called Zaffre Blue. It's a brand new colour from Aston Martin Q palette. Compared with the Cobalt Blue, this one's a bit deeper under low light yet under bright light it's more iridescent.
A real Aston enthusiast knows that most of the brand's models have either sported a 6 or V8 over the years. Nothing wrong with this at all. A proper engine that will also prove much more reliable.
It has the AMG 4.0L V8 from the AMG GTR which has 577 hp .So the engine is clearly detuned ,the engine has alot more power a rentech tune bumps up AMG GTR to 649 HP and with turbo upgrades 761HP. Imagine this thing with 761HP .It will be a pure monster and obviously faster than the V12 DB11 becuase of lighter weight and more power .Sam buy one of these used prevent Aston depreciation
I like the normal DB11, but the volante ist just gorgeous the V8 amg engines are so refined and perfect for a sporty gt car + it dosn't break fast and easyer to repair
That's what Aston wanted Sam, the V12 as a grand tour, and V8 as a drivers car, and more importantly for the Asian market where the taxes are so high, Great stuff Sam 👍
I've driven some of the older V12 Astons and they're probably similar: mountains of torque, lovely place to be and quick when you put your foot down but don't invite you to absolutely hoon it every saturday afternoon. Although I think this particular DB11 you drove does benefit from a much more punchy spec, which the car really needs IMO. That said I agree it's not really a financial decision and the V8 DB11 is more of a sportscar competitor than a competitor for the V12 version. I for one would much rather have the Aston than an AMG GT for example. One problem for this car though is the new Vantage, which will probably be in the same ballpark price-wise and much more appealing in my view.
Exactly but not only the new vantage this v8 db11 even the v12 have some serious competition from other manufacturers and if the goal here is to offer a more sporty car for twisty roads like Sam said I wouldn’t consider it by nature because it is mainly a gt car and if I were looking for a gt car I would rather have the vanquish
Funny that Sam I thought the opposite about the looks. Stunning to look at from the outside, decidedly ordinary, at least for an Aston, on the inside. New Vantage is soo much better in this respect!
Sam this video is incredible ! Your videos have been getting better and better. I love your latest travel lifestyle videos, they are so well put together. And this one was like a pro car reviewer 👌🏼 makes a change from the others who only know how to wrap and buy and sell cars ! BIG FAN !
Seems like the perfect package for GT car. You can blast down motorway with relatively better fuel economy than the V12 and once you reach your destination, you can still hoon it because it is lighter on the front end and in general.
I've never driven an Aston Martin.. But I must admit, I don't really see the point of this car, other than perhaps a compromise car. If you want an Aston GT, go for the V12 DB11. If you want an Aston sports car go for the new Vantage. I am sure the V8 handles better than the probably nose heavy V12. But the vantage will handle even better. And if it is a GT you are after, the V12 just seems to have so much more caracter.
I completely understood why they did a V8 of these and weight or weight loss was the first thing you think of. As you rightly say, it depends on whether you want a "sporty" drive and long distance cruiser? Both very special 😍
Mint review! You're getting very good, man. I've started liking the DB11 a lot more than before but I'd still choose the V8 Vantage that you drove in the previous video. That car has a lot more character, a manual gearbox and looks way nicer! I loved it!
Couldn't agree with you more as they are hand build flagship top of the line cars with a need for speed and flare. Definitely one of my sought after dream brands especially the v8 or v12 Vantage.
The front of this car looks fantastic, but the rear, I'm unsure about. Imo, it would look great with the db11 front and the vantage rear. I'm curious to see what the next Vanquish, the current Vanquish is the best looking Aston ever made.
Interestingly, the V8 Volante still feels more nimble and fun to drive than the V12 even though the extra cassis stiffening puts some KGs back on. I think it's because the shorter block sits back further in the chassis making the weight closer to the centre.
You mention "why not just get an AMT GT?". I would suggest it's the ride quality not the badge. After 4 hours in an AMG GT you'll really be grimacing and hurting from the stiff ride. In a DB11, you'll be smiling and relaxed from a comfortable cruise.
I loved the aesthetic of the review. I also think the V8 is better than the V12. Not just because of the engine, of course, because if there were more benefits I'd have the V12 in a heartbeat, but I'm still waiting for the new Vantage.
If I was spending money in the real world there are several cars I'd have over this one, I think I'd have buyers remorse pretty soon after.. depressiation will be massive.. probably a great buy in a couple of years
The rear of this thing absolutely kills it for me, but this is by far my favorite spec with the blue and the clear headlights. Just needs some nicer rims.
Tony Knox Let's not forget that EVERY DB MODEL EVER was offered with a straight 6 up until the DB9. A twin-turbo straight 6 is what this car SHOULD have had. But, that implies that the staff at Aston actually know the history of the company (which, evidently, they don't).
Love the content Sam, really enjoy your travel uploads. I think your first cape town video is one of the best videos, what was the music you used through the video?? More specifically straight after your intro. Anyone in the comments know??
If the v12 was n/a rather that twin turbo then it would be better than the v8 but the v8 has more ‘beauty, passion and soul’ which is Aston’s motto. I would have an 05 db9 if I had to buy an Aston because that is the perfect AM! Keep up the great work Sam!
What did you make of the V12 DB11 when you drove it? Sounds like you weren't so keen. I suppose the issue of rear traction highlighted it was turbo charged, the power delivery's different to the N/A power plants, but I found the sound and engine pick up was every bit near as good as the Vanquish S. Horses for courses I guess.
It's probably due to the difference between V8 and V12. I have a V8 Vantage S, which is rowdy, knarly and hard work when you're pressing on. The 4.0 TT engine is a similar story, it's quite shouty and burbly. The V12 cars have an effortless flow to them in power delivery, so they feel indecently quick, with a soundtrack that doesn't befit such nice surroundings. It's part of the appeal, when a noise like that is wrapped in a cocktail dress :-)
I would still drive both but surely the New Vantage wit the same engine and power has taken the appeal off the V8 DB11. It'll do the GT side nearly as well and will handle even better and be more fun.
Well how does it compare to the Maserati Gran Turismo Seen Through? Which is the more appealing car? Which handles better, what car has the superior chassis? The Gran Turismo is Front Mid-engine with better weight distribution. A more powerful turbo or a larger displacement naturally aspirated engine? The Maser has truly usable rear seats and I think has a superior interior design. The wheel choices of the Maserati are outstanding, the exterior of both cars is bold and beautiful, and Maserati does offer some stellar colours Let's see a comparison
Sam you must review the Lexus LC500! In my opinion it's as good if not better and it gives the Aston a real run for its money! plus its as luxurious as the aston and probably more reliable!! I really want to know what you think about it!
john m ABSOLUTELY! Look at how Bentley went so far as to be able to hide the screen with the press of a button. Technology is THE FIRST thing to date a modern car, so however much of it you use, make sure it is either unobtrusive or can be concealed (unlike Aston's giant plastic screen which will remain forever erect.)
flyingphoenix113 I agree with the technology part of what your saying but tech aside.....it still looks dated. The whole shape/layout of the cockpit just seems tired. The steering wheel is probably the ugliest I have ever seen too!
This time you forgot to put an ending song I really like that part especially when it ends and you scroll down to the comments :) I like your videos tho.. keep it up.
It's 13k cheaper in the UK, but if you live in a country with higher emission taxes like Portugal, the difference gets to 45k so...I think this car is fot these countries more than for UK itself
Close figures to the F-Type R, how do you think it compares? Obviously it’s £50k up on the Jag so might not be to fair but interested in the driving differences... would you have the AM or F-Type?
I'm surprised you didn't get hi jacked driving that thing there. Hi jackers love high end cars in South Africa. They follow you everywhere and then pounce at the soonest opportune moment.
I love the car. And that is the colour i would have. But i can't afford one at the moment. And i would rather have the new Vantage. Even that will probably be to expensive. But great video as usual. Keep them coming.
Pizza Love I know. I won't be buying anything at the moment. I´ll wait until i have moved to Italy later this year. But the Vantage isn't gonna come as a used car anytime soon. And probably not in a spec i want for some time.
I really dont like the way that the screen is permanently on display, its a distraction, it looks cheap. I used to love the way the screen retracted into the dash on the old DB9.
Even with the V8 the db11 still on another level of pricing, the Vantage (just like the GTR) used to be a great deal (a bargain for some markets) and the db11 is not, this makes the 911 look like a bargain
I have to ask though... at what point,did car manufacturers think that it was a great idea to 'play' engine sounds through the speakers?! As that must become very disappointing in the end...
a solid vid. not only did u sound like a pro car reviewer this was ur best STG style review so far
Rafiq Ahmed Exactly!! Couldn't have said it better myself
I think one of the main reasons Aston Martin gave this car a V8 is to get way more sales in markets which tax vehicles based on their displacement, such as China & Singapore. The 1.2L smaller displacement over the V12 makes a big difference in those kinds of markets.
anotherone10 China car tax is based on Displacement but in Singapore it’s based more on open market value. The only difference is annual road tax which is just a few grand, chump change for someone who can afford a million dollar car in Singapore
Thee db11 stitching on the headrest looks like some Microsoft word art from 1999
0:33
Where do the Cars coming on the left disappear to? That's some mad editing.
The engine is lighter, so more playful!
Automotive Mike and in countries where they tax displacement its WAY cheaper. But yeah, the V8 is tuned to be sportier and more playful.
This is the type of car where you really need to be very careful with choosing the right spec because it is very easy to make it look horrible. Blue and black combination of this one suits it very well 👍 I still find it hard to get used to this new Aston design language. Their cars have always been very elegant and classy and this new design is kinda weird.
The colour is called Zaffre Blue. It's a brand new colour from Aston Martin Q palette. Compared with the Cobalt Blue, this one's a bit deeper under low light yet under bright light it's more iridescent.
A real Aston enthusiast knows that most of the brand's models have either sported a 6 or V8 over the years. Nothing wrong with this at all. A proper engine that will also prove much more reliable.
It has the AMG 4.0L V8 from the AMG GTR which has 577 hp .So the engine is clearly detuned ,the engine has alot more power a rentech tune bumps up AMG GTR to 649 HP and with turbo upgrades 761HP. Imagine this thing with 761HP .It will be a pure monster and obviously faster than the V12 DB11 becuase of lighter weight and more power .Sam buy one of these used prevent Aston depreciation
Pizza Love could be awesome !
Isnt it the “normal” 510 hp AMG engine from for example the C 63 S
This is the same engines as the AMG GT S, the AMG GT R has a different version
Kaisuke971 yeah think that too
Actually it has the 4.0 V8 from the AMG GTS, with 503hp not the GTR.
I like the normal DB11, but the volante ist just gorgeous
the V8 amg engines are so refined and perfect for a sporty gt car + it dosn't break fast and easyer to repair
That's what Aston wanted Sam, the V12 as a grand tour, and V8 as a drivers car, and more importantly for the Asian market where the taxes are so high, Great stuff Sam 👍
Wow that look left to right for the transition at the beginning of the video was superb!
I've driven some of the older V12 Astons and they're probably similar: mountains of torque, lovely place to be and quick when you put your foot down but don't invite you to absolutely hoon it every saturday afternoon. Although I think this particular DB11 you drove does benefit from a much more punchy spec, which the car really needs IMO.
That said I agree it's not really a financial decision and the V8 DB11 is more of a sportscar competitor than a competitor for the V12 version. I for one would much rather have the Aston than an AMG GT for example. One problem for this car though is the new Vantage, which will probably be in the same ballpark price-wise and much more appealing in my view.
Exactly but not only the new vantage this v8 db11 even the v12 have some serious competition from other manufacturers and if the goal here is to offer a more sporty car for twisty roads like Sam said I wouldn’t consider it by nature because it is mainly a gt car and if I were looking for a gt car I would rather have the vanquish
Funny that Sam I thought the opposite about the looks. Stunning to look at from the outside, decidedly ordinary, at least for an Aston, on the inside. New Vantage is soo much better in this respect!
Sam this video is incredible ! Your videos have been getting better and better. I love your latest travel lifestyle videos, they are so well put together. And this one was like a pro car reviewer 👌🏼 makes a change from the others who only know how to wrap and buy and sell cars ! BIG FAN !
Nicely done review, the V8 gets my vote any day of the week.
If I'm buying a DB11 it's gotta be the V12. If I want a V8 Aston, I'll get the Vantage.
Seems like the perfect package for GT car. You can blast down motorway with relatively better fuel economy than the V12 and once you reach your destination, you can still hoon it because it is lighter on the front end and in general.
I've never driven an Aston Martin.. But I must admit, I don't really see the point of this car, other than perhaps a compromise car. If you want an Aston GT, go for the V12 DB11. If you want an Aston sports car go for the new Vantage. I am sure the V8 handles better than the probably nose heavy V12. But the vantage will handle even better. And if it is a GT you are after, the V12 just seems to have so much more caracter.
Really loved this video Sam, well done!
Yes absolutely definitely
I completely understood why they did a V8 of these and weight or weight loss was the first thing you think of. As you rightly say, it depends on whether you want a "sporty" drive and long distance cruiser? Both very special 😍
Stunning car. Hope you enjoyed Cape Town, please come back!
Great video bud.. And I love the sound of the v8, its amazing..
Mint review! You're getting very good, man. I've started liking the DB11 a lot more than before but I'd still choose the V8 Vantage that you drove in the previous video. That car has a lot more character, a manual gearbox and looks way nicer! I loved it!
No beauty shots and music :O but didn't feel like I missed anything! That's how you know it's a good vid. You tha man
Great video and great shirt Sam! What a beautiful blue honestly.
You really did sound like a pro reviewer in this one, but you still had that STG touch. Your videos are only getting better and better
That's the Franschoek Pass by the way
LOOK NO BRAKES Thank you! 😁
Thanks for the info, just before I went into the detect and search action! :)
Couldn't agree with you more as they are hand build flagship top of the line cars with a need for speed and flare. Definitely one of my sought after dream brands especially the v8 or v12 Vantage.
The front of this car looks fantastic, but the rear, I'm unsure about. Imo, it would look great with the db11 front and the vantage rear. I'm curious to see what the next Vanquish, the current Vanquish is the best looking Aston ever made.
It would look good in a bright wine colour
Interestingly, the V8 Volante still feels more nimble and fun to drive than the V12 even though the extra cassis stiffening puts some KGs back on. I think it's because the shorter block sits back further in the chassis making the weight closer to the centre.
Brilliant review of the car and another great vlog.
you might wanna look at the lc500. it gives this car a run for its money
Plus it looks better inside and out and will be extremely reliable.
Jeff K Actually the new V8 Lexus cars are having a recall for their fuel pump. Not always black and white, anything can break no matter who makes it.
Zac Maybe in feel but not limit handling or acceleration. Engine sounds very good though.
Great video. Was so nice to meet you
Looks pretty great on the outside, but I still *hate* the interior.
Tes, lost all the architectural design of the DB9 and looks like a Korean sports car inside, So dated already(
The quality or at least the sense of quality takes quite a drop. I guess you could also blame the immense beauty of Aston exteriors.
That jump cut from 0:35 was almost unnoticeable.
I think you should replace the Cayman with something like an F Type SVR!
This car in this spec is soo cool, I would add a bit of color to the interior but other than that, just lovely
You mention "why not just get an AMT GT?". I would suggest it's the ride quality not the badge. After 4 hours in an AMG GT you'll really be grimacing and hurting from the stiff ride. In a DB11, you'll be smiling and relaxed from a comfortable cruise.
I loved the aesthetic of the review. I also think the V8 is better than the V12. Not just because of the engine, of course, because if there were more benefits I'd have the V12 in a heartbeat, but I'm still waiting for the new Vantage.
Hello one and all and welcome to seen through Assss!
Lighter, more economical, still massively powerful, sounds great, I'd get the V8 without any worries in the world.
The question should be "Why wouldn't you buy an V8 Aston Martin DB11"
Well 99.99% of the viewers can’t afford the car anyway
My sentiments exactly RE: the younger market for the DB11 V8
If I was spending money in the real world there are several cars I'd have over this one, I think I'd have buyers remorse pretty soon after.. depressiation will be massive.. probably a great buy in a couple of years
The rear of this thing absolutely kills it for me, but this is by far my favorite spec with the blue and the clear headlights. Just needs some nicer rims.
Wow, that is a wonderful spec! 😍
*Yes i would , the interior is to die for ! the noise is a bonus ;)*
In the Netherlands (and maybe some other european countries) its 41k cheaper than a V12 (230K instead of 271K)
Let's not forget that the DB7 was offered with a straight-six, so this car being offered with a V8 doesn't necessarily devalue the DB nameplate.
TriHard Cx ; V6!, don't think so, DB7 was a 3.2L i 6 supercharged engine and DB7 vantage was 6.0L (5.9) V12
Tony Knox Forgot it was a straight-six, fixed it now. Thanks.
TriHard Cx ; I thought I was still hangover when I saw that lol, no problem 👍
Tony Knox Let's not forget that EVERY DB MODEL EVER was offered with a straight 6 up until the DB9. A twin-turbo straight 6 is what this car SHOULD have had. But, that implies that the staff at Aston actually know the history of the company (which, evidently, they don't).
flyingphoenix113 ; ( EVERY? ) DB Aston up until the DB 9 was a straight six you said🤔, DB7 Vantge was a V12, so your point is?
Sounds brilliant! AMG know what they're doing.
well I did think about a DB11 V8, my local dealer wasn't able to source a demonstrator, how ridiculous is that!!
Good to see more POV clips
Will the DB12 have a V6 ? 🤔
Love the content Sam, really enjoy your travel uploads. I think your first cape town video is one of the best videos, what was the music you used through the video?? More specifically straight after your intro. Anyone in the comments know??
If the v12 was n/a rather that twin turbo then it would be better than the v8 but the v8 has more ‘beauty, passion and soul’ which is Aston’s motto. I would have an 05 db9 if I had to buy an Aston because that is the perfect AM! Keep up the great work Sam!
What did you make of the V12 DB11 when you drove it? Sounds like you weren't so keen. I suppose the issue of rear traction highlighted it was turbo charged, the power delivery's different to the N/A power plants, but I found the sound and engine pick up was every bit near as good as the Vanquish S. Horses for courses I guess.
Mr Nitromethane I don’t know how to describe it. I wasn’t driving but it just didn’t feel like a proper Aston like the db9 does.
It's probably due to the difference between V8 and V12. I have a V8 Vantage S, which is rowdy, knarly and hard work when you're pressing on. The 4.0 TT engine is a similar story, it's quite shouty and burbly. The V12 cars have an effortless flow to them in power delivery, so they feel indecently quick, with a soundtrack that doesn't befit such nice surroundings. It's part of the appeal, when a noise like that is wrapped in a cocktail dress :-)
I would still drive both but surely the New Vantage wit the same engine and power has taken the appeal off the V8 DB11. It'll do the GT side nearly as well and will handle even better and be more fun.
That blue colour is awesome
What do you think of the comparison with the Portofino? Even more elegant, even more powerful, and only a little more expensive.
Well how does it compare to the Maserati Gran Turismo Seen Through? Which is the more appealing car? Which handles better, what car has the superior chassis? The Gran Turismo is Front Mid-engine with better weight distribution. A more powerful turbo or a larger displacement naturally aspirated engine? The Maser has truly usable rear seats and I think has a superior interior design. The wheel choices of the Maserati are outstanding, the exterior of both cars is bold and beautiful, and Maserati does offer some stellar colours Let's see a comparison
Sam you must review the Lexus LC500! In my opinion it's as good if not better and it gives the Aston a real run for its money! plus its as luxurious as the aston and probably more reliable!! I really want to know what you think about it!
Already looks dated inside. Other manufacturers, even more mainstream cars, look better internally.
Phillip McCreight well, that's what happens when a small, independent car maker decides that they want to be "innovative" and "futuristic."
john m ABSOLUTELY! Look at how Bentley went so far as to be able to hide the screen with the press of a button. Technology is THE FIRST thing to date a modern car, so however much of it you use, make sure it is either unobtrusive or can be concealed (unlike Aston's giant plastic screen which will remain forever erect.)
flyingphoenix113 I agree with the technology part of what your saying but tech aside.....it still looks dated. The whole shape/layout of the cockpit just seems tired. The steering wheel is probably the ugliest I have ever seen too!
flyingphoenix113 I
So you have options .. choose something else.
This time you forgot to put an ending song
I really like that part especially when it ends and you scroll down to the comments :)
I like your videos tho.. keep it up.
I been a subscriber for 2 years wow
The best looking aston martin so far :)x
Sam, Sam , Sam...gave you the thumbs up but if you thought V12 was lethargic, you need to try again! (not ONLY saying that cuz I have one)
Brilliant review
That blue it stunning 😍 Loved tbe video, I'd still get a vanquish though I think. Not that I can afford it but you know 😂
I prefer a Aston Martin DB9 convertible or a Jaguar XKR convertible. Well I´m 52 old now, I guess am a old person now.
I still can't decide on the DB11's looks
Hi Sam, just wondering how long your going to be in South Africa?
I love the videos by the way. Your content gets better and better.
I wish to know what is the name of this particular blue, so beautiful!
You should also mention that in many countries the price difference is a lot more than 13 000£.
can't believe i saw you drive past when you were filming this
Do the rear seats decline so you can fit skis?
It's 13k cheaper in the UK, but if you live in a country with higher emission taxes like Portugal, the difference gets to 45k so...I think this car is fot these countries more than for UK itself
Sick vid Sam 👍
Close figures to the F-Type R, how do you think it compares? Obviously it’s £50k up on the Jag so might not be to fair but interested in the driving differences... would you have the AM or F-Type?
Nice color, pretty badass car & amazing engine = Aston Martin 💙
I am correct in saying this was shot in Cape Town?
good video mate!
i think AM should make a lightweight l little stripped out version of the v12
what camera do you use to get the intro bit of walking up and getting into the car>?
5:12 - 5:15. yes.
Nice one Sam!
I'm surprised you didn't get hi jacked driving that thing there. Hi jackers love high end cars in South Africa. They follow you everywhere and then pounce at the soonest opportune moment.
Stop lying bro, maybe if you were talking about a VW/Toyota/Ford I would agree with you
I love the car.
And that is the colour i would have.
But i can't afford one at the moment.
And i would rather have the new Vantage.
Even that will probably be to expensive.
But great video as usual.
Keep them coming.
Denis Spratt DB11 Volante > new Vantage > DB11
Denis Spratt Don't buy an Aston Martin new buy a used with 4-5K miles you will atleast save 20K
Pizza Love
I know.
I won't be buying anything at the moment.
I´ll wait until i have moved to Italy later this year.
But the Vantage isn't gonna come as a used car anytime soon.
And probably not in a spec i want for some time.
CinemaUnited.
What do you mean with this?
New vantage is absolutely insane!
I really dont like the way that the screen is permanently on display, its a distraction, it looks cheap. I used to love the way the screen retracted into the dash on the old DB9.
Awesome specced Aston Martin DB11
Such a cool car!🏎
Even with the V8 the db11 still on another level of pricing, the Vantage (just like the GTR) used to be a great deal (a bargain for some markets) and the db11 is not, this makes the 911 look like a bargain
Quality review
I have to ask though... at what point,did car manufacturers think that it was a great idea to 'play' engine sounds through the speakers?! As that must become very disappointing in the end...
Those roads!
For me this is the same as the Continental GT where i'd prefer to have the V8 version, even though it's less powerful.
I think most likely they introduced this engine for the Chinese market especially, since there anything over 4000cc gets crazy taxed
IMO the v12 sounds more like an Aston Martin and the updates to the v8 are being carried over to the v12 anyway
Why no number plates?
in an Aston Martin with a Mercedes engine and the V12 with a Ford engine, take you pick!