The worst keep secret in the automotive world is finally official as Aston Martin announced the DB11 will now be offered with an AMG-sourced twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine.
Producing 503 bhp (375 kW) and 695 Nm (513 lb-ft) of torque, the new engine propels the DB11 from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.0 seconds and onto a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).
To put those numbers into prospective, the car’s optional twin-turbo 5.2-liter V12 engine develops 600 hp (447 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. Despite the extra power, the performance between the two engines is pretty similar as the V12 model runs from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph (321 km/h).
Part of the reason for the similar performance figures is the fact that the V8 engine is smaller and lighter than the V12. Aston Martin says the weight difference between the two models is 253 lbs (114 kg) which means the V8 variant has a curb weight of 3,880 lbs (1,860 kg).
As part of the transition from Mercedes to Aston Martin, the twin-turbo V8 engine has been equipped with a bespoke air intake, a new exhaust system, and a wet sump lubrication system. The firm also created new ECU software and reprogrammed the engine and throttle mapping to “ensure it possesses the all-important feel and sound for which Aston Martins are renowned.”
The tweaks don’t stop there as Aston Martin added new engine mounts and made “detailed revisions to the suspension bushing, geometry, anti-roll bars, springs, dampers and ESP software.”
To visually distinguish the two models, designers gave the V8 variant dark headlight bezels, unique alloy wheels, and two hood vents instead of the four found on the V12 version.
The DB11 V8 is currently available to order and U.S. pricing starts at $198,995. Deliveries are slated to occur in the fourth quarter and the car is $17,500 less than the V12 model.
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