Channel 007 with this 12-cylinder British automotive icon
It’s not every day that you come across such a pristine, low-mileage Aston Martin DBS with a manual gearbox, just the way James Bond would like it. In fact, Daniel Craig drove one similar to this in 2008’s Quantum of Solace. Built during an era when the brand still offered its flagship grand tourer with a proper clutch pedal, the DBS remains one of the most desirable modern Astons.
The car paired its hand-built 5.9-liter V12 with a six-speed manual transmission, making it one of the last true analog super GTs. With a lightweight carbon-fiber body and timeless British styling, this 2009 Aston Martin DBS might just be one of the most collectible modern-era Astons to surface in recent years, especially considering its ludicrously low 25,000 miles on the odometer.
Why this example is so desirable
This particular DBS is finished in a striking shade of metallic gray over a black leather interior with Alcantara accents. The classic Aston proportions, including a long hood, fastback body, short rear deck, and wide stance, are enhanced by aluminum and carbon-fiber construction. 20-inch alloy wheels sit over carbon-ceramic brakes, ensuring both performance credibility and visual drama. A trunk lip spoiler, winged taillights, a rear diffuser, and twin round exhaust outlets cap off a stunning back end.
Inside, the DBS is all business yet rife with British elegance. Leather and Alcantara suede sport seats with huge bolsters, carbon fiber trim bits, a sapphire crystal starter button, and the glorious aluminum shift knob all showcase Aston Martin’s trademark craftsmanship. An Aston Martin premium audio system and automatic climate control provide modern amenities. The absence of a touchscreen makes it all the more driver-focused.
Twelve glorious cylinders and three pedals
Under the hood sits Aston Martin’s legendary 5.9-liter naturally aspirated V12, producing 510 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, the DBS can sprint from 0–60 mph in just over 4 seconds and reach a top speed north of 190 mph. The DBS also has a carbon-fiber shaft and a limited-slip differential. Unlike the paddle-shifted automated manuals offered in later models, this car gives drivers full control, delivering a tactile connection between engine, gearbox, and road.
Recent maintenance history adds to the appeal. According to the seller, service records include clutch work, new ignition coils, new spark plugs, and a new power steering pump. With just 25k miles, it has been driven enough to stay healthy yet remains lightly used compared to many high-performance exotics from the same era. Only 6k miles were added by the current owner.
This 2009 Aston Martin DBS is currently up for auction with two days remaining. The bidding is currently at $71,000, and given the low miles, manual transmission, and overall condition, it’s reasonable to expect the final price to exceed six figures but likely nowhere near the original $269k MSRP. These three-pedal DBS models with low mileage, great condition, and iconic status don't come around every day.
Final thoughts
The Aston Martin DBS represents the end of an era: a naturally aspirated V12 grand tourer paired with a manual gearbox. It’s equal parts elegant and ferocious, blending classic James Bond style with raw, analog performance. The combination of V12 power and three pedals makes it an enthusiast's delight, while its low mileage and clean presentation offer a rare chance to own one of the most desirable modern Astons ever built.
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the Car Buying section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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