Author: Fitzsimons, Brian;
Published: 14
December
2005
Abstract
The rebirth of Aston Martin commenced with the DB9. The highly demanding dynamic targets of this new vehicle required a new powertrain layout in the strategic modular bonded aluminium platform and front engine coupled to a rear transaxle via a rigid torque tube.
The V12 engine in the DB9 was derived from the Vanquish engine and modified to give extra mid range torque over an extended operating range. It was positioned even lower and more rearward in the vehicle than in its previous installations in both Vanquish and DB7. A six speed automatic transmission was modified to be mated to a bespoke differential unit and installed in the rear transaxle postion. An innovative single piece cast aluminium torque tube incorporating a lightweight carbon fibre prop-shaft was developed to connect the engine and transaxle assemblies. The fully integrated powertrain assembly was the heart of the award winning DB9.