Reviving a famous model name from Aston Martin’s past, the DBS was based on the DB9 and replaced the outgoing Vanquish S in 2008 as the company’s top-of-the-range supercar. In terms of its styling, the DBS was clearly a development of the DB9 but with the additions of a carbon-fibre front splitter and carbon-fibre rear diffuser among others. State-of-the-art manufacturing techniques were employed in making the aluminium/composite body, which was robotically assembled using a combination of self-piercing rivets and adhesive. The aluminium chassis is known as the ‘VH Generation 2’ platform, ‘VH’ referring to its vertical and horizontal adaptability.

The DBS was powered by a development of the 6.0-litre, 48-valve, V12 engine found in other Aston Martin models, producing 510bhp initially, an output sufficient to propel the aerodynamic coupé to a top speed of 305km/h (190mph) in manual transmission form, with 60mph attainable from a standing start in a neck-snapping 4.3 seconds. The aluminium engine was mounted as far back as possible in the chassis, while the transmission/final drive was combined in a rear transaxle, resulting in 85% of the car’s mass being sited between the axles and a perfect 50/50 front/rear weight distribution, with commensurate benefits to handling, roadholding, and controllability. Transmission options were a six-speed manual or six-speed ‘Touchtronic 2’ paddle-shift semi-automatic, while the striking 20″ wheels were considered by some to be the best looking on any Aston Martin.

As is usually the case with modern Aston Martins, there was also a convertible Volante version, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009. The DBS Volante featured a powered retractable fabric roof, which could be folded down into a compartment behind the seats at the touch of a button. Heavier than the coupé due to the additional chassis strengthening needed for an open car, the Volante was nevertheless no slouch, racing to 100km/h (62mph) in 4.3 seconds on its way to a maximum speed of 307km/h (191mph). DBS production ceased in 2012.

Commissioned from Aston Martin by our vendor, the DBS Volante offered here is one of eight different models forming the Orange Special Limited Edition Collection, all of which are finished in unique Orange No.1 paintwork. Built to Swiss specifications, the car comes with a certificate of authenticity from Aston Martin; a copy of the sales invoice; a photocopy EC Certificate of Conformity; a (photocopy) Swiss Carte Grise; and a detailed list of its money-no-object specification. The DBS has recently benefited from recommissioning by noted marque specialists Stratton Motor Company.

Please note that if this vehicle remains in Belgium, it will be subject to Import Duty at 10% (+VAT) and 21% Import VAT on the hammer price. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary for VAT rate and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances with the Bonhams Customs Agents. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered countries rate. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.

Please note that this vehicle is offered without any original registration documents, bidders should satisfy themselves as to registration requirements in their own jurisdiction. Please contact the department for further information.

If you like orange you can buy them all: Aston Martin DBS Volante, DBS Coupé, DB9 Volante, DB0 Coupé, V12 Vantage Coupé, V8 Vantage Roadster, V8 Vantage Coupé. For more information you can visit www.bonhams.com