honda lightweight wheels
Starting in no particular order, one of the first items that draws people’s attention to the DBS is the engine. The engine is a hand-made 6.0L V12 engine that can perform with a six speed transmission. The 6.0L here refers to a 6000cc engine and the V12 refers to the engine using 12 cylinders in the shape of a V. The weight distribution level around the engine is even and perfect. This allows for fast speeds and great acceleration levels while still being able to control the way the car moves with ease.
Introduced as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, which is common in Europe, DBS customers will now be afforded the option of the Touchtronic six-speed automatic transmission. The DBS design is consistent with that on the DB9, with Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive modes selected via facia mounted controls.
The DBS is built with an alloy VH, or Vertical Horizontal, design. This is a design that is light in weight and has a majority of its weight placed in its wheelbase. The design here is used to help with keeping the weight down as well as to keep it balanced so that it is easier to control the car. This comes down to the laws of physics, in particular the centre of gravity. The lower the weight is to the ground the more stable the vehicle on a straight road or a corner.
The DBS uses twenty inch lightweight wheels featuring Pirelli tyres that have been built specifically for Aston Martin cars. To go along with these wheels there is a Dynamic Stability Control system. This system, which can be activated or deactivated by the driver, is used to place limits on car movements in instances of tough traction. Just as with the weight of the DBS being focussed in the wheel base, a wide tyre helps maintain grip with the road and reduces the likelihood of spinning out of control.
Within the DBS, a semi-aniline leather is used in the interior along with carbon fibre doors and silver finishes. The seats can be adjusted electronically, which is in-keeping with modern luxury cars. A trip computer is featured in the centre console with hard disk drive navigation service. A tyre pressure system is used to monitor pressure levels.
Alex West is luxury and performance car enthusiast. Currently I drive a Mercedes C-Class, and I’m slowly working my way up. You can find out more about the Aston Martin experience at http://www.experienceastonmartin.co.uk/aston-martin-dbs.php
Honda Fit Track Action @ El Tuque in Ponce Puerto Rico
