Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante

The case for the DBS Superleggera Volante

The Volante takes the DBS Superleggera's 715 bhp twin-turbo V12 and removes the roof. The result is one of the fastest convertibles ever built, with the same 211 mph top speed and a huge injection of open-air drama. The fabric hood is well engineered, and the chassis has been reinforced to compensate for the lost roof structure.

The Volante is marginally heavier and a fraction softer than the coupe, but in a car with this much power the difference is academic on the road. For many buyers, the ability to hear the V12 properly makes the Volante the one to have.

What it costs to run

Identical to the coupe in mechanical terms: £1,200 to £2,000 for annual specialist servicing, expensive carbon-ceramic brakes, substantial tyre costs and 15 to 20 mpg. The roof mechanism adds a potential maintenance item; convertible roofs on any car require care and occasional attention to seals, hydraulics and alignment.

Budget for the same flagship costs as the coupe, plus the possibility of roof-related work on an older example.

Known weak points

The Volante shares the coupe's dated infotainment and electrical complexity. The roof mechanism must be checked carefully: slow operation, misalignment or seal leaks are warning signs. Carbon-ceramic brakes and carbon bodywork are expensive to repair or replace. Check the boot and cabin for any signs of water ingress, which can damage electronics and trim. As with all modern Astons, battery condition and storage practices matter.

What to check before buying

Operate the roof through several full cycles and check for smooth, even movement and proper sealing. Inspect seals and drainage channels. Check the cabin and boot for any sign of past water leaks. Beyond the roof, follow the coupe's checklist: full history, carbon-ceramic disc condition, carbon bodywork inspection, electrical function checks and campaign completion. A specialist inspection is essential.

Market and depreciation

The Volante carries a premium over the coupe, with values typically £10,000 to £20,000 higher for equivalent cars. Depreciation has been steep from the original £230,000-plus list price, but the Volante's rarity and appeal may support values better than the coupe in the long term. Convertible super-GTs have a durable niche among collectors.

Who it suits

The buyer who wants the full DBS experience with open-air drama and accepts the modest compromises in weight and sharpness. It is a magnificent long-distance convertible.

Alternatives

Ferrari 812 GTS, Bentley Continental GTC Speed, McLaren 720S Spider, or a Mercedes-AMG SL 63 at much lower cost.

The Volante convertible version of the DBS Superleggera combines the 715hp twin-turbo V12 with a fabric roof and open-air drama. Structural bracing adds weight over the coupe, but the performance remains extraordinary, and with the roof down the V12 soundtrack becomes a central part of the experience. It is arguably the more emotionally appealing of the two body styles, trading a little rigidity for a great deal of theatre.

The fabric roof mechanism is an additional inspection point: operate it fully, checking for smooth movement, correct latching and any warning messages, and inspect the fabric for wear, fading or damage. Water seals around the roof deserve close attention, as does the condition of the tonneau and its fittings. Verify the chassis bracing and structure show no signs of stress or repair, and check the boot space remains usable with the roof stowed.

Values sit above the coupe reflecting the additional cost when new, though the depreciation curve has been similar. As with the coupe, the buying priorities are documentation, carbon bodywork condition and evidence of careful use. The Volante suits the buyer who wants the full DBS performance with the added pleasure of open-air motoring; driven regularly and maintained properly, it is one of the most complete convertible grand tourers of its era.

The Volante's roof mechanism is well engineered but adds weight and complexity over the coupe. Operate it fully during inspection, checking for smooth movement and correct latching, and inspect the fabric for wear. The open-air experience transforms the DBS: the V12 soundtrack with the roof down is one of the great automotive experiences, and the car loses little of its dynamic ability to the convertible conversion.

Open alternatives at this level are few: the Ferrari 812 GTS is the obvious rival, and the choice between them is one of character. The Aston is the more relaxed, the Ferrari the more frenetic. Values for the Volante track above the coupe, reflecting its additional cost when new. For the buyer who wants the ultimate open-air Aston Martin experience with genuine supercar performance, the DBS Volante delivers in full. Buy on documentation and condition, and maintain through the specialist network.

The roof mechanism should be operated fully during inspection, checking for smooth movement and correct latching. The fabric should be inspected for wear, and the seals for evidence of water ingress. The Volante's values track above the coupe, reflecting its additional cost when new. Against the Ferrari 812 GTS, the Aston offers a more relaxed, characterful alternative. For the buyer seeking the ultimate open-air Aston Martin with genuine supercar performance, the DBS Volante is a compelling and beautiful choice. Buy on documentation and condition, and maintain through the specialist network.

How this review was compiled

Research-based ownership review using Aston Martin specifications, independent buying guides and owner reports. We have not driven this car. Verify condition, service history and roof operation for any individual car before purchase.