Aston Martin DB11 V8 officially launched in Malaysia – AMG-sourced engine with 510 PS, from RM1.8 million

The Aston Martin DB11 makes its second debut in Malaysia today, this time with an eight-cylinder engine as opposed to the V12-powered version introduced by Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur back in September 2016.

The engine itself is sourced from Mercedes-AMG, which is Aston Martin’s technical partner for a good number of years now. It is a M177 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 that is also used in Mercedes-AMG’s ‘63’ models, but differs from the one used in the AMG GT S. Where the M177 (found in the C 63 S) uses a wet sump oil system, the M178 in the GT S has a dry sump instead.

In the DB11, the V8 serves up 510 PS and 675 Nm of torque, which is 98 PS and 25 Nm less than what you’ll get with Aston’s AE31 5.2 litre twin-turbo V12 (608 PS and 700 Nm). Aston Martin also retained the ZF eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission instead of adopting a seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission (DCT), with drive going to the rear wheels.

With four less cylinders and various modifications to accommodate the V8, including new engine mounts and a retuned suspension setup, the V8 model is 115 kg lighter than the V12 one (1,760 kg vs. 1,875 kg). In terms of performance, the DB11 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just four seconds and hit a top speed of 301 km/h, which is 0.1 seconds and 21 km/h slower than the V12 version.

Design-wise, the DB11 V8 is largely similar to the V12-powered model, retaining its lovely exterior shape, Aeroblade channels, clamshell bonnet and side curlicue vents. Even so, the V8 is identified by a pair of bonnet vents rather than the V12’s quartet, dark headlamp bezels and a unique alloy wheel finish.

Not much difference on the inside, with a similar layout showcasing the brand’s revised interior design language. A full-colour 12-inch TFT LCD display serves as the instrument cluster, while a second eight-inch screen in the centre is linked to the car’s COMAND infotainment system – another example of the Mercedes-Aston Martin partnership.

You’re expecting the DB11 V8 to be priced below the V12 model, and you’d be right. Where the DB11 V12 starts from “around RM2 million” including local taxes but before customisation options, the DB11 V8’s base price is estimated at “around RM1.8 million.” So, which one tickles your fancy?

GALLERY: Aston Martin DB11 V8 press photos

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