DB9 or Ferrari 456M? Looking for some guidance

...have you considered a maserati granturismo?..it's the only car i've been in which beats aston martin at its own game...

 

It really depends on what you want. A Ferrari is a Ferrari. I sold my 355 for the DB9 and while I love the DB9 I felt like there was a great big hole in my life when the 355 was gone...so I bought a F430 a few years later.

4 seater Ferraris do not hold their value at all and neither do Aston Martins so it is kind of a wash in that respect except for the fact the the 456 is a lot older so at this point you will probably see slower depreciation with the Ferrari.

I have only driven an automatic 456 and it is a really nice car but I do not think I would want to drive something that old and expensive to fix as 456 as my everyday driver.

I have a DB9 now and it has by far the best automatic transmission out of any car I have ever driven. It is silky smooth in Automatic mode and extremely response in manual mode blipping the throttle for downshifts.

I think the Ferrari would be more fun to drive because it is a 6 speed and it is a lot more raw than the DB9, although the DB9 is a bit leery around town without the traction control on (which I could not figure out how to turn on for the first few months I had it).

Anyway it comes down to what you want.

The DB9 is a better GT car. It is more comfortable, it has a better HVAC system (probably), it has an excellent sound system and exhaust note...you can fit a set of golf clubs in the trunk. Although you could probably fit 4 people in the Ferrari which would be impossible in the Aston.

Hope this helps a bit.

 

Own neither a Ferrari or an Aston, but my personal issue with the Aston is that it looks too much like the Jaguar XK. Although the Aston is superior performance wise, I'd have a tough time with that. The other thing is the 456 is a manual, and IMHO that closes the deal for me.

I'd go 456 - but consider my disclaimer...I've not driven either of these cars.

 

Had the chance to sample a DB9 and I was totally impressed. What amazed me was that while it would cruise around gingerly like a true tourer, plant the pedal and the car really performs. It's the only exotic that has impressed me right up there with F cars. It's different than a F car (only sampled a F355 and 308) but very impressive. Ferrari's seem 'racier' than the Aston, but I thought the balance of touring/performance in the DB9 was outstanding. It's going to be a tough decision. Sorry - guess that doesn't help does it?

 

I have not had any real issues with mine since I have had it...the engine light always goes on when you put your foot in it but my dealer says that is normal.

 

Let me start this out by saying that I'm beyond obsessed with Ferraris and I've spent a lot of time driving a 456. That being said, I wouldn't think twice about going with a DB9. IMO the DB9 is the clear winner as far as looks and performance, but it may not deliver that "Ferrari experience".

 

certainly doesn't SOUND NORMAL.. why does it go on when you put your foot on it?

 

Just make sure you get one with a warranty. The DB9 is an absolutely stunning GT. It has the looks and power (could use some more). There is a Silver/Black '06 on Fchats Ads for $89K I believe....

 

Well in a German car yeah that would be a little bit odd but in an English car I just assume there are going to be some minor electrical issues. The light goes on when you push the engine hard but a few minutes later it will go away...the service tech said it was normal so I said okay fine.

 

Both are wonderful cars. 456M is very nice, but like you stated, can have some reliability issues. The DB9 is a great looking car, but you won't get the thrill of a Ferrari or the power. There are several Aston owners who would not touch a DB9 unless its made in 2008 or 2009 due to it being built in the new plants and under new ownership. Stupid IMO. It's different things that YOU will have to weigh out:

IMO I would go DB9, just do a nice color combination. Silver is bland

-Merlot/Tan
-White/Black
-White/Red
-Black/Red

Have you seen a DB9 with Red interior? It looks amazing. Ask Blake, his dad has a Silver/Red. IMO go with Black or White/Red. Amazing combination right there. And yes, get an extended-warranty.

-Chris

 

I didn't realize DB9s were now in the 60s! Wow!

What are notable changes year to year for the DBs? I know one year got an updated suspension (06?) and another year got steering wheel controls (05?)?

Thanks

 

Ummm, if anyone finds a DB9 in the $60's please let me know immediately. I have yet to find a Vantage less than $67, so again, please let me know immediately.
Thanks,
MB

 

DB9 IMO

 

Did you make a choice? It'd be a tough one for sure as the DB9 is just simply gorgeous, even more so with the sport package and updated center console from '08MY and on. I'd say give the DB9 a shot, first. Why limit yourself to one brand, even if it is Ferrari?

John

 

The DB9 is a great car...you will really enjoy it. However...to drive a 456GT and have a 6 speed that is silky smooth...is just the ultimate.

I am biased...the 456m is one of my favorite ferraris....so I would pick it anyday.

MJ