The biggest problem with the Aston Martin DB9 is the way it looks: it’s beautiful. Not just pretty or stylish but heart-poundingly beautiful. And in common with other good-looking things it can be high maintenance.

Launched in spring 2004 the DB9 was the first Aston Martin to come out of the new factory at Gaydon, Warwickshire. The move from the old facility at Newport Pagnell signalled not only an increase in production capacity but an improvement in build quality.

Aston Martin always prided itself on its hand-crafted cars but the old ways had limitations. New high-tech production techniques and advanced materials have sorted out some of the old gripes, but judging by comments from our readers there’s still a way to go.

At 1,760kg the DB9 is a full 625kg lighter than a Bentley Continental GT, a car buyers may consider as an alternative. So while the DB9 makes do with a “mere” 450bhp, about 100bhp less than the Bentley, it takes just 0.2sec longer for the 0-60mph sprint.

But comparing the DB9 with any other car is always going to be tricky. It’s priced in the same bracket as the Ferrari F430 and the Lamborghini Gallardo but is arguably better suited to daily use. Then again, the DB9’s minute rear seats make it good for only two occupants. In truth the DB9 falls between the performance and comfort ends of the spectrum, capable of setting the pulse racing while transporting driver and passenger in style.

Slip inside the DB9’s beautifully trimmed cabin and you will see what I mean. It’s a mixture of sports car intention and drawing room restraint. You could argue that this is the most aesthetically pleasing cockpit in the world, even though some of the dashboard controls are fiddly and some displays hard to read in sunlight.

Still, you’ll begin to wonder how Aston Martin manages to make something this beautiful for “just” £100,000. The highlight is the crystal starter button that ignites the 6 litre V12. The delivery of power comes in large, even dollops, there’s a satisfying snarling from the tailpipes and power delivery is smooth through the six-speed auto box. For drivers preferring manual intervention there are magnesium alloy paddles mounted behind the steering wheel, or purists can choose a six-speed manual.

Options on the DB9 are few, but used buyers may want to look out for the leather luggage set and the sports pack that stiffens the suspension and sharpens the steering. The sat nav system became standard from September 2005 but most cars before that date also had it.

Used DB9s are only just starting to appear after a period in which speculators enjoyed a premium on nearly new cars. Expect used examples to be well presented and with Aston Martin histories. Anything less is unacceptable. Colour choices and interior trims are a matter of taste, but it’s difficult to make the DB9 look anything but stunning, regardless of its colour.

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Sport pack A factory option, it stiffens the suspension and provides sharper, if a little lighter, steering

Sat nav Fitted as standard since September 2005, the system slides back into the top of the dashboard when not in use

Dashboard Beautiful to look at when the car is stationary but dials and minor switches can be difficult to read when driving

Seats Soft leather seats are supportive and gorgeous to look at but buyers should check for wear on the seat bolsters

Brakes Huge 355mm front and 330mm rear discs are powerful, but heavy use will see them being replaced at most services

Servicing Due every 10,000 miles to ensure the three-year unlimited mileage warranty remains valid Boot Large 174 litre boot. An optional Aston Martin leather luggage set is available that fits neatly in the boot

Gearbox The six-speed auto is the most popular option, although a manual version is also available

Stereo Linn stereo system that puts out 260 watts and comes complete with a six-disc CD player is superb

VITAL STATISTICS

Model Aston Martin DB9 Coupé
Engine 5935cc, 12 cylinders
Power 450bhp
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Fuel 17.1mpg (combined)
Acceleration 0-60mph: 4.9sec
Top speed 186mph

THE ONE TO BUY

Aston Martin DB9 Coupé auto 2004 04 with 20,000 miles. Pay £85,500 at a dealer or £82,000 privately

OR, FOR THE SAME MONEY

2000 V Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible
2000 X Bentley Continental SC Coupé
2003 53 Lamborghini Gallardo E-gear
2004 54 Bentley Continental GT
2005 54 Ferrari 456M Coupé GT

VALUES