Skip advert
Advertisement

Startech Aston Martin DB11 – German tuner takes V8-powered GT past 600bhp

Refinement specialist Startech to debut its upgraded DB11 at the 2018 Geneva motor show.

Startech, a subsidiary of renowned Mercedes-Benz fettlers Brabus, has announced its Aston Martin DB11 V8 SP610 ahead of the car’s public debut at the 2018 Geneva motor show. A visual makeover is joined by further upgrades that elevate the V8 DB11’s performance beyond that of the V12 version.

Under the bonnet is a lightly modified version of the ‘M177’ Mercedes-AMG-derived V8, which Startech’s parent company, Brabus, is of course well acquainted with. So it’s no surprise Startech has liberated extra performance with relative ease. New maps have been written for the ignition and injection systems, while the boost pressure on the two turbos has been turned up, too.

Advertisement - Article continues below

> Aston Martin DB11 V8 review

Not only do the upgrades realise gains of 99bhp and 92lb ft of torque over the standard car, but they also take the SP610 past the factory-spec DB11 V12 in the output stakes, to totals of 602bhp and 590lb ft (compared with 600bhp and 516lb ft). The extra grunt cuts the V8 car’s 0-62mph sprint time from 4.0 seconds to 3.8 seconds (a tenth quicker than the V12) and lifts its top speed by 6mph to 193mph (still 7mph down on the V12).

The newfound performance is accompanied by a bespoke exterior that lends the SP610 a more aggressive, carbonfibre-orientated aesthetic and offers some aerodynamic improvements, too. There’s a chiselled front splitter that reduces front-axle lift at high speeds, along with more pronounced sills and an F1-inspired rear, all of it constructed from carbonfibre finished in high-gloss, matt or gloss-black at the customer's choosing.

The show car (pictured) receives the full works, arriving with copper accenting on the roof’s edges and side-vents. The contrasting hue also extends to the two-tone, 21-inch Startech Monostar wheels that are shod with Pirelli P Zero tyres.  

> Brabus Mercedes-Maybach S 650 claims 217mph top speed

Startech’s efforts to enhance the DB11 continues inside: this specific example combines grey leather with carbonfibre trim pieces finished in dark chrome and copper. Other intricate details such as the stitched headlining and headrests embroidered with the SP610 model designation showcase the level of customisation Startech is willing to offer customers.  However, Startech is yet to reveal prices for the upgrades.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Aston Martin DB11 review (2016-2023) – traditional GT with old-school appeal
Aston Martin DB11 AMR – front action
In-depth reviews

Aston Martin DB11 review (2016-2023) – traditional GT with old-school appeal

The DB11's plush, laid-back character is deeply alluring and befitting of a true GT, but the new DB12 brings a shot of extra excitement
17 Jul 2023
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

The new Mercedes-AMG G63 has arrived, and it still has a V8
Mercedes-AMG G63
News

The new Mercedes-AMG G63 has arrived, and it still has a V8

Some of Affalterbach’s range-toppers are swapping eight cylinders for four, but the AMG G-class retains its V8 for 2024
26 Mar 2024
Land Rover Defender OCTA: twin-turbo V8 and McLaren-style suspension tech for hot off-roader
Land Rover Defender OCTA – front
News

Land Rover Defender OCTA: twin-turbo V8 and McLaren-style suspension tech for hot off-roader

The OCTA promises to be the fastest, toughest and most capable Defender yet when it launches later this year
26 Mar 2024
The new Toyota GR Yaris costs £44,250 – too much for a hot supermini?
Toyota GR Yaris Gen 2 – front
News

The new Toyota GR Yaris costs £44,250 – too much for a hot supermini?

Our early impressions of the Gen 2 GR Yaris suggest that it’s an improvement in every area that counts, but can it be worth £18k more than an i20 N?
27 Mar 2024