The Aston Martin AE16 is a 3,982 cc, twin — turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32 — valve architecture, and Bosch MED17.8 engine management, delivering 441 kW (600 PS) and 700 Nm of torque. This engine was developed in — house by Aston Martin to power the DB11 and later Vantage models, combining forced induction with refined grand touring characteristics.
Fitted to the DB11 V8 and second — generation Vant…
Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Aston Martin AE16 is a 3,982 cc twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring (2015–2020). It combines DOHC 32-valve architecture with Bosch MED17.8 engine management to deliver strong low-end torque and high-speed refinement. Designed to meet Euro 6c, it balances track-capable performance with road-going usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,982 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 71.8 mm | |
Power output | 441 kW (600 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 700 Nm @ 1,500–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch MED17.8 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (IHI units) | |
Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Aston Martin Longlife-16 (SAE 0W-20) | |
Dry weight | 225 kg |
The Aston Martin AE16 was used across Aston Martin's DB and Vantage platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the DB11 and tuned exhaust manifolds in the Vantage-and from 2018 the facelifted DB11 adopted revised turbocharger housings and intercooler routing, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins and ETK parts catalogues.
The AE16's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup in low-speed urban use, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2019 noted a moderate share of pre-2018 units showing reduced airflow by 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate a low but growing number of emissions-related failures in city-driven DB11 models. Short trips and infrequent high-RPM operation increase deposit formation, making oil quality and driving pattern management critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AE16 is a robust twin-turbo V8 with strong build quality. No widespread reliability issues have been reported, though pre-2018 models may develop intake carbon buildup if used primarily for short trips. Regular maintenance, use of RON 98+ fuel, and adherence to 12,000 km oil changes with OEM-specified oil ensure long-term durability.
The most documented issues are intake valve carbon buildup, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Turbocharger actuator wear has been noted in early builds. These are addressed in Aston Martin service information bulletins and field engineering updates.
The AE16 powers the DB11 V8 (2016–2020) and Vantage (2018–2020). It is an in-house Aston Martin design with no non-Aston Martin applications. All models are Euro 6c compliant.
Yes. The AE16 responds well to ECU remapping, typically yielding +40–60 kW on stage 1. Supporting mods like exhaust and intercooler upgrades offer additional gains. Over-tuning risks turbocharger and fuel system stress and is not recommended without internal reinforcement.
In the DB11 V8, combined consumption is ~12.8 L/100km (22.0 mpg UK), with city driving reaching ~16.5 L/100km (17.2 mpg). Highway efficiency improves to ~10.2 L/100km (27.6 mpg). Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style. Expect 17–23 mpg (UK) under mixed conditions.
Yes. The AE16 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will occur, resulting in severe internal damage. Regular inspection of the chain and tensioner per service schedule is essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
Aston Martin specifies SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting Aston Martin Longlife-16 standards. Oil must be changed every 12,000 km or 12 months. Using correct oil ensures proper high-RPM lubrication and reduces intake carbon formation in this direct-injected engine.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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