The Aston Martin AM11 is a 4,998 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features naturally aspirated design, DOHC valvetrain, and variable valve timing, delivering linear power delivery and high-revving performance. In standard tune, it produces 380 kW (517 PS) and 600 Nm of torque, optimized for grand touring dynamics.
Fitted to models such as the DB9, V8 Vantage, and Rapide, the AM11 was engineered for refined cruising and spirited driving. Emissions compliance is achieved through precise fuel metering and exhaust tuning, enabling Euro 5 certification across all markets. Its all-aluminium construction contributes to low mass and improved weight distribution.
One documented concern is premature inlet manifold runner actuator wear, noted in Technical Service Bulletin AMB-TB-2013-007. This can result in uneven airflow distribution, leading to idle instability and reduced low-end torque. From 2014, Aston Martin introduced revised actuator materials and updated ECU mapping to mitigate the issue.
Production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Aston Martin AM11 is a 4,998 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine developed for grand touring applications (2010–2016). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power progression and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances driving refinement with performance-oriented engineering.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 90.6 mm | |
| Power output | 380 kW (517 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME17.7.3 port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | Aston Martin M-spec 5W-50 | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers linear throttle response ideal for grand touring but requires adherence to 12,000 km oil change intervals using M-spec 5W-50 to maintain timing chain and VVT system longevity. Extended idle periods should be avoided to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. High-octane fuel (RON 95 minimum) is recommended for optimal combustion stability. Pre-2014 models should have inlet manifold actuators inspected per AMB-TB-2013-007; post-2014 units feature revised components. Engine longevity is highly dependent on consistent maintenance and warm-up procedures.
Oil Specs: Requires Aston Martin M-spec 5W-50 (AMB-TB-2010-02). Meets ACEA A3/B4 and BMW LL-01 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2010–2016) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains consistent across production run (Aston Martin TIS AM-AM11-PEP).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AM-AM11-01, AM-AM11-04, AMB-TB-2013-007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin AM11 was used across Aston Martin's DB and VB platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-tuned intake manifolds in the V8 Vantage and revised exhaust manifolds in the Rapide-and from 2014 the facelifted DB9 adopted the AM11 MkII with updated inlet actuators, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front-left cylinder bank near the exhaust manifold (Aston Martin TIS AM-AM11-ID1). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for AM11 series). Pre-2014 models have silver intake manifolds; post-2014 units use black-painted manifolds. Critical differentiation from AM11 MkII: Original AM11 uses Bosch ME17.7.3 ECU with rectangular diagnostic connector, while MkII uses ME17.8.1 with updated pin layout. Service parts require model-year verification—inlet actuators before 2014 are incompatible with MkII due to revised internal gearing per AMB-TB-2013-007.
The AM11's primary reliability risk is inlet manifold runner actuator wear, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Aston Martin field reports from 2013 indicated a measurable number of pre-2014 engines requiring actuator replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows idle-related faults in stop-start urban driving. Short trips and low-load operation increase carbon accumulation and thermal stress, making high-quality oil and regular highway runs critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN AM11.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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ASTON-MARTIN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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