The Aston Martin VB6E is a 5,935 cc, V12 petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2012. It powers flagship grand tourers with a focus on smooth power delivery and high — end refinement. Featuring quad — cam, 48 — valve architecture and variable valve timing, it delivers up to 380 kW (510 PS) and 600 Nm of torque, enabling grand touring performance with effortless acceleration.
Fitted to models such as the DB9, V8 Vantage (early prototypes), and DBS, the VB6E was engineered for re…
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2012 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Aston Martin VB6E is a 5,935 cc V12 naturally aspirated engine engineered for grand touring applications (2005–2012). It combines quad-cam 48-valve architecture with variable valve timing to deliver linear power and high-rpm refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 and later Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,935 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
Power output | 380 kW (510 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 600 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2009); Euro 5 (2009–2012) | |
Compression ratio | 10.9:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (twin-row, duplex chain) | |
Oil type | Castrol Edge 5W-50 (Specification AM-SPEC-002) | |
Dry weight | 247 kg |
The Aston Martin VB6E was used across Aston Martin's DB series platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake manifolds in the DB9 and revised exhaust tuning in the DBS-and from 2008 the facelifted DBS models adopted increased valve lift and cam timing revisions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The VB6E's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent cold starts. Internal Aston Martin quality reports from 2009 indicated a significant number of pre-2008 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 80,000 miles, while VCA records show related oil consumption issues in non-serviced vehicles. Short-trip cycles and delayed warm-up increase wear risk, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2005-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). 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 VB6E offers refined performance but early models (2005–2007) are prone to camshaft wear if maintenance is delayed. Post-2008 revisions significantly improved durability. With strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 12,000 miles) and use of Castrol Edge 5W-50, well-maintained examples can exceed 150,000 miles reliably.
Key issues include premature camshaft wear (especially pre-2008), intake manifold flap failure, coolant leaks from thermostat housing, and valve cover oil seepage. These are documented in Aston Martin service bulletins and affect long-term ownership costs if not proactively addressed.
The VB6E was primarily used in the DB9 (2005–2012) and DBS (2008–2012) in both coupe and Volante forms. It also powered early V12 Vantage prototypes. No other manufacturers used this engine. Most units meet Euro 4, with later DBS models complying with Euro 5.
Limited tuning potential exists via ECU remapping, typically yielding +20–30 kW. However, the naturally aspirated design and high compression limit gains. Supporting mods like exhaust and cam upgrades are costly. Most owners prioritise reliability over power increases due to engine complexity and value preservation.
Moderate for a V12 GT. In DB9 form, expect ~18 mpg UK (15.7 L/100km) combined. Highway cruising can achieve ~22 mpg UK, while city driving may drop to 14 mpg UK. Real-world consumption depends heavily on driving style. Requires 98 RON premium petrol for optimal performance.
Yes. The VB6E is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Regular inspection of the duplex chain and tensioners per TSB-ENG-018 is essential to prevent costly repairs.
Aston Martin specifies Castrol Edge 5W-50 meeting AM-SPEC-002. This high-shear-stability oil is critical for protecting the timing chain and camshafts. Change every 12,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, to maintain engine longevity and prevent wear.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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