The DB9 was undoubtedly the star of the 2003 Frankfurt Motor show where it was unveiled to the public for the very first time. The sleek superformed aluminium body was designed by Ian Callum but had some additional work by the next director of AM design, Hendrik Fisker. The DB9 is powered by a third-generation version of the now familiar 5.9 litre V12 and has a top speed of 186mph. Production of the coupe started at the new Gaydon factory very early in 2004, with the DB9 Volante coming on stream early in 2005.