Aston Martin DB AR1
A roofless Zagato-bodied swan song for the DB7, built exclusively for the American sun.
- Power
- 435 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 4.9 s
- Top speed
- 185 mph
- Est. value
- $180k–$300k
About the Aston Martin DB AR1
The DB AR1 (American Roadster 1) was a limited-edition collaboration between Aston Martin and Zagato, designed specifically for the US market after the DB7 Zagato coupe failed to meet American homologation. Unlike the coupe, it uses the standard DB7 Vantage wheelbase but features a unique, hand-finished body with twin rear cowls that echo Zagato's signature 'double bubble' roof. It is a true roadster with no folding roof or hood, supplied only with two umbrellas and a simple rain cover for parking. Powered by an uprated V12 from the DB7 GT, it remains one of the most exclusive and visually striking modern Astons.
Aston Martin DB AR1 specs
The Aston Martin DB AR1 produces 435 bhp (324 kW) and 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 185 mph (298 km/h).
| Make | Aston Martin |
|---|---|
| Model | DB AR1 |
| Trim | 6.0 V12 |
| Years | 2003–2004 |
| Type | Supercar |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 99 built |
| Original price | About $226,000 when new |
| Engine | 6.0-litre V12 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,935 cc (5.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 435 bhp (324 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 556 Nm (410 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 4.9 s |
| Top speed | 185 mph (298 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,858 kg (4,096 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 234 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Aston Martin DB AR1 worth?
A typical Aston Martin DB AR1 is estimated to be worth $180,000 – $300,000 (about £134,000 – £224,000).
Its original price when new was about $226,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Aston Martin DB AR1 rarity in CarSpot
The Aston Martin DB AR1 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Aston Martin DB AR1 fun facts
- The AR1 is a 'true roadster' with no roof mechanism at all; it was designed specifically for the climates of California and Florida.
- Although 99 production cars were built for customers, a 100th car (chassis 800100) was produced and retained by the Aston Martin factory.
- The car features a unique 'active' sports exhaust system with bypass valves that open above 3,500 rpm to enhance the V12 soundtrack.
