Aston Martin DBR9

The Aston Martin DBR9 is a GT1 racing car built by Aston Martin to compete in historic events such as the Le Mans 24 hours. The car was first built in 2005, and it's name is derived from the original Le Mans-winning DBR1 - with the DB standing for 'David Brown' - the then owner of Aston Martin.

Basis
The Aston Martin DB9 provided the basis for the lightweight race car version, and this is clearly evident through the styling cues shared by both cars. Whereas the DB9 has 450 bhp, the DBR9 has been modified to produce and astonishing 600 bhp to offer fiercer competition to its main competitor - the Corvette C6R.

Alterations and Styling
The DB9 base was significantly altered in the making of the DBR9 - it was made lighter, safety features such as a harness and a roll cage were fitted, the engine and mechanics were modified to produce more power and a large carbon fibre spoiler was fitted to provide downforce.

Specifications
With all the modifications made to produce the car, it is estimated to be able to do at least 195 mph and produces 517 lb fts of torque.

Performance
The DBR9 has had a significant showing - although at first overshadowed by the C6R, in the 2007 Le Mans 24 hours it came top of its class, beating the one remaining C6R (the other had to retire for mechanical reasons) to the finish.

Teams
The teams currently competing in the 2007 FIA GT1 Championship using the DBR9 are:


 * Aston Martin Racing BMS (2 cars)
 * Jet Alliance Racing (2 cars)