The Volante shares exactly the same engine as the coupe. Performance should be very close to that of the coupe as the open car weighs only about 100kg more at 1810kg - so expect 0-60 in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph.

The electrically folding roof of the DB9 Volante is of the standard cloth type - the current fashion for a folding steel roof hasn't been followed as it would eat greatly into the boot space. Indeed the Volante retains rear seats and has exactly as much boot space as the coupe. But unlike all other Volantes before, the roof folds straight neatly under a hard tonneau cover in just 17 seconds. In the event of a potential roll-over, hoops are deployed from the rear head restraints. If the roof is erected at the time - the hoops will 'punch' through the rear window glass.

These photos were taken at the European debut of the Volante at the Geneva Salon, March 2004. This particular example shows the unusual new Bamboo wood interior which is perhaps a better option in the open car.