Just days after unveiling the Aston Martin DB12 to the world, the Gaydon-based purveyor of fine sports cars and grand tourers has sold the first iteration for a staggering $1.6 million at the amfAR Gala Cannes.
At a star-studded charity auction forming part of the festivities surrounding the Cannes International Film Festival, the DB12 was presented by Eva Longoria and James Marsden. It exceeded all expectations, reaching a final bid six and a half times the car's base price of approximately $245,000, with all proceeds benefiting the Foundation for AIDS Research (amFAR).
The specification of the car identically matched the item used in all the press materials, which Aston refers to as the "Iridescent Emerald" specification. The Launch Edition model will bear special elements from the Q by Aston Martin bespoke division, including special fender badges, headrest embroidery, and a door sill plaque denoting its specialness.
The owner, who remains unknown at this time, will have an item of extra specialness on their hands, as current Aston Martin Formula 1 drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will sign the engine cover of the 671-horsepower, 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
For those who missed the reveal of the first-ever Super Tourer, the DB11's AMG-sourced V8 boasts 590 lb-ft of torque, rear-wheel drive, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a vastly enhanced suspension, steering system, and chassis compared to the DB11 it replaces. 0-60 mph occurs in 3.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 202 mph.
In addition to enhanced driving dynamics, a thoroughly reworked cabin includes an in-house-developed infotainment system that replaces the aging COMAND system previously borrowed from Mercedes.
"Aston Martin is thrilled to have supported the amfAR Gala Cannes," said Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin. "In addition to showcasing the generosity of amfAR attendees, the incredible amount raised through this charity auction highlights the excitement for the new DB12 and the unique ultra-luxury and high-performance aspects of this model that elevates it well beyond the current GT category."
Aston Martin has been in the news plenty this week after also announcing a partnership with Honda to supply engines to the Aston Martin F1 team from 2026 onwards.
"We have been incredibly fortunate to have Aston Martin as Presenting Sponsor for the 29th amfAR Gala Cannes, and we're immensely grateful for their generous donation of this spectacular DB12 for our live auction," said Kevin Robert Frost, CEO of amfAR, at the auction. "This phenomenal sportscar was a highlight of the gala, and the auction proceeds will give an important boost to our efforts to develop a cure for HIV."