Jump LinksThe DB11 Was Even More Advanced Than The DB9The DB11 Is A Considerable Step Up From The SL 43The SL 43 Is A Strong Option, But Lacks The Special Sauce Of The AstonIt's fair to say that new car prices have got a little out of hand over the past several years, and the 2026 Mercedes-Benz SL 43 is a good example. The SL 43 is the entry-level version of Mercedes' drop-top cruiser, and comes with a small-but-mighty hybrid-assisted 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, as well as all the usual equipment that you'd expect on a modern car. The trouble is, it'll set you back $112,550. For a vehicle with a four-pot, that is a truly frightening amount of cash.It's so much that even modern high-performance cruisers such as the Aston Martin DB11 can not be had for well under what a new SL 43 will set you back. As offers go, this is arguably an amazingly tempting one for most gearheads. The DB11 Had The Tough Task Of Following The DB9 Aston MartinThe Aston Martin DB11 was the British brand's continuation of its modern era, which largely got underway with the introduction of the DB11's forerunner, the DB9. It featured a revolutionary new chassis that was stronger and lighter than the one featured in the preceding Miata parts-sharing DB7, while its cabin combined modern style with classic Aston elegance. The 6.0-liter V12 followed this trend, the powerplant being lighter, more powerful, and cleaner than its predecessor while still providing a classic Aston V12 howl.The DB9 proved to be a huge success for the marque, meaning it had it all to do when the time finally came to replace it. The DB11 made its debut in 2016, and it represented a step forward in several ways. The DB11 Was Even More Advanced Than The DB9 Aston MartinThe DB11 was the most powerful road car ever produced by the manufacturer when it debuted, a record that came courtesy of a new twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V12 that brought 591 hp to the party. The engine was joined by a faster and smoother eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, too. It also had a stiffer and lighter chassis than the DB9, as well as more angular and purposeful styling that closer represented Aston's modern design language.Alongside these enhancements, the DB11 retains a classy and comfortable cockpit that makes it a great long-distance cruiser. Thanks to depreciation, they are also significantly more affordable now than when they were new, Early DB11s Can Be Had For Less Than Half Their Original CostAston MartinWhen shiny and new, a 2017 DB11 would set you back $211,995, and that was before you even thought about taking a look at the options list. Nowadays, they can be had for well under $100,000, even those with lower mileage. According to Classic.com, which collates auction listings from around the globe, the average sale price for a used DB11 in mid-2025 is $118,000, and this includes newer and more expensive specimens.A good example is a blue Launch Edition version, which has covered only 16,000 miles during its eight-year life. The car is thought to be one of only 23 examples to come in the special Frosted Glass Blue color, and it comes with a clean title and is in excellent condition inside and out. The vehicle sold through Bring a Trailer for $101,000, around $10,000 less than the new SL 43 demands from your wallet. The DB11 Is A Considerable Step Up From The SL 43 Aston MartinConsidering the lack of mileage on the DB11, it's difficult to see how the new Merc is worth $10,000 more. The Aston comes with a more prestigious badge, a more luxurious cabin, as well as superior performance. In terms of standard equipment, the Merc actually edges out the Aston slightly, but you'll likely be able to find a DB11 with some of the nifty extra features should you carry out thorough research.The plusher cabin does make a difference though, with elements like Alcantara roof lining helping to put the DB11 ahead. Where the Aston really stands out though, is on the road. The DB11 Is In Another League From A Performance Perspective Aston MartinIt must be said, the four-pot placed under the hood of the SL 43 is an impressive unit. Despite its compact size, it sends 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, which is enough to get it to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. This may be admirable, but good luck taking on a DB11. The Aston's 591-hp V12 blasts it to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, and on to a top speed of 200 mph, while the SL 43 is limited to 171 mph. The throaty V12 also offers a much more spirited engine note than the more muted tone of the Merc's four-pot.Aston MartinThe DB11 also comes with a fully independent suspension setup, which works with an adaptive damping system to ensure each wheel enjoys optimal grip at all times, no matter the state of the road surface. The SL 43 also comes with a fully independent suspension layout, though adaptive damping will set you back an extra $2,850 on top of the base price. Both cars come with a six-piston caliper front braking setup, though the DB11 uses slightly larger 15.7-inch discs versus the SL 43's 15.4-inch components. The SL 43 Is A Strong Option, But Lacks The Special Sauce Of The Aston Mercedes-AMGThe SL 43 may be brand-new, and comes with a similarly stacked equipment list compared to the DB11, but it won't get your pulse racing in quite the same way. It's significantly down on power and pure performance, while its four-cylinder engine's song isn't in the same league as the stunning V12's. The Aston is also arguably prettier inside and out, and comes with a much cooler badge.If you're looking to spend $100,000 on a sporty two-door cruiser, good luck turning your head away from the DB11 unless you're that worried about the fuel bill. The Old DB9 Still Offers Amazing Value For Money Aston MartinLet's face it, both options are still crazily expensive for most gearheads. Therefore, opting for a clean example of the venerable Aston Martin DB9 remains a strong option. According to the CarBuzz Marketplace, you can expect to only hand over around $50,000 for a 2009 DB9 in good condition. Opt for a minter, and you'll need to spend closer to $75,000. It may not be quite as powerful as its twin-turbocharged successor, but the DB9's naturally aspirated V12 makes an arguably better noise, and still puts 470 hp at your disposal.Aston MartinYou'll also get to enjoy its impossibly pretty body and cabin, though shop around to make sure you find one that's been well looked after. Astons aren't known for their bulletproof cabin quality, so ones that haven't been cherished can look a little tired after over a decade on the road. For less than half the cost of a new SL 43 or a clean, used DB11, a looked-after DB9 is a great choice for a lot less money.