What's the news?

Yes, you read correctly. Nicholas Mee & Co, the Aston Martin Heritage Dealer in West London, has launched an Aston Martin specifically for children. The aptly named 'DB Junior' encompasses a design inspired from classic DB models from the '60s; and features all the extras you'd expect from an Aston Martin.

One of these is the engine. The fully-functional plaything comes with a 110cc, four-stroke petrol engine with a key-start that's hooked up to a three-speed automatic gearbox. This is enough to get the baby Aston to a top speed of 46mph; although this can be restricted to a lower speed should you want your sprog to return it in one piece. In addition to the engine, the car is also fitted with a decent set of Brembo - yes, Brembo - disc brakes, but unfortunately a limited slip differential and launch control have both been omitted from the spec list.

"We regularly have enquiries from our clients looking for something unusual and different to add to their collection of classics," remarks Managing Director, Nicholas Mee. "You'd be surprised how well the DB Junior is engineered, and how much room there is in the cockpit. It's big enough for an adult and the pedals can be adjusted so that the DB Junior will fit a wide range of drivers."

This wide range of drivers won't be disappointed by the construction either, as the coach-built bodywork can be had in a variety of colours, with leather or vinyl seats, and with a wood-trimmed steering wheel. Furthermore, the car has fully working lights, indicators and a horn. It can even be ordered to match a real-life Aston Martin.

"When we first saw the DB Junior we couldn't stop smiling. We then realised that these scaled-down 1960s convertibles would complement full-sized offerings here in our showrooms."

Anything else?

Despite the DB Junior's appeal to the younger generation, Nicholas Mee is adamant that it has been designed for children aged 10 and over. And, as you may expect with something wearing an Aston Martin badge, it doesn't come cheap; £16,500 to be exact - and the price can only go upwards. You could buy a car for that...