Films are full of memorable characters, like James Bond and Sheriff Buford ‘Smokey’ T. Justice. They are larger than life, with a mixture of charisma and machismo that makes them fun to root for. But what about their cars? Bond’s Aston Martin and Smokey’s 1977 Pontiac are characters as well, sharing the spotlight with their respective drivers. There are many famous cars from the movies, and here are six of the most iconic.
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1. 1964 Aston Martin DBS in Goldfinger
It all began in 1964, when the Aston Martin DBS was introduced in Goldfinger, signalling the start of a relationship that has lasted for over 50 years. The vehicle is Bond’s signature car, coming with a variety of gadgets like an ejector seat and water cannon to help him on his missions. The original model is silver, and the car has featured in eleven other Bond films, with the most recent being 2012’s Skyfall.
2. 1977 Pontiac Trans-Am in Smokey And The Bandit
Despite Burt Reynolds receiving top billing in Smokey And The Bandit, the real star is his black Pontiac Trans-Am. From the golden bird painted on the hood, to the bright wheels, the car is a piece of movie history.
3. 1986 Ford Mustang in Bullitt
Steve Mcqueen’s green Mustang achieved legendary status during a high-octane car chase in Bullitt. Widely recognised as the greatest car chase scene in film history, the Mustang is pitted against a 1968 Dodge Charger. The car used in the film was reportedly a GT fastback, with producers opting to use an engine soundtrack from a Ford GT40 to heighten the drama.
4.1963 Ferrari California Spyder in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
If you’re going to bunk off school, then few cars can match the Ferrari California Spyder for style. This was the car used in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, when high-school slacker Ferris Bueller skips school to sightsee. A number of replicas were made for the film, with the real one being used for close up shots. The Spyder is the perfect representation of teenage rebellion.
5. 1958 Plymouth Fury in Christine
Based on the Stephen King book of the same name, Christine features a supernatural car that regenerates itself and enjoys murdering people. The car used is a 1950s red and white Plymouth Fury, which captures the horror element of the film.
6. Jaguar XK8 Convertible in Austin Powers in Goldmember
Few cars champion the British spirit like the Jaguar XK8 Convertible from the Austin Powers film, Goldmember. Featuring a Union Jack paint job, the car spoofs Bond’s Aston Martin with a range of gadgets.
All these classic cars share common traits, such as speed, detail and beauty. Like the films they appear in, the cars are part of pop culture, with an enduring quality that lives on. Whether you’re thinking of getting a classic car or own one, they are the epitome of excellent engineering
