When it comes to taste, style and swagger, there is no one who even comes close to 007. Ever since Ian Fleming’s awesome tales of James Bond made their way onto the big screen in 1962, an adoring fan base anticipates each new film with more enthusiasm than the last – and with a long list of classic motors playing their part throughout the franchise’s history, who could blame them?
In this article we’ll discuss what we believe to be the top five classic cars that have appeared throughout Bond’s time in Hollywood. From unforgettable submarine cars through to V12-powered monsters, we believe there’s a motor for every enthusiast hidden somewhere in Bond’s catalogue of classics….
Aston Martin DB5 (Goldfinger, 1964)
Although the DB5 has also appeared in Thunderball, GoldenEye and Casino Royale, it was originally in 1964’s Goldfinger where this iconic car first made its name. Armed with a host of Hollywood extras including an ejector seat, rotating number plate and oil dispenser, Sean Connery’s ride set the tone that all future Bond cars would follow. By twinning the shape and performance of a sports car with the luxury of a grand tourer, Aston Martin’s DB5 became a symbol of style that, even to this day, remains synonymous with England’s favourite secret agent.
Rolls-Royce Phantom III (Goldfinger, 1964)
What do you get when you combine a mustard cardigan with a black and yellow Rolls-Royce Phantom III? Why, it’s Auric Goldfinger of course! Powered by a whopping V12 7338cc engine and sporting Goldfinger’s private ‘AU 1’ plate, the iconic Phantom’s last major outing was at the 2012 Premiere of SkyFall, when producer Michael G Wilson arrived in the classic Roller at London’s prestigious Albert Hall.
Ford Mustang Mach 1 (Diamonds Are Forever, 1971)
While making a hasty escape from the cops in 1971’s Diamonds are Forever, Bond finds himself at the wheel of notorious diamond smuggler Tiffany Case’s hire car – which just so happens to be one of the finest examples of American muscle in the form of a Ford Mustang Mach 1. Finished in red and sporting a fiery V8 engine, the car’s most memorable role in the film involves a two-wheeled stunt down Fremont Street in Las Vegas.
Lotus Esprit S1 (The Spy Who Loved Me, 1977)
Complete with its snooped nose, retractable fins and space-age styling, the custom-built submarine inspired by Lotus’ Esprit S1 has been a steadfast favourite among Bond enthusiasts ever since it first hit the big screen in The Spy Who Loved Me. Sleek, stylish and easy on the eye, Bond’s car later sold in auction for a staggering £650,000!
Citroen 2CV (For Your Eyes Only, 1981)
Although it may not qualify as one of Bond’s sexiest cars, the Citroen 2CV that features in the 1980s classic For Your Eyes Only will forever be regarded as a classic due its plucky status and unmistakable appearance. Despite lacking the usual power, style and chic of Bond’s traditional getaway cars, the 2CV does just the job as Roger Moore successfully navigates the tricky hillsides of Spain while escaping from a pack of rabid Peugeot 504s!