December 11, 2024 | Jane O'Shea

The Coolest James Bond Cars In Cinema History


Most Memorable Bond Cars

Doesn't matter if you're a fan of Bond or not—no franchise has ever celebrated car lovers the way James Bond's movies did. So, which wheels were integral to the movies' plots and their eras?

Bond Cars

Aston Martin DB5

The Aston Martin DB5 is undoubtedly the most iconic Bond car, debuting in the 1964 Goldfinger and driven by Sean Connery. It played a central role in some of the films' most memorable scenes, becoming a signature James Bond trademark.

Aston Martin DB5Karen Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Aston Martin DB5 (Cont.)

The same DB5 was featured in Thunderball. However, others were used in GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, Casino Royale, and Skyfall, where it was destroyed in the movie's finale. For No Time To Die, eight stunt replicas were built for shooting.

Aston Martin DB5 In GoldeneyeChilterngreen, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ford Mustang Mach 1

During a high-speed Las Vegas chase, Sean Connery was seen driving a Ford Mustang Mach 1 in Diamonds Are Forever. Bond beats a diamond smuggling operation tied to a satellite weapon, and Mach 1 helps him outpace his enemies in style.

Ford Mustang Mach 1Ford Mustang Mach 1 1971 [Diamonds Are Forever] by dubas x86

Ford Mustang Mach 1 (Cont.)

Produced in 1971, the Mach 1 featured a powerful V8 engine to become an American icon. For the movie, it was painted in bright red to enhance its on-screen presence. Though discontinued in 1978, the Mach 1 was revived in 2003 as a celebrated nameplate in Ford's lineup.

Ford Mustang MachSeafaring, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Aston Martin DB10

Exclusively created for the 2015 Spectre, an Aston Martin DB10 was designed to be driven by Daniel Craig. Its most memorable sequence involves a high-speed chase through Rome, where Bond uses the car's flamethrower and ejector seat to outwit his pursuer.

Aston Martin DB10FR, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin DB10 (Cont.)

Bond uncovers a sinister organization, SPECTRE, and the DB10 symbolizes his resourcefulness and modernity. One of the cars built for the film was auctioned for charity, fetching over £2.4 million. Another DB10 was seen at the wedding reception of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Aston Martin DBHarmenAG, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Triumph Stag

Although the Triumph Stag appeared in several movies, its most memorable one is the one in Diamonds Are Forever. Sean Connery, as James Bond, takes a yellow Stag on a hovercraft to Amsterdam, where he meets Tiffany Case.

Triumph StagRob Mieremet / Anefo, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

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Triumph Stag (Cont.)

Though not featured in an action sequence, the Stag's presence highlighted the British automotive design of the time. It was designed to compete with the Mercedes-Benz SL, with almost 26,000 units produced in total before being discontinued in 1977.

TriumphDiamonds Are Forever - Becoming Peter Franks by bondclips

Land Rover Series III

We saw the Land Rover Series III twice in Bond movies. It was first featured in the 1987 The Living Daylights and later in 2021's No Time To Die. Daniel Craig is seen in the last movie in a right-hand drive cruising in Port Antonio in Jamaica.

Land Rover Series III2020 Land Rover Defender Will Star In James Bond Movie Called No Time To Die by DPCcars

Land Rover Series III (Cont.)

The Series III was produced from 1971 till 1985. Later models received several updates to meet the increased competition. Moreover, diesel and petrol engines received five crankshafts to increase the car's rigidity while new interior trims became available.

Land Rover SeriesKaren Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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BMW Z3

Bond's ride in the 1995 GoldenEye was a BMW Z3. Although it had a brief appearance, the Z3 became famous for being equipped with gadgets like stinger missiles, machine guns, and a bulletproof driver's compartment.

BMW Z3Viggen, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

BMW Z3 (Cont.)

Pierce Brosnan, as James Bond, uses the car during his mission to stop a rogue MI6 agent from deploying a satellite-based weapon. A special edition was offered for sale through Neiman Marcus, receiving orders for 100 units.

Z3Arnaud 25, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin DBS V12

In Daniel Craig's debut as James Bond, the British agent is seen driving an Aston Martin DBS V12 in Casino Royale. A standout scene involves Bond crashing the car in a desperate attempt to avoid hitting Vesper Lynd, showing his dedication and humanity.

Aston Martin DBS V12Piotr Włodarczyk, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Aston Martin DBS V12 (Cont.)

As the film reboots the Bond franchise, the DBS V12 revives Bond's association with Aston Martin. However, its only spy-related feature is a glovebox with a pistol, silencer, and a medical kit. Another DBS V12 is seen in the pre-credits of the Quantum of Solace.

Aston Martin V12Karen Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Sunbeam Alpine

A lake blue Sunbeam Alpine is one of the first cars to appear in Dr. No. The car fits the film's setting, where Bond investigates the disappearance of an agent and uncovers Dr. No's nefarious plans.

Sunbeam AlpineRama, CC BY-SA 2.0 FR, Wikimedia Commons

Sunbeam Alpine (Cont.)

The drive under a crane to escape hit men is one of Bond's unforgettable scenes in the Sunbeam Alpine. However, this particular vehicle was borrowed from a local owner due to budget constraints. Did not know, did you? Today, this car is celebrated as a collectible classic.

AlpineAutomotive Rhythms, Flickr

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Ford Fairlane

With two appearances, the Ford Fairlane for the first time in the 1965 Thunderball. This time, a black 500 Skyliner was driven by a SPECTRE agent chasing James Bond, played by Sean Connery. Nevertheless, it explodes on the screen when a motorcycle fires rockets at it.

Ford FairlaneSicnag, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Ford Fairlane (Cont.)

Pierce Brosnan is seen driving another brown and cream 1957 convertible Ford Fairlane in Die Another Day. Raoul gives him this iconic car when he asks for a fast ride. Although Bond doesn't push this car to its limit, it marks his meeting with Jinx, played by Halle Berry.

1957 Convertible Ford FairlaneLglswe, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

A convertible Aston Martin V8 Vantage was featured in The Living Daylights, driven by Timothy Dalton's James Bond. In a series of action-packed sequences, the car is equipped with gadgets such as lasers and retractable skis, which were used during an escape across a frozen lake.

Aston Martin V8 VantageDave McLear, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Aston Martin V8 Vantage (Cont.)

The film's plot involves Bond uncovering a weapons-smuggling operation tied to the Soviet Union, and the V8 Vantage proves vital in helping him outmaneuver his enemies. The V8 Vantage was Aston Martin's first true supercar and has since appeared in No Time To Die in 2021.

Aston Martin VantageKaren Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Renault 11

The Renault 11 made its mark in A View To A Kill, starring Roger Moore as James Bond. This car is humorously memorable for being progressively destroyed during a chaotic chase through Paris when it collides with a Renault 20.

Renault 11Karen Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Renault 11 (Cont.)

Bond uses the car to pursue a villain, and in the process, the roof and rear section are torn off, leaving him with only a shell. The Renault 11 was a practical compact car, but this film turned it into a laughing matter.

Renaultkm30192002, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Aston Martin DBS

Unlike the Aston Martin DB5, George Lazenby's On Her Majesty's Secret Service featured no gadgets. Bond uses the car to chase down Blofeld, but it also serves as the backdrop for one of the series' most emotional scenes—the tragic end of Tracy di Vicenzo.

Aston Martin DBSKaren Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Aston Martin DBS (Cont.)

Produced between 1967 and 1972, the DBS featured a sleek design and powerful inline-six engine. While it lacked the technology of other Bond cars, its timeless elegance and association with one of the franchise's most poignant stories made it unforgettable.

Aston MartinJames Bond - Aston Martin DBS - Commercial Skyfall by Flying Dutchman

BMW 750iL

Featured in Tomorrow Never Dies, the BMW 750iL was modified to appear as if Pierce Brosnan remotely drove the car from the back seat during a chase. One of the cars that survived after filming is displayed at the exhibition TOP SECRET at Museum Industriekultur, Nuremberg.

BMW 750iLMorio, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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BMW 750iL (Cont.)

The BMW 750iL was BMW's flagship luxury sedan with a blend of comfort and performance. Its ability to showcase high-tech gadgets while maintaining sophistication made it a perfect fit for Brosnan's Bond. Tupac Shakur's famous black 750iL was auctioned for $1,750,000.

750iLKaren Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mercury Cougar XR-7

In the 1969 On Her Majesty's Secret Service, Tracy di Vicenzo, played by Dianna Rigg, decides to help James Bond, portrayed by George Lazenby, escape Blofeld's henchmen during a thrilling snowy mountain chase. She appears in an iconic Mercury Cougar XR-7 that races through the Alps.

Mercury Cougar XR-7Karen Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mercury Cougar XR-7 (Cont.)

The red Cougar XR-7 featured a sporty design and was modified for the movie with rally-style enhancements, including studded tires for better grip on icy roads. Its combination of power and elegance mirrored Tracy's character and made it a memorable Bond car.

Mercury Cougarsv1ambo, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Aston Marin DB9 GT 007 Edition

Aston Martin's DB9 GT 007 Edition was not a screen-featured car but a special edition released in 2015 to celebrate Aston Martin's long-standing relationship with the franchise. Inspired by Bond's iconic vehicles, this limited-edition car featured unique Spectre Silver paint, 007 branding, and luxury interiors.

Aston Martin DB9 GT 007 EditionAston Martin DB9 GT 007 Bond Edition by Seven Creation

Aston Marin DB9 GT 007 Edition (Cont.)

While it didn't appear in any specific Bond film, this edition appealed to fans by bridging the cinematic and automotive worlds. Only 25 units were produced, and all of them are highly sought after by Bond enthusiasts and car collectors.

Aston Martin DB9 GT 007Aston Martin DB9 GT 007 Bond Edition by Seven Creation

Lotus Esprit 

Marking one of the most iconic car chases in the Bond franchise, a white Lotus Esprit Turbo's missile-defense system neutralizes an enemy helicopter. Later, a second Esprit Turbo in copper-red serves as Bond's transport in the snowy Italian Alps in For Your Eyes Only.

Lotus EspritJörg Behrens, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Lotus Esprit (Cont.)

Another S1 Esprit was featured in the 1977 The Spy Who Loved Me, where it quite literally converted into a submarine after it plunged into the water. Famously known as Wet Nellie, this submarine was bought by Elon Musk in 2013.

Espritsv1ambo, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Toyota 2000GT Roadster

Driven by Aki, Bond's ally, the Toyota 2000GT Roadster played a prominent role in You Only Live Twice. This sleek car was featured in several pivotal scenes, including a high-speed pursuit through the streets of Japan, where Aki rescues Sean Connery's James Bond from SPECTRE agents.

Toyota 2000GT RoadsterGnsin, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Toyota 2000GT Roadster (Cont.)

The original 2000GT was a coupe, but two roadsters were specially commissioned by Toyota for the film to accommodate Connery's height. This customization made the car unique, enhancing its allure as a Bond vehicle. One of the two film-used roadsters resides in Toyota's museum in Japan.

Toyota 2000GTGnsin, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Mercedes-Benz 250SE

Fans certainly didn't expect to see a Mercedes in a Bond movie, but the 250SE stole the show in the 1983's Octopussy. The vehicle was spotted in a chase across the streets of Berlin, where it was finally seen speeding along the train tracks after its tires were shredded.

Mercedes-Benz 250SEVintage Mercedes-Benz W108 250 SE Chase - Octopussy (1983) by Mercedes Clique

Mercedes-Benz 250SE (Cont.)

Manufacturing of the Mercedes-Benz 250SE began in the 1960s. While not a typical Bond car, its role in the movie highlights its status. The 250SE is now a sought-after classic, with many examples preserved in pristine condition by collectors.

Mercedes-BenzVintage Mercedes-Benz W108 250 SE Chase - Octopussy (1983) by Mercedes Clique

Citroën 2CV6

With a flat-4 engine, the Citroën 2CV6 played an unexpected role in For Your Eyes Only. Roger Moore's James Bond drove it during a humorous and unconventional car chase after his high-tech Lotus Esprit Turbo was destroyed.

Citroën 2CV6Ruizo, Wikimedia Commons

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Citroën 2CV6 (Cont.)

The 2CV was often called an umbrella on wheels, with more than 3.8 million units produced between 1948 and 1990. In the movie, the Citroën 2CV6 was owned by Bond's love interest. At one point, the lightweight vehicle tipped over and was righted by hand.

Citroën CV6Harry_nl, Flickr

BMW Z8

Although the BMW Z8 was eventually sliced in half by a helicopter in The World Is Not Enough, this car is most memorable for its high-tech features. It included surface-to-air missiles used against Elektra King's henchmen and marked BMW's modern reinterpretation of a classic roadster.

BMW Z8Viggen, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

BMW Z8 (Cont.)

Pierce Brosnan's James Bond used the BMW Z8 to protect an oil heiress and uncover a larger conspiracy involving terrorism and betrayal. It later appeared in the video games 007 Racing and Agent Under Fire, but it was the final BMW vehicle to appear in a James Bond movie.

Z8Karen Roe, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible

After his arrival to Jamaica, Sean Connery is seen in an astonishing Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible. Bond travels through the streets of Jamaica as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of a fellow agent in Dr. No, the first in Bond's franchise.

Chevy Bel Air Convertibleorder_242, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible (Cont.)

The Bel Air Convertible symbolizes the glamor and optimism of its time with a striking design and smooth performance. Though a brief appearance, the car added to the film's visual appeal. The Bel Air was discontinued in 1981, but its legacy symbolizes mid-century American automotive excellence.

Chevrolet Bel Air ConvertibleBond Cars | Dr No by Tom's On

Ford Ranch Wagon

Didn't expect to see Bond in a Ford Ranch Wagon? It might not be your typical Bond ride, but he is seen in one in From Russia With Love. This vehicle was provided by Ali Kerim Bey, Head of the British Secret Service's Station T in Istanbul.

Ford Ranch WagonBrain Toad, Flickr

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Ford Ranch Wagon (Cont.)

Plans for the Ford Ranch Wagon started in the early 1950s, but it went through different upgrades until it was discontinued in 1974. The one that appeared in the Bond movie featured a 3.6-liter inline-six engine but was never pushed to its limit.

F Ranch WagonGarret Voight, Flickr


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