Top 20 James Bond Cars

James Bond is synonymous with sophisticated gadgets, suave style, and, notably, iconic cars. Each vehicle driven by 007 in the film series not only complements his debonair persona but also plays a crucial role in the thrilling action sequences. From classic Aston Martins to sleek sports cars, today we mention the top 20 James Bond cars, celebrating their impact on both automotive and cinematic history, and illustrating how these vehicles have become integral to the identity of the world’s most famous spy.

Top 20 James Bond Cars

James Bond, the iconic British spy from the film series based on Ian Fleming’s novels, is as famous for his sophisticated gadgetry as he is for his cars. Throughout the decades, Bond’s cars have become symbols of style, innovation, and high-speed thrills. Here’s a list of the top 20 cars that have left a lasting impression in the James Bond universe:

1. Aston Martin DB5

First appearing in “Goldfinger” (1964), the Aston Martin DB5 is perhaps the most iconic James Bond car. Equipped with machine guns, an ejector seat, and bulletproof shields, this car set the standard for all future Bond vehicles. Its classic design and association with 007 have made it a symbol of sophistication and excitement in automotive history.

2. Lotus Esprit S1

Known as the “Wet Nellie,” the Lotus Esprit S1 featured in “The Spy Who Loved Me” (1977) is memorable for transforming from a stylish sports car into a submarine. This unique capability was highlighted in a thrilling underwater sequence, showcasing Bond’s ability to escape or engage in combat even beneath the waves.

3. Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante

In “The Living Daylights” (1987), the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante showcased a range of gadgets including skis, rockets, and a self-destruct system. This car helped Bond navigate through various terrains and situations, making it not just a mode of transportation but a crucial tool for survival.

4. BMW Z8

The BMW Z8, featured in “The World is Not Enough” (1999), combined elegance and firepower. Although it met a grim end—being sliced in half by a helicopter equipped with saws—its inclusion of surface-to-air missiles and advanced technology left a lasting impression on Bond fans.

5. Aston Martin DBS V12

Appearing in both “Casino Royale” (2006) and “Quantum of Solace” (2008), the Aston Martin DBS V12 was noted for its high-speed stability and sleek design. In “Casino Royale,” it set a world record for the most barrel rolls assisted by a cannon, emphasizing the intense action sequences that Bond cars are often central to.

6. Aston Martin DB10

Created specifically for “Spectre” (2015), the Aston Martin DB10 was a prototype showing future design directions for Aston Martin. Its dynamic appearance and exclusivity—only ten units were made—made it a standout vehicle in the Bond series, symbolizing the cutting-edge of automotive design.

7. Jaguar XKR

The villain’s car in “Die Another Day” (2002), the Jaguar XKR featured a Gatling gun, missiles, and an adaptive camouflage system. It represented the high-tech arsenal often found in Bond’s antagonists’ vehicles, providing a formidable challenge to 007’s own gadget-equipped cars.

8. Aston Martin DBS

In “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (1969), the Aston Martin DBS brought a classic and refined style to the Bond car lineup. Its less gadget-focused but sleek design highlighted a different aspect of Bond — more understated but still supremely stylish and effective.

9. Lotus Esprit Turbo

The Lotus Esprit Turbo from “For Your Eyes Only” (1981) featured a sharp, angular design and was equipped with a ski rack, fitting Bond’s suave yet ready-for-anything character. Its appearance in the snow scenes underscored its versatility and high-performance capabilities in various environments.

10. Ford Mustang Mach 1

The Ford Mustang Mach 1, featured in a high-speed Las Vegas car chase in “Diamonds Are Forever” (1971), showcased American muscle in the Bond series. Its powerful engine and bold design made it perfect for the thrilling chase sequences that are a hallmark of Bond films.

11. Toyota 2000GT Convertible

This rare model was customized as a convertible specifically for “You Only Live Twice” (1967) to accommodate Sean Connery’s height. The Toyota 2000GT Convertible is one of the few Asian cars in the Bond series, noted for its elegance and compact design, which added a touch of exotic flair to the film.

12. Aston Martin Vanquish

Dubbed the “Vanish,” the Aston Martin Vanquish used in “Die Another Day” (2002) featured adaptive camouflage, making it virtually invisible at the push of a button. This high-tech gadgetry and its classic Bond car aesthetics made it a memorable addition to the lineage of 007’s vehicles.

13. BMW 750iL

In “Tomorrow Never Dies” (1997), the BMW 750iL was packed with gadgets like tear gas, re-inflatable tires, and a remote control system that allowed Bond to operate the car from his mobile phone. This blend of luxury and technology epitomizes the modern Bond vehicle, combining practicality with advanced spy features.

14. Aston Martin V12 Vanqu

The Aston Martin V12 Vanquish continued to embody the luxury and high performance expected of Bond’s vehicles. Featured in “Die Another Day” (2002), it included advanced weaponry and defensive mechanisms, playing a crucial role in the film’s action scenes and continuing the tradition of gadget-filled Bond cars.

15. BMW 7 Series

The BMW 7 Series featured in “Tomorrow Never Dies” was equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a remote control function that allowed Bond to drive the car using his mobile phone. This innovative feature made for one of the most memorable chase scenes in the series.

16. Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II

The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II is the epitome of luxury and played a crucial role in “A View to a Kill.” Its classic and elegant design highlighted the sophistication often associated with James Bond.

17. Alfa Romeo GTV6

During the intense chase sequence in “Octopussy,” the Alfa Romeo GTV6 demonstrated its prowess. Known for its speed and agility, this car helped Bond navigate through challenging obstacles, showcasing its performance capabilities.

18. Bentley 4½ Litre

The Bentley 4½ Litre in “From Russia with Love” hearkens back to James Bond’s roots in Ian Fleming’s novels, where Bond’s preference for Bentley’s over more flashy cars is noted. This vehicle underscores his refined taste and the classic spy persona.

19. AMC Hornet

Famous for performing a corkscrew jump, the AMC Hornet is one of the most stunt-centric cars in the Bond series. This spectacular feat was achieved through a precise calculation and is still celebrated as a landmark moment in film stunts.

20. Citroën 2CV

This unlikely hero car, the Citroën 2CV, featured in “For Your Eyes Only,” showcases Bond’s versatility. Despite its modest appearance and capabilities, the car plays a pivotal role in a thrilling chase, proving that in the right hands, any vehicle can be extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bond car in Skyfall?

The Bond car featured in the 23rd James Bond film, “Skyfall,” is the iconic Aston Martin DB5, which was produced using a 3D printer.

What is the new James Bond car?

The newest James Bond car seen is the Aston Martin DB12. However, the first James Bond car, seen almost 60 years ago, was the renowned Aston Martin DB5 in the film “Goldfinger.”

What was the last James Bond car?

The Aston Martin DB5, symbolizing the ultimate 007 car, was featured in the latest 2021 Bond film, “No Time to Die,” alongside the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera.

What car does James Bond prefer?

James Bond seems to have a preference for the Aston Martin DB5, which has appeared in numerous Bond films and is a recognizable symbol of the Bond franchise.

What car does Bond drive in “Never Say Never Again”?

In the movie “Never Say Never Again” (1983), James Bond, portrayed by Sean Connery, drives a black Bentley to the Shrublands health clinic.