Throughout the thrilling and iconic history of the James Bond franchise, the suave British spy has not only been known for his wit and charm but also for his unparalleled taste in automobiles. The 007 movies have become synonymous with action, drama, and of course, a fleet of fast and luxurious vehicles that are as much a part of Bond’s identity as his martinis and his Walther PPK. Let’s delve into the world of these magnificent machines and rank the 12 most expensive cars ever driven by James Bond.
Bond’s taste in cars has always stood out, and over the years, the range of vehicles showcased in the films has combined cutting-edge technology, speed, and luxury. Each car serves not merely as a mode of transportation, but as an integral part of Bond’s arsenal, equipped with gadgets and features to aid him in his missions.
At the pinnacle of this list is the iconic Aston Martin DB5, featured in several films starting with “Goldfinger.” While its initial market value wasn’t exorbitant, the DB5’s association with Bond has skyrocketed its worth, becoming a collector’s dream. A real version of the DB5 used in Bond films was sold at auction for an impressive $6.4 million.
Another stellar addition is the Aston Martin DB10, exclusively designed for “Spectre.” This bespoke vehicle costs around $3.5 million, crafted solely for the movie with only a limited number of models produced. Its sleek design and engineering marvel leave a lasting impression in the action sequences it stars in.
In “No Time to Die,” the latest addition to the franchise, Bond introduces audiences to the Aston Martin Valhalla, an exceptional hypercar valued at around $1.3 million. Nicknamed the “son of Valkyrie,” its hybrid design and cutting-edge technology highlight the future of automotive engineering, fitting perfectly in Bond’s high-octane world.
Adding to these modern marvels is the classic extravagance of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage from “The Living Daylights.” Although its market price at the time was significantly under today’s figures, its presence and connection to the world of Bond have cemented its legacy, attracting collectors willing to pay a steep price.
Moreover, Bond’s commitment to high performance was demonstrated in “Die Another Day” with the appearance of the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish. Equipped with ingenious gadgetry, the Vanquish became an unforgettable addition to Bond’s mechanical repertoire, holding a value of approximately $250,000.
The spy has not confined his automobile adventures to a single brand. In “The Spy Who Loved Me,” the introduction of the Lotus Esprit S1—notorious for its submarine transformation—captivated audiences. Its scarcity as a collectable car has driven its value to soaring heights, often fetching figures around $1 million at auctions.
Another noteworthy vehicle is the BMW Z8 featured in “The World is Not Enough.” The luxurious sports car, with a price tag of about $130,000 at the time of release, was equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and added a modern twist to Bond’s automobile collection.
The intrigue of Bond’s vehicular escapades extends to the Aston Martin DBS from “Casino Royale.” Valued at roughly $300,000, the sleek and stylish DBS made an unforgettable entrance during one of the film’s most gripping scenes. Its real-world appeal has only grown with its on-screen performances.
Another Aston Martin, the AM V8 Vantage, returned to the spotlight in “No Time to Die” with its elegant, yet muscular build. While its intrinsic value might not align with modern hypercars, its legendary status among Bond aficionados continues to drive its price upwards.
To add a bit of exotic flair, the Jaguar C-X75 made its cinematic appearance in “Spectre.” Though not driven by Bond but by a villain in a high-speed chase through the streets of Rome, its exceptional design and concept car rarity place its value at near $1 million.
Lastly, we remember the Aston Martin DB9 from “Quantum of Solace.” Though similar in styling to its predecessor, the DBS, the DB9 has become a collectible in its own right, prized for its luxurious build and association with one of cinema’s most legendary spies.
As the curtain rises on each new Bond film, audiences eagerly anticipate the introduction of a new automotive marvel. Whether they zip through the streets of some exotic locale, are equipped with the latest Q Branch gadgets, or serve as a getaway vehicle from some villainous henchmen, James Bond’s cars play a vital role in the allure and fantasy of the franchise.
Thus, James Bond’s automotive legacy is not just a collection of metal, luxury, and speed; it’s an enduring symphony that echoes the style, innovation, and legendary panache of the world’s most famous spy. In the Bond universe, cars are more than vehicles—they are protagonists in their own right, forever leaving their mark on cinema history.
