When you hear the name Aston Martin you automatically think of James Bond tooling about in his Aston Martin DB-5. A truly classic car when introduced in 1964’s “Goldfinger” film and a car that breathed performance, great looks and above all craftsmanship. In 1969 the DBS came on the scene. A refinement of the 5 but holding to the basic elements of great looks and sexiness. The DB finally gave way to the Vantage driven by Bond man Timothy Dalton and later the ever-dapper Roger Moore. Moore had a long run as our Bondman from 1973-1985 starring in 7 films including “Live and Let Die”, “The Man with the Golden Gun”, “The Spy Who Loved Me”, “Moonraker”, “For Your Eyes Only”, “Octopussy” and “A View to a Kill”. This sweet Aston Martin ride held the spotlight for a long period as well from 1977 to 1989.
Then the stunningly elegant Vanquish came along with the new Mr. Bond, Pierce Brosnan, who actually piloted two Astons – reprising the DB-5 and also holding sway with the ultra-new and sleek V-12 Vanquish. Brosnan enjoy the Bond role from 1995-2002 and the Vanquish served him well.
The Vanquish was all about elegance and performance with this huge engine and a style look all of its own. You look at a car of this caliber and instantly you are thinking “sophisticated macho”. This car was unquestionably a head turner in all respects, sculpted beauty and power which I see as a metaphor for Bond’s powerful human qualities. A man like Bond needs a car like the Vanquish! End of story.
“Casino Royale” hit the silver screen in 2006 along with Bondman Daniel Craig. His choice of wheels turned out to be the revamped DBS; a smoke-gray beauty that showcased Mr. Craig superbly. I think in some ways Aston Martin has worked over the years to match the cars to the actors who have played the Bond character. This car fit Craig like a glove in all respects.
It’s important to remember that Aston Martin’s heritage is about time – taking time to build the best road machines for 104 years now. Enduring over time to show the world a perfection in the business of building luxury motor cars.
Over the years, the Aston Martin line of fine motor cars has brought a tremendous satisfaction to numerous owners and to fans of the James Bond franchise who have watched the cars be put through their paces in the over 50 year franchise of the Bond films. Aston Martin is an exemplification of living life to the fullest, possessing something that is surly the best that you can have. The Aston Martin legacy is all about appreciating a lineage, a heritage of total excellence that brings its drivers/owners a satisfaction of having experienced the rarest of motoring pleasures.
The Aston Martin family of cars – treasures for our time and a legacies for the future!
