The VIP Legacy Of Aston Martin & Bond… James Bond

by Jean-Philippe Blanchard

Aston Martin… the name and car will always be synonymous with Bond, James Bond. Adjectives such as, sleek and speedy come to mind at first sight. With a 50 year partnership, Aston Martin and the 007 franchise is one of the most enduring love affairs in film history.
It all began in 1964 with ‘Goldfinger,’ when Sean Connery drove the gadget packed DB5. The iconic car was seen again in ‘Thunderball,’ ‘Goldeneye,’ ‘Tomorrow Never Dies,’ Casino Royale’ and ‘Skyfall.’ Then came the DBS, the V8, V12 Vanquish and the DBS V12. Talk about a car legacy.
Now, a half century since its debut, Aston Martin premiered the DB10 in the latest bond adventure, ‘Spectre.’ This next generation model is just as perfectly tailor-made for Daniel Craig as his modish suits. In fact, this is the first time that a car has been created specifically for James Bond.
The DB10 is so exclusive that only 10 of the bespoke sports cars were developed and built by the designers, engineers and highly skilled craftspeople at Aston Martin’s Gaydon headquarters. The design broke manufacturing timing records in the industry, creating the car in six months.
But, while the DB10 may not be a production car for consumers, if you’re in the market for an Aston Martin with that Bond flair, the DB9 and DB9GT will suit your style just fine.
Called the most potent DB9 yet devised, it has a raft of color, trim and equipment enhancements across its sporty Vantage and luxurious Rapide S model lines.
Fundamental to the new model’s unique appeal is its uprated 6.0-liter V12 petrol engine, which is capable of generating 540 bhp at 6750 rpm, and 457 lb. ft of torque at 5,500 rpm. The all-alloy, quad overhead cam, 48-valve 5,935 cc front mid-mounted V12 is mated to the proven rear mid-mounted Touchtronic II six-speed transmission with electronic shift-by-wire control system.
And the selling point feature that peaks Bond’s interest: The DB9 reaches 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, and on to a top speed of 183 mph. The independent double wishbone suspension all round continues to deliver secure handling while the three-stage Adaptive Damping System (ADS) offers distinct Normal, Sport and Track modes for the broadest possible breadth of dynamic characteristics.
Inside, the 2+2 seating configuration remains, however, the seats now boast ‘GT’ embroidery on the unique ‘Glen Coe’ fluted leather. An iridium trim pack and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel (Coupe only) further distinguish the new car.
A broad array of options inside the DB9 GT include various center console finishes such as Ice Mocha and Copper Cuprum, while other interior options include Duotone leather seats, door inserts and head linings; and a One-77-inspired steering wheel design.
Building on the system launched in the Vanquish, the DB9 GT’s AMi II infotainment package sees key improvements made in a number of areas including text message integration, vehicle status information and extended background themes for greater personalization. Offering AM, FM, DAB and SDAR reception (US only), USB ports, and Bluetooth audio streaming, the system delivers superb connectivity and entertainment.

Mr. Bond may have an Aston Martin and a license to kill, but anyone with a DB9 will have a license to turn heads.
For any pricing information, visit: www.astonmartin.com