The Aston Martin DB5 is one of the most famous cars of all time, largely thanks to its association with James Bond. In 1963's "Goldfinger," Sean Connery's Bond famously drove a DB5 that was equipped with an array of gadgets and weapons. This car is one of the most recognizable props in the entire Bond franchise, and it's easy to see why.
First, let's take a look at the DB5 itself. The Aston Martin DB5 was first introduced in 1963 as a successor to the DB4. It was powered by a 4.0-liter inline-six engine that produced 282 horsepower, and it could reach a top speed of 145 mph. It was a beautiful car, with classic lines and a sleek, aerodynamic design. The DB5 was a true sports car, and it quickly became a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors.
But it was the addition of gadgets that made the DB5 truly unforgettable. In "Goldfinger," Q Branch outfitted Bond's car with a number of special features, including:
- Machine guns hidden behind the front turn signals
- An ejector seat
- A smoke screen
- Oil slick sprayer
- Rear bullet-proof shield
- A radar tracker
- A telephone in the driver's door
- A hidden compartment containing various spy gear and weapons
All of these gadgets were controlled by a panel hidden behind the gearshift lever. In the movie, Bond uses these features to great effect, outmaneuvering his enemies and escaping dangerous situations. The DB5 became synonymous with Bond, and it has appeared in several subsequent films, including "Thunderball","Goldeneye", "Casino Royale" and "Skyfall".