Stunt DB5 from No Time to Die is for sale
The stunt Aston Martin DB5 was used in the opening chase sequence. Photo: Aston Martin
Christie’s is holding a charity auction of 007 memorabilia to celebrate 60 years of James Bond in cinema, and one of the lots is the stunt Aston Martin DB5 from No Time to Die.
The 25 items for sale include props, clothing, and autographed signs with all the money from the sales going to 45 charities. But the standout – and most expensive item – is the stunt DB5.
This Aston Martin DB5 stunt car is one of only eight built specifically for James Bond and is to date the only DB5 stunt car to be released for public sale by Aston Martin and EON Productions. Aston Martin has been associated with the James Bond franchise for over 50 years and has featured in 13 films to date.
The DB5 stunt car was exclusively engineered and handcrafted for No Time To Die. All the DB5 stunt cars were modified in different ways for use, this car being one of a few to include the bespoke No Time To Die gadgets and mocked-up side panel damage.
In the film, the DB5 stunt car features in an exciting opening chase sequence, driven by James Bond (Daniel Craig), with Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) at his side, through Matera, Italy. The DB5 stunt car demonstrates its incredible dynamic capabilities as the pair drive at high speed through the town in an attempt to shake off their pursuers.
The Matera chase sequence features heavily in No Time To Die, with James Bond deploying the gadget-laden motor’s hidden machine guns.
The DB5 stunt car features a modern 3.2-litre straight 6 petrol engine alongside a manual gearbox to maximise the dynamic capability of the stunt car. The body panels are all carbon fibre, while the handcrafted interior has been made using carbon fibre and features cut-down sport Tillett stunt seats.
The dash was created through an innovative 3D printing technique, featuring an original DB5 steering wheel and chronograph dials which are aesthetically sympathetic to an original DB5.
The DB5 stunt car suspension and braking system are completely bespoke and were uniquely engineered by Aston Martin Special Projects. Guided by Special Effects Supervisor Chris Corbould with regard to what was expected of the car on set, the Aston Martin Special Projects team then developed a completely new suspension and braking system which made the car capable of its incredible stunt performances.
The first of a two-part auction takes place on 28 September and the stunt Aston Martin is expected to sell between an estimated £1.5–£2 million (NZ$2.92–$3.9m). And on the positive side, it is being sold by Aston Martin Lagonda Limited, who will donate their entire proceeds from this lot, if sold, to The Prince's Trust and The Prince of Wales's Charitable Fund.
Okay, I’m just off to buy a Lotto ticket.
