There have been numerous James Bond vehicles but the one that will always stick out in my mind has to be the Lotus Esprit from The Spy Who Loved Me. I guess because at the time it was an epitome of the 80s sports cars. That and the freaking thing goes under water and turns into a submarine. I think this car represents the height of the customised ’spy’ cars. Of course many would rate the Aston Martin higher and believe me if someone comes around handing out Bond cars I will happily wait in line for one. The Lotus though especially in submarine mode is the first thing that comes to mind vehicle related when I think James Bond. Strangely enough it’s the image of Roger Moore on the jetski which is the second!
The Lotus Esprit had these modifications:
Submarine Features
- Retractable wheels, with extendible covers to protect the wheel cavity
- Retractable fins and rudders for underwater steering
- Convertible dashboard to double as a submarine control system
- Radar and Nautical guidance equipment
- Metal blinds for rear window
- Four retractable propeller units at the rear of the car
Weapons & Defence
- Surface-to-air missiles
- Underwater mines
- Oil-slick sprayer for underwater camouflage
- Rear mounted concrete sprayers
- Harpoons for underwater combat
- Self destruct system
- TV Monitor and closed-circuit camera
- Periscope
Popularity: 6% [?]
13/12/2006 at 2:53 am Permalink
My dream feature is a hydroplane proof car. It would keep me from totaling more cars.
13/12/2006 at 11:23 am Permalink
Josh - maybe you need the invisible bond car - then no one would know you did it!
13/12/2006 at 1:33 pm Permalink
I change my MIND this is my DREAM car
10/12/2007 at 10:03 pm Permalink
i agree, still my fave (tho daltrys was pretty sweet what with the skis and rocket/missile things)
it was also the inspiration (im sure) for the japanese racers in cannonball run, they should have won, what with the super mega speed, and maybe invisibility (its been along time since i saw it)
i like your this week last year thing, it just reaffirms for me how similar our tastes are…
10/12/2007 at 10:28 pm Permalink
Oh wow - this entry is a blast from the past!
The car in Cannonball run was indeed the same model vehicle as a direct homage to James Bond even with Jaws driving. The first Cannonball Run had the Aston Martin with Roger Moore.
I actually don’t mind the BMWs in the later films - not the invisible car mind you!!