February 2023
Automotive-style icons have played a major role in shaping the design aesthetic of the automotive industry.
Some of the most notable examples include the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing, the Porsche 911, the Ferrari 250 GTO, the Aston Martin DB5 and the Jaguar E-Type.
These vehicles challenged the norms of design and engineering.
They redefined expectations of what a car could look like. Their flowing lines, distinctive curves, and elegant proportions have become synonymous with classic beauty.
There is little doubt these incredible creations have inspired generations of designers and continue to be revered as masterpieces of industrial design.
Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation: A Timeless Classic Returns.
The Aston Martin DB5 is one of the most iconic sports cars of all time, made famous by its appearance in the James Bond film "Goldfinger."
Now, nearly 60 years later, the DB5 is back with a continuation model built by Aston Martin Works, the heritage division of the automaker.
OK, so this is old news - Aston Martin announced this in 2018 - and your chances of acquiring one are... well... approaching nil, but here's what you need to know just in case.
The DB5 Goldfinger Continuation is a limited-edition model, with just 25 units being produced.
Each car is built by hand using traditional methods and materials, just as the original DB5 was constructed.
The attention to detail is impressive.
The continuation model features the same curves, lines, and signature design elements that made the original so famous.
Under the hood, the DB5 is powered by a 4.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 290 horsepower and 304 lb-ft of torque.
The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, and the car features a top speed of 140 mph (225 kmph).
The interior of the Goldfinger Continuation is just as impressive as the exterior, with hand-stitched leather and beautiful wood accents.
The car also features several notable features, such as a rotating license plate, a smoke screen dispenser, and a simulated oil slick sprayer, all inspired by the gadgets seen in the James Bond film.
Read more about it here.
Speaking of films, an Aston Martin DB5 replica stunt car (see here) featured in No Time To Die (2021) has raised £2,922,000 for good causes in a charity auction at Christie’s to celebrate 60 years of the James Bond films.
A true work of art.
The Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation is a testament to timeless design and engineering. It is a perfect blend of classic style and modern technology and an authentic tribute to one of the most iconic sports cars in history.
25 rolled off the production line in England, the first of which was finished in 2020 after a reported 4,500 hours of construction. The handcrafted machines sold for £3.3m (US$4.6m) each.
The marketing material suggests it was a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.
You probably won't. Nor will I.
But we're allowed to dream.
