James Bond’s Aston Martin breaks down at public display in Buckinghamshire

A classic 1964 Aston Martin made famous by its role in the James Bond film of the same year, Goldfinger, failed to dazzle during its public display last weekend after it broke down during the event in Buckinghamshire.

The vintage vehicle was making its first public appearance in 10 years when disaster struck, and the worn out clutch gave way. One onlooker watching the display described seeing the classic car consumed in a cloud of smoke, and hearing the engine spluttering.

Hundreds of car enthusiasts gathered at the Midsummer Event at Stoke Park, Bucks, to see the Aston Martin in its full glory. The iconic car is one of the most recognisable vehicles from the James Bond films and was one of two driven by James Bond, played by Sean Connery, in Goldfinger and 1965 blockbuster, Thunderball.

The sport car’s presence at the Stoke Park show was particularly apt as filming for Goldfinger took place at the Park. The OO7 spy filmed a showdown moment with arch nemesis Avric Goldfinger and his henchman, the hat-throwing assassin Oddjob, at Stoke Park back in the 60’s.

Following its early exit from the Midsummer Classic Car event, Bond’s Aston Martin was taken in by specialist mechanics to undergo repairs. The car needs to be in prime condition by October as it is due to go up for auction. Motoring experts predict the iconic ride will fetch £3.5 million when it goes under the hammer later this year.