Did James Bond drive a Toyota 2000GT?
James Bond, the iconic British secret agent, is known for his suave demeanor, thrilling adventures, and, of course, his collection of stunning cars. While Aston Martins are often associated with 007, there was a notable moment in Bond history when a Toyota 2000GT made its appearance. Let’s dive into the details of this unique collaboration and how it became a part of the Bond legacy.
The Toyota 2000GT in "You Only Live Twice"
The Toyota 2000GT made its James Bond debut in the 1967 film You Only Live Twice, starring Sean Connery as 007. This sleek and stylish Japanese sports car was featured prominently in the movie, driven by Bond’s ally, Aki, played by Akiko Wakabayashi. While Bond himself didn’t drive the car, its presence in the film left a lasting impression on audiences and showcased the 2000GT as a symbol of innovation and elegance.
Why the Toyota 2000GT Stood Out
The Toyota 2000GT was a groundbreaking vehicle for its time, often referred to as Japan’s first supercar. Here are some reasons why it stood out:
- Design: The 2000GT featured a low-slung, aerodynamic design that rivaled European sports cars of the era.
- Performance: Equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-six engine, it delivered impressive speed and handling.
- Rarity: Only 351 units were ever produced, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item today.
- Customization for Bond: For the film, Toyota created two convertible versions of the 2000GT specifically to accommodate Sean Connery’s height, as the standard coupe was too small for him.
The Legacy of the Toyota 2000GT in Bond History
Although James Bond didn’t personally drive the Toyota 2000GT in You Only Live Twice, its inclusion in the film marked a significant moment in the franchise. It was the first time a Japanese car was featured in a Bond movie, reflecting the growing global influence of Japanese automakers during the 1960s. The 2000GT’s appearance also helped cement its status as a classic and contributed to its enduring appeal among car enthusiasts.
Conclusion
While the Toyota 2000GT may not have been Bond’s personal ride, its role in You Only Live Twice remains a memorable part of the series’ history. This collaboration between the Bond franchise and Toyota highlighted the car’s innovative design and performance, ensuring its place in the pantheon of iconic movie vehicles. For fans of both James Bond and classic cars, the 2000GT is a fascinating piece of cinematic and automotive history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Toyota car was in 007?
TOYOTA 2000GT
TOYOTA 2000GT | James Bond 007.
Is the Toyota 2000GT rare?
Production. Only 337 regular production units of the 2000GT were built, figures comparable to contemporary elite Italian supercars, and according to Toyota, all 337 were sold.
How much is a 2000GT worth?
Q: What was the lowest recorded sale price for a Toyota 2000GT? A: The lowest recorded sale price was $850,000 for a 1968 Toyota 2000GT on Nov 2 2021. Q: What is the average sale price of a Toyota 2000GT? A: The average price of a Toyota 2000GT is $1,179,645.
What was James Bond's favorite car?
"But now," said Brauer, "the modern Bond has reverted to Aston Martin as his vehicle of choice.
What Toyota was used in the James Bond movie?
TOYOTA 2000GT
TOYOTA 2000GT The“Bond Car”, 1966
Bond car. This is one of the two vehicles prepared for shooting. After it was used for sales promotion in the United States, a Toyota employee discovered it in Hawaii and it was brought back to Japan.
What is the most expensive collector car ever?
1. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe. The most expensive car ever sold at auction is this 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé. It takes its name from Mercedes' chief engineer and the car's designer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, and only two were ever made.
How many Toyota 2000GT were made?
337
Only 337 regular production units of the 2000GT were built, figures comparable to contemporary elite Italian supercars, and according to Toyota, all 337 were sold. The first prototype was built in August 1965, only 11 months after the project had begun.
What car does James Bond always drive?
But of course, it is fair to say that Aston Martin is the brand most associated with our favourite secret agent. The gadget-filled DB5 is indeed the signature Bond car, as it has returned to feature in many films throughout the series.
How many Toyota 2000 GT were made?
351 produced
| Toyota 2000GT | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1967–1970 (351 produced) |
| Assembly | Japan: Iwata, Shizuoka (Yamaha Motors) |
| Designer | Jiro Kono (Shusa, product manager) Satoru Nozaki (industrial designer) |
| Body and chassis |
What Toyota did James Bond drive?
Toyota 2000GT
Toyota 2000GT is Bond's favourite Bond car. The Toyota 2000GT has a place in the hearts of many James Bond fans, but last night's Top Gear 50 Years of Bond Cars special revealed that it's actually Daniel Craig's favourite Bond car too.
