You’re drawn to the sleek lines and sophisticated charm of the Aston Martin DB5, but its hefty price tag is out of your reach. You’re not alone; many car enthusiasts covet this iconic Bond car, but few can afford it. Fortunately, there are alternatives that capture the DB5’s essence without breaking the bank. From retro roadsters to vintage grand tourers, you’ll find cars that evoke the spirit of Bond’s ride without the astronomical cost. Let’s delve into these affordable alternatives.
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Key Takeaways
- The Aston Martin DB9 is a more affordable alternative to the DBS, with early models available for under £20k.
- The Triumph GT6 offers a similar driving experience to the DB5 at a lower price point, around £16k.
- The MGC GT provides a similar driving experience to the DB5, available for under £20k.
- The BMW Z3 is a retro roadster that evokes the spirit of Bond cars, available for as little as £2k.
- The DB4 is a more accessible option, with prices starting around $200,000, sharing similar styling cues with the DB5.
Bond Cars on a Budget
You don’t have to break the bank to own a piece of Bond-esque motoring history.
If you’re after a Bond car on a budget, consider the Aston Martin DB9, a more affordable alternative to the DBS. Early, leggy examples are available for under £20k, offering similar performance and style at a lower price.
Alternatively, look at other retro roadsters that evoke the spirit of Bond cars, such as the BMW Z3, available for as little as £2k, or the Triumph GT6, priced around £16k. These options deliver a Bond-like experience without the hefty price tag.
BMW Z8 Vs BMW Z3
You’ll find that the BMW Z8, despite its Bond-worthy credentials, falls short in terms of performance and handling, with critics panning its disappointing dynamics.
In contrast, the BMW Z3, a more affordable alternative, still offers a fun driving experience, albeit not as crisp as some of its competitors.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank, the Z3 is a viable choice, but if you’re seeking a high-performance roadster, you may want to weigh your options.
Z8’s Disappointing Performance
Critics and enthusiasts alike were left underwhelmed by the BMW Z8‘s performance, a stark contrast to its sleek, Bond-worthy appearance.
You’d expect a car driven by James Bond to deliver exceptional power and agility, but the Z8 fell short. Its 4.9-liter V8 engine, producing 394 horsepower, failed to impress, with many citing sluggish acceleration and lackluster handling.
The £150,000 price tag only added to the disappointment, making it inaccessible to most car enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a similar driving experience without the hefty price tag, the BMW Z3 might be a more affordable alternative.
Handling Issues
Handling issues plagued the BMW Z8, a stark contrast to its sleek design.
You’ll find that critics were quick to point out its disappointing handling, which didn’t quite live up to its Bond-inspired fame.
In contrast, the BMW Z3‘s handling, although not as crisp as an MX-5, is more forgiving.
This difference in handling is a key factor to ponder when deciding between these two cars.
With the Z3, you’ll find its retro roadster design and affordable price point make it a more accessible option for those seeking a Bond-inspired ride without the hefty price tag of the Z8, a crucial aspect to weigh.
Budget Alternative
The quest for a Bond-inspired ride often leads enthusiasts to the BMW Z8, but its hefty price tag can be a significant deterrent.
You’ll be looking at a whopping £150,000, making it unaffordable for most.
If you’re on a tighter budget, consider the BMW Z3, a retro Z roadster that costs peanuts, with prices starting from as little as £2,000.
While its handling isn’t as crisp as an MX-5, the Z3 is a great budget alternative, especially with a 2.8 or 3-litre straight-six engine for better performance.
It’s a less expensive option that still delivers a Bond-like experience.
Ford Mustang Mach 1 Alternatives
You’re likely looking for a Ford Mustang Mach 1 alternative that captures its retro fastback style without breaking the bank.
The Ford Capri is a budget-friendly option that offers a similar driving experience at a lower price point, making it an attractive choice.
With its 2-litre GT engine, the Capri delivers 70s cool and better fuel efficiency, making it a compelling alternative to the Mach 1.
Ford Capri Option
Seeking an alternative to the Aston Martin DB5 with a similar fastback design and performance at a lower price point?
Stop your search right here than the Ford Capri, Europe’s answer to the Mustang.
With a sloping fastback roofline and sporty stance, the Capri delivers 70s cool at an affordable price.
Early 3-litre models may not be significantly cheaper than the Mustang, but a 2-litre GT provides better fuel efficiency.
Prices start from around £2k, making it a great budget option for those who want a retro fastback.
Budget Friendly Alternative
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the Ford Mustang Mach 1, consider the Mercury Cougar or Dodge Charger.
However, a more affordable option is the Ford Capri, Europe’s version of the Mustang.
A 2-litre GT Ford Capri is a great budget option, with prices starting from around £2k – half the price of a Mustang Mach 1.
You’ll get a similar driving experience, but with better fuel economy and a larger interior space.
The 2-litre engine provides a more economical option, making it an attractive choice for those who want a classic fastback without breaking the bank.
Retro Fastback Style
In terms of retro fastback style, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 is an iconic model that sets the bar high.
You may know it from its starring role in Diamonds are Forever (1971), driven by Sean Connery. With a base engine delivering 210bhp gross and an optional 7-litre 429cu in engine, it’s a powerhouse.
If the price tag is too steep, consider the Ford Capri, often called Europe’s Mustang. It offers a similar retro fastback experience at a lower cost, with early 3-litre cars and a 2-litre GT delivering 70s cool and better fuel efficiency.
Toyota 2000GT Lookalikes
You can experience the thrill of driving a Toyota 2000GT without breaking the bank by considering its lookalikes.
The Triumph GT6 is a strong contender, offering a similar driving experience at a lower price point of around £16k.
Its Vitesse straight-six engine produces 104 hp, slightly less than the Toyota 2000GT’s 148 hp, but still providing a comparable ride.
With a top speed of 110 mph, the GT6 is a suitable alternative to the Toyota 2000GT’s 130 mph.
Its availability and affordability make it a more accessible option for those seeking a Toyota 2000GT-like experience.
Aston Martin DBS on a Shoestring
Classic car enthusiasts seeking an affordable entry point into Aston Martin ownership can find comfort in the DBS, a more attainable alternative to the iconic DB5.
You can get a fully restored DBS for around £350k, half the price of a DB5.
- The DBS 6 cylinder is a rare model, with only 787 units produced, making it a desirable option for those who want a classic Aston Martin at a lower price.
- Cars in need of rescue or restoration can be had for sensible money, offering a cost-effective way to own a DBS.
- The DBS is becoming increasingly desirable, making it a great option for those who want a rare and desirable Aston Martin without breaking the bank.
- Partial or full restorations can be done on a budget, allowing you to drive and enjoy your DBS while restoring it to its former glory.
- You can own a piece of Aston Martin history without emptying your wallet.
Range Rover Convertible on the Cheap
This rare and elusive Range Rover Convertible, famously featured in the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy, is a coveted collector’s item worth over £70,000, making it an unrealistic dream for many enthusiasts.
However, if you’re looking for a similar open-air driving experience without the hefty price tag, conversions are available.
But why not consider a more affordable alternative? The Volkswagen 181, a Beetle-based open-top SUV, offers a similar retro vibe for a fraction of the cost, around £15,000.
You’ll still get to feel the wind in your hair without breaking the bank.
Aston Martin DB5 for Less
You’re looking for an Aston Martin DB5, but the price tag is out of your reach.
Fortunately, there are alternative Aston Martins that offer a similar experience at a lower cost.
You can investigate budget Bond cars, alternative Aston Martins, and DB5 lookalikes that fit your budget and satisfy your desire for a classic Aston Martin.
Budget Bond Cars
If Bond’s budget wasn’t quite as limitless as his charm, you’d still find ways to emulate his iconic style without breaking the bank.
You can own a piece of Bond’s flair with these budget-friendly alternatives:
- BMW Z3: a £2k Bond car alternative with recommended 2.8 or 3-litre straight-six engine for better performance.
- Ford Capri: a more affordable alternative to the Ford Mustang Mach 1, with a 2-litre GT delivering 70s cool and better fuel efficiency.
- Triumph GT6: a £16k alternative to the Toyota 2000GT, with an open-air version available.
- Aston Martin DB9: a more affordable alternative to the Aston Martin DBS, with early examples available for under £20k.
- Volkswagen 181: a £15k alternative to the Range Rover Convertible, offering a similar open-air driving experience.
Alternative Aston Martins
Aston Martin’s iconic DB5 is a coveted luxury car, but its hefty price tag puts it out of reach for many enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for an alternative Aston Martin that’s more affordable, consider the DB4 or DB6. These models share similar styling cues with the DB5, including sleek lines and a powerful engine.
The DB4, in particular, is a more accessible option, with prices starting around $200,000. The DB6, on the other hand, offers more interior space and is priced around $300,000.
Both models offer a taste of Aston Martin’s luxury and performance at a lower cost.
DB5 Lookalikes
While the DB4 and DB6 offer more affordable alternatives to the DB5, they still come with a hefty price tag.
If you’re looking for a DB5 experience on a tighter budget, consider these options:
- The MGC GT can provide a similar driving experience at a lower price.
- Convert a MGB GT to closely resemble a DB5, with guidance from online forums and communities.
- Draw inspiration from the rare Coune Berlinette, an MG-based coupe.
- Study Jacobs Midgets, which borrowed the DB4’s roofline.
- Research existing DB5 lookalikes, the original DB5 design, and features to create a replica with similar design elements.
Lotus Esprit Alternatives
You’re likely considering the Lotus Esprit for its exceptional performance, sleek design, and Bond-approved heritage.
After all, who can forget James Bond’s iconic submarine car in “The Spy Who Loved Me”?
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider cars that match the Esprit’s impressive specs.
The Esprit Turbo’s 210 horsepower and 5.6-second 0-60 mph acceleration are hard to beat, but the Esprit S4’s 300 horsepower and 165 mph top speed may be more to your liking.
Alternatively, the Esprit V8’s 350 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque could be the perfect combination of power and style.
Alfa Romeo GTV6 Lookalikes
The Alfa Romeo GTV6‘s sleek, curved lines and rounded rear haunches evoke a sense of classic grand touring charm, reminiscent of the iconic Aston Martin DB5.
While not a direct copy, the GTV6 shares some design similarities with the DB5.
- The GTV6’s 2.5-liter V6 engine produces 158 horsepower, significantly less than the DB5’s 282 horsepower.
- With a top speed of 130 mph, the GTV6 is no slouch, but it can’t match the DB5’s performance.
- The GTV6 offers a more affordable entry point into classic grand touring, with prices ranging from $10,000 to $20,000.
- The GTV6’s styling cues evoke a sense of Italian flair and elegance, albeit on a more modest scale than the DB5.
- Despite differences, the GTV6’s proportions and silhouette evoke a similar sense of classic grand touring charm as the Aston Martin DB5.
Bentley 3½-Litre on a Budget
If you’re seeking a luxurious driving experience reminiscent of the Aston Martin DB5 but at a more affordable price point, consider the Bentley 3½-Litre, a pre-war classic that offers a similar sense of refinement and exclusivity.
Let’s delve into the details that make this model an attractive alternative.
The 3½-Litre’s 3.5-liter inline-six engine produces 110 horsepower, providing a smooth and quiet ride.
With restored models available for £20,000 to £50,000, it’s a budget-friendly option.
Its coach-built design, often featuring bespoke bodywork, and high-end amenities like leather upholstery and walnut trim, make it a rare and exclusive find.
Reliant Scimitar GTC as a Bond Car
As the film’s producers scoured the market for a sleek, high-performance vehicle to feature in the 1987 James Bond film “The Living Daylights,” the Reliant Scimitar GTC briefly emerged as a strong contender for the coveted role.
You might be surprised to know that this rare gem was considered as a potential Bond car before the producers opted for the Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
- Only 78 units were produced between 1980 and 1986
- The GTC model was a convertible version of the Scimitar, featuring a fiberglass body and a 2.9-liter Ford Essex V6 engine producing 153 horsepower
- The car has a top speed of 125 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds
- The design was influenced by its predecessor, the Reliant Scimitar GTE, known for its sleek and sporty styling
- Although it didn’t become the new Bond’s ride, the Reliant Scimitar GTC remains a sought-after car among collectors and enthusiasts.
Vintage Bond Cars for the Frugal
While you may not have the budget to own a luxurious Aston Martin, you can still experience the thrill of driving a vintage Bond-inspired car without breaking the bank.
Look for a decent example of the MGC GT, a 1960s six-cylinder British GT available for under £20k, offering a similar driving experience to the Aston Martin DB5 at a lower price.
Alternatively, consider the Triumph GT6, a fastback Spitfire with a Vitesse straight-six, available for £16k, or the BMW Z3, a retro Z roadster that costs peanuts, starting from as little as £2k.
Conclusion
You’ve scoured the market for a Bond-worthy ride without breaking the bank, and the options are endless. Like a master chef combining ingredients, you’ve mixed and matched to find the perfect blend of style, performance, and affordability. From the BMW Z3’s retro charm to the Aston Martin DB9’s sleek sophistication, you’ve discovered that Bond-esque cars can be had without the hefty price tag, making your dream ride more attainable than a perfectly shaken martini.
