An Aston Martin DB5 ‘Bond Car’ has been sold at an auction in Monterey, California for £5,175,261, or $6.3m.

The DB5 – which was a US promotional vehicle for 1965’s Thunderball– went under the hammer as part of an RM Sotheby’s auction, and went over its $6m upper estimate, becoming the most expensive DB5 ever sold in the process.

Perhaps, the impressive price shouldn’t be a surprise. Not only is this particular example a desirable car for classic collectors, but also cinema buffs, as it features functioning gadgets akin to those seen in the iconic film.

It was not the only DB5 on sale either; a shooting brake version of the DB5 was also sold for $1,765,000 (£1.4m).

Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer said: “The interest among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide underscores the enduring global appeal of this great British sports car company.”

Meanwhile, RM Sotheby’s car specialist Barney Ruprecht commented: “It was an honour to offer the iconic James Bond 007 Aston Martin DB5. We are beyond thrilled with tonight’s fantastic result and proud to have set a new record for the most valuable DB5 sold at auction. Beyond this new auction record, the enormous amount of interest in the car and excitement surrounding it ahead of the auction solidifies its status as the ‘most famous car in the world.’”

If you fancy a slice of the James Bond image without the multi-million pound price rag, check out the latest used Aston Martin deals here on Motors.co.uk.