The iconic James Bond Lotus Esprit submarine car, which featured in the 1977 movie “The Spy Who Loved Me,” is going up for auction in September 2013 at RM Auctions in London. Unfortunately, the James Bond Lotus Esprit never did actually transform from a submarine into a car and vice versa.
A one-man submarine was transformed to look like a Lotus Esprit, and then a real Lotus Esprit was pulled up the beach using hidden pulleys to give the impression that the submarine transformed back into the sports car. The magic of the movies!
The Legacy of the James Bond Lotus Esprit
The Lotus Esprit submarine car is not just a piece of movie memorabilia; it represents a significant part of cinematic history. The car was designed by the special effects team led by John Stears, who was also responsible for the iconic Aston Martin DB5 in “Goldfinger.” The Lotus Esprit’s transformation scene is one of the most memorable moments in the James Bond franchise, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of the filmmakers.
It’s not sure how much the Lotus Esprit submarine will fetch at auction, but in 2010, the same auction house held the sale of the Aston Martin DB5 that featured in “Goldfinger,” which eventually sold for £2.6m ($4m). This sets a high benchmark for the Lotus Esprit, considering its unique design and the iconic status it holds among James Bond fans.
Max Girardo, Managing Director, RM Auctions, Europe, explained:
“We have a great track record in selling incredible and iconic movie cars, and this particular Lotus is certainly up there amongst the most famous cars of all time. Over the years, millions of moviegoers have stared in awe as the Lotus transformed itself into a submarine, and now, perhaps one of them will have an opportunity to own it. Her Majesty’s Secret Service aside, it surely is the ultimate beach accessory!”
The Cultural Impact of the Lotus Esprit Submarine Car
The Lotus Esprit submarine car has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has been referenced in numerous TV shows, movies, and even video games. For instance, the car was parodied in the animated series “The Simpsons” and has appeared in various James Bond video games, allowing fans to relive the iconic transformation scene.
Moreover, the car’s design has inspired real-world innovations. Engineers and designers have looked to the Lotus Esprit submarine for inspiration in creating amphibious vehicles. While these real-world counterparts may not have the same sleek design or the ability to transform as seamlessly, they owe a part of their existence to the creative vision showcased in “The Spy Who Loved Me.”
The auction of the Lotus Esprit submarine car is not just an opportunity for collectors to own a piece of movie history; it is a chance to celebrate the creativity and innovation that the James Bond franchise has brought to the world of cinema. Whether it fetches a price close to the Aston Martin DB5 or not, its cultural significance is undeniable.
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