In 1963, Aston Martin graced the world with the DB5, a sports car that went on to become an icon, thanks in part to being the preferred ride of a certain spy by the name of James Bond.

Surprisingly, the Aston Martin DB5 isn't as fast as one would assume a superspy's car to be, which is probably why Q upgraded Bond's ride to include machine guns, a bullet shield, and a smoke screen.

The Aston Martin DB5 has been featured in eight James Bond films. The first was Goldfinger in 1964. In the Q laboratory, Bond is informed that his Bentley is going to be replaced by the DB5.

As Aston Martin’s DB5 turns 60 this year and we get ready to enjoy a 007 flick or two during the festive period, I take a look at how the Aston Martin brand has become essential to the series.