Forget the DBS. Seriously. Compared with that V-12-powered moviestarmobile, the 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage -- updated with a newly enlarged, more potent V-8 -- is easily as quick, lighter and nimbler, and arguably every bit as good-looking. Yet the Vantage sells for about half the price.

It's not unusual for Her Majesty's Secret Servant to employ the same car in more than one movie. The iconic DB5 appeared in "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball," so why not let 007 have another go at Aston's freshened flagship, the DBS, for "Quantum of Solace?" For 2009, the DBS offers the optional availability of a six-speed automatic transaxle, 2+2 seating, a new 20-inch wheel package, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system.

For those of you desperate for the new Bond movie to open in cinemas, good news – the car chase is awesome. Forget whether Daniel Craig is settling into the role, don’t worry about how the genre has moved forward, and just be happy the Aston drive in Quantum of Solace lasts longer than in Casino Royale.

We were totally buying Hamann's line about "form follows function," right up until the point we saw the roof scoop on the tuner's Aston Martin V8 Vantage package. That aside, the kit from Hamann is one of the most comprehensive we've seen, implementing an array of aerodynamic, handing and engine mods to take the baby Aston to the next level.

It's all about the noise in this car. Roof down, 4,000rpm and you reach what must be approaching motoring nirvana. That's the point at which the exhaust baffles open up a little bit more and, rather than the V8 burbling away, it takes on a much harder edge. And, praise be, it's really easy to keep the engine singing away up there.

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a supreme example of modern automotive design, a hand-crafted sports car that offers exceptional performance, outstanding agility and everyday usability.

The Aston Martin DB9 is a thoroughbred sports car with GT levels of comfort and refinement. Combining Aston Martin’s unique character with an uncompromising design philosophy, the DB9 was borne out of a synthesis of traditional craftsmanship, high-tech manufacturing, modern components and use of the finest materials.

James Bond car, oh yes baby, shagalicious.

The Aston Martin, will shake you, not stir you