Daniel Craig (efecreata photography/Bigstock.com)
In the Age of Austerity, most of us have had to cut back on a few luxuries; whether it’s switching to own-brand chocolate or choosing a more affordable vehicle breakdown cover policy.
We've also seen 'economisations' in many areas of public services, too. But if the new James Bond film's prop department is any kind of indication, the British Government's austerity measures have not yet reached MI6.
Would HMG really want to stump up the cash for an Aston Martin? Even if MI6 must compete in a car chase with a Jaguar C-X75 in Rome (a scene pencilled in for SPECTRE), it does seem like a rather large expense for Austerity Britain.
So what should Bond be driving in these cost-conscious times?
If we were to keep it British (built on these shores if not owned) then we might find it hard to choose a decent car. Astras are built at Elsemere Port, so we could give 007 one of those. They cost a decent £15,445 – but poor resale values might put off the purse keeper at the Ministry.
But if we really wanted to cut costs (and let’s face it, he’s just going to crash it or get it blown up anyway) we might have to look overseas for an economical runabout for our favourite super spy.
The Romanian-built Dacia Sandero is only £5,995 and would help Bond remain inconspicuous on any Eastern European jaunt. But the ladies might not be so enamoured with our man.
We might give him a Renault Twizy (just £6,895), but seeing as it sticks out like a sore thumb it might not be a great choice.
If the Swingeing Slasher Squad really want to balance price, fuel economy and performance, then the best option could be the three-cylinder Skoda Citigo, priced at just £8,210.
Bullet proof glass and rocket launchers are optional.