Guide Note
A luxury sports car manufacturer, Aston Martin has a long, successful history in the international racing circuit. Founded by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford in 1914 in West London, Aston Martin vehicles may be best known for their multiple appearances in the James Bond films.1
After experiencing financial difficulties, Aston Martin was sold to Ford in 1987. In 2007, Aston Martin was purchased by a consortium led by David Richards, although Ford retained 15% of the company.2
Fast Facts
- Founders: Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford
- 1913: Martin and Bamford Limited was founded, selling cars for hill climbing and racing1
- 1914: Their success at hill climb course in Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire provided the inspiration for their new company name when they started manufacturing their own cars1
- Headquarters: Gaydon, England3
- 1987: Acquired by Ford Motor Company4
- 2007: Ford sold the majority of Aston Martin to a consortium led by David Richards and financed by Kuwaiti funds Investment Dar and Adeem5
- Has manufactured less than 20,000 vehicles since the company was founded4
Aston Martins in James Bond Films
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