Bond's car comes with a series of special features

The legendary 1965 DB5 model, complete with a host of high-tech gadgets, went under the hammer in Phoenix, Arizona.

Driven by Sean Connery, the car boasts built-in Browning machine guns, tyre slashers, an oil slick ejector and a retractable rear bullet-proof screen.

It was bought for $2,090,000 by a European collector. When last sold in 1970, it fetched £5,000.

'So exciting'

Before the sale began, lights in the auction house were turned off and RM Auctions spokesman Terrance Lobzun - dressed in 007-style tuxedo - drove the car on to the stage.

He demonstrated all the features - including the guns - in return for a standing ovation from the audience.

"It was just amazing. The atmosphere was electric, it was so exciting," he said.

"Every seat of the 1,500 in the house was sold - it was standing room only. It was the biggest crowd we've ever had.

"If there had been real bullets in the guns I would have taken out the whole front row of these people who have more money than most countries do."

'Quite happy'

Mr Lobzun added: "Needless to say the previous owner is quite happy with his investment."

The car had been bought from Sir Anthony Bamford in 1970 by a Tennessee museum owner.

Other gadgets include three revolving number plates including the registrations 007JB and JB007.

But a passenger ejector seat with removable roof panel has been replaced with a standard seat.

The Aston Martin was one of only four cars originally constructed and used for 1964's Goldfinger and 1965's Thunderball, as well as on promotional tours.