Cover James Bond's muscle car from "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" is up for sale (Photo: Courtesy of www.007magazine.co.uk)

The 1969 Mercury Cougar XR7 convertible which had a starring role in the classic Bond film is expected to fetch GBP100,000 to GPP150,000

For the first time in auction, a 1969 Mercury Cougar XR7 convertible which was seen in the classic Bond film, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, the sixth film in the iconic franchise. The cherry-red car—with an estimate of £100,000–150,000 (around HK$–1.4 million)—will be up for sale at the fittingly Bonhams Bond Street Sale on December 16. Cars are no stranger to James Bond films. In fact, several Aston Martin sports cars are James Bond-inspired. 

In the film, the American muscle car was owned by "Bond Girl", Contessa "Tracy" Teresa di Vicenzo, played by Dame Diana Rigg. It was most remembered as the car driven on ice in a high-speed car chase. It featured a ski rack, two pairs of wooden skis and hood pins. Built in 1969 as a special order, it was one of the only 127 XR7 convertibles powered by the desirable Jet Ram V8 engine built in 1969. The example was finished with red paint with matching leather interior and steel wheels.

See also: Aston Martin Unveils New James Bond-Inspired Sports Cars

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Photo 1 of 3 1969 Mercury Cougar RX7 (Photo: Courtesy of Bonhams)
Photo 2 of 3 Red leather seats to match the cherry-red exterior (Photo: Courtesy of Bonhams)
Photo 3 of 3 George Lazenby and Diana Rigg inside the Mercury Couger (Photo: Courtesy of www.007magazine.co.uk)

"We're delighted to offer this unique Cougar which is not only an important piece of film history but also a stunning example of a 1960s muscle car. We are sure it will leave the saleroom stirred if not shaken," said Tim Schofield, head of the department of Bonhams Motor Cars UK.

After the film, the Mercury model became an instant classic. It appeared as a show car and museum display the following years and is particularly loved among collectors.

The Bonhams Bond Street Sale will take place live in London with Covid-19 social distancing measures in place. It will also be broadcast worldwide on the Bonhams website. Overseas bidders can participate online, by telephone or through absentee bids.

See also: Aston Martin Unveils New Limited Edition James Bond DB5