MPH’s List of the Most Iconic Supercars in Film History

July 11, 2023 2:30 AM

While witnessing the breathtaking speed of a Bugatti Veyron in the midst of rush-hour traffic or admiring the regal allure of a Rolls Royce Phantom parked outside your beloved steakhouse might seem out of reach, the magic of Hollywood film allows car enthusiasts worldwide to embark on thrilling adventures within a new reality. 

 

In the world of Hollywood cinema, a distinguished group of supercars have graced the spotlight, captivating audiences for decades with their timeless elegance and extraordinary performances on screen. From heart-racing high-speed chase sequences to striking specs and transformations, these rare and exclusive vehicles have transcended the screen, becoming cultural icons that embody the perfect blend of luxury and passion for automotive innovation. 

 

Get ready to tune out the noise and expand your watch list with some of the most famous supercars on screen, and discover how the art of storytelling intertwines with the sheer beauty and allure of these exotic machines.

 

DeLorean DMC-12 (Back to the Future):

 

The DeLorean DMC-12 has earned its legendary status as the awe-inspiring time machine in the "Back to the Future" film trilogy. This supercar captivates with its remarkable design and features, embodying the essence of futuristic technology.

 

With its striking stainless steel body, the DeLorean DMC-12 showcases a creative vision that stands out from the crowd. This choice of material not only exudes sophistication but also ensures long-lasting durability, much like the enduring appeal of the film trilogy itself.

 

Yet, it is the gull-wing doors that truly set the DeLorean DMC-12 apart. These iconic doors open in a dramatic upward sweep, inviting passengers into a world of time travel and innovation. They serve as a tangible symbol, reminding us that this is no ordinary car, but a meticulously designed gateway to exciting adventures and limitless possibilities.

 

 

 

 

1989 Lamborghini Countach (The Wolf of Wall Street):

 

In the iconic scene from "The Wolf of Wall Street," Jordan Belfort, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, succumbs to the intoxicating effects of a potent dose of old quaaludes. As the drugs take hold of his body, the scene unfolds with a blend of chaos, hilarity, and sheer disbelief. DiCaprio's masterful performance captures Belfort's struggle to maintain control as his motor functions deteriorate, leading to a series of wild and comedic mishaps.

 

With his body in a state of extreme sedation, Belfort's movements become slow, uncoordinated, and almost puppet-like. Every step becomes a battle against gravity, as he attempts to navigate his surroundings with limbs that seem detached from his command. Simple tasks such as answering the phone or climbing into a car become demanding challenges, resulting in a cascade of physical comedy that leaves viewers hysterical.

 

As the scene progresses, Belfort's impaired state leads to a series of destructive actions and unintended consequences. Furniture is destroyed, objects are toppled, and his attempt to drive his Lamborghini Countach becomes a wild and perilous endeavor. The juxtaposition of Belfort's desperate attempts to maintain his composure and the havoc he wreaks around him creates a surreal and mesmerizing spectacle. 

 

To top off DiCaprio’s exceptional acting, Director Martin Scorcese's commitment to authenticity led him to choose a real $700,000 Lamborghini Countach, after refusing to settle for a replica. The decision paid off, as the scene featuring the Countach captured the attention of viewers worldwide.

 

What makes this choice even more remarkable is that Scorcese opted for an incredibly rare example of the already exclusive supercar. The Lamborghini Countach featured in the film was the 25th Anniversary edition from 1989, one of only 23 white-on-white models ever built in the US. With just 7,000 miles on the odometer, this rare Countach was in pristine condition before getting wrecked for our cinematic pleasure. 

 

While the Lamborghini Countach met its tragic fate on-screen, the filmmakers didn't simply discard its remnants afterward. Many parts of the car, including the doors, lights, hood, latches, and even the glass, were auctioned off, ensuring that the vehicle's legacy would live on. The Countach's thin and expensive glass alone was sold to a Countach repair shop for approximately $50,000. The real Jordan Belfort later confirmed after the film’s release that he was actually driving a white Mercedes in real life instead of the Countach.

 

 

 

 

Aston Martin DB10 (Spectre):

 

The Aston Martin DB10, created exclusively for the James Bond film "Spectre," showcased its bespoke exterior and a modern design. Its limited production and association with the Bond franchise contributed to its status as an iconic supercar on our list.

 

The Aston Martin DB10, a masterpiece born from the collaboration between Aston Martin and the James Bond film "Spectre," exudes an unparalleled blend of elegance, power, and sheer sophistication. Crafted exclusively for the silver screen, the Aston Martin DB10 stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of cutting-edge design and automotive excellence.

 

With its sleek lines and dynamic contours, the Aston Martin DB10 commands attention from every angle. Its aerodynamic profile, meticulously sculpted to minimize drag and maximize performance, reflects the brand's unwavering commitment to precision engineering. The result is a visually captivating masterpiece that effortlessly captures the essence of speed and style.

 

Only 10 Aston Martin DB10s were ever built, with 8 being used in Spectre, which marked the 50th anniversary of Aston Martin and James Bond  – which dates back to the DB5 in Goldfinger (1964). 

 

In the film, Q unveils the Aston Martin DB10's hidden surprises just before it's assigned to Agent 009. But James Bond seizes the opportunity, "borrows" the car, and embarks on a thrilling mission in Rome. As Bond's assassin pursues him in a spectacular chase throughout the historic city, the DB10's flamethrowers come to the rescue, enabling Bond to eject from the car just in time before it plunges into the Tiber River.

 

 

 

 

1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder (Ferris Bueller's Day Off): 

 

In the classic 1986 film "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," the presence of the Ferrari 250 GT California became more than just a mere prop; it became a character in its own right, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. With its striking red-over-tan exterior and luxurious aesthetics, it perfectly embodied the essence of style and refinement that Ferris Bueller and his friends sought to experience on their unforgettable road trip to Chicago in this coming-of-age movie. The car featured a tube chassis as its foundation, complemented by a fiberglass body that replicates the aesthetics of the iconic roadster.

 

 

 

Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 (Fast and Furious Franchise):

 

The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 made its debut in the film "2 Fast 2 Furious," where Paul Walker's character first gets behind the wheel of a 1999 model. This particular version of the car, adorned with a distinct blue paint job and equipped with racing modifications, quickly became a fan favorite, capturing the imagination of viewers. Its visual enhancements, including aftermarket body kits, spoilers, custom wheels, and decals, gave it an aggressive and attention-grabbing look. 

 

But it wasn't just about appearances. In the film, the Skyline GT-R R34 was portrayed as a high-performance machine, capable of incredible speeds and handling. Although the specific modifications were fictionalized for the movie, they sparked a genuine interest in tuning and modifying real-life Skyline GT-Rs. Beyond its on-screen presence, Paul Walker's Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 became an iconic symbol of the "Fast and Furious" franchise. It not only showcased the allure of Japanese performance cars/JDMs, but also played a significant role in popularizing the import tuner culture of the early 2000s. Fans still hold a deep appreciation for the Skyline GT-R R34, as it represents the passion for cars that Walker's character embodied. 

 

In May 2023, Walker’s Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R, was sold for a staggering $1.36 million at a Bonhams auction. This sale makes it the most expensive publicly sold GT-R, surpassing the previous record of $783,500. 

 

 

 

2010 Audi R8 Spyder (Iron Man 2):

 

In Part II of Marvel's “Iron Man” trilogy, “Genius-Billionaire-Playboy-Philanthropist” Tony Stark strolls by his impressive car collection in his garage after getting whipped with electrical circuits by Soviet Villain, Ivan Vanko. Among the eye-catching vehicles, you can spot the famous 2010 Audi R8 Spyder. This sleek and stylish car has captured the imaginations of many, becoming a highly sought-after model.

 

The supercar built by Audi, matches super hero Tony Stark’s hi-tech and impenetrable suit with its own carbon-fiber composite materials in parts of its exterior skin, along with a high-strength aluminum frame known as the Audi Space Frame. 

 

 

 

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 (The Dark Knight): 

 

In the realm of cinematic excellence, Christopher Nolan's "The Dark Knight" introduces a striking machine that encapsulates power, elegance, and an aura of intimidation. The Lamborghini Murciélago, carefully selected as the iconic Batmobile, elevates Gotham City's crime-fighting arsenal to a new level of menace and sleekness.

 

Derived from the Spanish word "murciélago," meaning "bat," the very name of this supercar serves as a subtle homage to the alter ego of billionaire orphan Bruce Wayne. Just like the nocturnal creature it symbolizes, the Murciélago prowls the city streets with an enigmatic presence, exuding an undeniable air of dominance.

 

The Murciélago’s aggressive aesthetics, muscular stance, and scissor doors that open like wings poised for flight leave the citizens of Gotham captivated. At the heart of this automotive marvel lies a roaring V12 engine, unleashing a symphony of power that propels it to speeds up to 205mph. This parallel to Batman's unwavering pursuit of justice accentuates the dynamic force that both the Dark Knight and the Murciélago represent.

 

Within the realm of "The Dark Knight," one memorable scene showcases the indomitable spirit of Bruce Wayne, played by Christian Bale. Behind the wheel of his Murcielago LP640, Bruce races through the streets of Gotham to prevent an assassination attempt on Coleman Reese's life, orchestrated by the infamous Joker. Witnessing a driver aiming to strike the police convoy escorting Reese to safety, Bruce fearlessly accelerates, positioning his Lamborghini in front of the police car, shielding it from the imminent blow. In this heroic act, Bruce's Murciélago sustains damage, demonstrating the resilience and sacrifice that lie at the core of Batman's mission.

 

 

From the legendary DeLorean DMC-12 in "Back to the Future" to the menacing Lamborghini Murciélago in "The Dark Knight," iconic cars in film have captivated our imaginations and ignited our passion for automotive excellence. As we marvel at these on-screen innovations, it's only natural to yearn for a taste of that excitement in real life. That's where MPH.com comes in. As the premier supercar marketplace, MPH connects buyers from across North America with a carefully curated selection of luxury and exotic vehicles. With an unparalleled inventory and a commitment to delivering exceptional service, MPH is your gateway to owning the car of your dreams. Subscribe to our email list and be the first to know when your desired supercar is listed to our marketplace.