When you’re worth over $200 billion, indulging in a luxurious ride is almost expected. Elon Musk, the founder of Tesla and a man known for his extravagant tastes, has owned quite a few high-end vehicles throughout his career. Among his collection, the most expensive car in 2024 is his 1976 Lotus Esprit, famously known as ‘Wet Nellie.’
This Lotus Esprit isn’t just any old sports car; it’s a piece of cinematic history. Featured in the 1977 James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me,” Wet Nellie was one of the iconic cars that helped Bond escape from danger. In a memorable scene, the Esprit, equipped with a range of gadgets, turns into a submarine, allowing Bond to flee across the Sardinian Sea. While the film’s version was a mix of different models and special effects, Wet Nellie stood out as the real star of those underwater sequences.
After its film debut, the car was showcased at various events before being tucked away in storage. It was later auctioned off in a blind public auction, where it was bought for a bargain price due to some roof damage. Restored and displayed in museums, the Lotus caught Musk’s eye when it was auctioned again in 2013 by RM Sotheby’s. Musk, keen on owning a piece of movie history, secured it for nearly $1 million.
Despite Musk’s grand plans to equip Wet Nellie with a Tesla electric powertrain and make it function as a real submarine, these ambitions haven’t yet materialized. Musk’s statement from 2013 revealed his disappointment with the car’s inability to transform and his hopes to integrate cutting-edge Tesla technology into the classic Lotus. For now, Wet Nellie remains a stunning reminder of both cinematic magic and Musk’s penchant for high-priced collectibles.
At Lotus of Dallas, we pride ourselves on being more than just a dealership; we’re a community dedicated to the thrill and excellence of Lotus vehicles. Located in the heart of Carrollton, TX, our dealership showcases an impressive selection of new Lotus inventory, including the latest in electric vehicle technology. Our commitment to innovation is evident in our range of Lotus electric vehicles, which combine cutting-edge design with the exhilarating performance that the Lotus brand is renowned for.
When you visit our Lotus sports car dealership, you’ll find a team passionate about helping you find the perfect Lotus vehicle for sale that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for the newest models or exploring our diverse inventory, our knowledgeable staff is here to assist every step of the way. Additionally, our state-of-the-art service center is dedicated to maintaining your Lotus’s peak performance. We offer a comprehensive range of parts and accessories to ensure your car remains in top condition.
Financing your dream car is made easier with our attractive finance specials, designed to provide you with flexible and affordable options. At Lotus of Dallas in Carrollton, TX, we strive to deliver a seamless and enjoyable experience, whether you’re purchasing a new vehicle or servicing your current one. Check out our inventory today to get started.
While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors can occur. Please verify all pricing information with a customer service representative. This is easily done by calling us or visiting us at the dealership.
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