Aston Martin cars have been produced for almost a century. They are stylish vehicles associated with quality and have gained renown for their exploits on the racetrack. Such is the high standard of these vehicles that through its pre-owned programme the company pledges the same "reassurance and service" for used Aston Martins as for their new ones. Aston Martin was born in 1913 when Lionel Martin joined forces with Robert Bamford to sell Singer Cars. Within a year they were producing their own cars. The development of the Aston Martin for the racetrack was aided by the backing of Count Zborowski and the company was able to enter two cars in the 1922 French Grand Prix. Aston Martin's participation in motor sport continues to this day. It entered the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the first time in 1931 and has maintained its participation in the race over the decades. In 1959 the team gained a first and second place finish. That year also saw Aston Martin re-entering the Grand Prix/Formula One circuit. However the success enjoyed at Le Mans did not carry over into F1 and the company ceased its involvement on the Grand Prix circuit in 1960. While success in motor racing helps a car manufacturer's prestige, it is its ability to sell cars to the public that is the real mark of success. Aston Martin's sales to the discerning motorist made it a world-renowned name. The brand received worldwide exposure after featuring in several James Bond films. 007 carried out his daring exploits in Aston Martin models such as the Aston Martin DB5, DBS, V8 Vantage Volante and the V12 Vanquish. Aston Martin made its name on the racetrack and in the cinema and continues to be one the world's most sought after luxury brands to this day.