James Bond fans with deep pockets could get their hands on the submarine car used in The Spy Who Loved Me later today.

The Lotus Esprit, which has never been put up for sale before, is expected to fetch between £650,000 and £950,000 in a London auction.

Specially-designed for the underwater scene in the 1977 film starring Roger Moore as 007, the distinctive-looking vehicle is said to be fully operational.

RM Auctions in Battersea said the famous car was the only one made for the film and cost about £65,000 when built, the equivalent of £330,000 today.

Known as Wet Nellie on the set of the film, the propeller-powered vehicle lay "undiscovered" in a Long Island storage unit for 10 years.

A local couple unexpectedly found themselves the owners of the iconic motor after they won a blind auction for the contents of the unit.

The Lotus was originally built by Perry Oceanographic in Florida and was piloted by a retired US Navy Seal.

Max Girardo, managing director of RM Auctions Europe, said: "We have a great track record in selling incredible and iconic movie cars, and this particular Lotus is certainly up there amongst the most famous cars of all time.

"Over the years, millions of movie-goers have stared in awe as the Lotus transformed itself into a submarine, and now, perhaps one of them will have an opportunity to own it. Her Majesty's Secret Service aside, it surely is the ultimate beach accessory."

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