By Remy Raitt
What can audiences expect this season?
Fire, explosions, nudity ... not really. But we do have a lot of supercars, off-road oddities and David vs. Goliath matches. In typical Fifth Gear fashion we explore everything from multi-million concours classics to entry level super minis … and sometimes aeroplanes.
What are your personal highlights from this series?
Seeing the nephew of Ayrton Senna and the son of Alain Prost meet for a face-off on track in hot hatchbacks was a special moment. Driving a Bentley Mulsanne around a track against an old builder’s van (albeit highly modified) was pretty surreal. I got to travel to Iceland for the first time, where I drove across a river. As you do. And then there are the two specials – one in South Africa and the other in Romania.
Who were your favourite guests?
Ayrton Senna’s nephew Bruno and Alain Prost’s son Nico.
Your favourite car?
My first car – a sky blue 1967 VW Beetle. Because sentiment is infectious! If money was no object I might build a six-wheeled FAB 1 pink Rolls Royce from Thunderbirds. Or just buy a brand new Mercedes AMG GT.
Where is your favorite place in the world to drive?
Not China. It’s chaos! Norway has to be up there with the best roads and the most incredible scenery.
Where would you still like to take a drive?
Despite being in a position to travel the world and drive in fascinating countries like America, Russia, Spain, Iceland etc., I would love to drive in Ireland - because I have never been there! I’d like to drive on the remains of the DeLorean test track there. Or perhaps also drive through Chernobyl in the Ukraine.
Your most terrifying moment behind the wheel?
When Tiff (Needell) and I did an electric car road trip. He refused to use the brakes on roundabouts in order to conserve power. I also rode passenger in a 3000bhp road legal dragster – Red Victor 3. This was one of the scariest moments of my life. Almost as terrifying as crashing a brand new Mondeo in Sardinia.
As a self-confessed petrol head, what would your top tips be for everyday motorists with regard to keeping their cars in tip-top shape?
Check your oil every week and change it regularly, because it is the lifeblood of your car. You cannot over change oil! Tyre pressures and tyre condition are always neglected, but they are your only contact with the road so respect them. Tyre pressures dictate your grip and your fuel economy. Don’t leave food uneaten in your car. It makes it smell.
Are you aware of South African motoring journalism? How do you think they fare compared to the rest of the world?
I’m afraid I have very little experience of South African journalism, as in the UK I see very few SA car magazines. Sadly I have only visited South Africa once, but would love to come back. The roads are amazing there, and one day I would like to import a CITI Golf back to the UK. Or even a Ford Perana Granada. A true SA muscle car!
Catch Fifth Gear from Thursday, 10 September on the History, channel 186 on DStv.
For more information, visit www.historytv.co.za and fifthgearonhistory.com. Alternatively connect with them on Facebook and on Twitter.