Top Gear

S38 E01 · 1997-09-04

Episode 1

The motoring series returns for a 17-week run with Jeremy Clarkson test-driving Ford’s new Puma — a tiny coupe based on the Fiesta-through the Yorkshire Dales. Quentin Willson travels to Long Beach, California, to try out the latest Chevrolet Corvette. Now with right-hand drive, is it ready to be taken seriously in Britain?

S38 E02 · 1997-09-11

Episode 2

Tiff Needell plays rough on tonight’s edition of the motoring magazine with the tough guy’s off-roader. The armour-plated Hummer was developed for the US Army, costs £70,000, and, with celebrity owners such as film star Bruce Willis, claims to be the ultimate 4x4. Jeremy Clarkson tests the new Toyota Corolla. Will it convince him that one of the most reliable cars in the world isn’t also one of the dullest?

S38 E03 · 1997-09-18

Episode 3

In tonight’s edition of the motoring magazine, Jeremy Clarkson compares the new midsize coupe from Mercedes, the CLK, with Peugeot’s new 406. The programme also reports from the Frankfurt Show, featuring the debut of the new Porsche 911 and the launch of the Freelander from Land Rover.

S38 E04 · 1997-09-25

Episode 4

Jaguar are 75 years old but show no sign of slowing down. Jeremy Clarkson drives the fastest version of the new V8 XJ series, the new XJR, and races it against some full-blooded sports cars in the shape of the Aston Martin Vantage, the Mercedes SLK and the Porsche Boxster.

S38 E05 · 1997-10-02

Episode 5

For those who cannot wait six months for the brand new BMW 5 Series or who feel that buying a German car is just following the executive herd, the Saab 9-5 could be just the answer. The 9-5 replaces the ageing 9000, a model that failed to make a big impact against tough German opposition. Jeremy Clarkson goes for a test drive to see if this new Saab has got what it takes.

S38 E06 · 1997-10-09

Episode 6

Jeremy Clarkson takes delivery of the Range Rover Autobiography, the latest gadget-laden luxury off-roader from Land Rover. While he decides on the colour scheme and tries out its satellite navigation system, Michelle Newman investigates the latest four-wheel-drive models from Honda. Toyota and Subaru.

S38 E07 · 1997-10-16

Episode 7

Jeremy Clarkson and Quentin Willson are at Earls Court for this year’s London Motor Show. They look at the new Porsche 911, Land Rover’s Freelander, the new Vauxhall Astra and the latest version of the Volkswagen Golf.

S38 E08 · 1997-10-23

Episode 8

Since its first appearance in the sixties, the Porsche 911 has become a design classic and a motoring legend. Now aged 34, it has had a major makeover. Tiff Needell test drives the new 911 for the nineties.

S38 E09 · 1997-10-30

Episode 9

The A Class is Mercedes’s first entry into the crowded small car market. Flouting conventional ideas of small-car design by enlarging the cabin space, it looks to set new standards for the supermini. Jeremy Clarkson tests what could be the most important car for a generation.

S38 E10 · 1997-11-06

Episode 10

Steve Berry visits the International Bike Show in Birmingham, where he looks at the latest models including BMW’s new cruiser, the R1200C. Meanwhile Michele Newman tests the Xsara, the new family hatchback from Citroën.

S38 E11 · 1997-11-13

Episode 11

Land Rover hope to overturn their rural image with the launch of the long-awaited new utility vehicle — the Freelander. It has sporty looks and claims not to have lost any of Land Rover’s rustic ruggedness. But can it cope with the likes of Toyota’s Rav4 in this very competitive market? Jeremy Clarkson reports.

S38 E12 · 1997-11-20

Episode 12

Quentin Willson looks at a BMW 7 Series that has been round the clock twice, and argues that buying high-mileage cars can represent value for money. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of their RAC Rally victory, Tony Mason and Roger Clark are reunited with their newly restored Ford Escort for a final thrash through the forest.

S38 E13 · 1997-11-27

Episode 13

The Lotus 49 changed the face of motor racing. Driven by Jim Clark and powered by the V8 engine, it gave Ford their first Grand Prix victory, back in 1967. Thirty years on, Tiff Needell revs up the famous Cosworth. Meanwhile, Andy Wilman discovers Cold War cars from eastern Europe, such as the Wartburg and the Moskvitch, that are still up and running thanks to dedicated British enthusiasts.

S38 E14 · 1997-12-04

Episode 14

When the stock market trembles, the effects on the classic-car market are never very far behind. With auction prices falling, there are bargains to be snapped up. Quentin Willson looks at highly desirable models available at knockdown prices.

S38 E15 · 1997-12-11

Episode 15

With two new models on the British market, Lexus is trying to change the ways of top people who prefer a more prestigious badge. Quentin Willson tests Japanese claims to a place in the executive car park.

S38 E16 · 1997-12-18

Episode 16

Jeremy Clarkson, Tiff Needell and Quentin Willson select their favourite cars of 1997. Among the contenders for top car are the Porsche 911, the new Corvette, the Ford Puma and the Land Rover Freelander.

S39 E01 · 1998-02-19 · 30 min

Episode 1

Jeremy Clarkson looks at the new Volkswagen Beetle. Will its combination of retro styling and new technology gain it the same cult status as its older brother? We also see Tiff Needell pit a pair of uncompromising sports cars against each other as the latest BMW Z3, with a more powerful engine than an earlier model, meets Britain's TVR Griffith.

S39 E02 · 1998-02-26 · 29 min

Episode 2

The VW Golf continues to be one of the most popular small cars as Quentin Willson assesses how it fares in the second-hand market. Plus Jeremy Clarkson preaching the virtues and vices of the new BMW 3 series, and Tiff Needell trying his hand at ice racing at Isola in France.

S39 E03 · 1998-03-05

Episode 3

The new Toyota Avensis enters a fiercely competitive market where sales reps and families are the main customers. Jeremy Clarkson asks whether the Avensis is good enough to win a share of this sector, and looks at the other contenders. And Vicki Butler-Henderson tries out the Peugeot 106 Rallye.

S39 E04 · 1998-03-12

Episode 4

Jeremy Clarkson test-drives the star of the Geneva Motorshow the new Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph — and, accompanied by Quentin Willson, analyses the pros and cons of the latest debutantes and concept cars.

S39 E05 · 1998-03-19

Episode 5

Tiff Needell takes to the track to test road cars with a racing heritage, such as the Porsche 911, Nissan Skyline and Honda NSX. Jeremy Clarkson reports on Vauxhall’s new Astra — can it continue to attract customers despite growing competition?

S39 E06 · 1998-03-26

Episode 6

Jeremy Clarkson attempts to prove his assertion that fast cars are the safest, Quentin Willson looks at prices for a second-hand Saab 900, plus a guide to Swedish car-buying.

S39 E07 · 1998-04-02

Episode 7

Jeremy Clarkson test-drives America’s 170 mph Vector, which boasts a powerful 5.7 litre V12 engine. Has it got what it takes, though, to beat the might of Ferrari and Lamborghini? Meanwhile, Quentin Willson discovers which cars offer credibility and practicality for the young driver on a tight budget.

S39 E08 · 1998-04-09

Episode 8

Quentin Willson discovers the people’s choice in terms of performance, reliability, economy and customer care with the announcement of the results in the fifth annual survey gauging customer satisfaction. In Europe, motor-racing grew on road circuits. In America its home is the oval, where fans are treated to the incredible sight of nose-to-tail racing at speeds of 200 miles per hour. Tiff Needell travels to the US to find out what it takes to be a Nascar racer.

S39 E09 · 1998-04-16

Episode 9

Jeremy Clarkson squeezes inside the sleek MX5 to find out whether Mazda have improved their modern-day sports classic. In an item postponed from last week, Tiff Needell tries his hand at Nascar racing, and Tony Mason discovers one of the most extraordinary car collections in the world.

S39 E10 · 1998-04-23

Episode 10

One-third of the half-a-million cars stolen annually in England and Wales are never recovered. Quentin Willson reports on evidence that suggests that many are being given the identities of legitimately owned vehicles. How well does the latest Lotus Esprit compare with its illustrious predecessors? Tiff Needell tests the new supercar. And Jeremy Clarkson sees how the new Mercedes M-class fares in the four-wheel-drive market.

S39 E11 · 1998-04-30

Episode 11

Jeremy Clarkson reports on successful women and the cars they drive. Have roadsters and coupes replaced diamonds as a girl’s best friend? Quentin Willson reports from the Turin Motor Show and also test-drives Fiat’s new small car, the Seicento, the replacement model for the Cinquecento.

S39 E12 · 1998-05-07

Episode 12

Why is it so difficult to import cheap cars from the continent? Quentin Willson attempts to untangle the red tape. Tony Mason helps Land Rover to celebrate its 50th anniversary, and Jeremy Clarkson takes a look at Renault’s new Clio.

S39 E13 · 1998-05-14 · 29 min

Episode 13

In the last of the series, Jeremy Clarkson looks at the opposition that the Cougar, Ford's new coupe, will face, while Tiff Needell tests the supercharged version of the Jaguar XK8. Quentin Willson also follows up an earlier report on why it is so hard to buy a right-hand-drive car outside the UK.

S40 E01 · 1998-09-10

Episode 1

Jeremy Clarkson slips behind the wheel for the new 15-part run of the motoring magazine and road-tests the Ford Focus, while Tiff Needell sees how Aston Martin’s latest DB7 compares with a flying Jaguar. Plus a report from Quentin Willson on used cars imported from Japan.

S40 E02 · 1998-09-17

Episode 2

The Peugeot 205 was a practical, fun hatchback that many drivers found irresistible. Will the 206 be as popular? Vicki Butler-Henderson takes it for a spin. Jeremy Clarkson is given the chance to try out three executive motors, starting with a sporty little Italian model: the Ferrari 456M. He moves on to the Aston Martin Vantage and, finally, selects the Bentley Arnage. Will the Italian model prove superior to the best of British? Road-tests reveal all.

S40 E03 · 1998-09-24

Episode 3

As motor racing returned last weekend to Goodwood in Sussex for the first time since 1966, Tiff Needell tells the story of the circuit’s revival and races a Lister Jaguar; Jeremy Clarkson tests the heavyweight contenders in the four-wheel drive market; and Quentin Willson reports on crash-test research on large cars.

S40 E04 · 1998-10-01

Episode 4

Since its launch in 1989, the original Land Rover Discovery has been Britain’s best-selling four-wheel drive. Tiff Needell tries out the new model to see what’s changed. Andy Wilman climbs aboard Britain’s biggest motor home, the American-made Windsor Monaco, while and Jeremy Clarkson and racing driver Damon Hill try out two versions of the new Honda Accord.

S40 E05 · 1998-10-08

Episode 5

Alfa Romeo are hoping to put past design problems behind them with their new saloon models. Tiff Needell test-drives the latest offering — the Executive Express — which goes on sale in Britain early next year and replaces the much-loved, if slightly quirky, 164.

S40 E06 · 1998-10-15

Episode 6

Owing to concerns over safety the Mercedes A-class was withdrawn shortly after its launch earlier this year. Jeremy Clarkson test-drives the new, modified version. On a weekend break, Vicky Butler-Henderson gets to drive a Formula One car.

S40 E07 · 1998-10-22

Episode 7

Featuring reports from the British International Motor Show in Birmingham. Rover are hoping to steal the limelight with the 75, their first new car since BMW bought the company, while Jaguar are optimistic that their new, smaller S-type will be as well received as their XK8 sports car, which won many fans.

S40 E08 · 1998-10-29

Episode 8

The Ford Puma was such a hit with the Top Gear team that they voted it their Car of the Year for 1997. Now Ford has followed it up with a bigger coupe, the radically designed Cougar, but will it see off the competition?

S40 E09 · 1998-11-05

Episode 9

Volkswagen’s Golf GTi first came to Britain in 1976 and soon became the choice of the fashionable set. Over the years model changes blunted the sharp edges of this original hot hatch but now, with the emergence of an all-new Golf, there’s also a new GTi. Jeremy Clarkson asks whether this latest version can beat the competition.

S40 E10 · 1998-11-12

Episode 10

As the latest manufacturer to enter the sports-car market, Audi hopes to take on rivals Porsche and BMW with the new TT, which goes on sale in the spring. Jeremy Clarkson asks if the TT’s good looks and high build quality are enough to help Audi see off the competition.

S40 E11 · 1998-11-19

Episode 11

The appearance of the luxuriously equipped V8-engined Seville STS marks the return of the Cadillac name to the British market. But will it tempt buyers away from more established makes, such as BMW and Lexus, as well as next year’s Jaguar S-type? Jeremy Clarkson test-drives it to see whether it offers a viable star-spangled alternative.

S40 E12 · 1998-11-26

Episode 12

Steve Berry travels to Seattle to look at Jeep’s new Grand Cherokee, which is huge and available for the first time in right-hand drive. In contrast Vicki Butler-Henderson considers the tiny tearaway Tommy Kaira ZZ sports car, an open-top two seater which is Japanese but made in Norfolk.

S40 E13 · 1998-12-03

Episode 13

Tony Mason looks back at two of Britain’s failed attempts to infiltrate the US market during the post war years: the 1949 Austin Atlantic, which was considered overpriced in relation to its power, and the 1950 Triumph Mayflower, an unpopular miniature variation on the Rolls-Royce. Plus a review of the latest version of the Subaru Legacy, a four-wheel drive with an urban appearance.

S40 E14 · 1998-12-10

Episode 14

Back in the seventies the BMW 3.0, Fiat 130 and Peugeot were the coupes to be seen in-glamorous, rare and expensive. Steve Berry learns what made these models the must-haves of days gone by, while Quentin Willson drives the new, high-tech Mercedes Benz S Class.

S40 E15 · 1998-12-17

Episode 15

In the concluding episode of the current series, Jeremy Clarkson, Tiff Needell, Quentin Willson and Vicki Butler-Henderson select their favourite cars of the year. Last year it was the Ford Puma that won the plaudits for its overall performance. Can the team find common ground to agree on the best of 1998?

S41 E01 · 1999-03-18

Episode 1

Presenter Tiff Needell tries to break a British speed record in the McLaren F1, while new recruit James May test-drives the Rover 75.

S41 E02 · 1999-03-25

Episode 2

James May tries out the Jaguar S Type, a new version of the popular sixties model. Quentin Willson goes to Holland as part of the programme’s campaign to expose Britain’s high car prices. Tiff Needell takes to the road in the latest Vauxhall Vectra.

S41 E03 · 1999-04-01

Episode 3

James May and Julia Bradbury road-test the Yaris, Toyota’s new supermini, which contains several surprises — including a digital instrument reading pod in the centre of the dashboard. Plus a new docu-soap feature in which real-life car buyers search for their perfect motor.

S41 E04 · 1999-04-08

Episode 4

Tiff Needell takes a two-seater Jaguar XK sportscar, one of only two in existence, for a trip around Silverstone. In the mould of the classic XK120 and XK140 of the forties and fifties, this car packs a 450 bhp supercharged engine. Quentin Willson presents the annual Top Gear customer satisfaction survey.

S41 E05 · 1999-04-15

Episode 5

A new Japanese contender to be the dream car of young executives has appeared — the Lexus IS200. James May tests out the £21,000, two-litre sports salon from Toyota which has more gadgets than its rival, the BMW 3-series, but will it be more fun? Tiff Needell takes to the track in two four-door supercars that would be equally at home shopping or racing: the Mitsubishi Lancer EVO 5 and the Subaru lmpreza 22B.

S41 E06 · 1999-04-22

Episode 6

An average of eight million people a year buy a second-hand car. For many, it will be one of the most fraught purchases they’ll ever make. Quentin Willson continues his series of items offering help and advice to individuals who have the cash, but not the knowledge, to buy a bargain. Plus James May says happy tenth birthday to a little Japanese roadster that sparked a revival in affordable sports cars — the Mazda MX-5.

S41 E07 · 1999-04-29

Episode 7

At an auction selling hundreds of ex-police cars, Quentin Willson reveals that they can make a surprisingly good buy — and they’re cheap too. They only come in white, and most have covered globe-spanning mileages, but they are always well looked after and at giveaway prices. Top Gear’s used-car guru even finds some bargains in discreet metallics from the plain-clothes branch. Meanwhile, in a deserted airfield, Tiff Needell test-drives a new British sports car, the Noble M10. With a 2.5-litre engine mounted behind the driver, the Noble gives near supercar performance.

S41 E08 · 1999-05-06

Episode 8

The Peugeot 205 Gti was in demand a decade ago, but its popularity declined in the face of the recession and soaring car theft. Tonight Tiff Needell tests its successor, the new Peugeot Gti, which is a little larger, heavier and faster — but is it a lot better? Meanwhile Steve Berry reports from the Isle of Man on the progress of motorbike trials champion Dougie Lamkin in the World Outdoor Trials.

S41 E09 · 1999-05-13

Episode 9

Tiff Needell drives Honda’s replacement for the sporty NSX, the S2000, to find out whether it lives up to expectations.

S41 E10 · 1999-05-20

Episode 10

The new Ferrari Modena coupe has all the classic ingredients — mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive and a sumptuous leather interior. Yet it is user-friendly, with a clutchless gearbox controlled by a fingertip lever and plenty of space inside. Tiff Needell is in Italy to test it. The Bugatti Royale is a legend — there are only six in existence and if one comes up for sale it would cost more than £6 million. James May meets racing circuit boss Tom Wheatcroft, who couldn’t live without a Royale and built an exact copy.

S41 E11 · 1999-05-27

Episode 11

Vicki Butler-Henderson reports on the latest Lamborghini Diablo, while Jay Kay, Ferrari fanatic and lead singer of top pop band Jamiroquai, seeks to prove his worth as a potential Top Gear presenter by joining Tiff Needell to test the most powerful Aston Martin ever built.

S41 E12 · 1999-06-03

Episode 12

Tiff Needell flexes the muscles of the mighty BMW M5, with its 400-brake horsepower, 5-litre V8 engine, and assesses its chances against the opposition of the Jaguar XJR and Mercedes E55. James May is in America to sample some startling concept cars from Chrysler, including the Dodge Charger R/T and the Citadel. Chrysler has a history of making dream cars become reality, as demonstrated by the Viper and the outlandish Plymouth Prowler.

S42 E01 · 1999-09-09

Episode 1

The motoring magazine returns with a new presenter, as Kate Humble joins Quentin Willson and the team. Tonight’s programme looks at the future of motoring in the next millennium: will cars be floating on air, or be powered by recycled vegetables? Plus Tiff Needell drives the new Porsche 911 GT3, and there are tips on buying a first car.

S42 E02 · 1999-09-16

Episode 2

This week on the motoring magazine, Kate Humble and Quentin Willson consider the current state of the market for 4x4 vehicles, plus a report from Germany on models making the news at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

S42 E03 · 1999-09-23

Episode 3

Presenters Kate Humble and Quentin Willson take to the streets on the Mediterranean island of Ibiza to road-test Seat’s eponymous hatchback. And British Touring Car championship winners are put through their paces on the high street.

S42 E04 · 1999-09-30

Episode 4

This week on the motoring magazine, Quentin Willson gets behind the wheel of the Aston Martin Vantage, while Kate Humble visits Aston’s workshop, where the cars are still built by hand. Vicki Butler-Henderson road-tests the fashionable yellow Porsche Boxters, and there’s a look at very small cars with big aspirations.

S42 E05 · 1999-10-07

Episode 5

As Fiat celebrates its centenary, the motor magazine takes its stylish new Punto for a road-test to ascertain if this latest incarnation can retain its place in the small-car market. Plus a report on green fuel for high-performance cars.

S42 E06 · 1999-10-14

Episode 6

This weekend the Formula One circus descends on Sepang for the first ever Malaysian Grand Prix. Tiff Needell previews the new circuit and also tests the new Lotus-developed Proton Gti. Quentin Willson and Kate Humble, meanwhile, pay tribute to the much-loved Mini.

S42 E07 · 1999-10-21

Episode 7

Quentin Willson and Kate Humble report from the London Motor Show at Earls Court, where Rover’s new model will be unveiled. The team also put some of the major attractions on view through their paces, including the new Fiat Punto, Caterham and Volkswagen Polo.

S42 E08 · 1999-10-28

Episode 8

Tonight’s show explores company-car culture, offers an alternative to the fast but expensive Nissan Skyline, and ventures on to the rallying scene in Singapore.

S42 E09 · 1999-11-04

Episode 9

Vicki Butler-Henderson tests BMW’s new off-roader, the X5, and Tiff Needell finds out how Singapore’s rush hour lives up to its name.

S42 E10 · 1999-11-11

Episode 10

This week’s programme visits the Classic Car Show in Birmingham, and looks at a scheme banning cars from Oxford city centre.

S42 E11 · 1999-11-18

Episode 11

More road-tests of the latest models, motoring advice and features of interest to drivers.

S42 E12 · 1999-11-25

Episode 12

Tonight’s programme reveals the tactics used by the minders of celebrities to ward off unwanted pursuers as they transport their charges to the premiere of the latest James Bond film.

S42 E13 · 1999-12-02

Episode 13

The motor magazine looks at the future for cars that still run on unleaded petrol, views bargains to be had in the world of classic cars, and tests the new duel-fuel Honda Insight.

S42 E14 · 1999-12-09

Episode 14

Vicki Butler-Henderson test-drives the new Clio Sport. Kate Humble and Quentin Willson pick up a bargain, while Tiff Needell takes a nostalgic look at the Sunbeam Lotus.

S43 E01 · 2000-01-20

Episode 1

The series returns after a short break with a special edition from Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Tiff Needell test-drives the new Shelby Series land talks to the car’s creator, Carrol Shelby. Plus a night-vision Cadillac and an appraisal of the new Ford F-150 Lightning.

S43 E02 · 2000-01-27

Episode 2

S43 E03 · 2000-02-03

Episode 3

S43 E04 · 2000-02-10

Episode 4

S43 E05 · 2000-02-17

Episode 5

S43 E06 · 2000-02-24

Episode 6

S43 E07 · 2000-03-02

Episode 7

Quentin Willson assesses high-performance estate cars.

S43 E08 · 2000-03-09

Episode 8

The team mark the 20th anniversary of the Audi Quattro and test a 1985 model against a Mitsubishi Evo 6.

S43 E09 · 2000-03-16

Episode 9

S43 E10 · 2000-03-23

Episode 10

S43 E11 · 2000-03-30

Episode 11

S43 E12 · 2000-04-06

Episode 12

Vicki Butler-Henderson tests the new Mitsubishi Shogun and goes head to head against Kate Humble in a top-of-the-range Land Rover Discovery in a battle of the four-by-fours. Quentin Willson has advice on buying second-hand off-roaders.

S43 E13 · 2000-04-13

Episode 13

Motoring magazine show, tonight revealing the results of a survey of 24,000 British motorists who assess top-selling models.

S43 E14 · 2000-04-20

Episode 14

Motoring magazine, this week looking at racing tips ahead of the weekend’s British Grand Prix.

S43 E15 · 2000-04-27

Episode 15

Hard on the heels of Sunday’s British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Vicki Butler-Henderson takes a ride in an Arrows Formula One racing car. Plus the usual roundup of automotive reviews and advice.

S43 E16 · 2000-05-04

Episode 16

Tiff Needell test-drives Jaguar’s latest Formula One car on the track in Barcelona, while Quentin Willson offers tips on buying the marque’s sixties classic — the E-type.

S43 E17 · 2000-05-18

Episode 17

Quentin Wilson takes a look at the new Ford Transit and Tiff Needell test-drives the Audi TT.

S43 E18 · 2000-05-25

Episode 18

To close the series, the team choose their favourite luxury vehicles.

S44 E01 · 2000-09-07

Episode 1

The motoring show returns, with new presenter Jason Barlow joining the team. Tonight, there’s a road-test of the new Audi A2, a look at 17 cars set to re-define the market, and Tiff Needell goes head-to-head with Formula One’s Jenson Button in the new BMW 330.

S44 E02 · 2000-09-14

Episode 2

Jason Barlow investigates ways of buying a car, from dealerships to the internet and importing from abroad. Tiff Needell races the GT version of the Lotus Elise and looks at a road version of the sports car — the Lotus Exige. Plus, the new Mercedes C-Class and the Australian Holden.

S44 E03 · 2000-09-21

Episode 3

Vicki Butler-Henderson finds out why the motoring world is talking about the new Vauxhall VX220, while Jason Barlow test drives the new Peugeot 607. Meanwhile, Tiff Needell proves that the Audi RS4 estate is definitely not boring.

S44 E04 · 2000-09-28

Episode 4

Tiff Needell looks at British sports cars, while Vicki Butler-Henderson reaches for the convertible hood in some upmarket machines from Mercedes, Saab and BMW.

S44 E05 · 2000-10-05

Episode 5

The motoring magazine stages a “Fuelympics” to find out which one of five low-emission cars best marries performance with environment friendliness. Jason Barlow, meanwhile, assesses the new-look Vauxhall Corsa.

S44 E06 · 2000-10-12

Episode 6

Today, Jason Barlow road-tests the new Ford Mondeo, Vicki Butler-Henderson uncovers some surprisingly affordable and stylish second-hand coupes, and Tiff Needell revels in the power of one of the last Aston Martin V8s.

S44 E07 · 2000-10-19

Episode 7

The motoring magazine visits Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre for Motor Show 2000, where Jason Barlow surveys the range of cars available under the Ford monicker. Tiff Needell tests Renault’s hatchbacks, and there’s a chance to see Aston Martin and MG Rover’s new models.

S44 E08 · 2000-10-26

Episode 8

Jason Barlow assesses Alfa’s new Sportswagon, Adrian Simpson reveals some surprisingly attractive options for those wanting to put a car on the road for £1,000, and Tiff Needell lines up on the grid at Goodwood — in an Aston Martin valued at some £2.5 million.

S44 E09 · 2000-11-02

Episode 9

Jason Barlow gets to grips with the latest Audi A4 and asks if it will be able to hold its own against stiff competition from BMW. Vicki Butler-Henderson attends a track day at Brands Hatch, where drivers of all kinds of cars get the chance to push their vehicles to the limit.

S44 E10 · 2000-11-09

Episode 10

Tiff Needell joins the Ferrari Formula One team in Italy as they celebrate their first victory in 21 years. Meanwhile Jason Barlow test-drives the new Lexus LS 430, and Vicki Butler-Henderson takes the wheel of Ibiza’s Cupra R model.

S44 E11 · 2000-11-16

Episode 11

Tiff Needell joins owners and drivers on the grid as he enters the glamorous finals of the biggest Ferrari Festival ever in Italy. Plus highlights from this year’s international bike show in Birmingham.

S44 E12 · 2000-11-23

Episode 12

Tiff Needell celebrates the 40th birthday of Cosworth, the engine that revolutionised Formula One motor racing, while Vicki Butler-Henderson has a test ride on the bestselling 50cc scooters. Plus a look at the Ford Ka, three years after it first hit the market.

S44 E13 · 2000-11-30

Episode 13

In this week’s edition of the motoring magazine, Tiff Needell investigates the growing popularity of the push-button gear-shift, and the recently beefed up Vauxhall Astra coupe goes head-to-head with Toyota’s newly boosted Celica.

S44 E14 · 2000-12-07

Episode 14

Jason Barlow finds out whether Renault’s new Laguna can prove serious competition for Ford’s new Mondeo, while Andy Wilman visits the state-of-the-art safety centre of a company known for its strong emphasis on passenger care, Volvo.

S44 E15 · 2000-12-14

Episode 15

In the last of the current series, Tiff Needell learns some tips from Hollywood movie stunt drivers. Jason Barlow takes a look back over a significant year for motorists which has seen massive cuts in car prices and a fuel crisis which brought the country to a standstill.

S45 E01 · 2001-02-22 · 25 min

Episode 1

Tonight, chasing the Mondeo and the Renault Laguna, the Lamborghini Miura and how it will blow your doors off, and the future may well be bright but does it make sense.

S45 E02 · 2001-03-01

Episode 2

Jason Barlow takes a ride in the new Alfa 147, which Alfa Romeo hopes will make waves in the small-car market. Tiff Needell, meanwhile, road-tests the 180 XKR-R, a souped up performance Jaguar which could soon grace showrooms.

S45 E03 · 2001-03-08

Episode 3

Vicki Butler-Henderson looks at whether the brand new Volkswagen Lupo GTi’s sporty credentials live up to its looks, while Jason Barlow tests the remarkable new Citroën C5.

S45 E04 · 2001-03-15

Episode 4

S45 E05 · 2001-03-22

Episode 5

Jason Barlow tests the new MG F Trophy, one of Rover’s new sporting models, while Vicki Butler-Henderson checks out Vauxhall’s lastest Astra diesel — the Eco 4.

S45 E06 · 2001-03-29

Episode 6

S45 E08 · 2001-04-12

Episode 8

Tonight’s show reveals the results of a special customer satisfaction survey — a study into buying, owning and running a car that reveals the very best and worst of different models, including which car registered an amazing 1,800 faults.

S45 E09 · 2001-04-19

Episode 9

S45 E10 · 2001-04-26

Episode 10

This week in the motoring magazine Vicki Butler-Henderson tests Citroën and Peugeot hatchbacks that offer better-than-average performance for little more than the cost of a standard model. Plus Tiff Needell learns how to handle a high-powered motorcycle on the road.

S45 E11 · 2001-05-03

Episode 11

The latest model from Jaguar’s production lines, the X-Type, marks a radical departure for the luxury brand. Jason Barlow takes the saloon sports car for a spin to see whether its makers will succeed in appealing to a younger demographic, or whether the X-Type will damage their reputation as a top people’s car manufacturer.

S45 E12 · 2001-05-10

Episode 12

A look at the new Peugeot 307 — has it got what it takes to lead the family hatchback pack? Plus, is the recently revived, Dutch-designed Spyker CS Spyder worth its £150,000 price tag?

S45 E13 · 2001-05-17

Episode 13

S45 E14 · 2001-05-31

Episode 14

S45 E15 · 2001-06-07

Episode 15

S45 E16 · 2001-06-14

Episode 16

S45 E17 · 2001-06-21

Episode 17

S45 E18 · 2001-06-28

Episode 18

S45 E19 · 2001-07-05

Episode 19

S45 E20 · 2001-07-12

Episode 20

Tiff Needell sees how BMW’s new Mini One compares with its rivals, and competes against Vicki Butler-Henderson in a downhill race at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

S45 E21 · 2001-07-19

Episode 21

Tiff Needell and the team test the quality of the new MG road cars and take a look behind-the-scenes at John Travolta’s new film Swordfish, which features a TVR Tuscan in the spectacular car chase sequence.

S45 E22 · 2001-07-26

Episode 22

Twenty percent of Britain’s income is spent on motoring. Jason Barlow, Vicki Butler-Henderson, Adrian Simpson and Tiff Needell explore ways of halving that figure by offering advice on the best second-hand deals, reducing insurance premiums, fuel economy and inexpensive maintenance.

S45 E23 · 2001-08-02

Episode 23

S45 E24 · 2001-08-09

Episode 24

Tiff Needell test-drives the eagerly-awaited Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, the most talked-about supercar ever to come out of Britain. So does the beautiful two-seater coupe with a top speed of 190mph meet expectations?

S45 E25 · 2001-08-16

Episode 25

S45 E26 · 2001-08-23

Episode 26

Vicki Butler-Henderson road-tests the new Tuscan S, which is rumoured to reach speeds of up to 200mph. Plus a look at where to buy cheap cars, and the new number-plate system.

S45 E27 · 2001-08-30

Episode 27

Jason Barlow tries out the latest update of the Ford Thunderbird, Tiff Needell assesses the merits of the BMW M3 convertible, while Adrian Simpson tries to understand how the inside of a car can tell you about its owner.

S45 E28 · 2001-09-06

Episode 28

Tiff Needell test-drives new models from TVR and AC, while Vicki Butler-Henderson rides in the Arrows three-seater Formula One car. Jason Barlow assesses the future of green-engine technology, and tries out a fuel cell-powered car.

S45 E29 · 2001-09-27

Episode 29

Jason Barlow compares the new Rat Stilo with the Ford Focus, there’s a report from the Frankfurt Motor Show including the lowdown on next year’s new cars, and Tiff Needell drives sideways as he participates in a stunt competition.

S45 E30 · 2001-10-04

Episode 30

S45 E31 · 2001-10-11

Episode 31

S45 E32 · 2001-10-25

Episode 32

S45 E33 · 2001-11-08

Episode 33

Jason Barlow, Adrian Simpson and design guru Richard Seymour assess what makes the Ford Focus a bestseller.

S45 E34 · 2001-11-15

Episode 34

Jason Barlow and Adrian Simpson take a look at the Land Rover Freelander and its competition in the off-roader market, while Tiff Needell test-drives the FBS Census.

S45 E35 · 2001-12-10

Episode 35

Vicki Butler-Henderson sizes up the new Volkswagen Polo, while Jason Barlow and Adrian Simpson report on BMW’s fortunes in the competitive executive-car market.

S45 E36 · 2001-12-17

Episode 36

Vicki Butler-Henderson and Adrian Simpson compare the merits of British roadster the MG F with international counterpart the Mazda MX-5. Tiff Needell races a Mini Cooper and Jason Barlow tests the new Mercedes SL500.