Is the 2026 F1 Championship already decided? | The Car Podcast #61
About this episode
The discussion kicks off with a humorous dream involving Brian Blessed and a Ford Mustang, leading to a lively exchange about various automotive experiences. The hosts share their recent car-related activities, including visits to Morgan and the NEC Classic Car Show. They dive into the world of project cars, discussing personal desires for classic models like the R107 and MG Midget. The episode also touches on the Formula 1 season, with debates on driver performance and team dynamics, while exploring the nuances of car theft statistics and the unique allure of classic cars.
Download Car & Classic’s app today to see our 2CG’s, and our weekly pick of our favourite listings: https://candc.li/App_Download_
This week, the team dive into why Lexus is by far the most stolen car brand in the UK, cars which all car enthusiasts should (want to) own, and a quick fire supercar or sportscar quiz from Neil. This and much more, we hope you enjoy!
(00:00) Intro
(00:06) What have we done this week in cars?
(22:45) “Cars that you feel guilty about because you've never owned one and you really should as they are super iconic and you can't really be seen as a car lover without owning one of these in your car ownership history” (can you tell Neil wrote this?)
(34:09) Car theft – why is Lexus the most stolen brand
(42:36) 5 quick fire supercars challenge from Neil
(45:52) F1
(1:02:14) Continuation cars that haven’t already been done
(1:10:34) 2CG
(1:20:35) Music
Welcome to Chris Harris on Cars. The platform where Chris Harris (of Top Gear & automotive journalist) explores the obsessive world of cars. From in-depth reviews and hilarious podcasts, to pushing a car to its limits and debates on the future of the automobile - Chris and his friends bring their unfiltered passion, expertise, and humour. Whether you're a die-hard petrolhead or just curious about our world, this is your go-to destination for everything on four wheels.
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Ford Mustang
"...in a right-hand drive Ford Mustang convertible. In the passenger seat..."
The Ford Mustang is a popular sports car that many people recognize. It's known for being fast and stylish, and it's been around for a long time.
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car known for its performance and iconic design. It has been in production since 1964 and has become a symbol of American automotive culture.
Mercedes-Benz R107
"...this R107 of my dreams. I have started properly Googling."
The R107 is a type of convertible car made by Mercedes-Benz. It was popular for its stylish look and comfortable ride, and many people still love to collect them today.
The Mercedes-Benz R107 is a model of the SL-Class produced from 1971 to 1989. It is known for its classic design and is often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
horsepower
"What should I 300, 350, 420 or 500? What am I doing? I'm going to answer my version."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and accelerate better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. Higher horsepower typically indicates better acceleration and performance capabilities in vehicles.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
"...the absolute wild card if you can find one is a left hand drive facelift 300 SL with the manual gearbox and get a short to find a driver in it and they are really fun cars, really lovely cars."
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL is a famous old sports car that has unique doors that open upwards. It's very popular among car collectors because of its design and history.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL is a classic sports car known for its distinctive gullwing doors and advanced engineering for its time. It was produced in the 1950s and is highly sought after by collectors.
Mercedes-Benz SL
"...u can find one is a left hand drive facelift 300 SL with the manual gearbox and get a short to find ..."
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible car that is known for being very comfortable and stylish. It's popular among people who want a luxury driving experience.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster that combines performance with elegance. It has a long history and is often discussed for its engineering and status as a symbol of luxury.
BMW M5
"I've got further stories to tell on the green M5 touring, but they're not for now."
The BMW M5 Touring is a fast and luxurious station wagon that offers a lot of space for passengers and cargo. It's known for its powerful engine and sporty handling, making it a great choice for those who want a family car that can also perform well.
The BMW M5 Touring is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series, designed for both speed and practicality with its wagon body style. It combines luxury features with powerful engine options, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who need space without sacrificing performance.
NEC Classic Car Show
"...to go to the NEC classic car show."
The NEC Classic Car Show is a big event in the UK where people come to see and learn about classic cars. It's a fun place for car lovers to meet and look at old cars that are no longer made.
The NEC Classic Car Show is a prominent automotive event held in the UK, showcasing a wide range of classic and vintage cars. It's a gathering for car enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals to celebrate automotive history and culture.
Morgan
"The lovely James from Morgan who's sort of head of PR and all things. Loveliness looked after us."
Morgan is a car company from Britain that makes unique cars by hand. They are one of the last companies in the UK that still build cars this way.
Morgan is a British car manufacturer known for its handcrafted vehicles, often featuring classic designs and wooden frames. It stands out as one of the few remaining independent car manufacturers in the UK.
Porsche Carrera T
"... I have to say, I have no interest in bloody 992 Carrera T GTS Mark 7.2 Carrera Targa. I'd have one of thos..."
The Porsche Carrera GT is a very special and fast sports car that is known for being one of the best in the world. It's famous for its design and how well it drives.
The Porsche Carrera GT is a limited-production supercar that is renowned for its performance and engineering. It is often discussed for its status as one of the greatest sports cars ever made.
Ford Capri
"...you'd have to win the lottery to buy a couple of the fours off the Capri owners club stand. It's all gone a bit mad in a good way, but there's Allegro's and princesses and TR5's..."
The Ford Capri is a classic car that many people loved for its sporty look and fun driving experience. It was made by Ford and was popular in Europe for many years.
The Ford Capri was a popular sports coupe produced by Ford in Europe from 1969 to 1986. It was known for its stylish design and sporty performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Austin Allegro
"...but there's Allegro's and princesses and TR5's..."
The Austin Allegro is a small car that was made in the 1970s and 1980s. It has a distinctive look and is often remembered for its quirky design.
The Austin Allegro was a compact car produced by British Leyland from 1973 to 1982. It was known for its unique design and was often considered a symbol of the era's automotive trends.
Triumph TR5
"...but there's Allegro's and princesses and TR5's..."
The Triumph TR5 is a classic sports car from the late 1960s that many people admire for its performance and stylish design. It's a favorite among car collectors.
The Triumph TR5 is a sports car that was produced by Triumph from 1967 to 1968. It is known for its performance and classic British styling, making it a sought-after model among collectors.
Triumph TR8
"and TR6's and the Manish TR7 that was in a vengeance, TR8's."
The Triumph TR8 is a more powerful version of the TR7, made in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It has a V8 engine, which makes it faster and more exciting to drive.
The Triumph TR8 is a variant of the TR7, produced from 1978 to 1981, featuring a V8 engine that provided significantly more power than its predecessors. It is known for its performance and is a sought-after model among collectors.
Austin 1100
"...he had an Austin 1100, which I thought was quite a cool car. You couldn't fit four doors in a car that small anymore."
The Austin 1100 is a small car that was made in the UK a long time ago. It was known for being easy to drive and fit for everyday use.
The Austin 1100 was a compact car produced by the British manufacturer Austin from the 1960s to the early 1970s. It was known for its practicality and was popular in the UK during its time.
Race of Remembrance
"I've done lots of things in cars this week, but the biggest one was the race of remembrance for Michelin Motorsport. Which was Friday, Saturday, Sunday."
The Race of Remembrance is a special racing event that pays tribute to people who have died in motorsport. It includes races and activities to remember them, usually taking place over a weekend.
The Race of Remembrance is a motorsport event that honors those who have lost their lives in motorsport, combining racing with remembrance activities. It often features various racing teams and is held over a weekend.
Mazda MX-5
"But an MX-5 on Anglesey circuit in November, when there's plenty of precipitation, is ample for me."
The Mazda MX-5 is a small sports car that is fun to drive. It's known for being light and easy to handle, making it a favorite for people who enjoy driving on winding roads or tracks.
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is a lightweight two-seater sports car known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. It's popular among driving enthusiasts for its rear-wheel-drive layout and responsive steering.
Citroën C1
"...I think I might be going back into C1. I think we need Citroën C1s. That's the real punchy class that is."
The Citroën C1 is a small car that's easy to drive around the city. It's not very powerful, but it's great for getting from place to place without spending too much money on gas.
The Citroën C1 is a compact city car known for its small size and efficiency. It is designed primarily for urban driving and is popular for its affordability and ease of parking.
Citroen C1S
"...k I might be going back into C1. I think we need Citroen C1s. That's the real punchy class that is."
The Citroen C1 is a tiny car that is easy to park and great for driving in the city. It's a good option for people who want something small and economical.
The Citroen C1 is a compact city car known for its small size and efficiency. It is often discussed for its practicality and affordability, making it a popular choice for urban driving.
Morris 1100
"...my dad had a Morris 1100. He did. I was picked up from Heathrow Airport when I emigrated from India..."
The Morris 1100 is a small car that was made in the UK a long time ago. It was popular because it was easy to drive and had a lot of space inside.
The Morris 1100 was a compact car produced by Morris Motors from 1962 to 1971. It was known for its practicality and was one of the first British cars to feature a unitary body construction.
BOAC 747
"It was a BOAC 747."
BOAC was an airline from the UK that flew big planes, like the Boeing 747. The 747 is a famous large airplane that can hold a lot of people and is known for its unique shape.
BOAC, or British Overseas Airways Corporation, was a British airline that operated long-haul flights. The Boeing 747, often referred to as the 'Jumbo Jet', is a large, wide-body airliner known for its distinctive hump and capacity to carry many passengers.
Frog-Eye
"It's an MG Midget or a Frog-Eye? Oh, it's a Frog-Eye."
'Frog-Eye' is a fun name for the early MG Midget cars that have round headlights that look like a frog's eyes. They are very popular with collectors.
'Frog-Eye' is a nickname for the early models of the MG Midget, specifically the ones produced from 1958 to 1961, known for their distinctive round headlights that resemble a frog's eyes. This design is iconic among classic car enthusiasts.
MG Midget
"...ime and the space and the money to... It's an MG Midget or a Frog-Eye? Oh, it's a Frog-Eye."
The MG Midget is a small, fun sports car that is easy to drive and has a lot of character. It's a classic choice for people who love vintage cars.
The MG Midget is a classic British sports car that is known for its lightweight design and fun driving experience. It is often discussed for its charm and affordability in the classic car market.
Austin Healey
"There was an Austin Healy version of the MG Midget. It looked like an MG Midget but it was called an Austin Healy."
Austin Healey is a brand that made sports cars, including a version of the MG Midget. They are known for their classic designs and sporty performance.
Austin Healey is a British sports car manufacturer known for producing classic sports cars, including the Austin Healey Midget, which shares design elements with the MG Midget.
K&N air filters
"We couldn't afford K&N air filters. So we just took the air filters off the SU carburetors..."
K&N air filters are special filters that help your car's engine get more air, which can make it run better. They're different because you can clean and reuse them instead of throwing them away.
K&N air filters are high-performance air filters designed to improve engine airflow and increase horsepower. They are reusable and washable, making them a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
SU carburetors
"So we just took the air filters off the SU carburetors and just took the air filter out of the metal casing..."
SU carburetors are devices that mix air and fuel for the engine in some British cars. They help the engine run smoothly by making sure it gets the right mixture.
SU carburetors are a type of carburetor used in many British cars, including MGs. They are known for their simplicity and effectiveness in mixing air and fuel for combustion.
Aston Martin XKR-S V12 Convertible
"An X-ray S V12 convertible. I think they've worked through 89, 90, 91, that kind of time."
The Aston Martin XKR-S V12 Convertible is a fancy sports car that has a powerful engine and a roof that can be taken off. It's known for being fast and looking really good.
The Aston Martin XKR-S V12 Convertible is a high-performance luxury sports car known for its powerful V12 engine and elegant design. It combines speed with a stylish convertible body, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts.
Alpine 110
"...what car are you in? And I said Alpine A110 and you're like, fuck, I so should have one of those. I need to just, it's embarrassing."
The Alpine A110 is a small sports car that is fun to drive and known for being very light, which helps it handle well on the road. It's a modern version of a classic car that has a lot of fans.
The Alpine A110 is a lightweight sports car known for its agile handling and performance. Originally launched in the 1960s, the modern version has been praised for its design and driving dynamics.
Mercedes-Benz C63 S
"Well, you know, I'd much prefer Mercedes C63 S, much better, which is obviously bullshit"
The Mercedes-Benz C63 S is a fast and luxurious car that has a strong engine and sporty features, making it very fun to drive.
The Mercedes-Benz C63 S is a high-performance variant of the C-Class, known for its powerful V8 engine and sporty handling. It's designed for enthusiasts who seek a blend of luxury and performance.
Maserati GranCabrio
"What Maserati are you buying? The Grand Cabrio one, whatever that's called. It's called the Grand Cabrio, yeah."
The Maserati GranCabrio is a fancy convertible car that looks great and drives fast. It's designed for people who want a luxurious ride.
The Maserati GranCabrio is a luxury convertible sports car known for its elegant design and powerful performance. It features a V8 engine and is aimed at those seeking a high-end driving experience.
Maserati Ghibli
"Right. And Ghibli. You bastard."
The Maserati Ghibli is a stylish luxury car that is known for being fast and comfortable. It's a special choice for people who want something different from regular cars.
The Maserati Ghibli is a luxury sedan that combines Italian styling with performance. It is often discussed for its unique character and the brand's heritage in the luxury car market.
Land Rover
"...the top five are going to be Land Rover products. The next five will be Land Rover products..."
Land Rover is a brand that makes luxury SUVs and off-road vehicles. They are popular but also often stolen because they are expensive.
Land Rover is a British luxury vehicle brand known for its off-road vehicles and SUVs. It has a reputation for producing robust vehicles that are often targeted by thieves due to their high value.
Tesla By Model
"...heet, you can click on the top and put them down by model. You can search by model."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that doesn't use gas and is known for being very high-tech. It's popular because it can go a long way on a single charge and is good for the environment.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that offers impressive range and advanced technology features. It is often discussed for its role in popularizing electric vehicles and its performance.
Ford Ranger
"...ntainer. It's I imagine it's quite hard to get a ranger over into a container and then get out of the ra..."
The Ford Ranger is a type of truck that can carry heavy loads and is good for driving on rough roads. People like it because it's strong and can be used for both work and fun.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck known for its versatility and off-road capabilities. It has gained popularity for its rugged design and practicality, making it a favorite among both work and recreational users.
Lexus NX 300
"... is number one, 219 nicked. Then after that, the NX 300, they all look the same. These Lexus, you don't ..."
The Lexus NX 300 is a small luxury SUV that is stylish and comfortable to drive. It's a good choice for people who want a nice car with lots of features.
The Lexus NX 300 is a compact luxury SUV that combines style, comfort, and technology. It is often discussed for its practicality and reputation for reliability.
Toyota Rav4
"UX 250 is number three. And then the Toyota RAV4. I mean, basically they're going reliability now..."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that is known for being dependable and having plenty of space inside. It's popular because it's a good choice for families and everyday driving.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that is highly regarded for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It has become one of the best-selling vehicles in its class due to its practicality and strong reputation.
Land Defenders
"...ut it probably is. There's a load of broken down defenders and discoveries and Range Rovers in Africa."
The Land Rover Defender is a tough vehicle made for driving on rough paths and in difficult conditions. It's famous for its strong build and is often seen as a classic car.
The Land Rover Defender is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and capability in challenging terrains. It has a storied history and is often discussed for its durability and classic design.
Ferrari 599 GTO
"...orsche or Ferrari, 100% would be a supercar. OK, 599 GTO. God, that's good."
The Ferrari 599 GTO is a super-fast sports car that is very special and hard to get. It's known for being powerful and exciting to drive.
The Ferrari 599 GTO is a high-performance version of the 599 GTB, known for its powerful V12 engine and track-focused capabilities. It is often discussed for its exclusivity and performance in the supercar realm.
Pontiac GTO
"It's not a supercar. 599 GTO, a supercar. No."
The Pontiac GTO is a classic car known for being very powerful and fast. It's considered one of the original muscle cars from America.
The Pontiac GTO is a classic American muscle car that played a significant role in the muscle car era of the 1960s. It is often discussed for its powerful performance and cultural impact.
Honda Nsx
"It's not a supercar. Honda NSX. Not a supercar."
The Honda NSX is a sports car that is known for being fast and fun to drive. It's special because it combines high performance with comfort for everyday use.
The Honda NSX is a groundbreaking sports car that was introduced in the 1990s, known for its mid-engine layout and high-revving V6 engine. It is often praised for its balance of performance and everyday usability.
Porsche 911
"It's a bit better than a 348. The 911. Oh, it's a lot bloody better."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that is known for being fast and fun to drive. It's loved by car enthusiasts for its unique shape and powerful engine.
The Porsche 911 is a legendary sports car known for its distinctive design, performance, and engineering excellence. It has a rich history and is often discussed for its status as a benchmark in the sports car world.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
"Yep. 1990 Aston Martin V8 Vantage. There you go."
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a fancy sports car that is fast and looks really nice. It's known for being a high-quality British car.
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a luxury sports car known for its powerful V8 engine and elegant design. It is often discussed for its performance and status as a symbol of British automotive excellence.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
"and I've got a modern one. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. I think if someone wants to take t..."
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a stylish car that is fun to drive and looks great. It's known for being sporty and has a unique Italian design.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a modern sports sedan known for its sharp handling and Italian styling. It has gained attention for its performance and is often discussed among enthusiasts for its driving dynamics.
Jaguar Etype
"really pretty cars, I accept Eagle and E-Type, and I accept maybe Singer,"
The Jaguar E-Type is a classic sports car that many people think is one of the prettiest cars ever. It was very fast for its time and is loved by car fans.
The Jaguar E-Type is an iconic sports car from the 1960s, celebrated for its beautiful design and performance. It is often regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever made and has a significant place in automotive history.
Lamborghini Miura
"...te Indian dream car. Neil Clifford, you're going Miura and 356. I'm going Miura."
The Lamborghini Miura is a very special and beautiful sports car that was one of the first to be called a supercar. It's famous for its speed and stylish looks.
The Lamborghini Miura is a classic supercar that is often credited with creating the modern supercar segment. Its stunning design and powerful V12 engine make it a highly sought-after collector's item.
Porsche 356
"...dream car. Neil Clifford, you're going Miura and 356. I'm going Miura."
Alpina B3
"... really good car. But it was between that and an Alpina B3 and E90. So the Alpina kind of won it."
The Alpina B3 is a special version of a BMW car that is faster and more luxurious than the regular models. It's popular among people who want a sporty yet comfortable ride.
The Alpina B3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its blend of luxury and sportiness. Alpina models are often discussed for their unique tuning and exclusivity.
Peugeot 205
"Right. I've, it is a Peugeot 205. It's beige."
The Peugeot 205 CTI is a small convertible car that is fun to drive and has a lot of character. It's loved by fans for its classic style.
The Peugeot 205 CTI is a classic convertible that is celebrated for its fun driving experience and compact size. It is often discussed among enthusiasts for its charm and nostalgic value.
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