Top Gear 19
1988-04-07 | Documentary | 8 episodes45 Seasons
Episode
Episode 1 (1988)
Brooklands was the first motor racing circuit in the world, the scene of many record-breaking attempts in the 20s and 30s. Now after years of decay, there are plans to build a new museum and reopen the track. William Woollard and Tiff Needell look at the nostalgia they’re trying to re-create. The British company, Cosworth, is one of the success stories of motor racing today. Their engines are found in many of the world’s victorious Formula One and Indy 500 cars. Chris Goffey examines the reasons for their success and road tests the new Sierra Cosworth. Consumer reports reveal that cars are hardly ever serviced properly. Sue Baker investigates what can be done to improve the situation. Frank Page tests the new Peugeot 405.
Episode 2 (1988)
From the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull. Can motorcycling be made safer without destroying its inherent excitement? The ‘Feet First’ design concept is claimed to offer just that. Paul Blezard reports on various British attempts at designing such machines and tests the extraordinary Swiss Oekomobil — a fully enclosed motorcycle capable of 160mph and yet offering 90mpg at 75mph. Four-wheel steering is said to offer safety advantages to car drivers. Chris Goffey compares the two cars, both Japanese, that are now available fitted with the system. It also forms the basis for a new technique for teaching all drivers how to control a skidding car. William Woollard tries out the new device that may offer the key to skid training for all learner drivers. Tony Mason reports on the result of the Radio Times Rally Quest 88 competition.
Episode 3 (1988)
The Turin Motor Show is the showcase of the Italian motor industry — a chance to show off the latest design concepts and, increasingly, the latest in high tech. But does the Italian view of style and innovation still lead the world? And has the Italian industry — dominated by the Fiat Group — had too easy a time in its home market for too long? William Woollard and Sue Baker report from the show. Chris Goffey road-tests two new cars — the Fiat Tipo, which its makers hope will supplant the Volkswagen Golf as Europe’s best-selling car, and the executive-class Alfa 164. With Lancia set to dominate the World Rally scene for a second year, Tony Mason looks at their latest contender — the Integrale.
Episode 4 (1988)
Introduced by William Woollard from the South of France, where he road-tests the latest Jaguar XJS, at last offered in fully convertible form. Jaguar’s 20-year-old V12 engine is challenged by another from BMW. Chris Goffey compares the two power plants and the cars they propel. Car road tests can help you make an informed choice, but what about buying tyres? Which provide the best grip, life and handling? Also Sue Baker visits an adventure school in Scotland to learn how to drive ‘cross country’ and Frank Page test-drives current kit cars.
Episode 5 (1988)
What is a classic car? Seemingly anything from an Aston Martin to a 1960s Ford Anglia. William Woollard presents Top Gear from the National Classic Motor Show at the NEC in Birmingham, and looks at the varied range of cars on display, He also roadtests the Lynx D-Type, a modern replica of the legendary cars that won at Le Mans for Jaguar in the 50s. BMW is about to replace its rather old-fashioned five-series. Sue Baker drives BMW’s latest offering for the up-and-coming executive and compares it with the recently revised Audi 100. Also in the programme, Top Gear asks which new cars depreciate least and Tony Mason samples the thrilling world of Formula One stock car racing.
