Richard Hammond is best known as one of the three hosts of Top Gear and as an engineer and adventurer who pursues extreme experiences. Beyond the cameras, he has assembled a car collection that mirrors his passion for performance, innovation, and driving enjoyment. This article looks at what cars Richard Hammond owns, mixing everyday machines, engineering milestones, and toys built for serious fun.
Hammond’s garage blends practical daily use with track-focused machines and nostalgic icons. He openly discusses how each car matches his lifestyle, from city errands to mountain roads and stunt days. The list below summarizes the main themes covered in detail.
| Model | Role in Collection | Key Appeal | Acquisition Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 1 Series (early models) | Everyday driving and commuting | Nimble handling, affordable performance | Early personal purchase, widely used |
| Lexus LS 600h L | Family and luxury travel | Refined comfort, hybrid efficiency | Chosen for long journeys and reliability |
| McLaren F1 | Engineering trophy and track icon | Naturally aspirated V12, lightweight design | Major milestone featured on The Grand Tour |
| Ford GT40 | Historical motorsport legend | Le Mans-winning pedigree, classic presence | Display piece and homage to endurance racing |
| Tesla Model S | Modern tech and sustainability | Electric performance, advanced software | Demonstrated on shows and road trips |
Everyday Machines and Reliable Runners
Richard Hammond owns practical cars for family life and regular use. These vehicles balance comfort, efficiency, and driving dynamics without sacrificing too much fun. The BMW 1 Series has been a core part of his personal fleet, offering tight steering and responsive acceleration in a relatively compact package. He has also relied on the Lexus LS 600h L for long-distance cruising, praising its smoothness, quiet cabin, and hybrid efficiency for both environmental and cost reasons.
Owning a Tesla Model S has allowed Hammond to experience electric powertrains firsthand. He has highlighted instant torque, spacious interior, and over-the-air updates as standout features. While not purely a gadget show, these everyday machines reveal how he evaluates cars beyond excitement, considering real-world usability, reliability, and long-term value.
Performance Icons and Track Toys
McLaren F1 and Engineering History
The McLaren F1 stands as a centerpiece of Hammond’s performance collection. As one of the fastest naturally aspirated cars ever made, it represents an era when engineers prioritized lightweight design and atmospheric engines over forced induction. Hammond has detailed its race-inspired interior, central driving position, and the care required to keep such a complex machine relevant and safe.
Classic Racing Heritage
The Ford GT40 appears in Hammond’s interests as a symbol of endurance racing success. Although likely more of an exhibit than a daily driver, it connects him to the legacy of Le Mans victories and British engineering ingenuity. Owning or closely associating with icons like the GT40 lets Hammond explore the history that shaped modern supercar design.
Modern Tech and Sustainable Driving
Hammond has embraced electric vehicles as part of his evolving collection. The Tesla Model S demonstrates how performance and efficiency can coexist, with Ludicrous Mode offering startling acceleration while maintaining low running costs. He has also discussed how regenerative braking and minimalist interiors change the driving experience compared to traditional sports cars. By pairing the Model S with hybrids like the Lexus LS 600h L, Hammond shows an interest across the spectrum from combustion to full electrification.
Lifestyle and Long Journeys
Beyond circuits and drag strips, Hammond’s cars support his adventurous lifestyle. The Lexus LS 600h L has accompanied him on grueling road trips, proving that comfort and range matter when covering vast distances. He balances excitement with practicality, choosing vehicles that can handle both racetrack thrills and family road trips. This approach highlights a mature view of car ownership, where fun is complemented by responsibility and versatility.
Personal Mobility and Car Choices
Richard Hammond’s collection reveals a balanced philosophy that blends performance, practicality, and historical appreciation. His vehicles reflect both the thrill of speed and the demands of real-world use, from electric innovation to classic endurance legends.
- Value everyday usability without compromising driving engagement
- Invest in performance icons that define motorsport history
- Explore sustainable mobility with modern electric cars
- Balance family comfort with spirited driving dynamics
- Preserve and celebrate legendary machines for future enthusiasts
FAQ
Reader questions
Does Richard Hammond still own a Tesla Model S?
Yes, he has kept the Tesla Model S in his collection and has used it for road trips and tech-oriented comparisons, praising its performance and software updates.
Which classic racing car is associated with Richard Hammond?
The Ford GT40 is closely linked to Hammond as a display piece and homage to Le Mans history, reflecting his interest in endurance racing legends.
What everyday car does Richard Hammond rely on for family use?
He has frequently mentioned the Lexus LS 600h L for long-distance comfort and reliability, as well as the BMW 1 Series for nimble city and countryside driving.
Has Richard Hammond driven the McLaren F1 as a daily car?
While he owns deep admiration for the McLaren F1 and has driven it extensively, it functions more as an engineering trophy and track icon than a practical daily driver.