Top Gear American Style

[tkb289]

Originally Posted by Historybuff

I figure the British one has part of its appeal is that they don't have ads from automakers thus don't have to kowtow to any one automaker and not knock their cars. Plus they have access to the latest Lamborghinis, Ferraris, etc. where American shows in the past have precious little access or at least can't beat them with a cane like the Brits. I think the Brits are more worldly when it comes to an overview--these are guys that pop over to every event on the Continent. We can't have a show that will match theirs unless we have equally well traveled bon vivants.

I agree.

Must admit however, that I have not seen the American Top Gear program yet, but the British version would be a tough act to follow. Not only do they have better access to European cars, but they have a broader view of the world market and quite a sense of adventure. The motorcycle trip through Vietnam or the trip to the North pole, are two that come to mind. The British sense of humor is a big part of the show as well ... Monty Python and Benny Hill, have a lot of influence to this day.

That being said, shows like American Chopper, Dirty Jobs or Deadliest Catch, while not car related, are American shows that the British would probably have a tough time trying to emulate.

All of these shows are original and that's a big part of their appeal.