Tom Ford, Associate Editor for Top Gear Magazine, has carved out a unique space within the motoring world. With his career spanning from TV shows like Fifth Gear and Top Gear America to his current role at Top Gear Magazine, Tom has always pursued the unconventional. Known for his adventures with everyday vehicles on extraordinary journeys, he combines his passion for storytelling with a love for car culture, from supercars to small hatchbacks.

In this episode of Car Chat, Tom shares his transition from supercar fanatic to someone more enamored with the people and stories in car culture. He talks about taking a humble Kia Picanto down some of France’s narrowest roads and navigating icy Swedish landscapes in sports cars ill-suited for the conditions. Tom's approach to road trips, whether in rugged vehicles or unexpected places, reflects his belief that the best journeys aren’t about the cars themselves but the experiences and stories they create.

https://www.instagram.com/tomwookieford/

https://www.topgear.com/car-news/tom-ford

Show Notes:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tom Ford and His Journey

02:48 The Joy of Car Culture and Adventure

06:02 The Difference Between Driving and Road Tripping

08:55 Memorable Road Trips and Experiences

11:49 Getting Started in Automotive Journalism

15:07 The Evolution of Automotive Journalism

17:59 The Impact of Time on Car Reviews

20:53 Resto Mods and Unique Car Projects

23:51 Exploring Car Culture in Japan and China

33:26 Embracing the Slow Life in Cars

37:18 The Impact of Injury on Driving

41:42 The Intersection of Wealth and Car Collections

45:35 The Personal Connection to Cars

50:52 The Evolution of Performance Cars

54:15 The Joy of Driving Unique Cars

01:00:53 Reflections on Car Ownership and Identity

01:07:40 The Skoda Yeti: A Personal Favorite

01:14:23 The Evolution of Electric Vehicles

01:25:00 Exploring the World of Camper Vans

01:39:25 Dream Garage: The Ultimate Car Collection

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