Top Gear (1977 TV series)/Series 20/Episode 6

Episode 6
Thumb 1Thumb 2 Jeremy Clarkson made his on-screen debut in this episode. Jeremy Clarkson made his on-screen debut in this episode.
Prod. code	NBML613E
No.	176
Runtime	29:26
Prev ep.	Series 20, Episode 5
Next ep.	Series 20, Episode 7
Airdate	27th October, 1988

Series 20, Episode 6 of Top Gear aired on the 27th October, 1988. It was the sixth episode of Series 20; the 176th episode of Top Gear overall, including compilations. It was the 167th episode since Top Gear entered national broadcasting in 1978, and was the 15th programme to air in 1988 out of a total 18. Series 20, Episode 6 was originally broadcast in 576i at a 4:3 Standard aspect ratio on British television channel BBC Two. The episode was primarily presented by William Woollard, Chris Goffey, and Tony Mason, with additional segments presented by Tom Boswell and Jeremy Clarkson. This episode is perhaps most widely-known for being the on-screen debut of the latter, not just for Top Gear, but for any television programme featuring him in any capacity following a successful stint at Performance Car Magazine.

Synopsis

A thorough synopsis is not presently possible due to all or parts of the episode being unavailable for public access.

Radio Times Listing

When police surveillance systems catch motorists breaking the law, the onus is increasingly on drivers to prove their innocence rather than on the police to prove guilt. William Woollard investigates this apparent change in emphasis. Tony Mason reports on preparations for the Lombard RAC Rally. Chris Goffey drives the 440 – the new Volvo made in Holland and Tom Boswell tackles rust warranties – how much protection do they offer? Jeremy Clarkson visits a firm that pulls apart new Rolls-Royces, and rebuilds them.

Infax Listing

According to information stored on the BBC's Infax database, the episode began with Chris Goffey presenting a piece on the Volvo 440 in Holland. It was then followed by Woollard reporting on the use of cameras inside police cars and at road junctions to photograph cars that are speeding or driving recklessly. He interviews Chief Inspector Mike Dixon regarding the use of these cameras, in addition to legal journalist Stephen Gold, who questions the legality of such photos as evidence. Sarah Spencer of the NCCL also reports on the civil liberty implications that these cameras have. The show's third film, presented by Tony Mason, focused on the Wales Rally GB which occurred on the 22nd - 23rd of October, 1988. He interviews drivers Jimmy McRae for Toyota, Hannu Mikkola for Mazda, Malcolm Wilson for Vauxhall, and Per Eklund for Nissan.

The episode continues with Tom Boswell investigating problems in regards to auto manufacturers' anti-corrosion warranties, interviewing Linda Zeff, a Fiat customer dissatisfied with her Panda's warranty, with various rusty body panels being shown to the camera before the car is treated in a garage. He also interviews Julian Edwards from the Consumer Association, who is unhappy with the complex conditions car makers impose in regards to anti-corrosion. The episode then finally concludes with Jeremy Clarkson's first ever piece to camera, where he discusses the Hooper tuning firm in North London, who take apart Bentleys and Rolls-Royces in order to customise them. He interviews the firm's main director, Paul Crowder, in addition to various owners of these 'Hooperised' vehicles. A fleet of these cars then drive through London before arriving at the Hooper workshop to be modified.

Soundtrack

Series 20, Episode 6 contained the following tracks:

▶️ The Allman Brothers Band - Jessica: Plays during the title sequence.
▶️ Elton John - Out of the Blue: Plays during the closing sequence.