Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, graced the Top Gear stage not once, but twice. His most memorable appearance as the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car (SIARPC) occurred in Series 20, Episode 7, originally aired on July 14, 2013.
Hamilton’s Two Appearances and Their Significance
While often associated with the 2013 appearance, Hamilton also participated in an earlier episode, technically making two distinct contributions to the Top Gear legacy. Understanding the context of both appearances provides a more complete picture.
The 2013 Star in a Reasonably Priced Car Appearance
This is the appearance most people remember. Hamilton drove the Vauxhall Astra, a car decidedly less powerful than his usual Formula 1 machine. His lap time was highly anticipated, placing him amongst a competitive field of celebrities. It provided a rare glimpse into Hamilton’s driving ability outside of the high-pressure environment of a Grand Prix.
The 2007 Appearance: A Different Kind of Role
Years prior to his 2013 SIARPC appearance, Hamilton was featured on Top Gear Season 10, Episode 1, in 2007. However, he wasn’t behind the wheel for a timed lap. Instead, he acted as a driver of the Formula 1 car being reviewed by Jeremy Clarkson. This appearance, although brief, was significant because it showcased his early talent and connection to the world of motorsport even before he became a global superstar.
Examining the Lap Time and the Competition
The core of any SIARPC segment is the celebrity’s lap time. Where did Hamilton place? Who did he beat? And who remained just out of reach?
Hamilton’s Performance in the Astra
Hamilton’s lap time in the Vauxhall Astra was 1:42.9. This was a respectable time, placing him in the upper half of the leaderboard. However, he wasn’t the fastest, demonstrating the challenge even professional drivers face when adapting to a different vehicle and track conditions.
Key Competitors and Comparisons
Several other notable personalities had recorded times in the Astra prior to Hamilton. Comparing his performance to theirs offers valuable insight:
- Mark Webber: Another F1 driver, Webber, set a benchmark time that Hamilton narrowly missed. This sparked friendly rivalry and fueled speculation about F1 drivers adapting to everyday cars.
- Ronnie O’Sullivan: The snooker legend offered a contrasting perspective, showcasing that driving skill doesn’t always translate across different disciplines.
- Brian Johnson (AC/DC): The rock icon delivered a surprisingly competitive lap, proving that passion and experience can sometimes trump pure driving talent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamilton’s Top Gear Appearances
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s involvement with Top Gear, providing further context and details.
Q1: Why did Hamilton appear on Top Gear?
- Top Gear often invites celebrities, especially those connected to motoring, to participate in the SIARPC segment. Hamilton, as a prominent figure in Formula 1, was a natural fit, attracting a wide audience of motorsport enthusiasts and casual viewers. It’s a great way for celebrities to showcase their personality and driving skills outside of their usual professional setting.
Q2: What car did he drive in his 2013 appearance?
- As mentioned, Hamilton drove the Vauxhall Astra, a staple of the SIARPC segment at the time. The Astra, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a level playing field for all celebrity drivers, emphasizing driving technique over raw horsepower.
Q3: Did he crash or have any mishaps during his lap?
- No, Hamilton completed his lap without any major incidents. He demonstrated considerable skill and control, navigating the challenging Top Gear track with precision. His lap was clean and competitive, a testament to his driving abilities.
Q4: Is the Top Gear track real, and can anyone drive it?
- Yes, the Top Gear track, officially known as the Dunsfold Aerodrome, is a real race track. While it’s not generally open to the public for driving experiences, it is used for various motoring events and filming. The track’s unique layout and challenging corners have become iconic in the world of motoring television.
Q5: Where can I watch the episode featuring Lewis Hamilton?
- Availability varies depending on your region. However, you can typically find Top Gear episodes on streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer (if you’re in the UK), or through online purchase options. Searching for “Top Gear Series 20 Episode 7” will yield the most accurate results.
Q6: Who holds the record for the fastest lap in the SIARPC?
- The fastest lap in the Vauxhall Astra, the car driven by Hamilton, wasn’t held by him. The records changed over the years as Top Gear rotated the cars. Therefore, to know the fastest lap in the specific car during that series, you would need to consult a Top Gear leaderboard archive for the Astra.
Q7: Did Lewis Hamilton enjoy his experience on Top Gear?
- While Hamilton hasn’t explicitly given extensive interviews about his Top Gear appearances, his demeanor and competitive spirit during the show suggested he enjoyed the experience. Engaging with Clarkson, Hammond, and May, and showcasing his driving skills on a different platform likely provided a welcome change of pace.
Q8: Were any other F1 drivers featured on Top Gear?
- Yes, numerous Formula 1 drivers have appeared on Top Gear, both as SIARPC drivers and in other segments. Notable examples include Sebastian Vettel, Mark Webber, Jenson Button, and Rubens Barrichello. Their appearances highlight the connection between Formula 1 and the broader automotive world.
Q9: Why was the Astra chosen as the reasonably priced car?
- The choice of the Astra (and other SIARPC vehicles over the years) was deliberate. It provided a relatable and accessible car that was within a reasonable price range. The goal was to emphasize driving skill and entertainment value over performance, making the competition fairer and more engaging for viewers.
Q10: How does the Top Gear track compare to a Formula 1 circuit?
- The Top Gear track is significantly different from a Formula 1 circuit. It’s much shorter, tighter, and less technically demanding than a purpose-built Grand Prix track. F1 circuits are designed for high-speed racing and feature complex corner combinations, whereas the Top Gear track focuses on testing a driver’s adaptability and car control.
Q11: What happened to the “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment after Top Gear changed hosts?
- After the departure of Clarkson, Hammond, and May, the “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment was rebranded as “Star in a Reasonably Fast Car” and featured a different car. The core concept remained the same: inviting celebrities to test their driving skills on a set track.
Q12: Is it possible to watch clips of Lewis Hamilton’s Top Gear appearances online?
- Yes, numerous clips of Hamilton’s Top Gear appearances can be found on platforms like YouTube and the official Top Gear website. Searching for “Lewis Hamilton Top Gear” will provide a range of video content, including highlights of his lap and interviews with the hosts.
Conclusion
Lewis Hamilton’s appearances on Top Gear offered a fascinating glimpse into his driving prowess outside the realm of Formula 1. While his 2007 appearance was more of a cameo, the Series 20, Episode 7 appearance as the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car remains a memorable moment for fans of both motorsport and the iconic television show. His lap time, though not the fastest, showcased his skill and contributed to the enduring legacy of Top Gear’s celebrity challenges. His participation cemented the show’s appeal to a broad audience, bridging the gap between professional racing and everyday driving.