The original Top Gear (pre-Chris Evans era) ventured to Australia in two distinct specials: the “Darwin to Broome Adventure” featured in Series 15, Episode 5, and a smaller segment during the “50 Years of Bond Cars” special. This article meticulously details these trips, offering insights into the cars, challenges, and unforgettable moments from Top Gear’s Australian expeditions.
Series 15, Episode 5: The Darwin to Broome Adventure
The main Australian Top Gear episode is undoubtedly Series 15, Episode 5, broadcasted in 2010. This special sees Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May embark on an ambitious journey across the Australian outback, from Darwin to Broome, covering vast distances and enduring harsh conditions. Their mission: to demonstrate that driving is still better than flying, even in such a challenging landscape.
The presenters chose rather unconventional vehicles for the task. Clarkson opted for a Jaguar XJS, while Hammond selected a BMW 325i. May, predictably, chose a more practical (or so he thought) choice in the form of a Holden Monaro. These vehicles were far from ideal for the Outback’s rugged terrain, which led to a series of comical mishaps and mechanical failures.
The episode is filled with classic Top Gear challenges and scenarios. They raced a postal plane, navigated treacherous river crossings, attempted to repair their cars with limited tools, and even participated in a makeshift Outback Olympics. The sheer scale of the Australian landscape provided a stunning backdrop to their antics, further enhancing the episode’s appeal.
The journey wasn’t without its perils. The team faced searing heat, dust storms, and the constant threat of breakdowns. Yet, they persevered, showcasing their trademark humor and camaraderie along the way. The episode culminates in Broome, where they reflect on their experiences and declare whether driving truly proved superior to flying.
The Bond Cars Special and a Sydney Appearance
While Series 15, Episode 5, is the definitive “Australian” Top Gear episode, it’s crucial to acknowledge the “50 Years of Bond Cars” special. During this broadcast, a segment was filmed in Sydney, Australia.
This wasn’t a full-fledged Australian adventure in the same vein as the Darwin to Broome episode, but it featured James Bond cars being displayed in Sydney against the backdrop of the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It was a brief but visually striking segment that added an international flavor to the Bond Cars celebration.
The Sydney appearance showcased iconic vehicles from the James Bond franchise, giving Australian fans a chance to witness these legendary cars firsthand. The contrast between the classic Bond cars and the modern Sydney cityscape created a visually appealing and memorable moment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Top Gear’s Australian Adventures
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about Top Gear’s journeys to Australia, offering further insight into the episodes and their impact.
H3 What were the main challenges the Top Gear team faced in the Darwin to Broome episode?
The challenges were numerous and varied. They included navigating unsealed roads, dealing with extreme heat, repairing their cars with limited resources, crossing rivers, coping with dust storms, and simply enduring the sheer vastness and isolation of the Australian Outback. The unreliability of their chosen vehicles compounded these challenges significantly.
H3 Which car performed the worst in the Darwin to Broome episode?
While all three cars experienced their fair share of problems, the Jaguar XJS, driven by Jeremy Clarkson, arguably suffered the most frequent and significant breakdowns. Its age and unsuitability for the terrain made it a constant source of frustration for Clarkson.
H3 What was the outcome of the race against the postal plane?
The Top Gear team lost the race against the postal plane. The vast distances and challenging terrain made it impossible for them to keep pace with the aircraft, which could fly directly to its destinations.
H3 Was the Darwin to Broome episode scripted?
While Top Gear is known for its entertainment value, and some scenarios might be planned in advance, the mechanical failures and unexpected incidents encountered in the Darwin to Broome episode were largely genuine. The presenters genuinely struggled with the conditions and the unreliability of their cars. The reactions and interactions were therefore largely authentic, adding to the episode’s charm.
H3 Did the Top Gear team encounter any wildlife during their Australian adventure?
Yes, the team encountered various forms of wildlife. This included seeing kangaroos and dealing with the ever-present threat of flies and insects. While the wildlife wasn’t a major focus of the episode, it added to the overall atmosphere and sense of being in the Australian Outback.
H3 Where exactly was the Bond Cars segment filmed in Sydney?
The Bond Cars segment was filmed in several locations around Sydney Harbour, with prominent shots featuring the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge as backdrops. This iconic scenery provided a stunning visual context for the display of the classic Bond vehicles.
H3 Which Bond cars were featured in the Sydney segment?
While the exact list isn’t exhaustive in the episode, prominent Bond cars featured included the Aston Martin DB5, a quintessential Bond car, and potentially other vehicles from the Bond film franchise, chosen for their iconic status.
H3 Why did Top Gear choose Australia as a location for these specials?
Australia offers a unique combination of stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and a car-loving culture, making it an ideal location for Top Gear’s brand of automotive adventures. The vastness of the Outback provides a visually striking backdrop, while the challenging conditions create opportunities for comical mishaps and mechanical breakdowns.
H3 Are there any other Top Gear segments filmed in Australia besides these two?
No. These are the only notable Top Gear segments filmed in Australia with the original trio. While Top Gear has filmed extensively around the world, Australia features prominently in these two significant appearances. Subsequent iterations of Top Gear with new hosts have not returned to Australia in a similarly focused manner.
H3 Where can I watch the Top Gear Darwin to Broome episode?
The episode is available on various streaming platforms depending on your region. Platforms that often carry Top Gear content include Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer (in the UK), and various online marketplaces where episodes can be purchased. Availability may vary based on licensing agreements.
H3 How did the Australian public react to the Top Gear Darwin to Broome episode?
The episode was generally well-received, although some Australians criticized aspects of the show’s humor and perceived stereotypes. Overall, the episode showcased the beauty and challenges of the Australian Outback to a global audience, raising awareness of the region and its unique landscape.
H3 What lasting impact did the Top Gear Australia episodes have?
The Top Gear Australia episodes helped to showcase Australia as a destination for automotive adventures and highlighted the beauty of the Outback. They also contributed to Top Gear’s global popularity and cemented its reputation for pushing the boundaries of automotive entertainment. The episodes remain popular and are frequently re-watched by fans worldwide.