Jeremy Clarkson chose a 1981 Lancia Beta Coupe. It was a choice rooted in style but plagued by legendary Italian unreliability. Throughout the journey, the Lancia suffered from constant electrical failures and overheating, yet Jeremy’s stubborn affection for it became a running gag.

For lifestyle viewers—people who want to put this episode on in the background during a garage night or a camping trip—720p offers the perfect balance of nostalgia and clarity.

Lightweight and remarkably reliable, this car became the star of the show. Hammond grew so attached to "Oliver" that he shipped it back to the UK and still owns it today.