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