10 Surprising Reasons Richard Hammond Might Secretly Love America the Most
Richard Hammond’s enduring passion for American cars and culture shines through in every aspect of his life and work. From his personal collection of classic muscle cars to his television series exploring the heart of American automotive ingenuity, Hammond’s admiration for the spirit and craftsmanship of the United States is unmistakable. This article delves into the top ten ways Richard Hammond has celebrated and embraced American cars, machines, and the culture that comes with them.
10. He Bought a Classic American Muscle Car
Richard Hammond’s affection for American cars is evident in his garage, where his 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 has resided for over 15 years. Featuring a powerful 6.4-liter V8 engine, this Highland Green classic with silver racing stripes remains one of his favorites despite its poor performance in rainy conditions.
9. He Starred in a Show All About American Machines
Richard Hammond’s deep appreciation for American engineering was on full display when he starred in “The Grand Tour” episode “Motown Funk.” Alongside his co-hosts, Hammond explored Detroit’s legendary muscle car culture, driving highly tuned American classics and celebrating their unmatched power and style.
8. His Dream Car List Is Packed With Iconic U.S. Rides
Hammond’s love for American vehicles is undeniable. His list of favorite cars includes the 1953 Chevrolet Corvette, 1955 Chrysler C-300, 1969 Dodge Charger, and 1968 Ford Mustang 390 GT. He even owns a 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 and a green Buick Riviera, showcasing his deep appreciation for American automotive engineering.
7. He’s the Only Top Gear Host to Buy a Pickup Truck on a U.S. Trip
During the iconic “Top Gear: U.S. Special,” Richard Hammond stood out from his co-hosts by choosing a classic American pickup—the 1991 Dodge Ram D150—while Clarkson opted for a Camaro and May for a Cadillac. That uniquely American choice highlighted Hammond’s secret fondness for American vehicles.
6. He’s Proud of His BBC America Series Made for a U.S. Audience
Richard Hammond’s “Crash Course” was created specifically for BBC America, showcasing his enthusiasm for American culture and machinery. The series saw Hammond crisscross the U.S. to master massive vehicles, from tanks to fire trucks, proving his genuine excitement about engaging with American audiences and challenges.
5. He’s Praised the American Work Ethic on Camera
Richard Hammond has openly praised the American work ethic during his projects in the US, notably while producing a show about American workers and their workplaces. He’s expressed genuine admiration for Americans’ can-do spirit, drive, and commitment to hard work, highlighting his deep respect for these values.
4. He Often Defends American Cars Against British Stereotypes
Despite being teased by Clarkson and May, Hammond consistently shows affection for American muscle cars, particularly the Ford Mustang. During filming in London, he could “barely contain his glee” while testing the 2016 Mustang GT Coupe with its roaring 5.0-liter V8 engine. Hammond has never been shy about admitting his “love for the Stang” throughout his presenting career.
3. He’s Taken on Some of the Toughest American Driving Challenges
Richard Hammond’s American adventures go far beyond sightseeing—he’s tackled intense driving challenges across the States. From the iconic “Top Gear: US Special,” where he braved a $1,000 car across four states, to his series “Richard Hammond’s Crash Course,” testing extreme US vehicles, Hammond has truly put himself to the American test.
2. His Social Media Reveals Countless U.S. Road Adventures
Richard Hammond’s Instagram is filled with snapshots and reels from iconic American highways, classic diners, and daring test drives across states. His posts often feature awe at U.S. car culture and wide-open landscapes, making it clear that he relishes every mile of his stateside adventures.
1. He Counts American TV Crews as “A Revelation” and Loved the Experience
Richard Hammond has described working with American TV crews as “a revelation,” praising their professionalism and enthusiasm. While filming “Richard Hammond’s Crash Course” across the U.S., he often highlighted how much he loved collaborating with skilled American production teams—insisting it was one of his favorite career experiences.
Conclusion:
Through his extensive list of American-inspired adventures, Richard Hammond has proven time and again his deep admiration and enthusiasm for the machines, culture, and people of the United States. His genuine respect for American automotive culture, work ethic, and collaborative spirit with production teams highlights a unique bond that adds an exciting layer to his renowned television persona. Whether it’s through his social media footprints or engaging television series, Hammond’s American journeys continue to captivate audiences worldwide, illustrating a charismatic blend of British humor with a fervent love for American horsepower and innovation.
