Top Gear’s cheap car challenges are legendary. This post outlines a week-long virtual competition inspired by those iconic challenges, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your gaming chair. Get ready to test your virtual driving skills and budget management!
The Rules of the Road
This virtual challenge spans seven days, each with a unique set of rules and objectives. Remember, all times must be submitted with photographic evidence (screenshot).
Day 1: Stock Car Showdown
- Budget: Your chosen car must have a base price of less than $15,000.
- Challenge: Beat the Stig’s time of 1’45”.00 in a Vauxhall Astra Diesel on the Top Gear Test Track. (Note: This time reflects a 3-second reduction from the original time to account for non-hot lap conditions in the show.)
- Scoring: Gain 1 point for every second faster, lose 1 point for every second slower.
- Restrictions: No tuning allowed (not even an oil change!). Driving aids limited to ABS and Driving Line only.
Day 2: Tuning Time
- Budget: Use remaining funds from your initial $15,000 budget.
- Challenge: Beat a time of 1’32”.400 on the Top Gear Test Track (adjusted for non-hot lap conditions) – the time set by the Top Gear presenters in a tuned Renault Avantime.
- Scoring: Gain 1 point and $500 back for each second faster. Lose 1 point and $250 for each second slower.
- Restrictions: No sport/racing tires allowed.
Days 3-7: More Challenges to Come!
Check back daily for updated challenges throughout the week. Remember, even if you join late, you can still attempt all previous challenges.
How to Participate
Follow this format when submitting your times:
Car: [Car Model and Year]
Base Price: [Price]
Time w/ Pic: [Your Time] [Screenshot]Bonus Challenge: Real Top Gear Mode
For the ultimate challenge, embrace the true Top Gear spirit:
- No Car Changes: Stick with your initial car choice.
- No Tuning Modifications: Once you’ve tuned your car, no further changes are allowed.
- One Lap Counts: Only your first lap time is valid, just like on the show.
Leaderboard
This leaderboard will be updated daily. Good luck!
- 1st – Ninhasso – 8 points – Eagle Talon Esi ’97
- 2nd – GODfreyGT5 – 7 points – MX-5 Miata J-Limited (NA,J) ’91
Get Ready to Race!
This virtual Top Gear challenge tests your car knowledge, driving skills, and strategic thinking. Choose wisely, drive fast, and may the best virtual driver win! Come back tomorrow for the next challenge!
