Top Gear: Botswana Special

Top Gear: Botswana Special produced by the BBC.

Plot: Jeramey, James, and Richard are told to buy a used car in Botswana by the studio. They are only told that their cars must not be suitable for off roading. Once they arrive, the trio discovers they must drive across the nation of Botswana in previously-owned cars of questionably merit. An enormous salt desert, wild animals, and constant breakdowns complicate their journey. However, if they fail to maintain their cars, they will still complete the trip...in an old Voltswagon Beetle.

Genre: Cars, Documentary

Reading Level: Not rated, but probably around a G for some language and peril.

Similar Titles: Top Gear: Viet Nam Special, Ice Road Truckers

Personal Thoughts: Due to some of the comments and challenges, particularly those involving African Stig, this show would never be produced in the United States. That said, the program does provide solid entertainment and surprisingly deep moments. A good choice for car fanciers and car know-nothings.

Top Gear

Top Gear Episode 2, Season 9.

Plot: Three British car fanatics take unique views and unexpected challenges pertaining to perhaps the world's most popular transportation device - the automobile. The challenges, however, are highly unusual. Challenges range from finding a parking space for a power car in London to driving to the North Pole.

Genre: Documentary, Car Culture

Reading Level: Rated TV-PG

Similar Titles: Dirty Jobs, Mythbusters

Personal Thoughts: Much like Mythbusters, the show makes a series of complicated tests for two main reasons: to test if a challenge is possible and to do it because they can. The very quirky show manages to satisfy both "car guys" and non-car aficionados with solid information, surreal challenges, and humor. Additionally, they review and reflect on famous high-end cars, occasionally with British superstars.

Finally, the Stig. Look him up.