Jeremy Clarkson’s Nostalgic Journey: Choosing the 1982 Lancia Montecarlo for The Grand Tour Finale

As fans of The Grand Tour eagerly awaited the series finale, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May prepared for an adventure that would not only entertain but also evoke nostalgia. The finale, titled "One for the Road," marked a significant moment for the trio, who have been beloved figures in automotive entertainment for years. Clarkson’s choice of a 1982 Lancia Montecarlo as his vehicle for this journey was both a bold and symbolic decision, reflecting his unique perspective on cars and their capabilities.

The Premise of "One for the Road"

In "One for the Road," the trio decided to ignore producer Andy Wilman’s advice to drive electric vehicles (EVs) and instead opted for classic cars that resonated with their personal tastes. Clarkson’s Lancia Montecarlo, Hammond’s 1974 Ford Capri 3-litre, and May’s 1974 Triumph Stag set the stage for a thrilling adventure across the rugged terrains of Zimbabwe. The synopsis hinted at the challenges they would face, including "brutally rough terrain, mechanically misbehaving cars, moments of map reading incompetence," and the ever-present risk of mishaps, particularly with Clarkson’s notoriously unreliable Lancia.

Clarkson’s Choice: The Lancia Montecarlo

Clarkson’s decision to drive the Lancia Montecarlo was steeped in irony and humor. Known for its reputation as one of the most unreliable cars ever made, the Lancia was a fitting choice for Clarkson, who has always enjoyed pushing the limits of what cars can endure. In his own words, he explained, "I’ve always liked the premise that cars are much tougher than you think they are. They can take so much punishment; people don’t believe how much their car can take before it expires." This philosophy underpinned the entire episode, as the trio sought to demonstrate that even seemingly ridiculous choices could lead to remarkable journeys.

A Nod to Nostalgia and Simplicity

Clarkson’s desire to return to the basics was a central theme in this finale. He expressed a longing to strip away the contrived elements that had sometimes characterized their adventures, opting instead for a more authentic experience. "I think we wanted to strip away all the contrived stuff out and go back to basics," he stated. This sentiment resonated with fans who have followed the trio’s escapades over the years, as it harkened back to the raw, unfiltered charm of their earlier work.

The Dynamics of the Trio

The chemistry between Clarkson, Hammond, and May has always been a driving force behind The Grand Tour. Their interactions, filled with banter and camaraderie, were on full display in the promotional material for the finale. In a humorous moment, May joked about "deleting" his co-stars’ phone numbers while they struggled to fix one of their broken-down vehicles. This lightheartedness, combined with the underlying frustrations of their journey, showcased the dynamic that fans have come to love.

The Emotional Undertones

While the episode promised plenty of laughs and thrilling moments, Clarkson also acknowledged the emotional aspects of their journey. He humorously noted that May, often seen as the stoic member of the group, would likely not shed any tears during their farewell adventure. This blend of humor and emotion added depth to the finale, making it a fitting tribute to their time together.

Conclusion: A Farewell to Remember

As The Grand Tour bids farewell to its audience, "One for the Road" serves as a poignant reminder of the joy and camaraderie that Clarkson, Hammond, and May have brought to car enthusiasts around the world. The choice of the Lancia Montecarlo, with all its quirks and challenges, encapsulates the spirit of adventure that has defined their journeys. Premiering on September 13, the finale promises to be a celebration of friendship, nostalgia, and the enduring love of classic cars. For fans, it is not just the end of a series but the culmination of countless memories shared with three of the most charismatic figures in automotive entertainment.