Top Gear Series 3 Returns with Ford GT, BMW 5-Series and Porsche 911 GT3
The opening episode of Top Gear’s third series features the Ford GT’s highly anticipated test, a divisive new BMW 5-Series, and a wet lap for the Porsche 911 GT3.
Top Gear’s third series opened with Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May each taking on headline reviews, including the long-awaited Ford GT, BMW’s controversial new 5-Series, and the Porsche 911 GT3. The episode originally aired in October 2003, marking the return of one of the BBC’s most popular motoring shows.
Ford GT: Detroit nostalgia meets supercar performance
Jeremy Clarkson’s test of the Ford GT was the centrepiece. The GT, inspired by the 1960s Le Mans-winning GT40, arrived with a 5.4-litre V8, supercharged to deliver over 500bhp. Clarkson drew direct lines to the GT40’s heritage, but focused on the new car’s relevance against modern rivals. He claimed it handled with the delicacy of a Lotus Elise, outpaced the Ferrari 360, and delivered an exhaust note more evocative than a Honda NSX. Clarkson also pointed out the Ford’s price advantage over both the Ferrari and the Lamborghini Murciélago, making the GT a compelling proposition for those seeking supercar credentials with a nod to American history.
BMW 5-Series: Bangle’s bold design divides opinion
James May handled the review of the new BMW 5-Series, a car that arrived with Chris Bangle’s now-famous styling. While the sharp lines and bold surfaces drew criticism from traditionalists, May argued that buyers should look beyond the design. He highlighted the 5-Series’ reputation for reliability, its advanced technology, and the strength of the BMW badge. May’s verdict was that the 5-Series remained a logical choice in the executive saloon segment, regardless of the polarising exterior.
Porsche 911 GT3: Wet lap, dry praise
Richard Hammond tested the Porsche 911 GT3, a car that both he and Clarkson described as the best they had driven all year. The Stig took the GT3 around the Top Gear test track in heavy rain, posting a 1:27.2 lap time. Despite the conditions, the GT3’s performance impressed the presenters, cementing its reputation as a driver’s car even when the weather turned against it.
- Ford GT: Supercharged V8, over 500bhp, inspired by the GT40.
- BMW 5-Series: Chris Bangle design, advanced technology, executive saloon.
- Porsche 911 GT3: Track-focused, praised for handling and speed, 1:27.2 lap in the wet.
Series 3, Episode 1: A varied start to the series
The episode set the tone for Series 3, mixing nostalgia, design controversy and pure driving focus. The Ford GT’s return to the road, BMW’s divisive styling direction, and the Porsche 911 GT3’s wet-weather poise each gave viewers a distinct take on performance and personality in the early 2000s supercar and executive segments.
