It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a closer look at one of Britain's most intriguing and underrated sports cars, the Rochdale Olympic, with classic car enthusiast Robert Ballago.

I first encountered Robert and his remarkable Rochdale Olympic at a Supercar Sunday event, where it stood out amongst far more familiar machinery. We explore the fascinating history of this rare British sports car, renowned for its pioneering fibreglass monocoque construction, a design that was well ahead of its time and helped establish the Olympic as a genuine engineering achievement.

Robert shares the story of how he came to own the car after years of admiration, along with the challenges and rewards of restoring and maintaining such an unusual vehicle. We discuss what makes the Rochdale Olympic so special, from its lightweight construction and sporting intentions to the curiosity it continues to generate wherever it appears.

The conversation also reflects on the wider appeal of classic car ownership, the nostalgia these vehicles evoke, and the strong sense of community that exists among enthusiasts who dedicate themselves to preserving automotive history.

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GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I welcome back Joe Pep, better known to many as "Joey the Pencils", for a fascinating look at the iconic cars that helped define some of television's most memorable series.

Together, we explore how certain vehicles became stars in their own right, often leaving a bigger impression than the actors behind the wheel. From the stunning Aston Martin DB6 and Ferrari Dino 246 GT to Pontiac Firebird Esprit, we discuss the cars that became inseparable from the shows they appeared in.

I reflect on classic series including The Persuaders!, Columbo, The Mentalist, and The Rockford Files, examining how these vehicles enhanced storytelling and became cultural touchstones for generations of viewers.

Joe also shares his thoughts on the evolution of automotive design, particularly the changing fortunes of American cars during the 1970s, and how the vehicles seen on screen often reflected the values, aspirations, and technology of their era.

This episode is a celebration of the cars that helped shape television history, proving that sometimes the most memorable character in a show has four wheels and an engine.

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GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

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Mentioned in this episode:

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GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Derek Daly, whose remarkable career has taken him from the highest levels of motorsport to life as an author, broadcaster, and motivational speaker.

Derek shares the unexpected story behind his autobiography, revealing how a chance conversation during a flight inspired him to put his extraordinary life into print. We look back at his journey from humble beginnings in Ireland to competing in Formula One, reflecting on the determination, setbacks, and defining moments that shaped his career.

We also discuss the realities of racing at the highest level, including the fierce competition, the serious accidents that tested his resilience, and the lessons he carried with him long after stepping away from the cockpit. Beyond motorsport, Derek talks about his life after racing, including his work as a television broadcaster and motivational speaker, as well as his innovative idea for a motorsport-inspired toothbrush designed to encourage children to look after their teeth.

___

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GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

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Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a closer look at the life, achievements, and final record attempt of Donald Campbell, one of Britain's most famous pioneers of speed.

Joining me is Neil Shepherd, author of Donald Campbell and the Final Record Attempt, who shares his extensive research into Campbell's remarkable career and the events that unfolded on Coniston Water during his final run in the legendary Bluebird K7.

Together, we explore Campbell's relentless pursuit of speed, the engineering brilliance behind Bluebird K7, and the innovations that enabled him to break records on both land and water. Neil also examines the circumstances surrounding Campbell's fatal accident, challenging long-held myths and offering fresh insight based on historical evidence and modern analysis.

The conversation also covers the remarkable recovery and restoration of Bluebird K7, the discovery of Campbell's remains, and the efforts to preserve his legacy through exhibitions and education. We discuss how the boat continues to inspire engineers, historians, and motorsport enthusiasts, standing as a symbol of British innovation and ambition.

This episode is both a celebration of Donald Campbell's extraordinary achievements and a thoughtful examination of the risks, determination, and vision that defined his life.

___

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GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

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Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m once again joined by Bran DeMan for Part 2 of our adventure on the Lord of the Isles Rally, a journey that proves the best road trips rarely go according to plan.

As we travel through the stunning landscapes of Cumbria, Bran and I reflect on the mechanical dramas that have already become part of the story. From a broken spring on Hardknott Pass to punctures, roadside repairs, and the constant uncertainty that comes with driving ageing vehicles, the rally delivers exactly the kind of unpredictable adventure its participants embrace.

We discuss the eclectic mix of machinery tackling the route, including everything from a Moskvich to a Volkswagen Golf, each bringing its own personality and mechanical quirks to the expedition. Along the way, the conversation highlights the camaraderie that develops when drivers face challenges together, turning every setback into another story to share.

Beyond the breakdowns and repairs, we celebrate the incredible roads and scenery of the Lake District, where twisting mountain passes, dramatic valleys, and breathtaking views provide a fitting backdrop to the adventure. As the rally continues towards Scotland and Ireland, the anticipation grows for whatever lies around the next corner.

This episode is a reminder that the true spirit of motoring is not about reaching the destination, but about the people, places, and stories collected along the way.

___

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GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

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Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Simon Nutter to explore the wonderfully eccentric world of rallying in a Fiat Panda.

Simon shares his experiences taking part in a variety of unusual and often challenging rally events, where adventure, camaraderie, and problem-solving are just as important as speed. We discuss the preparation required to turn a humble Panda into a capable rally companion, along with the navigation challenges and unexpected moments that make these events so memorable.

The conversation also charts the evolution of the Fiat Panda itself, from practical town car to cult favourite among enthusiasts. Simon reflects on why the Panda has earned such affection from drivers and how its simplicity, character, and reliability have made it the perfect vehicle for offbeat motoring adventures.

This episode celebrates the spirit of grassroots rallying, where the journey matters as much as the destination and where friendships, stories, and shared experiences often outshine the results sheet.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

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Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Bran DeMan, the man behind Shitbox Adventures, a company dedicated to taking unlikely cars on unforgettable journeys.

Bran shares how the idea for Shitbox Adventures began with an ambitious road trip from Belgium to Mongolia in an ageing Lada, proving that adventure does not require an expensive vehicle, just determination and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

We explore the philosophy behind these events, where camaraderie, resilience, and shared experiences matter far more than horsepower or prestige. Bran explains what qualifies a car as a true "shitbox", how routes are planned across challenging terrain, and why participants keep returning for more despite the inevitable breakdowns and mishaps.

This episode celebrates adventure motoring at its purest, where unreliable cars, questionable decisions, and unforgettable memories combine to create experiences that last a lifetime.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

Tarox Brakes

SAS Autos

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Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I explore the fascinating world of Southern African motorsport with Rob Young, author of Special Brew: The Story of the Southern African Formula One and Libra Specials.

Rob shares the inspiration behind his book and explains how his passion for racing history led him to uncover the often-overlooked stories of drivers, engineers, and builders across Southern Africa. Despite modest resources, these individuals created competitive racing cars through ingenuity, determination, and sheer mechanical talent.

We discuss how many of these home-built machines not only reflected the craftsmanship of established European manufacturers but, in some cases, outperformed them on track. The conversation highlights a remarkable period of innovation and resourcefulness, where creativity often mattered more than budget.

This episode shines a light on an underappreciated chapter of motorsport history and celebrates the resilience, ambition, and engineering brilliance of those who refused to let limitations stand in their way.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

Tarox Brakes

SAS Autos

Listen Now

Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk