As you may have noticed whilst out for essential journeys to the shop or work, Britain’s roads have been considerably more quiet since lockdown restrictions were introduced. In fact, the BBC reported that traffic in April was down to levels not seen since the early 1970s!
What were the 1970s like again? Well, some of us will remember the days when the Morris Marina was one of Britain’s best selling cars, glam rock was in full swing, and kids were glued to TV screens instead of smartphones, most likely watching the latest antics of their favourite action heros!
Our Mechanic-in-residence Nigel, being born in 1969, couldn’t help but reminisce the days and tell us all about his favourite action heros, and in particular the roaring beasts they drove. In homage of the era we thought it good to share our top 5 TV cars of the 1970s.
Our Top 5 TV Cars Of The 1970s
- The Professionals (1977-1983) MK3 Ford Capri
Three pre-production 3.0S Ford Capri’s were used in filming from 1978 and driven by Lewis Collins (Bodie) in many a chase and action scene. Lewis Collins sadly died in 2013 but his heroics alongside Martin Shaw (Doyle) and Gordon Jackson (Major George Cowley) are the stuff of boyhood legend. - The Dukes of Hazard (1979-1985) ’69 Dodge Charger
Good News, Good News, the good ole boys are in Nigel’s top 5 with the iconic General Lee. It has been estimated that in excess of 300 Chargers of the period were harmed during the shows filming – it wouldn’t be allowed today! Boss Hogg’s ride, for the record was a 1970 Cadillac De Ville convertible which was replaced with a ‘76 Eldorado for the 2005 film. - Starsky & Hutch (1975-1979) Ford Gran Torino
No child growing up in the 70s would be without a toy version of their hero’s red Gran Torino with its eye catching white vector stripe. The car was so popular that Ford released over 1000 replica cars with the V8 for general sale – wonder how many are left now! - Kojak (1973-1978 ) Buick Century 455
Who loves ya baby? Well we all did for a while! Another classic from across the pond, the Buick 455 was a 225bhp V8 7.5L (455 cubic inches hence the 455!) powered our famously bald-headed Greek detective around the streets of New York. So popular was the car, Corgi brought out a toy version complete with a character which boxed in perfect condition can fetch £500! - The Sweeney (1975-1978) Ford Consul GT
“Get yer trousers on, you’re nicked”! Who can forget the opening title sequence with the NHK295M looming ever closer to menace the life out the bad guys! During most of the chase scenes of course, the baddies usually drove S-Type Jaguars. This had nothing to do with their connection with the criminal underworld, it was simply the safest cars the stunt drivers could use for the crash scenes!
On a more serious note, if you are using your vehicle and are concerned that your vehicle may have become unsafe, unreliable or something has happened to it, you can book a FREE phone consultation with one of our experienced in-house mechanics (including Nigel!). Alternatively, you can use our new contact-free service to place a booking for a mobile mechanic to come to you.
