The allure of automobiles, with their intricate mechanics and stunning aesthetics, has captivated audiences worldwide. This fascination has seamlessly translated to television, giving rise to a popular genre of Tv Car Programs that showcase the remarkable journey of vehicle restoration and customization. Since the groundbreaking success of Top Gear in the 1990s, the world of tv car programs has only expanded, offering viewers a front-row seat to the transformation of rusty relics into road-worthy masterpieces and high-performance machines. These shows aren’t just about fixing up old vehicles; they’re about passion, craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of automotive culture.
Tv car programs offer a diverse range of content, from meticulous restorations to radical modifications. Many series focus on returning classic automobiles to their former glory, carefully sourcing original parts and employing traditional techniques to revive vintage beauty. Others take a more contemporary approach, injecting new life into aging vehicles with modern upgrades, both in terms of performance and style. This blend of old and new, restoration and innovation, is a key element in the enduring popularity of tv car programs.
For enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, tv car programs provide a compelling glimpse into the world of automotive engineering and design. They celebrate the skill and dedication of mechanics and restorers, highlighting the intricate processes involved in breathing new life into old metal. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or simply appreciate the beauty of automobiles, there’s a tv car program out there to ignite your passion. Let’s explore some of the best examples of this captivating genre.
20 Project Binky (2013-2023)
Building The World’s Fastest Mini
Project Binky stands out in the realm of tv car programs as a unique and dedicated YouTube series. Launched in 2013 by Bad Obsession Motorsport, it distinguishes itself by focusing solely on the painstaking, decade-long transformation of a single vehicle: a Mini, affectionately nicknamed Binky. Unlike many tv car programs that feature a new car in each episode, Project Binky offered viewers an in-depth, real-time look at the complexities of a truly ambitious build.
The overarching goal of Project Binky was nothing less than creating one of the fastest Minis in the world. This wasn’t a simple restoration; it was a comprehensive reimagining, involving extensive fabrication, engineering, and problem-solving. Over its ten-year run, the series meticulously documented every step of this incredible journey, from initial concept to final assembly in 2023.
The dedication and craftsmanship showcased in Project Binky resonated deeply with viewers, amassing over 424,000 subscribers to its YouTube channel. The series’ appeal lies in its raw, unfiltered approach to car building. There’s no manufactured drama, just genuine mechanical challenges and triumphs, presented with humor and expertise by the charismatic mechanics. Beyond Binky itself, the team also embarked on creating a custom transporter, “The Escargot,” further showcasing their commitment to detail and innovation within the tv car programs landscape. While updates have been sparse since 2023, the 38 episodes of Project Binky remain a testament to the dedication and passion that fuels the best tv car programs.
Best Episode Of Project Binky
Project Binky deviates from the typical episodic format of many tv car programs. There isn’t a single “best episode” in the traditional sense. Instead, the series is designed to be watched sequentially, from the very first episode to the last. Each installment builds upon the previous one, chronicling the step-by-step evolution of Binky. To truly appreciate the scope and dedication of Project Binky, viewers should embark on a binge-watching journey, immersing themselves in the entire ten-year build process. However, prospective viewers should be aware that even after this extensive journey, Binky hasn’t actually been raced yet. Project Binky is about the build itself, a celebration of the process rather than the immediate result, a refreshing approach within the world of tv car programs.
19 M539 Restorations (2016 – )
Restoring Older BMWs
M539 Restorations is a YouTube series that distinguishes itself in the tv car programs genre by its focused dedication to BMW vehicles, particularly older, neglected models. Created in 2016 by Serbian national Sreten Milisavljevic, the show offers viewers a deep dive into the repair, restoration, and revival of classic BMWs. Milisavljevic’s approach is both informative and engaging, making M539 Restorations a favorite among both seasoned gearheads and those new to the world of automotive restoration.
The series has garnered significant acclaim, with Road & Track magazine recognizing it as one of the top tv car programs available. Milisavljevic’s relatable persona is a key ingredient to the show’s success. He openly admits to not being a professional mechanic, but rather a passionate enthusiast who honed his skills through his hobby of buying, fixing, and flipping BMWs. This “everyman” quality makes M539 Restorations particularly appealing, demonstrating that automotive passion and skill are accessible to anyone.
M539 Restorations boasts a substantial online following, with over 565,000 subscribers and an average of over 300,000 views per episode. The show’s consistent popularity since its inception in 2016 underscores the enduring appeal of BMWs and the engaging, informative content that Milisavljevic delivers within the competitive landscape of tv car programs.
Best Episode Of M529 Restorations
In the world of YouTube-based tv car programs, episode popularity is often gauged by metrics such as views and likes. For M539 Restorations, two episodes stand out based on these measures: “Back in Service After 16 Years” (May 2020) and “Building a BMW 365 V8 From Scratch” (December 2023), both achieving an impressive 4.1 million views. The latter episode, in particular, garnered significant praise, with one commenter hailing it as “the best engine build video on YouTube.” These episodes exemplify the high-quality, engaging content that makes M539 Restorations a standout among tv car programs.
18 Roadkill (2012 – )
A Car Restoration Show By The MotorTrend Group
Roadkill is a prominent tv car program produced by the MotorTrend Group, initially launched as a YouTube series in 2012. Hosted by former Hot Rod Magazine editor David Freiburger and Mike Finnegan, formerly of the technical staff, Roadkill quickly gained a devoted following for its unpretentious, often chaotic, and always entertaining approach to car restoration and automotive adventures. Hosts from Hot Rod Garage also frequently appear, adding to the show’s collaborative and gearhead-centric atmosphere.
The series’ popularity propelled it beyond YouTube, leading to a move to MotorTrend On Demand in 2018, and subsequently to Discovery+. With 12 seasons and 154 episodes to date, Roadkill offers a substantial library of content for tv car programs enthusiasts to enjoy. The show’s success reached new heights in 2015 when Dodge, the American automaker, became a sponsor, further boosting its visibility and production capabilities.
The Dodge sponsorship helped Roadkill achieve over a million views per episode, solidifying its position as a leading tv car program and paving the way for its expansion onto streaming platforms. The Roadkill brand has even spawned spinoff series, including Roadkill Garage, Roadkill’s Junkyard Gold, and Faster with Newbern and Cotten, all available on Discovery+, alongside a companion series, Roadkill Extra. This expansion illustrates the strong appeal and enduring popularity of the Roadkill formula within the broader landscape of tv car programs.
Best Episode Of Roadkill
Choosing a “best episode” from Roadkill‘s extensive catalog is a challenge, but the “Crop Duster” episode is frequently cited by fans as a standout. In a Reddit thread, one viewer praised it, stating, “Cropduster is a great episode. I wish they’d do more with that car!” This episode, which documents the revival of the “Crop Duster” car, has garnered over 629,000 views on YouTube and 10,000 likes. One commenter on YouTube aptly summarized its appeal: “This is my favorite Roadkill Garage car of all time … that burnout at the end was epic!” The “Crop Duster” episode perfectly encapsulates the blend of automotive ingenuity and lighthearted mayhem that defines Roadkill, making it a quintessential example of engaging tv car programs.
17 The Skid Factory (2017 – )
A Show Previously Hosted On MCM2
The Skid Factory is a YouTube-based tv car program that gained prominence through its original association with the MCM2 YouTube channel. For several years, the show was hosted by the duo Woody and Al, becoming a popular segment within the MCM2 ecosystem. In 2019, The Skid Factory ventured out as an independent channel, dedicated exclusively to their unique brand of automotive projects.
While the separation from MCM2, which boasts over 700,000 subscribers, resulted in a smaller subscriber base for The Skid Factory, the channel still maintains a strong following of over 280,000 and consistently achieves over 35,000 views per episode. This dedicated viewership underscores the quality and appeal of The Skid Factory within the competitive tv car programs landscape. Recently, the show underwent a significant change with the departure of Al, leaving Woody as the sole host.
Al’s departure, based on his announcement episode, seemed rooted in a growing dissatisfaction with the production aspects of the show. While Al’s experience will be missed, Woody, having learned from Al for seven years, continues to helm the series in 2024. With a substantial archive of 353 episodes on the main channel, The Skid Factory offers a wealth of content for viewers to explore before Al’s exit, solidifying its place among established tv car programs.
Best Episode Of The Skid Factory
Focusing solely on The Skid Factory‘s independent channel, “How to Turbo Your Toyota 1HZ on a Budget” stands out as the most popular video. This episode has amassed over 453,000 views and 12,000 likes, demonstrating its resonance with viewers. As the title suggests, the episode provides a detailed guide on turbocharging a Toyota 1Hz engine affordably, a topic that has clearly captured the interest of a large audience. One commenter aptly noted, “Seriously, why is this channel not in the millions of subscribers? Such a wealth of very good information for the average bloke.” This episode exemplifies the practical, informative, and budget-conscious approach that makes The Skid Factory a valued resource within the tv car programs community.
16 Top Gear (2002-2022)
The BBC’s Most Successful Car Restoration Show
Top Gear holds a significant position in the history of tv car programs, arguably being the most successful and influential of its kind. While a Top Gear series existed on the BBC from 1977 to 2001, the 2002 reboot, spearheaded by Jeremy Clarkson and Andy Wilman, marked the show’s ascent to global phenomenon status. This iteration of Top Gear broadened its scope beyond mere car reviews, incorporating challenges, races, and design analyses, all delivered with a distinctive blend of humor and irreverence. The inclusion of celebrity guests in car races further amplified its mainstream appeal.
The rebooted Top Gear ran for 33 seasons and 240 episodes, becoming a cultural touchstone. However, the departure of Clarkson and Wilman led to a decline in ratings. Despite efforts to revitalize the show with new hosts like Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc, and later Chris Harris and Rory Reid, the series struggled to recapture its original magic. Ultimately, the BBC announced the “resting” of the UK show after its 33rd season, leaving the door open for a potential future reboot, a testament to the enduring brand recognition of Top Gear within the tv car programs landscape.
Image: A split image contrasting posters for Top Gear and Chasing Classic Cars, representing different styles within TV car programs – entertainment-focused versus classic-focused.
Beyond its automotive content, Top Gear‘s success was deeply rooted in its humor and the undeniable chemistry among its hosts. Their on-screen camaraderie, even amidst chaotic challenges and global adventures, was a defining characteristic of the series. Top Gear transcended the typical tv car program format, becoming a widely beloved entertainment show that happened to be about cars.
Best Episode of Top Gear
The “specials” are widely considered the pinnacle of Top Gear episodes. These extended episodes took the hosts to exotic locations around the world, tasking them with navigating challenging terrains and cultural landscapes in often ill-suited vehicles. These specials showcased breathtaking scenery, interspersed with Top Gear‘s signature humor and historical insights. Top-ranked Top Gear specials include the Middle East Special, Africa Special, Burma Special, and the Botswana Special, all exemplifying the show’s adventurous and entertaining approach to tv car programs.
15 All Girls Garage (2012 – )
Featuring An All-Female Cast
All Girls Garage distinguishes itself within tv car programs by directly challenging the traditionally male-dominated perception of auto mechanics and car restoration. The show features an all-female cast of hosts: Sarah “Bogi” Lateiner, Faye Hadley, and Cristy Lee. The show also previously featured the legendary Jessie Combs for four seasons before her tragic passing in 2019 while pursuing a women’s land-speed record.
By showcasing skilled female mechanics and restorers, All Girls Garage offers a fresh and inspiring perspective within the tv car programs genre. The show not only provides valuable automotive knowledge but also serves as a powerful message of inclusivity, potentially encouraging more women to engage with the world of cars. All Girls Garage has become a popular and enduring series, with 12 seasons and continuing, solidifying its position as a must-watch tv car program with a unique and impactful premise.
Best Episodes Of All Girls Garage
All Girls Garage consistently delivers high-quality episodes that are both educational and entertaining. One standout episode is “Chevy Camaro ZL1 Upgrades.” In this episode, a nurse brings her Camaro ZL1 to the garage for performance enhancements, a challenge enthusiastically embraced by the All Girls Garage team. The episode replay on MotorTrend’s YouTube channel has garnered nearly 500,000 views, with one commenter expressing admiration: “These Ladies can turn a wrench better then some guys.” This episode exemplifies the show’s blend of technical expertise and engaging storytelling, making it a highlight among tv car programs.
14 Pimp My Ride (2004-2007)
Xzibit Hosts This Auto Restoration Show
Pimp My Ride, hosted by rapper Xzibit, carved a unique niche within tv car programs during its run on MTV from 2004 to 2007. This hip-hop-themed reality series spanned six seasons and focused on transforming dilapidated cars into wildly customized vehicles. Each episode followed a similar formula: Xzibit would select a car in dire condition and deliver it to a custom body shop, initially West Coast Customs and later Galpin Auto Sports. The shops would then undertake a comprehensive overhaul, often rebuilding the car from the ground up and incorporating extravagant, personality-driven customizations.
Pimp My Ride became a cultural phenomenon, known for its over-the-top transformations and the charismatic presence of Xzibit. Since its original airing, behind-the-scenes details have emerged, revealing a more scripted format and questions about the long-term functionality of some of the “pimped” cars. However, the show’s sheer entertainment value and the often-ridiculous nature of its customizations contributed to its widespread appeal. Pimp My Ride‘s success led to international spinoffs and even a truck-focused series on CMT, demonstrating its significant impact on the landscape of tv car programs.
The Best Pimp My Ride Episode
Among the many memorable episodes of Pimp My Ride, “Brian’s Honda CRX” from the first season is often cited as a standout. This episode resonated on multiple levels. Beyond the impressive transformation of the Honda CRX, the episode also highlighted the personal story of Brian, the car’s owner, who had undergone a kidney transplant and required constant hydration. The customization aimed to address both the car’s mechanical needs and Brian’s health requirements, adding a layer of heart and purpose to the typical Pimp My Ride formula, making it a particularly impactful episode within the realm of tv car programs.
13 Downey’s Dream Cars (2023)
Robert Downey Jr. Seeks To Turn Vehicles Into Eco-Friendly Cars
Downey’s Dream Cars, which debuted on Discovery+ in 2023, marks Robert Downey Jr.’s foray into the world of tv car programs. This unscripted series showcases Downey Jr.’s passion for automobiles and his commitment to environmental sustainability. In the show, Downey Jr., channeling his inner Tony Stark, embarks on a unique mission: transforming classic sports and muscle cars into eco-friendly machines.
Downey’s Dream Cars is presented as a passion project for Downey Jr., blending his celebrity persona with genuine automotive enthusiasm and a focus on sustainable technology. The series takes a bold approach, as the classic car world is not always readily associated with eco-conscious practices. However, the show offers a compelling premise, intriguing both gearheads and environmentally minded viewers. It provides a platform to witness Downey Jr.’s hands-on involvement in automotive engineering, merging technology and classic car aesthetics within the tv car programs genre.
The Best Episode Of Downey’s Dream Cars
The sixth and final episode of Downey’s Dream Cars, titled “Long Strange Trip,” is widely considered the series’ best. This episode culminates Downey Jr.’s season-long journey by focusing on his personal quest to acquire and restore his dream car. It showcases the entire restoration process, from the initial purchase and negotiation to the complete disassembly and rebuild. “Long Strange Trip” delivers on the core appeal of tv car programs, offering viewers a comprehensive, ground-up restoration of a classic vehicle, while also delving into the personal connection and history that makes the car special to Downey Jr.
12 Overhaulin’ (2005-2008)
Restoring Cars As A Surprise For The Owners
Overhaulin’, which aired across various networks from 2004 to 2020, established itself as a beloved tv car program with its heartwarming premise and high-quality restorations. Hosted by automotive designer Chip Foose and Chris Jacobs, Overhaulin’ shared a similarity with Pimp My Ride in its focus on overhauling worn-out vehicles. However, Overhaulin’ introduced a unique twist: cars were nominated by friends or family of the unsuspecting owners, who were then surprised with the complete transformation of their beloved but neglected vehicles.
The show employed a narrative device where Foose and Jacobs would stage a ruse, often involving fake insurance adjusters or law enforcement, to “repossess” the nominated car. Foose and his team would then work secretly to transform the vehicle into a customized masterpiece, culminating in an emotional reveal to the overjoyed owner. Overhaulin’ distinguished itself from the often-exaggerated style of Pimp My Ride with its more grounded and realistic approach, emphasizing skilled craftsmanship and genuine emotional responses, making it a compelling entry in tv car programs.
The Best Episode Of Overhaulin’
“Brian Webb’s 1965 Malibu,” the 10th episode of Overhaulin‘s sixth season, is often considered the show’s best. This episode featured a middle school teacher who used his 1965 Malibu and other muscle cars to engage his students and inspire their learning. Recognizing his dedication to both automotive passion and education, the Overhaulin’ team “repossessed” his Malibu and undertook a complete restoration as a reward. The episode’s touching narrative, combined with the stunning car transformation, makes it a particularly memorable and impactful example of tv car programs.
11 Counting Cars (2012-2021)
A Spin-Off From Pawn Stars
Counting Cars, which aired on the History channel, is a spin-off from the immensely popular Pawn Stars, expanding the reach of tv car programs into a broader audience. The series centers on Danny Koker, also known as “The Count,” and his Las Vegas-based car restoration and customization shop, Count’s Kustoms. Koker’s appearances on Pawn Stars led to the creation of Counting Cars in 2012, giving him a dedicated platform to showcase his automotive passion and business.
Counting Cars follows the daily operations of Count’s Kustoms, featuring the acquisition, restoration, and customization of cars and motorcycles. The show incorporates elements of reality television, highlighting the personalities and interactions of the shop’s colorful cast members. While the interpersonal dynamics add an entertainment layer, Counting Cars ultimately delivers on the automotive content that fans of tv car programs seek, showcasing impressive vehicle transformations and the expertise of Koker and his team. The series ran for 10 seasons and 184 episodes, establishing a solid presence in the genre.
The Best Episode Of Counting Cars
The earlier seasons of Counting Cars are generally favored by viewers, with later seasons sometimes perceived as shifting focus away from the car customization and towards cast member antics. “Van-Tastic,” episode 24 from season 2, is often cited as a standout episode. In this installment, Danny, pleased with a recently restored van, decides to give his own van a makeover. The episode also features a memorable moment where the Count’s Kustoms team pulls over former Utah Jazz star Mike Brown, adding an unexpected celebrity element to this popular tv car program.
10 Fast N Loud (2012-2020)
Misfit Garage & Garage Rehab Spun Off Of This Show
Fast N Loud, a Discovery Channel tv car program, features the dynamic duo of Richard Rawlings, the deal-making owner, and Aaron Kaufman, the lead mechanic, at Dallas, Texas’ Gas Monkey Garage. The show’s appeal lies in the complementary skills of its hosts: Kaufman’s exceptional restoration abilities and Rawlings’ knack for finding neglected automotive gems and turning them into profitable ventures. A key element of Fast N Loud‘s charm is the hosts’ adventurous spirit, traveling across the country in search of overlooked vehicles with hidden potential.
Fast N Loud consistently showcases impressive transformations of derelict cars, highlighting the hosts’ genuine passion for automobiles. Despite its popularity and 16 seasons over eight years, Richard Rawlings announced the show’s conclusion on The Joe Rogan Experience. However, Fast N Loud remains a favorite within the gearhead community, particularly its earlier seasons. Its success spawned spinoff series Misfit Garage and Garage Rehab, further expanding the Fast N Loud universe within the realm of tv car programs.
The Best Episodes Of Fast N Loud
According to IMDb ratings, “Frustrated With A ’32 Ford; Return To Pikes Peak, Part 2,” episode 11 of season 7, is the highest-rated Fast N Loud episode, boasting an impressive 9.2 rating. No other episode in the series has surpassed the 9.0 mark. This episode centers on Richard’s acquisition of a 1932 5-window Ford Coupe, initially thought to be a straightforward rebuild that quickly turns into a series of frustrating challenges. The episode’s appeal lies in watching the Gas Monkey Garage team persevere through difficulties to complete the job, showcasing the reality of car restoration within the context of tv car programs.
9 Wheeler Dealers (2003-2022)
A British Car Restoration Show With A DIY Approach
Wheeler Dealers, a long-running British tv car program with over 17 seasons, has featured a roster of hosts including Mike Brewer, Edd China, Ant Anstead, and Marc Priestly. The show is distinguished by its practical, no-nonsense approach to car restoration, prioritizing informative content over manufactured drama, a quality appreciated by gearheads and car show enthusiasts. Wheeler Dealers emphasizes precise and relatable restoration techniques, making it one of the more accessible shows in the genre.
A key aspect of Wheeler Dealers‘ appeal is its focus on DIY enthusiasts. The show provides guidance on evaluating used cars for purchase and demonstrates how to address common issues, ranging from basic maintenance like oil changes and polishing to more complex repairs involving suspension and brakes. The step-by-step format makes the restoration process transparent and potentially inspiring for amateur viewers looking to engage more deeply with the automotive world. Wheeler Dealers stands out as a genuinely informative and practically oriented tv car program.
Best Episode Of Wheeler Dealers
While many fans favor earlier episodes featuring Edd China’s detailed mechanical work, Wheeler Dealers has continued to produce quality episodes even after Edd’s departure. A notable recent episode is the Season 17 installment, “Porsche 997” (2021). In this episode, Elvis, Edd China’s replacement, provides an in-depth look at the Porsche 997 engine, demonstrating repair techniques using specialized machinery. While Wheeler Dealers often involves access to resources beyond the reach of typical DIYers, the “Porsche 997” episode, like many others, offers valuable insights and practical demonstrations of automotive repair, making it a worthwhile watch within the category of tv car programs.
8 Chasing Classic Cars (2008-2021)
A Vintage Car Restoration Show
Chasing Classic Cars offers viewers a glimpse into the world of high-end vintage car restoration, following Wayne Carini, a renowned Ferrari expert and classic car restorer. Carini, the son of famed car restorer Bob Carini, “chases” vintage automobiles, seeking out rare finds and overseeing their restoration with the goal of selling them at auction. His established reputation within the car community grants him access to exclusive collections and “secret garages” rarely seen by the public.
Chasing Classic Cars embodies the essence of classic car restoration, portraying both the rewarding and challenging aspects of the process with authenticity and without artificial drama. A significant appeal of the show lies in its celebration of car culture, showcasing interactions between passionate collectors and the stories behind their prized vehicles. Chasing Classic Cars often features iconic movie cars and rare automobiles, providing a captivating window into a world of automotive history and passion, solidifying its place among respected tv car programs.
Best Episode Of Chasing Classic Cars
“Shelby vs. Ferrari,” episode 11 from the first season of Chasing Classic Cars, is considered a standout. In this episode, Wayne Carini brings a 1966 Shelby Mustang GT350 Fastback and a 1969 Ferrari 365 GTC to auction in Monterey, California. The episode extends beyond the auction itself, offering a glimpse into the prestigious Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival Party at the Monterey Jet Center, further immersing viewers in the exclusive world of high-end classic car collecting, a highlight within tv car programs.
7 Graveyard Carz (2012- )
A Car Restoration Show That Specializes In Mopar Muscle Cars
Graveyard Carz, filmed in Springfield, Oregon, caters to a niche within tv car programs by specializing exclusively in Mopar muscle cars (vehicles from the Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, and DeSoto brands). The show originated from Mark Worman’s personal project of restoring a 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda. Over the first six seasons, viewers witnessed the ‘Cuda’s restoration, alongside other classic Mopars, undertaken by Worman and his team, known as “The Ghouls.”
Graveyard Carz distinguishes itself through its filming and editing style, offering a different approach to car reveals compared to other tv car programs. Instead of dramatic unveilings of fully finished cars, the show emphasizes the detailed sub-assembly builds that are crucial to the restoration process. While its Mopar-centric focus may appeal to a specific segment of car enthusiasts, Graveyard Carz provides an entertaining and informative look into the meticulous and often lengthy process of restoring classic muscle cars, rewarding patient viewers with a deeper appreciation for automotive craftsmanship.
Best Episode Of Graveyard Carz
“The Road Runner is In-Violet, Dougie is Plum Crazy,” episode 7 of Graveyard Carz‘s 15th season, offers a unique premise within the series. In this episode, Will takes on the task of training his son Brody in paint application, while applying FC7 In-Violet paint to a 1970 V-Code Road Runner and A4 Silver to a 1969 Road Runner. Beyond the captivating painting process, the episode also includes entertaining segments featuring Mark and Dougie installing a drivetrain on the Road Runner, showcasing different aspects of Mopar restoration within this specialized tv car program.
6 Iron Resurrection (2016- )
A Female-Led Restoration Show From Austin, Texas
Iron Resurrection, set in Austin, Texas, distinguishes itself among tv car programs with its focus on hot rod and motorcycle restoration, and particularly for featuring Amanda Martin as a central figure. The show follows Joe Martin, Amanda, his wife, and Jayson “Shag” Arrington as they explore the Texas countryside in search of automotive projects. Martin Bros Customs tackles not only car restorations but also motorcycle revivals, showcasing a diverse range of mechanical skills. The team dynamic adds a layer of charm to the show, complementing the core focus on vehicle restoration.
Each member of the Iron Resurrection team brings specific expertise, whether in mechanics, sales, or overall automotive knowledge. Amanda Martin stands out as a particularly compelling figure in the series, praised for her comprehensive skill set and knowledge. Iron Resurrection is noteworthy for highlighting a talented woman in a genre often perceived as male-dominated, adding a refreshing and progressive element to tv car programs.
Best Episode Of Iron Resurrection
With numerous seasons to choose from, Iron Resurrection offers a variety of engaging episodes. However, “Pompa’s Harley Fat Boy Surprise Part 2,” the 10th episode of season 7, is frequently cited as a highlight. This episode centers on Joe and Mike’s project to create a surprise custom Harley Fat Boy bike for their assistant, Pompa. In a secondary storyline, Mandi and Shaq work on restoring a classic ’56 Continental, showcasing the diverse projects undertaken by Martin Bros Customs within this dynamic tv car program.
5 Flipping Bangers (2017- )
An Auto Restoration Show That Gets Down To The Basics
Flipping Bangers offers a refreshingly basic and relatable approach to tv car programs. Hosted by Will Trickett and Porsche photographer Gus Gregory, who left their day jobs to pursue automotive adventures, the show blends elements of early Wheeler Dealers and Vice Grip Garage. Flipping Bangers embraces a DIY ethos, utilizing basic tools and operating on a tight budget, making affordability a key constraint in their restoration projects.
A central element of Flipping Bangers‘ appeal is the chemistry between Trickett and Gregory. Their genuine enthusiasm and camaraderie make the show entertaining even amidst the inevitable challenges of budget car restoration. The show’s amateur approach, with Trickett and Gregory openly learning as they go, creates a sense of shared experience for viewers, making Flipping Bangers a particularly relatable and engaging tv car program, despite its limited number of episodes.
Best Episode Of Flipping Bangers
“Mercedes SLK Redemption,” a season 3 episode of Flipping Bangers, is highly rated on IMDb, achieving a 9.2 average rating. This episode features a Mercedes SLK in seemingly irreparable condition, challenging Trickett and Gregory to find creative, budget-conscious solutions to bring it back to life. One YouTube commenter aptly summarized the episode’s appeal: “From the editions I have seen so far, this has best for dejection moving to delight when you get assistance from those ‘in the know’.” This episode exemplifies the resourceful and underdog spirit that makes Flipping Bangers a standout among tv car programs.
4 Rust Valley Restorers (2018- )
A Canadian Car Restoration Show
Rust Valley Restorers brings a Canadian perspective to tv car programs, set in the South Shuswap region of British Columbia, known as “Rust Valley” for its concentration of car enthusiasts and junkyards. The show centers on Rust Bros Restorations, owned by Mike Hall, along with his son Connor and friend Avery Shoaf. The Rust Bros team has restored a wide array of vehicles, from a ’68 Camaro to a 1926 Ford Model T, often selling or trading their restored creations to other enthusiasts.
A key strength of Rust Valley Restorers is the genuine chemistry and banter among its cast members. The show largely avoids manufactured drama, focusing instead on the restoration process and the personalities of its eccentric characters. The satisfying transformations of rusty vehicles, combined with the unique Canadian setting and cast dynamics, have contributed to Rust Valley Restorers‘ popularity beyond Canada, making it a successful and engaging tv car program.
Best Rust Valley Restorers Episode
“Life Is Messy,” an episode from the second season of Rust Valley Restorers, is frequently cited as a series highlight. In this episode, Mike acquires an iconic 1969 Road Runner but soon realizes the extent of the bodywork required, potentially exceeding his capabilities. A Redditor praised the show’s authenticity, stating, “The level of REAL work they put into the cars is really visible and you can see where the majority of work is going and where IT SHOULD go and namely into the Engine, Chassis, Rust Restauration.” This episode exemplifies the show’s realistic portrayal of car restoration challenges, a quality appreciated by viewers of tv car programs.
3 Vice Grip Garage (2018- )
A Free Auto Restoration Series On YouTube
Vice Grip Garage offers a unique and accessible entry point into tv car programs as a free YouTube docuseries. Hosted by Derek Bieri, Vice Grip Garage is a low-budget production that originated in Minnesota and later moved to Tennessee. Bieri is known for his resourceful and often unconventional approach to car restoration, famously restoring a 1972 Chevelle nicknamed “The Independence.“
Bieri’s evident passion for cars is central to Vice Grip Garage‘s appeal. He openly shares the struggles and triumphs of car restoration, emphasizing practical knowledge and proven techniques over flashy production values. Vice Grip Garage is often praised for its authenticity and reliability, offering viewers a genuine and educational perspective on car restoration. Being freely available on YouTube further enhances its accessibility, making it an ideal tv car program for newcomers to the genre.
Best Vice Grip Garage Episode
“Will This Ford Model A RUN AND DRIVE 700+ Miles Home?” from March 2022 is a standout episode for Vice Grip Garage. In this installment, Derek purchases a 1928 Ford Model A Tudor Sedan sight unseen, setting the ambitious goal of making it roadworthy enough to drive over 700 miles from Iowa to Tennessee. The episode has garnered over 7.2 million views and 157,000 likes, with one commenter proclaiming, “Out of all the shows out there, and I’m not just talking YouTube, I’m talking tv also, Derek has the best one hands down.” This episode exemplifies the adventurous and resourceful spirit that defines Vice Grip Garage within the landscape of tv car programs.
2 Lost Car Rescue (2022)
Searching For Abandoned Cars In Canada’s Backcountry
Lost Car Rescue, a relatively recent addition to tv car programs debuting in January 2022, offers a distinctive premise: finding and “rescuing” abandoned cars in the remote backcountry of Northern Saskatchewan, Canada. The six-part series follows brothers Matt and Steve Sager, who utilize an airplane to survey Canada’s rugged terrain from above, searching for forgotten vehicles. Due to harsh winter conditions, the car hunting season is limited to the spring months.
Lost Car Rescue combines the thrill of discovery with the challenges of vehicle restoration. As Matt Sager explains, the show is also about “the family and people that we’re actually hunting,” highlighting the human stories connected to these abandoned vehicles. The show features unique finds, such as a Volkswagen bus that may have witnessed Woodstock, adding historical and cultural context to the automotive rescues. Lost Car Rescue offers a blend of adventure, restoration, and human interest, distinguishing itself within the genre of tv car programs.
Image: A collage image featuring promotional stills from car-themed movies Days of Thunder, Ford v Ferrari, and Rush, representing the broader cinematic appeal of cars and racing, related to the themes of TV car programs.
Best Lost Car Rescue Episode
For Lost Car Rescue, starting from the first episode, titled simply “Lost Car Rescue,” is recommended. The premiere episode sets the stage for the series, showcasing Matt and his team attempting to retrieve a car that proves elusive, leading to near-overwhelming challenges. The episode features the discovery and initial work on a complete 1930 Model A Deluxe roadster, among other finds. For viewers who enjoy shows like American Pickers, Lost Car Rescue offers a similar blend of discovery and restoration, but with a focus on automobiles within the realm of tv car programs.
1 Street Outlaws (2013-2019)
The Street-Racing Restoration Show
Street Outlaws, a reality series airing on Discovery Channel and Max, takes a unique and high-octane approach to tv car programs. With 15 seasons, the show blends car customization with the adrenaline of street racing in Oklahoma City. Street Outlaws focuses on individuals who invest heavily in modifying their cars for illegal street races, creating a thrilling and risky environment.
Street Outlaws appeals to viewers who appreciate both automotive craftsmanship and high-speed competition. The show offers a raw and unfiltered look into the world of street racing, showcasing the dedication and risk-taking of its participants. Fans of the Fast & Furious franchise will find a real-world counterpart in Street Outlaws, with its emphasis on modified cars and high-stakes racing. The show’s success has led to several spinoffs, further expanding its presence within tv car programs.
Best Street Outlaws Episode
“Last Car Standing,” the first episode of Street Outlaws‘s first season, is a recommended starting point for viewers. This episode establishes the show’s core elements, featuring a head-to-head competition between drivers Dave and Shawn, and a challenge from Derek to Varley. “Last Car Standing” encapsulates the high-stakes racing and competitive spirit that defines Street Outlaws, making it a quintessential episode of this thrilling tv car program.
