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Rowan Atkinson (Mr. Bean)
Rowan Atkinson, best known for his Mr. Bean character, is a British comedian and actor who has a passion for cars and racing. He holds a category C+E lorry driving license, which he gained in 1981, and has used this skill in his comedy material. Atkinson has raced in various cars, including a Renault 5 GT Turbo and a McLaren F1. He has owned several cars, including a Honda NSX, an Audi A8, a Skoda Superb, and a Honda Civic Hybrid. In July 2011, Atkinson also appeared on Top Gear as the “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car.” driving the Kia Cee’d around the track in 1:42.2, he stood first on the leaderboard.
In the early 1980s, he owned a rare 1981 Aston Martin Vantage V8, which was one of the best celebrity cars of that time. He drove this car in London and participated in various car-related events. Atkinson later bought a 1986 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Zagato, which was the first example of its kind to be converted to racing specifications. This car, known as the “Atkinson” Aston Martin V8 Vantage Zagato, is believed to be the fastest and most powerful example of its type in the world. This article will provide detailed information on Rowan Atkinson, his 81’ Aston Martin VantageV8, and his passion for classic cars in general.
About the Aston Martin Vantage V8:
The Aston Martin Vantage V8 is a high-performance sports car that was first introduced in 1977. It was designed to be a more powerful version of the Aston Martin DB6 and has a 5.3-liter V8 engine that produces 432 horsepower and can reach a top speed of 170 mph. In 2005, Aston Martin introduced a new Vantage model, which was a smaller two-seater car designed to compete with the Porsche 911. The Vantage has undergone several updates and revisions over the years, including the addition of aerodynamic upgrades and convertible versions. It was available in both left-hand and right-hand drive versions.
Rowan Atkinson and his Aston Martin Vantage V8:
Rowan Atkinson acquired the 1981 Aston Martin Vantage V8 in March 1984. The car was later converted from left-hand drive to right-hand drive, and Atkinson had it repainted in Gladiator Red. He drove this car for ten years, participating in various races and events, including the Goodwood Revival meeting. During the time he owned the car, Rowan Atkinson participated in various events and was even featured on the cover of Autocar magazine in
October 1984. He mentioned in an interview that he preferred the Aston Martin over other luxury cars.
Rowan Atkinson’s Racing Career:
Rowan Atkinson is not only a famous comedian but also a skilled racecar driver. He has competed in various races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the British Touring Car Championship. In 2001, he had a crash at the Nurburgring 24 Hours race, but he and the car managed to escape with minor injuries. Atkinson has set several fastest lap times on the board at the Nurburgring race, showcasing his talent as a racer. He has also raced cars, including a Jaguar MK7 and a modified 1964 Ford Falcon Sprint.
Rowan Atkinson’s Car Collections:
Rowan Atkinson’s car collection includes both classic and modern cars, with a focus on high-performance cars. Some of the cars he has owned include a 1977 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, a 1997 McLaren F1, a 1986 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Zagato, a 1964 Ford Falcon Sprint, a 1939 BMW 328 Roadster, a 1989 Lancia Thema 8.32, and a 2011 Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead. Atkinson’s car collection is estimated to be worth over $15 million.
Rowan Atkinson is a well-known car enthusiast who owns several cars, including an 81 Aston Martin Vantage. This car is a classic British sports car that is known for its powerful engine. Rowan Atkinson’s 1981 Aston Martin Vantage V8 is a rare and unique example of a luxury sports car that he enjoyed driving during his ownership
