His unflappable British humor and daring both behind the wheel and conversationally have made Richard Hammond a household name around the world. For many years, he worked alongside co-presenter Jeremy Clarkson and James May, delighting their global fanbase with their unique wit and often perilous driving adventures.
Hammond has been involved in many TV shows over the years, including the documentary series Richard Hammond’s Engineering Connections.
Off screen, his passion for powerful sports cars has seen him build an impressive collection, which includes a number of 911 models.
Recently, he used a near-production prototype of the electric Cayenne to transport a car that was more than 100 years old and weighed more than two tons, from his workshop in Hereford to his garage, during a film shoot.
Despite the trailer bringing the total weight to around three tons, the Cayenne Electric handled the task effortlessly.
What is love?
Meeting one's daughter for the first time.
How are you?
I can drive a car and ride a motorcycle. I’m happy with that.
The Porsche 911 in three words?
Characterful, practical, fast.
Which simple things can make you happy?
A dog, a run, anything well made.
What would you never do in a 911?
The point of a 911 is you can do everything with it. Maybe not transport a wardrobe.
What’s your favorite road?
From the Honister Pass to Buttermere in the English Lake District.
What can distract you?
Anything shiny, any 911, or ’80s motorcycle.
Three things you would take to a desert island?
A tool kit, a dismantled motorcycle, a Sunseeker Portofino 48.
Is there a historical figure you admire?
Loads. Let’s go with Shackleton!
What on a 911 could you do without?
In my case, the roof.
And what couldn’t you?
The slightly rearward weight bias.
What music did you wake up to this morning?
The UK’s Eurovision entry.
Your favorite film?
Greyhound.
Your favorite book?
The Old Man and the Sea. I used to keep it in my travel bag.
Where do you long to be?
The Lake District.
Your most treasured possession?
My Rolex GMT 2 Master.
Your secret?
I’m scared of institutions.
The 911 moment of your life?
Driving the first 911 I bought, in 1996, and stopping to show my parents.
Your best advice?
Take your time. All things shall pass.
What would no one expect of you?
I’d prefer a night in the pub with my mates than any red carpet event.
Richard Hammond
Born: 1969
Residence: Herefordshire, UK
Profession: Journalist, presenter, and author
Porsche: 911 Turbo S Cabriolet (992)
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Text first published in the Porsche magazine Christophorus 414.
Photos: Porsche
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