Petrol engine performs better: Timothy Needell

Interview with British racing driver

British racing driver Timothy 'Tiff' Needell, who hosts Fifth Gear, a television series on automobiles from around the world, offers some car safety and maintenance tips

What are some important, but often ignored, safety precautions to be taken while driving?

First thing, check the tyre pressure. If the tyre is underinflated, it can overheat. And if it is overinflated, handling the car on the road can get a bit tricky. Concentration is another factor which cannot be emphasised enough. While racing, absolute focus is crucial. But even during your everyday driving, you must concentrate hundred per cent. In England, for example, it is legal to speak on a hands-free device while driving. But I can tell you from personal experience that three or four times, I have missed my regular motorway junctions because I was speaking on the hands-free. So, don't turn on the radio and don't talk to fellow passengers or on the mobile phone. Else, the mind just starts wandering all over the place.

What are the two most important points to consider while buying a second-hand car?

A mechanical check of the car is a must. Get as much information about the car and its history so that you know what you are seeing in what you are getting. Ideally, take a friend along who knows something about automobiles. Look around, open the door, check the bonnet, go on a test drive and importantly, get an expert opinion. Don't rush into it.

If you were to buy a second-hand car from the Indian market, which one would you choose in the following categories and why: sedan, hatchback and SUV?

Everybody has his or her preferences and requirements. Personally, I like the BMW X5, which is a midsize luxury SUV. Honda too is very trustworthy. My son recently bought a Honda Civic. But there is so much choice that it's difficult to say which is the best in each category. On my show, there will be experts who will be analysing the cars and their performance at length.

How should one drive and maintain a car so that it fetches a good price in the second-hand market?

For maintenance, ideally always go to the dealer who sold you the car. I know there are street-side garages too, but research them well before trusting them with your car. On an everyday basis, check the tyre pressure. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is important not just for optimum fuel efficiency, but also so that there is less wear and tear to the car. Also check the level of fluid - oil and water. It all boils down to air, water and oil.

Between a diesel and a petrol car, which one would you say is better and why?

I would go for a petrol version any day. A petrol engine revs high and gives better performance. While a diesel car is more economical, a badly maintained diesel automobile gives more trouble and is far more polluting.
Fifth Gear airs on weekdays (Monday to Friday) at 10 pm on Discovery Turbo