Well, here’s a treat: the very, very first episode of Motorweek, previously unseen before it landed on YouTube. And it starts with a surprise.
Every Motorweek episode I’ve watched begins the same way, with John Davis’ exuberant greeting that went something like this:
“Hi! Welcome to Motorweek, I’m John Davis! We’re glad to have you with us!”
In this unaired pilot from 1980, Davis isn’t nearly as excited. It’s weird, spooky even, and I don’t know who that man is. I’m glad he got more into his welcome in subsequent episodes.
Anyway, this time on Motorweek, there’s a comparison between the Chevy Citation and Ford Fairmont, “the best to date from Detroit.” Then, Davis goes over how to interpret the EPA’s fuel economy estimates, where he urges buyers to make sure their new car has steel-belted radials.
Finally, Motorweek mechanic Craig Singhaus tells you how to change your oil. And there’s an early look at the new Ford Escort, GM J-Car and Renault 18i and Fuego.
Like very early episodes of Top Gear, it’s fascinating to see a car show that so readily encourages you to get underneath your car. Compared to what we see now, it’s so healthy and full of facts and fantastic. A must watch, I say.