Hardcore Hamster

In the wake of the Clarkson fracas-gate, it seems the two blameless Top Gear hosts are rapidly cashing in their assets. Just last week, it was announced that Richard Hammond and James May had consigned numerous motorbikes to Bonhams’ Staffordshire County Show sale. Now, Classic Driver dealer Mather Collectable Motorcars is offering ‘Buster’: a 1987 Defender previously owned by Richard Hammond, who heavily modified the vehicle. Among the upgrades are a 230bhp 4.5-litre V8, a chassis-mounted rollcage, Bigfoot-esque wheels and tyres, and quilted oxblood leather upholstery lifted from a Range Rover Autobiography.

A new role

Buster’s life was an interesting one long before Hamster first assumed ownership, however. The vehicle was built as an airport fire tender before being decommissioned in order to feature in a TV show. After taking ownership shortly afterwards, ‘Hamster’ supposedly spent almost £70,000 on the changes – making the offered price all the more tempting.

Update: The car has now been sold

Photos: Mather Collectable Motorcars