Ben Collins is a racing driver famous for playing The Stig on BBC’s famous TV show Top Gear. Even without the trademark white helmet and racing suit, he is somewhat of a celebrity. We’ve grown up watching him race Bugattis and teaching celebrities how to set fast laps. But what cars does Ben Collins aka The Stig actually own?
The Stig’s car collection isn’t that big or expensive, but it is interesting. His SUV of choice is a 1998 Land Rover Defender 90. It’s an ex-military vehicle with a diesel engine that leaks oil everywhere. Ben Collins also owns a Porsche, specifically an old 997.2 Turbo with a manual. It’s interesting how many people on Top Gear love the 911.
The 911 is The Stig’s daily drive because it’s fun and reliable. But his latest purchase is a hot hatch. Growing up and learning how to drive in the 1990s, he developed a love for the fast hatchbacks. For him, the king of the hatchbacks is the Lancia Delta, and he just bought one.
The Stig paid £29,250 for his Lancia Delta Integrale
Ben purchased the car at Silverstone Auctions, and using that information, we were able to track the car down. The car is this 1990 HF Integrale 16V, license plate G418 PAH, VIN ZLA831AB000501586. It sold for £29,250 ($36,940) in May 2022. The hatchback is restored, painted Rosso Monza, and showed over 31,000 miles on its LHD odometer.
Several versions of the Integrale exist. The HF Integrale 16V replaced the 8V in 1989 and lasted until the Evo series in 1991. It came with a raised hood to accommodate the 16-valve engine, a turbocharged 2-liter making 197 horsepower.
This racing car for the road started life as a regular compact car. However, it featured extensive modifications under its wide body, including a transverse engine layout sending power to all four wheels. Being a dominant force in the World Rally Championship during the late 1980s and early 1990s, this homologation special is also a valuable collectible.
How fast is The Stig’s car? It will do the 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in a claimed 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 137 miles per hour (220 km/h). It’s also one of the best-looking Italian cars of all time and perhaps even the most famous Lancia of all time.
The Stig’s dream car, however, is surprising. Ben drove the Porsche Carrera GT and found it challenging but hugely enjoyable. It’s interesting to note that Doug DeMuro also dreamed of owning a Carrera GT and recently bought one.
