Jeremy Clarkson Admits Jealousy of Richard Hammond’s Classic Car: A Rare Glimpse Behind the Banter

Jeremy Clarkson has never been shy about sharing his opinions—whether it’s cars, farming, politics, or even the weather. For decades, audiences have been entertained by his sharp wit, his booming voice, and his knack for turning even the most ordinary subject into headline-worthy television. But every so often, Clarkson allows a crack in his trademark bravado, offering fans a rare glimpse at his more human side. That’s exactly what happened recently when he admitted, in a column for The Times, that he once felt a pang of jealousy toward none other than his long-time co-star and friend, Richard Hammond.

The confession had nothing to do with Hammond’s television career, his fame, or even his hair—though Clarkson has often joked about those in the past. Instead, it all revolved around one thing: a car. More specifically, a 1960s Series 1 Jaguar E-Type, often hailed as one of the most beautiful cars ever built.

The Trio That Defined Car Television

Before delving into Clarkson’s revelation, it’s worth remembering the dynamic that made Top Gear and later The Grand Tour international sensations. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May formed one of the most iconic presenting trios in television history. Clarkson played the role of the loud, unapologetic motoring purist, Hammond was the energetic daredevil with a penchant for speed, and May was the thoughtful “Captain Slow,” often grounding the show in reason.

Together, they transformed Top Gear into a global juggernaut, bringing in millions of viewers across more than 200 countries. Beyond the cars, what kept fans tuning in was the chemistry. The jabs, the pranks, the mock arguments—all built on a foundation of genuine friendship. But as Clarkson’s recent column suggests, even within that friendship, envy sometimes crept in.

Hammond’s Prize Possession

According to Clarkson, the source of his envy was Hammond’s decision, years ago, to purchase a Jaguar E-Type Series 1. For car enthusiasts, the E-Type is a holy grail in its own right. Enzo Ferrari famously described it as “the most beautiful car ever made.” Sleek, aerodynamic, and quintessentially British, it has long been a symbol of 1960s style and engineering excellence.

“When Richard Hammond bought a Series 1 E-type Jaguar back in the days when we were doing Top Gear, I must confess I felt quite jealous,” Clarkson wrote.

For Clarkson—who has owned his fair share of rare and exotic cars—the pang of envy wasn’t just about the beauty of the Jaguar. It was about what happened next.

A Classic Investment Gone Right… Then Wrong

Classic cars, unlike most vehicles, can appreciate in value if they are rare, iconic, and well maintained. That was exactly the case with Hammond’s Jaguar. Clarkson recalled watching, year after year, as the car’s value climbed.

“And then the feelings of envy got worse when it doubled and then trebled in value,” he admitted. “My money was in the bank earning sod all. He was driving about in his money and it was going up in value at about 100 per cent a year.”

To make matters worse, Clarkson pointed out another sting in the tail: in the UK, there is no capital gains tax on classic cars. This meant Hammond’s investment was growing tax-free while Clarkson’s savings sat stagnant. “Which filled me with even more despair,” he said.

It was, in many ways, a perfect storm for jealousy. Hammond had bought a car he loved, got to enjoy driving it, and at the same time watched its value soar—all while Clarkson stood on the sidelines.

The Twist of Fate

But, as Clarkson was quick to reveal, Hammond’s luck didn’t last forever. The market for E-Type Jaguars, like all collectible investments, eventually cooled. Prices stopped climbing, and in fact, Hammond’s car is now worth about the same as what he originally paid for it.

“Happily, he hung on to the car, assuming that the money tree would continue to grow, and then, blam, the market for E-types stalled, so it’s now worth roughly what he paid for it,” Clarkson wrote.

In typical Clarkson fashion, he couldn’t resist ending the anecdote with a wry smile: “I’m not punching the air as I write this, I promise. But I am smiling.”

Beyond the Banter

At first glance, Clarkson’s confession seems like another light-hearted anecdote between friends. After all, Hammond himself has often poked fun at Clarkson, whether it’s about his farming misadventures on Clarkson’s Farm or his not-so-subtle attempts to appear youthful behind the wheel of sports cars. But Clarkson’s honesty here also speaks to something deeper.

It highlights how classic cars are not just vehicles—they are investments, status symbols, and, in many ways, time machines. For Hammond, owning the E-Type wasn’t just about money; it was about possessing a piece of history. For Clarkson, the envy was as much about missing out on that feeling as it was about the financial gain.

The Friendship That Endures

Despite the occasional envy and constant banter, Clarkson and Hammond’s friendship remains strong. Their decades of working together across Top Gear and The Grand Tour have cemented them as one of television’s most beloved double acts. The fact that Clarkson can openly admit jealousy in print is a testament to that trust. He knows Hammond—and the fans—will take it in stride.

And as Clarkson continues his unexpected second career as a farmer, while Hammond pursues various projects in television and publishing, their bond remains a touchstone for audiences who grew up watching them race supercars, destroy caravans, and attempt outlandish road trips across the globe.

The Lesson Behind the Laughs

So, what can fans take away from Clarkson’s admission? Perhaps it’s a reminder that even celebrities, with their success and wealth, aren’t immune to envy. It’s also a lesson in the risks and rewards of investing in collectibles like classic cars. Sometimes they soar, sometimes they stall.

In the end, Clarkson isn’t bitter. In fact, his story reads more like a gentle ribbing of his old friend than a genuine complaint. And that’s what makes it so authentically Clarkson: a mix of honesty, humor, and a touch of smug satisfaction.