As a non-UK person, you would think that as far as the SIARPC segments go, I would only be interested in guests that I recognized. Sometimes it's true, but more often than not it isn't. I'd rather gouge my eyes out than watch Cowell or Geri Halliwell, but I thoroughly enjoyed watching Ladyman, even though I really don't know who he is; mostly due to the roasting he was willing to go through. I have no clue who Lawrence Dallaglio is, but I know he was a damn sight more interesting to watch than Christian Slater.
I agree that guests ought to be vetted a bit better, and the car history in particular should be looked at. I like the idea of getting more "closet petrolheads" outed a bit. Especially in this era where it's fashionable to bash cars.
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SKY - ROAD - DITCH