Backseat Driver

Mark Stone
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Based in the north-west of England, former competitive driver Mark Stone moved into radio and motoring journalism after his competitive driving career came to an end in the late 1980s. Over the years, Mark has written for many of the well-known motoring magazines and made numerous TV appearances across Europe and is still an enthusiastic driver. In the Backseat Driver Podcast, Mark interviews prominent people from all over the world of motoring.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Inside the World of Tractor Pulling with Craig and Daniel Whittingham

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I head to Scorton to explore a major milestone for British motorsport, the staging of a Euro Cup tractor pulling event for the first time in England. I’m joined by Craig Whittingham and his brother Daniel Whittingham, who share how they brought this ambitious event to life under the banner of the European Tractor Pulling Committee. With competitors travelling from across Europe, the event marks a significant step forward for the sport’s profile in the UK. We dig into the world of tractor pulling, often described as the most powerful form of motorsport, examining the engineering behind these machines and the sheer forces at play. The brothers also talk through the challenges of organising an event of this scale, from logistics and regulations to building support within the local community. This episode highlights the passion, dedication, and teamwork required to grow a niche motorsport and the momentum building behind tractor pulling in the UK. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    35 min

  2. 5 APR

    Sophie Hayter on Vintage Transport and Aerospace

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Sophie Hayter, whose career spans both the automotive and aerospace industries, with a lifelong passion for historic machinery. Sophie shares how her fascination with steam traction engines began through her family, particularly the influence of her grandfather and the heritage of engines associated with Eastnor Castle. We explore how that early exposure developed into a deep appreciation for the engineering and stories behind these remarkable machines. Beyond steam engines, Sophie talks about her own Land Rover and her professional role overseeing landing gear and undercarriage maintenance in the airline industry. She explains the extraordinary engineering behind aircraft landing gear and the strict standards required to keep aircraft operating safely. This episode connects the worlds of historic vehicles and modern aviation, celebrating the craftsmanship, engineering, and personal stories that keep mechanical heritage alive. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    36 min

  3. 29 MAR

    Driving the Alpine Passes with Louis Hendrickx

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I explore the magnificent alpine passes of Europe with my guest Louis Hendrickx, whose passion for driving and road trips has taken him across some of the continent’s most breathtaking routes. Louis explains how his fascination with alpine roads began with a chance discovery of a book dedicated to these legendary mountain passes. That moment sparked a journey which has since seen him travel across Europe in his BMW Z4, seeking out the perfect driving road and the unforgettable scenery that comes with it. We talk about the unique freedom of long-distance driving adventures and the growing car culture that surrounds these trips. From enthusiast gatherings to scenic driving destinations, the conversation celebrates both classic and modern cars enjoying the landscapes they were made for. This episode reflects on the art of driving in Europe, where the combination of skill, scenery, and great roads creates an experience that continues to draw enthusiasts back year after year. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    43 min

  4. 22 MAR

    Honouring Henry Seagrave on Ainsdale Sands

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I head to Ainsdale Beach to witness a remarkable recreation of Sir Henry Seagrave’s legendary land speed record attempt. Held between 14th and 16th March, the event brought history back to life with the iconic Sunbeam Tiger Primrose, once driven by Seagrave himself, reaching speeds of over 150 mph on the sands. I explore the significance of this moment and what it means to reconnect with such an important chapter in automotive history. The event also welcomed Michael Ashcroft of the Aintree Circuit Club, alongside Andy Green, who demonstrated the car’s capabilities and helped bridge the gap between past and present. Also in attendance was Annick Coatalen, granddaughter of Louis Hervé Coatalen, the car’s designer, adding a personal and historic connection to the occasion, as well as Vijay Mallya, the car’s current owner. I take a closer look at the organisation behind the event, the challenges of bringing such a historic machine back into the spotlight, and the enduring fascination with speed, engineering, and legacy that continues to inspire generations. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    38 min

  5. 15 MAR

    The Greatest Car Chases from Film History with Joe Pep

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I dive into the golden age of cinematic car chases from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s with Joe Pep. We begin with the legendary pursuit in Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen, a sequence widely regarded as the benchmark for every car chase that followed. We explore why that scene became so influential and how it changed the way action was filmed on screen. The conversation then widens to examine how these high-octane moments drew audiences into cinemas, from the raw, practical stunt work of earlier decades to the increasing reliance on digital effects and artificial intelligence in modern filmmaking. Along the way, I reflect on the cultural significance of icons like the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Charger, cars that became characters in their own right and symbols of their era. This episode celebrates the craft, the adrenaline, and the lasting cultural impact of the car chase, a cinematic art form that still gets pulses racing today. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    50 min

  6. 8 MAR

    The Truth About Supercar Ownership with Nick Foster

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a hard look at the enduring allure of supercars and the often sobering realities that come with owning them. I’m joined by Nick Foster, an experienced specialist who works daily with some of the most desirable performance machines on the planet. We discuss how the supercar world has evolved, including the dramatic shift from boutique production numbers to large-scale manufacturing, as seen with Ferrari increasing output from hundreds to thousands of cars per year. Nick explains what truly separates high-performance cars from everyday vehicles when it comes to servicing, reliability, and long-term care. We also explore the realities owners face as these cars pass through multiple hands, often accumulating hidden issues and deferred maintenance along the way. This episode offers a candid and practical insight into the modern supercar landscape, cutting through the glamour to examine what ownership really involves and the expertise required to keep these machines at their best. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    40 min

  7. 1 MAR

    Simon Daly: The Legacy of Skoda Rally Cars

    In this episode of the Backseat Driver podcast, we sit down with esteemed rally driver Simon Daly, who shares his deep passion for rallying—particularly his admiration for Skoda vehicles. Simon reflects on how his early experiences in motorsport, shaped by family influence, played a crucial role in his journey. He fondly recalls his uncles introducing him to the thrill of rallying, including unforgettable moments at legendary events like the RAC Rally. These formative years ignited a lifelong enthusiasm that has driven his career in the sport. Our discussion delves into Simon’s remarkable collection of ex-works Skoda rally cars, which not only showcase his dedication but also connect him to the brand’s storied motorsport heritage. As we explore the evolution of rallying, nostalgia and personal history take center stage, highlighting the craftsmanship and legacy of Skoda in the sport. Whether you’re a rally enthusiast or new to the world of motorsport, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the passion, history, and technical artistry behind rallying. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Tarox Brakes Sponsored by TAROX Brakes Engineered in Italy. Tested on track. Trusted on the street. TAROX performance brake kits deliver progressive feel, zero fade, and serious stopping power — all with show-stopping looks. 🔧 tarox.co.uk – Precision Braking Since 1976.

    37 min

  8. 22 FEB

    From Family Garages to Iconic Cars with Chris Rhodes

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with Chris Rhodes to explore a life shaped by deep-rooted automotive heritage. Chris shares stories of growing up surrounded by cars, influenced by his father’s Lotus service dealership and a household where motorsport and dealership life were part of everyday conversation. We talk about his early experiences with rallying, his love of Porsches, and even the unexpected charm of cars like the Fiat Panda. I also explore Chris’s concept of the “pirate run”, a relaxed driving initiative designed to bring enthusiasts together for the simple joy of getting out on the road. It is about camaraderie, shared passion, and actually using the cars we claim to love. Chris makes the case that vehicles are meant to be driven, not preserved as static ornaments. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    48 min
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About

Based in the north-west of England, former competitive driver Mark Stone moved into radio and motoring journalism after his competitive driving career came to an end in the late 1980s. Over the years, Mark has written for many of the well-known motoring magazines and made numerous TV appearances across Europe and is still an enthusiastic driver. In the Backseat Driver Podcast, Mark interviews prominent people from all over the world of motoring.

Information

  • Creator
    Mark Stone
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    196
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Mark Stone
  • Show Website
    Backseat Driver

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