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The Stig talks cars and Cape Town

Cape Town – Ben Collins, better known as the former Stig of Top Gear, believes that Tom Cruise shows potential as a rally driver.

Collins is currently in South Africa for the launch of the new Audi A6.

He did not want to elaborate on which celebrities that have participated in the Top Gear rallies over the years were the best or worst, but did hint that Tom Cruise stood out.

"He was unbelievable. Tom was down to earth, professional, fearless and did precisely what was expected from him."

Collins admitted in his autobiography that he was the second Stig of the series after much speculation over his identity.

Petrol head

Collins who is no longer part of Top Gear, said the he is indeed a petrol head but that  he is not obsessive about cars.

"I enjoy racing and driving. I love the feeling it gives me."

One of his highlights was taking part in the Lemans 24 hour endurance race earlier this year in France.

"It was the first time I could complete the race. I am very proud. It was wonderful."

Collins, who drives an Audi S5, said his five favorite cars are, a Ferrari 458, Porsche Carrera GT, 1970 Dodge Challenger, a Lamborghini Countach and a Corvette.

Cape Town

About a possible F1 Grand Prix in Cape Town, Collins said it sounded like an expensive affair. "The environment here is unbelievable and it would be good if it can realize."

According to Collins, who once broke four ribs in an accident in Romania, racing is all in the head.

"It's about concentration and your individual performance and that is important, but there is whole team behind you that makes sure everything is running smoothly."

He has raced at speeds of up to 400km/h.

Collins would like to be part of another motor program in the future and is planning a book on driving skills.

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