Ep 5. Essence of Cool

Jay Leno's Garage season 2, episode 5 titled "Essence of Cool," features a collection of some of the coolest and most iconic vehicles in automotive history. From James Dean's Porsche 550 Spyder to Steve McQueen's 1956 Jaguar XKSS, Jay Leno takes viewers on a journey through time as he explores the cars that have cemented their place in pop culture.

The episode kicks off with Jay Leno meeting up with automotive historian, Ken Gross, to discuss the significance of the cars they will be showcasing. Ken shares his expertise as they delve into the backstory of each vehicle, including the inspiration behind their design and the celebrities who owned them.

One of the highlights of the episode is James Dean's Porsche 550 Spyder, famously known as the "Little Bastard." Jay Leno's love for Porsches is well-known, and he takes his time inspecting the car from top to bottom. He admires the car's beautiful lines and the way it hugs the curves of the road. The conversation then turns to the tragic accident that claimed James Dean's life, and Ken Gross sheds light on the rumors and myths that have surrounded the car ever since.

Next, Jay Leno gets behind the wheel of the 1956 Jaguar XKSS, owned by none other than Steve McQueen. This iconic car was one of only 16 ever made, and McQueen's was the first to be sold in the United States. Jay Leno takes the car for a spin on the streets of Los Angeles, and viewers get to hear the roar of the engine as the car speeds down the road.

Another star of the episode is the 1968 Ford Mustang GT from the movie Bullitt. This car was featured in one of the most memorable car chases in movie history, and Jay Leno is clearly excited to have the opportunity to examine it up close. He talks to the car's current owner, Sean Kiernan, who shares some of the car's history and the journey it has been on since it first appeared on the big screen.

Other cars featured in the episode include a 1960 Plymouth Fury, which was the inspiration for Stephen King's Christine, and a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray, which was famously driven by astronauts Gus Grissom and Alan Shepard. Jay Leno even gets to take a ride in a restored 1933 Cadillac V16 convertible, which oozes luxury and class.

Throughout the episode, Jay Leno's passion for cars is evident. He takes the time to appreciate the details of each vehicle, from the unique sound of the engine to the way the seats feel. He also highlights the cultural significance of these cars, and the way they have become icons of their time.

Overall, "Essence of Cool" is a must-see episode for any car enthusiast or pop culture junkie. Jay Leno's Garage continues to deliver high-quality content that celebrates the history and artistry of automobiles. From James Dean's Porsche to Steve McQueen's Jaguar, these cars evoke a sense of nostalgia and admiration that is impossible to ignore.