In case you needed some inspiration to improve your own skills when it comes to finding that ideal downtown parking spot, consider British stunt driver Alastair Moffat’s newest world record.
The acclaimed “World’s Best Parallel Parker” has outdone himself again, reversing at about 40 mph, then throwing his classic Mini into a 270 degree spin. At the end of the spin the Mini slots perfectly between two others, with only 34 combined centimeters of room to spare in front of and behind his car.
Moffat, 35 also holds the record for tightest forward parallel parking, with only 7.5 cm to spare. The young daredevil is not only a practitioner of excellent parallel parking, but also a firm advocate of the importance of learning how to properly parallel park.
Says Moffat, “Parallel parking is an important tool for a modern driver to have, especially in the UK. Unlike in the United States, space is at a premium over here and we haven’t got massive hundred-acre sites for parking spaces like the malls out there. We really need to keep the parallel park in the driving test - because it’s a small island we live on!”
“If you can’t do it, it really does limit your options, and obviously the tightness and technique are exaggerated in the record attempts, but it’s basically the same skill. Though my way obviously wouldn’t get you through a driving test - it looks really spectacular for a world record!”
Moffat’s Mini is outfitted with knob on the steering wheel for more precise control, and the button on the handbrake is taped off to keep it from ratcheting. Aside from that, the vehicle is essentially stock.
Though he does claim that for laughs he will to occasionally pull out his tape measure to check a nice parking job while out with his family, Moffat does not execute these types of moves with his loved ones on board.
“Unfortunately my road car wouldn’t really lend itself to that – and with the kid seat in there, I don’t think my young lad would appreciate it either!
It may be worth noting that in the US, many states, including quite recently Maryland, have dropped parallel parking from driver licensing exams. We’re pretty sure Mr. Moffat’s children will be well versed in the procedure by the time they reach driving age.
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