Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

Whether you're a keen driver who loves being behind the wheel or a nervous nellie who hates to drive outside your usual routes, we all need safe roads to drive on.

To have safe roads of course we must have rules and regulations keeping our driving in check. But what happens when the laws they come up with are a bit strange? 

Let's find out as we explore 9 of the strangest driving laws from here in the UK and around the world.

In the UK, it is illegal to sleep in your car whilst intoxicated, including the driver's and passenger seats. So next time you're leaving the pub after one too many pints, it's definitely best to call an Uber. If you take a nap in your car whilst you're over the legal limit, you could face up to 3 months in prison. That's one costly night out!

Using puddles to splash pedestrians can be considered a criminal offence here in the UK as it can be deemed careless and inconsiderate driving. Plus, nobody likes to be splashed with dirty rainwater. Of course, this wouldn't be an extreme case of careless driving exactly, but you could still face points on your license.

In Cyprus, it's illegal to consume any food or drink whilst driving, including water. In this sunny country reaching to the cup holder to take a quick swig of Evian is completely out of the question. However, there must be something in it as Cyprus is considered to be a relatively safe country for motorists.

Here in Britain, you must keep your number plate clean and visible at all times. If stopped by the police for an obscured registration plate, you could land yourself a hefty fine. So next time your little yellow rectangle is muddy from country roads make sure to give it a quick wipe before setting off.

It's hard to keep your cool behind the wheel. We've all experienced it at one time or another. But angry and aggressive driving on British roads can be considered disorderly conduct. Especially if it leads to a collision.

In case you haven't received the message yet, it's definitely not a good idea to drink and drive. To help motorists understand how much they've had, France requires drivers to keep their own personal breathalyser in their vehicles. 

Back to the UK now where it states in the highway code that you mustn't drive with excessive volume coming from your speaker. This rule is to make sure drivers can hear important signals from other road users, like horns and sirens from emergency vehicles.

The Swiss are prohibited from slamming car doors. Imagine a world without car doors being slammed late at night! However, gently closing a car door during an argument with your significant other wouldn't really have the same impact.

In the UK, it's illegal to use your phone at a drive-through. Most of us love the convenience of using Apple or Google Pay to quickly tap-and-go but their use whilst in your car is strictly prohibited. This is due to laws that have banned the use of mobile phones while in control of a motorised vehicle.

While at first glance some of these laws may seem strange, no drinking water at the wheel, no angry driving, no Apple Pay at the drive-through, it's obvious they're all in place for a reason, to keep our roads safer. 

So perhaps we can learn something from other countries. Or perhaps we will continue to slam our car doors every time we have a bicker about directions with our partners. I know which one I'm going to do.

9 strange driving laws from around the world

The 1990s could be seen as a decade of immense change. The collapse of the Soviet Union began a new era of relative peace, the start of the internet changed how we communicate with each other forever, and new waves of musical genres such as Britpop started blasting from our Walkmens.

But politics and entertainment weren't the only things to have a complete overhaul. Big changes to our cars saw huge improvements in design, safety and comfort. From the modern safety features of the Ford Fiesta to the stylish design of the Vauxhall Corsa, the 1990s were truly a remarkable time for our vehicles.

To celebrate this unique decaude in our vehicular history we've rounded up a list of the most popular top-selling cars of the 1990s.

What are the top-selling cars of the 1990s?

Replacing the Renault 5 in 1990, the Renault Clio was known for its small size and excellent fuel efficiency. Despite being one of the smaller cars on this list, the 90s Clio's interior was considered to be incredibly spacious and this model was popular due to its reliability and affordability.

The VW Polo II, known as the Typ 86C received a huge overhaul in the 1990s. This second generation was known for its boxy shape, steep rear window and a range of engine options. Some drivers praised the Polo II for its solid and practical design but the model was said to be plagued by mechanical issues. 

Known for its handling and fuel efficiency, drivers praised the 1990s Volkswagen Golf, known as the Mk2, as an icon of automotive excellence. This hatchback came in a variety of trim levels, including the sporty GTI and R models.

First introduced in the UK in 1993, the Vauxhall Corsa has been described as stylish, spacious and comfortable. Replacing the Vauxhall Nova, The Corsa was popular with young people for its stylish design and with older drivers for its comfortable ride.

Described as one of the best BMWs of the 1990s, the Series 3 included several models including the Sedan, Coupe, and Compact Hatchback. The 1990s model, known as the E36, is a practical two-door car that some reviews say is still comfortable to drive today.

A very popular ride throughout the 1990s, the MK3 was the third-generation Cavalier known for its aerodynamic design, comfortability and modern styling. With flush-fitting windows and a revised suspension for a smooth ride, the Cavalier won What Car's Family Car of the Year in 1989 and 1990.

A small family car, the Vauxhall Astra maintained its popularity right through the 1990s. The Mk2 was first released in 1984 and, despite frequently topping sales lists, never outpaced the Ford Escort.

Originally marketed as a supermini, the Rover 200 compared closely in size to the contemporary models of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Rover priced the car to compete with the likes of the Ford Escort and Vauxhall Astra.

Launched in '93, the Peugeot 306, was a small hatchback, popular due to its unbeatable handling and ride quality. The model had favourable reviews, with drivers describing the vehicle as nimble and a fun ride. Identical under the skin to the Citroen ZX, the 1.6-litre proved popular with drivers throughout the 1990s.

Also known as the K11, the second generation of the Nissan Micra was first produced in 1992. This popular vehicle was built in the UK, Japan, and Taiwan. Dubbed the 90s version of the Mini, the Nissan Micra was praised for its reliability.

Perhaps one of the greatest automotive turnarounds of all time, the Ford Mondeo was a midsized car first produced in 1993. Available as a four-door saloon, five-door hatchback, and an estate, it received favourable reviews for its handling and comfort.

Discontinued in 2023 after 47 years of production, Ford released a variety of models of the Fiesta throughout the 1990s. Notably, the third-generation model, which had a top speed of 133 mph, and the Mk4, an extensibly revised version with improved handling and modern safety features.

At the top of the list for being an iconic 90s classic, the Ford Escort was a practical, family-friendly car produced from 1990 to 2001. Finally replaced by the Ford Focus, the final version of the Escort had improved on many of the features lacking in its first iteration, including reliable ride quality and low ownership costs.

Top selling cars of the 90s - Final thoughts

There you have it, the most popular cars of the 1990s. As we've seen, the 90s saw a rise in the popularity of small, reliable hatchbacks. With an extra focus on comfort and safety, the cars of the 90s certainly didn't compromise on style and design.

How reliable is your motor? Split the cost of repairs and services into interest-free instalments with Bumper. Choose from 1000s of garages and dealerships across the UK.

has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

13 top selling cars of the 1990s

When you look outside, you can probably only see regular cars. Maybe you’ll spot a few luxury or high-performance vehicles, but you won’t see anything too out of the ordinary.

We’re all guilty of a little car modification. Phone holders, new speakers, and air fresheners can make driving more comfortable. And why not? It’s fun to drive something unique. 

But what about when people take it too far? From banana cars and snow ploughs to the it's-so-bad-it-should-be-illegal, some people take modifications to the next level. Scroll down to see a round-up of the strangest cars ever. 

It looks like this owner took their love for Liam Neeson to the next level. Introducing Liam Nissan, the first contender for the weirdest car in the world prize! Would you show your support for your favourite celebrity like this?

The banana car is a strong contender for one of the craziest cars ever. Unlike some other entries on this list, the banana mobile has a unique shape and an ultra-cool convertible style. It’s like something straight out of a cartoon!

We’re not sure when you’d need a snow plough on the front of a caravan. But we guess it’s always nice to have the option. This older caravan has seen better days, but its snow plough modification puts it in the running for one of the strangest cars in the world.

It looks like Doctor Who’s broken down again. This pick-up truck seems to have a Tardis onboard. Don’t look too closely, though. It’ll ruin the optical illusion!

Have you ever seen a big car with minuscule wheels? Well, now you have! This is one of the craziest cars in the world, for sure. Don’t ask us why, but this has the same energy as a T-Rex, and we’re here for it.

Good news everyone, with the Planet Express car, you can now make deliveries powered by an internal combustion engine along a pre-constructed pathway designed for vehicular traffic in the third dimension. If you’re a Futurama fan, you’ll be impressed. If not, keep scrolling! 

The next car on our craziest cars ever list has made the 7th spot due to its special design. Like a mullet, it’s business in the front and kooky design in the back. Alternatively, you could say it’s like a child’s drawing of a car has come to life. Either way, it’s strange!

At first glance, this sleek car looks like something out of a sci-fi film. With a smooth aesthetic and an alien-green hue, we’re curious as to where it came from. Let’s hope the driver comes in peace!

Motorhomes are already unique cars, but this one’s unique shape takes the biscuit. It also cements it on the 

strangest cars ever list. Congratulations to the driver!

Meet the driving home for Christmas final boss. You can’t question this driver’s festive spirit! However, you will curse them if you get stuck behind this bright monstrosity on the motorway. Sunglasses, anyone?

A car bed might sound like a dream for road trips, but this one actually looks like a hotel you’d leave a 1-star review at. With no protection from the elements, no comfortable pillows or bed sheets, and no privacy, we won’t be checking in here. However, we will be placing this on the weirdest cars in the world list!

Have you seen a grass-covered car before? Well, now you have! We don’t know if this car is as eco as it looks, but we love the green theme. It might not be the craziest car ever, but it’s definitely one that would make you double-take!

Next on the strange car list is the Post-it car. Underneath these neon office supplies lies a Jaguar. But you wouldn’t have been able to tell from first glance! This isn’t one to drive on a windy day.

Ever wished you could drive a car on tarmac 

 water? The Amphicar Model 770 could be your dream match. This model has four wheels, two propellers, and a watertight design. Sadly, only 3,878 were manufactured, and they're no longer in supply.

We’re ending the list of strangest cars in the world with the famous General Motors Firebird. This aviation-inspired car is powered by a large gas turbine engine — just like a real fighter jet. However, the cars were so unstable (due to the high power) that they were rarely tested or driven. 

There are almost too many strange cars to choose from. However, we think the banana car is pretty wacky. Do you agree? Or has another car on the list caught your attention?

The ultimate list of strangest cars - Final thoughts

Hopefully, the list of strange cars has given you something to giggle about at work. Who knows? Perhaps it even inspired you to modify your car so you can make the craziest cars in the world list. If we’ve missed any iconic cars, send them our way!

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15 of the Strangest Cars in the World

The Golden Gate Bridge is an American Icon. Stretching 1.7 miles long, the San Francisco-based suspension bridge has appeared in countless films – Godzilla, Pacific Rim, and even DreamWorks’ Monsters vs. Aliens. 

If these movies are anything to go off one thing’s for sure, if you’re a would-be, Earth-destroying, giant monster from outer space you simply must make a stop to destroy the Golden Gate Bridge. Possibly on your way to the Eiffel Tower or Sydney Opera House. 

However, despite its limited luck on the silver screen, the Golden Gate Bridge has endured the years. 

But it hasn’t always been plain sailing. During the bridge’s construction in 1935, terrified workers clung to the top as an earthquake caused the bridge to sway up to 16 feet. 

You might be surprised to learn, given the period in which the bridge was built, that there were some safety precautions in place.

A giant safety net had been deployed to catch anyone who accidentally slipped. The net saved the lives of 19 workers during the construction of the suspension bridge. 

In an iconic orange, the US Navy had originally demanded the bridge be painted in blue and yellow to increase its visibility. 

However, when the steel arrived in the now-familiar orange the architect decided it looked better as it was. Sorry, US Navy, your concerns over visibility and safety will have to wait! 

But what about the bridge sagging? Well, I won’t keep you in “suspense” any longer. 

 anniversary of the bridge was celebrated. To mark the momentous occasion, San Francisco organised a bridge walk. 

Thousands showed up to take part in the walk with an estimated 300,000 pedestrians marching across in celebration. 

Then, what seemed like a big success suddenly turned into a big concern for safety. 

With so many people on the bridge, the structure began to sag, dipping in the middle so much that the bridge's iconic curve flattened out.

As well as the bridge beginning to dip, organisers were concerned about people becoming trapped in the middle. If there had been an emergency there would have been no escape.

Organisers decided to cancel the event, preventing a further 600,000 pedestrians from marching onto the bridge and perhaps stopping what could have been a very big catastrophe. 

Luckily, nobody was hurt and engineers said the bridge had never been under threat of collapse, with the weight exerted on it only being a small fraction of the load it had been designed to hold. 

Even if the weight had been too much, suspension bridges are designed to dip in the middle rather than completely collapse. 

I wonder what they have planned for this surprisingly bendy bridge’s upcoming 90

 anniversary? Whatever it is, I think I might “dip” out of that one.

That time the Golden Gate Bridge sagged 7 feet 

Seen the second Dune film and desperately looking for your next spice fix? Well, look no further, using AI technology so futuristic even the Harkonnen would be impressed, we’ve transported our cars, streets, towns and cities to a far-off galaxy and joined in the fight for Arrakis. 

And if you’ve not yet had the pleasure of watching Timothée Chalamet run around in the sand for 3 hours we might have just saved you some time and about £15.

Believe it or not, this lovely photo started out as a picture of Westminster Bridge. AI has really transformed this iconic London spot. Although, there’s always been a few sand snakes in there. 

We can definitely see Paul Atreides driving one of these. 

There’s even traffic on Arrakis, typical. 

Objects in the rear-view mirror may appear sandier than they are. 

We heard the Fremen were incredibly sad about the prospect of the London Eye moving to Scotland. 

Is it a car? Is it a worm? We don’t even think the Reverand Mother knows the answer to that one. 

Feyd-Rautha would definitely cut you up in this traffic. Serious road rage that one. 

Maybe somewhere for Paul and Chani to settle down? If they ever sort things out, that is.

You might not have thought it, but this was originally a shot of Manchester. Odd that we can’t see any Man-Dunians though. 

What would our cars and streets look like in Dune II?

For many people, Christmas time means one thing - food. And lots of it. That’s why, in celebration of this delicious holiday season, we’ve asked our AI friends to tingle your tinsel tastebuds and turn popular cars into Christmas biscuits.

So, without further ado, let’s take a trip to a biscuity winter wonderland.

Cruise control and chocolate chips in this biscuity BMW M3.

From the biscuit tin to the tailpipe with the VW Touareg.

Cruisin through the snow in a one-horsepower open sleigh.

Take a road trip to flavour town in this Mazda.

Sleigh bells ring, are you listenin'? Turbochargers whir, presents glisten.

Revving up the oven for this flavoursome Fiesta.

Accelerate your taste buds in this delectable Hybrid.

Brake-ing news: Santa's ride just got a festive tune-up.

I’m driving home for Christmas, Oh I can’t wait to eat those Fox’s.

Using AI to Turn Your Cars into Christmas Biscuits

We’ve always been told the end is nigh. But how will it happen? Cataclysmic asteroid? A wandering black hole? Killer robots sent from the future to destroy the Earth?

Obviously not! It’ll be a zombie apocalypse of course.

But what will our streets, towns and cars look like when the time finally comes? Using AI, we’ve been able to answer just that. Here’s the world you’ll be left with when the flesh-eaters finally take over.

As the virus sweeps across the country, many will flee towns and cities leaving them completely abandoned.

It may seem like a good idea to flee via motorways but with traffic beginning to get worse in the panic, many vehicles will be ditched as the horde approaches.

That’s if you can even get your car out. Why would they park like that in the first place? Flippin’ heck.

As you can see here, UK town centres will become dark and depressing places. Much like they were before the apocalypse.

Houses will be left empty, with fleeing families having hardly any time to gather their worldly possessions.

London will be filled with mindless zombies roaming the streets; scarcely interacting with each other. A lot like your morning commute is today.

As public transport completely shuts down and the streets become quiet you begin to ask yourself, what’s the point in survival if you’re not truly living? Still, at least it means no more tram journeys in the armpit of a stranger.

Many will take to the countryside in search of safety. 

Diesel and petrol will become a scarce commodity. Plus, pay at the pump will probably be down so you’ll need to go in and actually interact with the staff at the garage. Creepy stuff. 

Your new life is a far cry from your old one. Constantly on the run; driving from town to town to escape the undead. You pray daily your car will make it as far as the next stop necessary for survival. Maybe they were right. Maybe you did need that extended warranty after all. 

What would our streets, towns and cars look like after a zombie apocalypse?

Everyone knows Michelin Tyres - the company with the jolly man made of tyres as its mascot. You’ve also most likely heard of Michelin stars – stars awarded to high-quality restaurants around the globe. But did you know they’re both the same company? This is how a tyre company started giving out the world’s most prestigious restaurant awards. 

Back in the 1880s in France, when there were very few cars on the roads, brothers Andre and Edourard Michelin needed a way to increase their tyre sales. To get drivers out on the streets and using more tyres they had the bright idea to create a guidebook. 

The guide initially focused on essential travel information like maps, instructions on how to change tyres, and places to refuel. At first the guides were given out for free in the hopes this would encourage more drivers to use them, until one of the brothers entered a workshop to see a stack of their guides being used to prop up a workbench. 

Under the assumption that nobody cared about the books because they hadn’t spent their hard-earned money on them, the brothers reworked their guide and began selling them for seven francs each (92p in today’s money). 

Included in this new version was a list of hotels and restaurants. They also removed any paid advertising. Noticing how much influence the guide had on diners’ choice of restaurants the brothers started to send ‘mystery diners’ to write reviews. 

In 1926 their famous star system was introduced. Initially, only one star was used, but five years later they began a one, two and three-star rating system, where one star was worth a stop, two stars were worth a detour and three stars were worth a special journey. 

Today the star system is still in use and has become a symbol of a great quality restaurant and top-notch dining across the globe. 

The Michelin brother’s famous guidebook wasn’t their only stroke of marketing genius. Around the same time as the guide was introduced, the brothers began to use a mascot. 

Almost exclusively known as the ‘Michelin Man’ this mascot made entirely of tyres’ real name is Bibendum. The name comes from ‘Nunc est Bibendum’ which is Latin for ‘it’s time to drink’, as early adverts showed the character drinking a glass of nails to show how strong Michelin’s tyres were.

Other early adverts depicted Bibendum as a womanizing, cigar-smoking, beer drinker. But luckily, he soon cleared up his act and in the 1920s he was often shown participating in sports like cycling and running or helping families change their tyres. 

It’s safe to say the tyre-shaped mascot has been a work-in-progress for the company, which has now become a refined and instantly recognisable character for everyone. Just make sure you don’t type ‘vintage Michelin man’ into Google or you’ll be in for a bit of a fright! 

How a tyre company started giving out the world’s most prestigious restaurant awards 

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