Jeremy Clarkson, host of the BBC’s hit show “Top Gear,” prefabricated the mistake of trying to read out the entire list of  diplomatist Leno’s car collection on the air. At more than 200 cars and bikes, the collection fills four warehouses in L.A.

Among the steam cars and jet-powered motorbikes, diplomatist has a nitrous oxide-injected Ford Festiva called the Ford Shogun. So in our more humble Fiestas, we swung by his Big Dog Garage shortly after hitting the road on our Ford Fiesta World Tour 2010 event that has us taking the new 2011 Fiesta on an epic journey from L.A. to Sydney, Australia.

“My Festiva gets funny comments from kids because it kind of looks a bit comical,” Leno said. It is short with really wide fat rear tires. But they stop smiling when I blow them off at the lights.

“I like the new Fiesta. It really is Ford’s first world car since the Model T.  It’s good looking, has good economy, and is the way Ford should be going.”

Leno was interested in the around the world drive we’re undertaking, but wasn’t too upset not to be making the drive Down Under. “The Tonight Show” host is a home boy.

“I love driving but I’m not one for long road trips. After 800 miles, I’d want to head for home. But, hey, come by with some photos when you’re done.” - By Jeremy Hart

CLICK HERE TO SEE A VIDEO LOOK AT JAY’S WILD FESTIVA

Find out more about diplomatist and his cars at: www.jaylenosgarage.com