If you’re lucky, your dad is as big a car geek as you are, making shopping for Father’s Day gifts that much more enjoyable. Some of these items might already exist in your home, and if they don’t, the “one for you, one for me” shopping method would be perfectly acceptable.
Forza Horizon 4
Most dads will never get to sit in a real racing car, but a good simulator can come very close to recreating the experience. Forza 4 Horizon is one of the best racing games you can buy, with stunning graphics, realistic handling dynamics, and an insane number of cars to pick from. When played with a steering wheel and pedals (see below), it’s pretty darn close to dropping Dad into the driver’s seat of a real race—and safer too. Forza is available for the Xbox One and Windows PC.
Racing Simulator
In order to get the best out of a racing video game, one needs at least a steering wheel and pedals — but if you want to do it right for Dad, he’ll need a full-on racing simulator with a seat, pedals and shifter. It’s a sizeable investment — a full setup will cost between $800 and $1,000, more for full-motion gear — but there’s no better way to get the immersive experience that a good racing sim can offer.
Shop For Racing Simulators Here
Speedometer Cufflinks
With a set of speedometer cufflinks, Dad can literally wear his passion on his sleeve. They are relatively inexpensive, and with different colors and styles on offer, you can find a pair (or more) that are perfect for your father’s wardrobe.
Shop For Speedometer Cufflinks Here
Ahooga Horn
You know what we’re talking about — those old-fashioned car horns that go “A-OOOOO-gah!” It’s bound to make Dad smile when he honks it, and whoever he’s honking at will probably smile as well. You’ll find plenty of vintage horns for sale, but you’ll probably want to go for a modern-day electric replica, which can be had for around $25.
Whatever Parking Only Sign
If you know a father who is loyal to a particular brand or type of vehicle, you’ll want to get him one of these for his garage. These signs are inexpensive — around $15, give or take, including shipping — and you can find one for nearly every type of car; just add the make to refine your search.
Shop for “____ Parking Only” Signs Here
Gone in 60 Seconds (the 1974 version)
Car fans can debate endlessly about the best car movie ever made, but as for the most spectacular, it’s hard to beat the original 1974 version of Gone in 60 Seconds: 25 minutes of bad acting followed by a 40-minute car chase in which nearly 100 vehicles get wrecked, nearly all of them owned by the film’s self-financed producer, H. B. “Toby” Halicki. The movie commentary is as good as the film itself, as much of the stunt driving was carried out on roads that were open to the public and a few of the crashes were either unplanned or did more damage than was anticipated.
Shop For The Original Gone In 60 Seconds Here
Steve McQueen—The Man and Le Mans
Another must-watch in case your dad is more of the documentary type, this 2015 release digs into the wild ride that was the production of McQueen’s epic film Le Mans. With many interviews with co-stars, production staff, and former friends of the legendary actor, auto enthusiasts are given a fascinating glimpse into what became one of the most epic racing films that exists to this day.
Shop For The Man and Le Mans Here
Gas Pump Beverage Dispenser
If Dad is going to pour the high-octane stuff, he may as well serve it from an appropriate vessel! This gas pump dispenser looks great in any car fan’s bar, and if Dad doesn’t partake in consuming adult beverages, it works just as well for lemonade and iced tea.
Shop For Gas Pump Beverage Dispensers Here
Engine Phone Case
If car fans had their way, everything would be powered by an internal combustion engine. So far as we know, no one has invented a piston-powered smartphone, but that doesn’t mean Dad’s phone can’t look the part. These engine-themed phone covers are inexpensive and look great.
Shop For Engine Phone Cases Here
Clutch/Gas Socks
Socks aren’t always the best gift, but as an add-on to another automotive gift these clutch/gas socks are the sort of thing that’ll make any automotive enthusiast grin (regardless of age). At less than $8 with free shipping, we wouldn’t judge if you ordered yourself a couple of pair while you’re at it.
Shop For Clutch/Gas Socks Here