THE MODELS
THE GLAMOUR BEHIND THE MAGAZINE
No look at Max Power is complete without the "Max Power babes" – the glamour models who became a signature (and sometimes controversial) part of the magazine's formula. Every issue from the mid-'90s onwards typically featured at least one photo spread of a model posing with a feature car, plus countless smaller pics from shows and cruises.
These women were effectively the magazine's cover stars alongside the cars, and some went on to become household names in UK pop culture. Max Power unapologetically mixed sex appeal with car appeal, creating a formula that defined an era of automotive publishing and reflected the lad culture of 1990s Britain.
The Evolution of Max Power Models
Mid-1990s: The Beginning
Max Power begins introducing glamour models alongside feature cars. The early shoots are relatively tame by later standards, but set the blueprint for what would become a core part of the magazine's identity. A young Katie Price (then known as Jordan) appears in some of these early issues, before her rise to mainstream fame.
Late 1990s: Formula Established
By the late '90s, the "Max Power babe" becomes a formalized feature. Topless or bikini-clad models draped over engine bays become commonplace. Each issue now prominently advertises its model features on the cover, and the "Max Babe of the Month" becomes a regular draw for readers.
Early 2000s: Peak Era
The early 2000s represent the golden age of Max Power models. Famous glamour models like Lucy Pinder, Michelle Marsh, and Jakki Degg appear regularly. The magazine's best-selling issue ever in 2003 is credited in part to a cover featuring multiple top models alongside an FHM-style "100 Sexiest" cars feature.
2004-2006: Criticism Grows
As Max Power's circulation peaks, criticism of its "T n' Tin" formula (models + wild cars) grows. Some in the car community deride Max Power events as being "95% boobs, 5% cars." The models become a divisive element of the brand, attracting readers while also drawing criticism from those who feel they overshadow the automotive content.
2007: The Relaunch
In 2007, Max Power attempts a partial relaunch to address criticism that the "large number of half-naked women" was drawing ire. The glamour shoots are toned down somewhat, with more "tasteful" photography and slightly less revealing outfits, but the models remain a core part of the magazine's appeal.
2008-2011: The Final Years
In its final years, Max Power strikes a balance between its glamour model heritage and changing attitudes. Models are still featured but with more emphasis on fashion and less explicit content. When the magazine closes in 2011, it marks the end of an era for automotive publishing that had blended cars and glamour models.
Famous Max Power Models
Katie Price (aka Jordan)
One of Max Power's earliest and most famous models. Katie appeared in multiple covers between 1997-2001 and was a glamour & promo icon of the early era. Her appearance in the January 2000 Max Power cover was particularly notable as she was beginning her rise to become one of the UK's most recognizable media personalities.
Lucy Pinder
One of the most popular glamour models of the 2000s, Lucy Pinder was a regular in Max Power from 2003-2005. She also appeared in Fast Car magazine's poster specials. Her appearances at Max Power Live events drew huge crowds, with fans queueing for signed posters and photos.
Michelle Marsh
Often paired with Lucy Pinder in glamour shoots, Michelle was featured in Revs magazine, appeared at Max Power Live events, and was included in several DVD features. She was a staple of the car show circuit in the early 2000s and helped boost attendance at live events.
Jakki Degg
A prominent figure in Max Power and Revs from 2000-2003, Jakki reached the peak of her popularity during this period. She featured in multiple DVDs and was known for her iconic white outfit promotional poster from the 2001 Max Power Live event, which became one of the most requested items from fans.
Lauren Pope
Before becoming a reality TV star, Lauren Pope was a Max Power regular in the early 2000s. She appeared in both Max Power and Revs coverage and her career demonstrates how the magazine could be a springboard for models into mainstream entertainment.
Leilani Dowding
Known for her appearances in Fast Car magazine and promotional shows, Leilani was a popular figure at car events. Her exotic looks and friendly personality made her a fan favorite at signings and meet-and-greets during the height of the modified car scene.
Louise Glover
A regular performer at Max Power Live events and a promotional model for the brand, Louise built a strong following through her appearances in the magazine and at car shows throughout the UK. Her energy on stage made her particularly popular at live events.
Nicola McLean
Nicola featured in Max Power magazine and was prominently featured in DVD specials during the early to mid-2000s. Her blonde bombshell image was a perfect fit for the Max Power aesthetic, and she built a significant fanbase through her association with the brand.
Chanelle Hayes
Appearing in the later years of Max Power, Chanelle was featured in DVDs and on covers as the magazine evolved through the mid-to-late 2000s. Her rise to fame coincided with the reality TV boom, making her a recognizable name beyond just the car scene.
Sammie Pennington
A staple of Max Power photo shoots and DVD extras, Sammie was known for her playful personality and rapport with fans. She represented the approachable side of the Max Power model image, connecting with readers at events and in magazine features.
Vikki Blows
Featured in both Max Power Babes sections and Fast Car magazine, Vikki was part of the core group of models who frequented the car show circuit in the 2000s. Her distinctive style and look made her instantly recognizable to fans of modified car culture.
Jaime Hammer
One of the few models to cross over between the US and UK editions of Max Power, Jaime appeared in special issues and international features. She brought an American aesthetic to the predominantly British magazine, adding variety to the publication's model roster.
Danielle Lloyd
Making appearances across Revs, Max Power, and FHM, Danielle was part of the crossover between car magazines and mainstream lads' mags in the mid-2000s. Her modeling career took off during the peak years of Max Power's influence on British pop culture.
Bianca Gascoigne
Known for her guest appearances at Max Power Live events, Bianca brought celebrity status to the car show circuit due to her famous family connections. Her presence helped bridge the gap between the automotive scene and mainstream entertainment.
Holly Peers
Featured in the 2000s editions of Max Power and crossing over with publications like Nuts and Loaded, Holly represented the later era of Max Power models as the magazine evolved alongside changing media landscapes and reader expectations.
Sam Cooke
A regular feature in both Max Power and Fast Car during the later years of the magazine from 2007-2009, Sam brought fresh energy to the publication as it evolved in its final era. Her photoshoots were popular with readers during a time when the magazine was adapting to changing tastes.
Amii Grove
Known for her glamour features in both Revs and Fast Car magazines, Amii was a recognizable presence at automotive events and shows. Her distinctive look made her stand out in the competitive modified car scene's modeling circuit during the mid-2000s.
Rhian Sugden
Appearing in the late-era Max Power photoshoots between 2008-2010, Rhian was part of the magazine's final chapter. Her modeling work came during a transitional period for the publication as it sought to maintain its appeal while adapting to a changing marketplace.
Jessica-Jane Clement
Jessica-Jane straddled the worlds of automotive and lads' magazines, appearing in Fast Car as well as Nuts magazine crossover features. Her popularity extended beyond the car scene, helping to bring new readers to automotive publications through collaborative content.
Sophie Howard
A prominent cover model for Max Power DVDs and events, Sophie's image helped sell thousands of copies of promotional material during the height of the magazine's multimedia expansion. Her presence at events was a major draw for fans of the modified car scene.
Jodie Marsh
Known for her guest features in Max Power and appearances at Fast Car events, Jodie brought her celebrity status to the modified car scene. Her distinctive personality and style made her a memorable presence both in print and at live automotive shows.
Hannah Claydon
Serving as a poster girl and calendar model for Max Power during the mid-2000s, Hannah's image adorned many bedroom walls and garage workshops. Her calendar shoots were particularly popular and became collectible items for fans of the magazine.
Sam Buxton
A familiar face in Revs magazine and at Max Power Live promotional events, Sam built a reputation for her engaging personality during photoshoots and her rapport with fans. Her appearances across multiple platforms helped cement her popularity in the scene.
Natalie Pike
After winning FHM's High Street Honeys competition, Natalie became a sought-after Max Power cover model. Her crossover appeal between mainstream magazines and the automotive press helped bring new audiences to the car modification scene.
Keeley Hazell
Making appearances in both Max Power and Fast Car throughout the 2000s, Keeley was one of the most recognized glamour models of her era. Her connection to the car scene helped bolster her profile during the early stages of her modeling career.
Danni Wells
Featured in the Max Power Babes section and 2007 promotional photoshoots, Danni represented the magazine during a pivotal time when it was attempting to redefine its image while maintaining its traditional appeal to the modified car enthusiast base.
Melinda Messenger
One of the earliest and most famous models to appear in Fast Car's glamour inserts, Melinda helped establish the formula that would later define Max Power's approach. Her popularity transcended the automotive scene to mainstream celebrity status.
Stacey Poole
Making her mark in Max Power during the late 2000s, Stacey represented the new generation of models that featured in the magazine's final years. Her photoshoots came at a time when the publication was adapting to compete with online media.
Lorna Morgan
A regular in Revs and Fast Car print features as well as DVD extras, Lorna built a loyal following through her numerous appearances in automotive media. Her distinctive look made her immediately recognizable to readers of these publications.
India Reynolds
Appearing in the later issues of Fast Car and at related events, India represented the final era of the traditional car magazine glamour model. Her appearances came as print publications were beginning to face significant challenges from digital media.
Rosie Jones
Featured in late-era Max Power magazines and promotional DVDs, Rosie represented the new generation of models who came to prominence as the print medium was winding down. Her popularity extended beyond automotive magazines into the broader modeling world.
Jessica Davies
A Fast Car "Babe of the Month" and popular calendar model, Jessica's photoshoots were highly anticipated by readers. Her distinctive Welsh charm and natural look made her stand out in the competitive world of automotive glamour modeling.
Kelly Brook
One of the most recognizable names to grace the covers of Fast Car and cross-promotional features with FHM. Kelly's mainstream celebrity status helped elevate the profile of automotive magazines when she appeared in special issues, bridging the gap between car culture and mainstream entertainment.
Danielle Mason
A regular at Max Power Live appearances and photo specials, Danielle built a devoted following among car enthusiasts. Her energetic presence at shows and engaging personality in interviews made her popular with fans beyond just her photoshoot appearances.
Sabine Jemeljanova
Featured in Fast Car photoshoots and part of the crossover between automotive magazines and publications like Nuts and Loaded, Sabine represented the evolution of car magazine glamour modeling as it adapted to changing markets and media consumption.
Leah Francis
Appearing in Max Power DVDs and events in the early 2010s as the brand was transitioning to digital platforms, Leah was among the final wave of models associated with the traditional Max Power image before the magazine ceased publication.
Daisy Watts
Featuring in both Revs magazine and later Max Power videos as the publications transitioned to multimedia platforms, Daisy's natural look and approachable style made her popular with readers across multiple automotive magazine brands.
Georgia Salpa
Known for her Max Power Live appearances and particularly famous in Ireland as a promotional model, Georgia brought international appeal to car shows and events. Her exotic looks and personable nature made her particularly memorable to attendees.
Emily Scott
One of the few models to appear in both UK and Australian editions of Max Power specials, Emily brought international flair to the magazine. Her crossover appeal helped connect modified car cultures across continents through the shared Max Power brand.
India Ward
A regular Max Power Live model between 2006-2008, India featured in numerous event promotions and magazine spreads during a transitional period for the publication. Her work coincided with Max Power's efforts to evolve its image while maintaining its core appeal.
Emma Frain
Making appearances in both Fast Car and Max Power towards the end of the print era, Emma represented the final evolution of automotive glamour modeling before digital media transformed the landscape. Her versatile look made her popular across multiple publications.
Peta Todd
A notable Max Power calendar girl who was featured in promotional DVDs, Peta brought her distinctive persona to automotive modeling. Her popularity extended beyond car magazines, helping to cross-promote the Max Power brand to wider audiences.
Lucy Becker
Featured in Revs magazine and early 2000s Fast Car spreads, Lucy was part of the golden era of automotive glamour modeling. Her classic look embodied the aesthetic that defined the peak years of modified car culture in print media.
Emma Glover
Appearing in later Fast Car issues and online spin-offs as print publications began transitioning to digital platforms, Emma represented the bridge between traditional automotive magazines and their modern digital counterparts.
Mel Clarke
Part of the final wave of Max Power photoshoots, Mel appeared in promotional posters and as a show guest in the magazine's twilight years. Her work came during the challenging period as the publication fought to maintain relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape.
Live Events & Car Shows
At Max Power Live shows and other events, the models were omnipresent and often the main attraction for many attendees. There were bikini contests, stage shows (the "Fuel Girls" fire-breathing dance act got its start at these shows), and meet-and-greets where fans would line up for autographs and photos.
Photographers would swarm whenever a model posed with a car, and the atmosphere at these events was as much about the glamour as it was about the vehicles. For many young enthusiasts, the chance to meet their favorite models in person was a major draw to these shows.
The models would travel the car show circuit, appearing at events like Max Power Live, Trax, and Ultimate Street Car. They would sign posters, pose for photos with fans, and participate in on-stage presentations of car awards and competitions.
Controversy & Context
The "Max Power babes" were a product of their time – the height of 1990s lad culture in the UK. While hugely popular with the magazine's predominantly young male readership, they were also a source of criticism, especially as attitudes began to change in the 2000s.
Critics argued that the focus on scantily-clad models objectified women and distracted from the actual automotive content. Some car enthusiasts felt that the magazine's "T n' Tin" formula cheapened the modified car scene and prevented it from being taken seriously.
By 2007, the magazine attempted to respond to this criticism with a partial relaunch that toned down the glamour model content, though it remained a signature element of the brand until the final issue. The decline of Max Power and similar publications in the early 2010s coincided with changing attitudes toward this type of content in mainstream media.
In Their Words
"Being a Max Power model was unlike any other modeling job. You'd be at these massive car shows with thousands of lads cheering. It was intimidating at first, but there was a real community feel to it. I met some of my best friends on the Max Power circuit."
"It was a different time. The cheeky interviews, the bikini shoots with cars – it was all very 90s lad culture. Looking back, some of it makes me cringe, but at the time it felt like harmless fun. Max Power definitely helped launch my career."
"The models were as much a part of Max Power as the cars. When we scored a big name like Lucy Pinder or Michelle Marsh for an issue, we knew sales would spike. They were superstars to our readers, and the magazine gave them a platform before many went on to bigger things."
Magazine Features Gallery
Legacy & Impact
From a modern perspective, the Max Power babes are a time capsule of late-'90s and early-2000s lad culture. They were emblematic of an era before social media, when magazines like Max Power were a rare outlet to see glamour models in a context that blended them with a specific lifestyle and subculture.
For many models, Max Power provided a valuable platform that helped launch successful careers in modeling, television, and other media. Names like Katie Price, Lucy Pinder, and Lauren Pope became household names in the UK, building on the exposure they received in the magazine's pages and at its events.
The models also played a significant role in Max Power's commercial success. The magazine's best-selling issues typically featured prominent model content, and the synergy of cars and glamour models was central to the brand's formula throughout its run.
Today, as attitudes have evolved, this aspect of car culture has largely disappeared from mainstream automotive media. Yet for the generation that grew up with Max Power, the "Max Power babes" remain an inseparable part of their nostalgia for the magazine and the era it defined.