Another word for Petrolhead

[lo2]

Hi there

I used the word petrolhead the other day, but the people, to whom I was speaking did not know of that word. So I tried to come up with another word meaning the same thing, but I really just could not. So I am just curious to find out, other words that have got (almost) the same meaning as petrolhead.

I am using the word petrolhead meaning a car fanatic (IMO a condescending term).

[5jj]

Well, the word exists - petrolhead - Wiktionary - but I have never heard or seen it used.

[Drear Pooson]

Not a teacher.

I have seen the word "gearhead" used before. I don't know whether it is a well known term.

[billmcd]

Hi there

I used the word petrolhead the other day, but the people, to whom I was speaking did not know of that word. So I tried to come up with another word meaning the same thing, but I really just could not. So I am just curious to find out, other words that have got (almost) the same meaning as petrolhead.

I am using the word petrolhead meaning a car fanatic (IMO a condescending term).

The term "motorhead" is used for persons interested in hands-on car repair and maintenance.

[lo2]

Ah ok.

So can you conclude that "petrolhead" is BrE and "gearhead" is AmE respecitvely?