Ryan McAvoy said:

DominicCobb said:

Mad Max (1979) ...this film would not be remembered today if it weren't for its sequel and its discovery of Mel Gibson. B-

I'd disagree with that one point. The amazing way the chase scenes are shot would be influential regardless of what came after. Those shots of the camera seemingly inches from two cars bumper-to-bumper grinding metal are breath taking. Tarantino would still have based the chase in Death Proof on it... but then again he knows all films, from ever ;-)

It probably would have had an impact, but, as you mentioned Tarantino has seen everything and loves referencing obscure stuff. I just don't think it would be the cult classic it is today - because it isn't even really the cult classic it is today today. When people think of Mad Max, they don't think of Mad Max, they think of The Road Warrior.