45 Years of MotorWeek: John Davis on Creating Automotive Television & Changing How America Sees Cars
About this episode
John Davis, the creator and host of MotorWeek, shares the fascinating journey of the show that has shaped automotive television for 45 years. He discusses the inception of MotorWeek, its magazine-style format, and how it has adapted to changing times while keeping cars at the forefront. Davis reflects on his early automotive experiences, including his first cars, and the evolution of technology in the automotive industry. With insights into the future of MotorWeek and his personal favorites, this episode is a nostalgic trip through automotive history.
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Join hosts Christian and Doug as they welcome automotive television royalty—John Davis, creator, host, and executive producer of MotorWeek, the longest-running automotive magazine show in television history. For 45 years and over 1,900 episodes, John Davis has shaped how generations experience automotive journalism.
Discover how a young producer at Wall Street Week with Louis Rukeyser had a vision in 1978 to bring automotive print magazines to television—something no one in North America had successfully done. After a 3-year wait and a 6-week sprint to launch, MotorWeek premiered in October 1981 on Maryland Public Television and forever changed automotive media on PBS and then the Internet.
John reveals the philosophy that made MotorWeek succeed across five decades: "The cars are the stars." Learn why consistency matters, how instrumented testing keeps the show scientifically credible (one of only 3 publications still doing it), and why team opinions matter more than individual perspectives. From PBS stations nationwide to YouTube's digital age, MotorWeek adapted while maintaining its core mission.
Personal stories include John's Ford family and influence on his first car, restoring a 1975 De Tomaso Pantera, other dream cars, and more.
Don't miss MotorWeek's 45th Anniversary Special on PBS and YouTube - https://youtu.be/Vq1H8gVQKP4?si=yoph4G81bpNkudHn
Perfect for MotorWeek fans, automotive journalists, PBS television enthusiasts, muscle car collectors, and anyone who appreciates how one show influenced 45 years of automotive culture. Whether you discovered MotorWeek in the 1980s or found it on YouTube, this episode celebrates television's most enduring automotive voice.
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Ford Mustang
"He owned a Shelby Mustang, so he was easy."
The Shelby Mustang is a special version of the Ford Mustang that is faster and more powerful. It's famous for its racing heritage and sporty looks.
The Shelby Mustang is a high-performance variant of the Ford Mustang, known for its powerful engines and sporty design. It has a rich history in American muscle car culture.
Porsche 924
"Joyce Braga, our first female reporter... she was driving a Porsche 924."
The Porsche 924 is a type of sports car made by Porsche. It's known for being a more affordable option and has good handling, making it fun to drive.
The Porsche 924 is a sports car produced by Porsche from 1976 to 1988. It was designed as an entry-level model and is known for its balanced handling and affordability compared to other Porsche models.
Delorean DMC-12
"DeLorean and go 88 miles an hour. I was curious as to 45 years in, John, what surprises you sitting in that office this time forward doing..."
The DeLorean is a unique car famous for its futuristic design and appearance in movies. It has doors that open upwards like wings and is made of shiny metal.
The DeLorean DMC-12 is a sports car manufactured by the DeLorean Motor Company, known for its distinctive stainless steel body and gull-wing doors. It gained fame as the time machine in the 'Back to the Future' movie franchise.
driver assistance systems
"It's the level of driver assistance systems that help everyone become a safer driver, which of course, for an outgrowth of this..."
Driver assistance systems are features in cars that help drivers stay safe while driving. They can help keep the car in its lane or even stop the car if there's an obstacle ahead.
Driver assistance systems are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and facilitate driving. They include features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking, which help drivers avoid accidents and improve overall driving experience.
autonomous vehicle
"...it's turning out so far to be kind of a fantasy of looking for the autonomous vehicle and on the way for that to develop..."
An autonomous vehicle is a car that can drive itself without needing a person to control it. It uses technology to understand its surroundings and make decisions while driving.
An autonomous vehicle, often referred to as a self-driving car, is a vehicle capable of navigating and driving itself without human intervention, using a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence.
lane keep assist
"...and on the way for that to develop that, all of these things like lane keep assist and..."
Lane keep assist is a feature in some cars that helps keep the car in its lane while driving. If the car starts to drift, it can gently steer back to the center of the lane.
Lane keep assist is a driver assistance technology that helps prevent unintentional lane departures by providing steering assistance to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. It can alert the driver if they begin to drift out of their lane without signaling.
autonomous driving
"...autonomous driving to arrive. And that semi-autonomous aspect that provides an extra little safety margin for drivers, I did not expect that."
Autonomous driving means that a car can drive itself without needing a person to control it. It uses special technology to see and understand the road around it.
Autonomous driving refers to the ability of a vehicle to navigate and operate without human intervention. This technology relies on a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to interpret the environment and make driving decisions.
anti-lock brakes
"...we knew any lock brakes were coming. We knew skid control, but to extrapolate that into this almost cocoon like that modern cars have..."
Anti-lock brakes help prevent the wheels from stopping completely when you brake hard. This means you can still steer the car even in an emergency stop.
Anti-lock brakes are a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. This system uses sensors to monitor wheel speed and modulates brake pressure accordingly.
skid control
"...we knew skid control, but to extrapolate that into this almost cocoon like that modern cars have, I did not expect that."
Skid control helps keep the car from sliding out of control, especially on wet or slippery roads. It uses technology to help the driver stay safe and in control.
Skid control refers to systems designed to help maintain vehicle stability during slippery conditions, preventing loss of traction. This can include features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that automatically applies brakes to individual wheels to help steer the vehicle back on course.
NASCAR
"during my teen years during the when NASCAR was first coming on the the first getting its popularity in the masses."
NASCAR is a type of car racing that features specially designed cars racing on tracks. It's very popular in the U.S. and has many fans.
NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization that sanctions stock car racing events in the United States. It has a large fan base and is known for its exciting races and competitive teams.
Fred Lorenzen
"we were fans of Fred Lorenza, who was the prominent Ford driver at the time."
Fred Lorenzen was a famous race car driver who competed in NASCAR. He drove Ford cars and was well-known during his racing career.
Fred Lorenzen was a prominent NASCAR driver known for his success in the 1960s. He drove for Ford and was one of the sport's early stars.
bad valve
"It had a bad valve. So that was really one of the few times I've ever tore into an engine to repair."
A bad valve is a problem in a car's engine that can make it run poorly. Valves help control how air and fuel move in and out of the engine.
A bad valve in an engine can lead to poor performance and issues with engine timing. Valves are critical components that control the flow of air and fuel into the engine and exhaust out.
exotic car
"...what I really wanted was something, quote, unquote, like an exotic car, but that had an American engine that I could work on. I wasn't really interested in doing anything European..."
An exotic car is a fancy, high-performance car that is usually very expensive and not commonly seen on the roads. They are known for their speed and unique looks.
An exotic car typically refers to high-performance vehicles that are often rare, luxurious, and expensive. They are known for their unique designs and advanced engineering, often associated with brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren.
Di Tommaso Pantera
"One was the Jensen Interceptor, which had a Chrysler V8 in it. And the other was the Di Tommaso Pantera."
The De Tomaso Pantera is a fast sports car made in the 70s and 80s. It has a powerful engine and a unique look, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The De Tomaso Pantera is a sports car that was produced from 1971 to 1992, known for its powerful V8 engine and distinctive design. It was originally intended to compete with the Ferrari and Lamborghini models of its time.
Jensen Interceptor
"One was the Jensen Interceptor, which had a Chrysler V8 in it. And the other was the Di Tommaso Pantera."
The Jensen Interceptor is a stylish sports car made in the late 60s and early 70s. It has a strong engine and is known for being both fast and comfortable.
The Jensen Interceptor is a luxury sports car produced from 1966 to 1976, featuring a powerful Chrysler V8 engine. It is known for its distinctive styling and combination of performance and comfort.
Tesla 73 Model
"...year-old Pantera down in Norfolk, Virginia. So a 73 model, which was what was the first of what they call t..."
The Tesla Model 3 is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. It's popular because it can go a long way on a single charge and has a lot of cool technology features. People like it because it's good for the environment and still fun to drive.
The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric sedan that has revolutionized the automotive industry with its impressive range, performance, and advanced technology. Launched in 2017, it has become one of the best-selling electric cars globally, appealing to those looking for a sustainable yet high-performance vehicle. Its significance is highlighted by its role in making electric vehicles more mainstream.
L model
"So a 73 model, which was what was the first of what they call the L model, which meant it had rubber front bumpers to meet the US safety standards."
The 'L model' means a version of the Pantera that had rubber bumpers. This was done to make the car safer for driving in the U.S.
The 'L model' designation for the De Tomaso Pantera refers to the version introduced in 1971 that featured rubber bumpers to comply with U.S. safety regulations. This change was part of a broader trend in the automotive industry during the 1970s.
dual point distributor
"I had dual point distributor, which was nothing but trouble."
A dual point distributor is a part of the car's ignition system that helps start the engine. It has two sets of points that can sometimes cause problems, especially if they get worn out.
A dual point distributor is an ignition system component that uses two sets of points to control the timing of the spark in an engine. This setup can lead to issues such as misfires or failures if not properly maintained.
radiator
"called the Saudi Arabian package, which was, it had a radiator in the front with two fans on it, a long run to the mid engine, but they had a second set of fans you could put to draw air through the radiator."
A radiator is a part of a car that helps keep the engine cool by removing heat. It works by circulating coolant through the engine and then cooling it down before sending it back.
A radiator is a crucial component in a vehicle's cooling system, responsible for dissipating heat from the engine coolant. It helps maintain optimal engine temperature, preventing overheating, especially in high-temperature conditions.
DeLorean
"Sounds, sounds a lot like my DeLorean in many ways. I wanted one."
The DeLorean is a unique car famous for its shiny metal body and doors that open upwards. It became really popular because it was featured in a famous movie about time travel.
The DeLorean is a sports car manufactured by the DeLorean Motor Company, known for its distinctive stainless steel body and gull-wing doors. It gained fame from its appearance in the 'Back to the Future' movie franchise.
oversteer
"...the rear end to break away and you would spin."
Oversteer happens when the back of the car slides out while turning, making it feel like the car is turning too much. This can cause the car to spin if the driver isn't careful.
Oversteer is a handling characteristic of a vehicle where the rear wheels lose traction before the front wheels, causing the car to turn more sharply than intended. This can lead to a spin if not corrected.
GTO
"he really was the father of the GTO."
The GTO is a famous car that was known for being fast and powerful. It was one of the first muscle cars and became very popular in the 1960s.
The GTO, or Gran Turismo Omologato, is a high-performance car that was originally produced by Pontiac in the 1960s. John DeLorean played a significant role in its development, helping to establish it as one of the first muscle cars.
Colin Chapman
"Unfortunately, I was also a fan of Colin Chapman. And I don't think, I don't think Colin really did John much a favor with the chassis he sold him."
Colin Chapman was a famous car designer who started the Lotus brand. He is known for making cars that are lighter and faster, which changed how cars are built.
Colin Chapman was a British engineer and founder of the Lotus car company, known for his innovative designs and lightweight sports cars. His philosophy of 'adding lightness' greatly influenced automotive engineering and racing.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...And speaking of Corvette, you are a Corvette guy. Am I right? Yes."
The Corvette is a famous sports car made by Chevrolet. It's known for being fast and stylish, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engines. It has a long history in American automotive culture, often associated with speed and style.
Mini Cooper
"...I wanted something to replace the Mini. Uh, it was, yeah, I still have it."
The Mini Cooper is a small car that is fun to drive and has a unique look. The 2002 version is part of the newer models that came out after the original Mini was discontinued.
The Mini Cooper is a compact car known for its distinctive design and sporty handling. The 2002 model is part of the second generation of the Mini, which was reintroduced in 2001 after the original Mini ceased production in 2000.
lease fee
"...and he said, Oh, by the way, we just dropped the lease fee on the 500E to I think $200 a month with virtually nothing down."
A lease fee is what you pay each month to use a car that you don't own. It's usually cheaper than buying the car outright and lets you drive a new car for a few years before returning it.
A lease fee is the monthly payment made by a lessee to use a vehicle for a specified period, typically in exchange for lower upfront costs compared to purchasing. It allows drivers to enjoy a new car without the long-term commitment of ownership.
Ford Ranger
"I have a 2003 Ford Ranger. I wish somebody made a nice little tiny pickup that size again."
The Ford Ranger is a small pickup truck that is great for carrying things. The 2003 version is known for being tough and useful.
The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck known for its durability and versatility. The 2003 model is part of a generation that was popular for its size and capability.
Mercedes SLK250
"The only other interesting car I have is a 2014 Mercedes SLK250, which I used to have a Miata, but my, we sold it."
The Mercedes SLK250 is a fancy convertible car that you can drive with the top down. The 2014 model is known for being stylish and fun to drive.
The Mercedes SLK250 is a luxury convertible sports car known for its stylish design and performance. The 2014 model features a retractable hardtop and a turbocharged engine.
Mazda Miata
"...s a 2014 Mercedes SLK250, which I used to have a Miata, but my, we sold it. My wife said it'd be nice t..."
The Mazda Miata is a small, two-seat car that is really fun to drive. It's known for being light and quick, which makes it popular with people who love cars. Many people enjoy it because it's not too expensive and gives a great driving experience.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight, two-seat sports car known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. Launched in 1989, it has become iconic for its simplicity and affordability, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts. Its significance lies in its ability to provide an engaging driving experience without the high price tag typically associated with sports cars.
Hyundai Palisade
"...onvertible again. And then I've got a, a Hyundai Palisade that's, uh, our dogmobile. Okay."
The Hyundai Palisade is a big family car that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It has a nice interior and comes with many features to keep everyone safe and comfortable. Many families like it because it’s spacious and affordable.
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that offers spacious seating for up to eight passengers and a range of modern features. Launched in 2018, it has gained attention for its upscale interior, advanced safety technologies, and overall value. It's often discussed as a family-friendly vehicle that combines comfort with practicality.
Dodge Daytona
"...and it was a Dodge Daytona. Good choice."
The Dodge Daytona is a car that was made by Dodge in the late 1980s. It was designed to be fast and sporty, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Dodge Daytona was a sporty coupe produced by Dodge in the 1980s and early 1990s, known for its aerodynamic design and performance-oriented features.
Dodge Viper
"If I had the money today and I had no really other responsibilities and I just wanted to go out and play, I'd buy a first generation, uh, Dodge Viper."
The Dodge Viper is a fast sports car with a big engine. The first version was made in the early 1990s and is famous for being very powerful but not very comfortable.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and aggressive styling. The first generation, produced from 1992 to 2002, is particularly noted for its raw driving experience and limited creature comforts.
Lotus Esprit
"The, uh, the other would be, uh, the old Lotus Esprit, which I also thought was just a fabulous car."
The Lotus Esprit is a stylish sports car from Britain that is known for being fun to drive and having a unique look. It was popular in the 1980s and 1990s.
The Lotus Esprit is a British sports car that gained fame for its sleek design and agile handling. It was produced in various iterations from the mid-1970s to the early 2000s, often celebrated for its performance and lightweight construction.
Lotus Elan
"I pop saw one ad for, uh, a Lotus Elon and, uh, the, uh, I made arrangements to go see it..."
The Lotus Elan is a small sports car made by Lotus. It's known for being very light and fun to drive, with a unique design.
The Lotus Elan is a lightweight sports car produced by Lotus Cars in the 1960s and 1970s. It is known for its agile handling and innovative design, often featuring a fiberglass body.
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