970: The Cadillac Irreleviq, A Car That Makes You Earn It, Driving Beyond The Brink
About this episode
A lively discussion kicks off with Paul and Todd debating the relevance of combustion engines as manufacturers like Porsche pivot back to them amidst rising EV trends. They explore the implications for brands like Cadillac and the consumer's desire for engaging driving experiences. The episode dives into listener questions about gear ratios, torque, and the balance between fun and reliability in cars. With a mix of rants and insights, the hosts emphasize the importance of earning the driving experience and the need for manufacturers to create cars that engage drivers beyond mere numbers.
internal combustion engines
"...they're going to keep making an internal combustion engines, because from the moment these 2030 or 2035 hard lines were made in Europe for EVs..."
Internal combustion engines are the type of engines that most cars have, where fuel is burned inside the engine to create power. This is different from electric cars that use batteries.
Internal combustion engines are engines that generate power by burning fuel, typically gasoline or diesel, inside the engine itself. This technology has been the standard for automobiles for over a century but is facing competition from electric vehicles.
EVs
"...because from the moment these 2030 or 2035 hard lines were made in Europe for EVs, those niche manufacturers were applying for exemptions..."
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline. They are better for the environment and are becoming more common.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than traditional fuels like gasoline or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and advancements in battery technology.
EV
"...they do out of spec about EV's about. Yes, people that that one EV content are flocking to their channel..."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. This means it doesn't produce exhaust fumes and is often better for the environment.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of car that is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to environmental concerns and advancements in battery technology.
Lucid Air
"...ssue with an EV in the right context. We had that lucid air on our long term trip. It was phenomenal. Yeah. A..."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that can go really far on a single charge. It's known for its luxury features and is a new player in the electric car market.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that aims to compete with high-end brands by offering impressive range and performance. It's often discussed for its innovative technology and design.
Chevrolet Blazer
"...e thing. GM can end production of the gas powered blazer by the 2025 model year. So that's now. No, don't ..."
The Chevrolet Blazer is a stylish SUV that is good for everyday use and can also handle some adventures. It's popular for its looks and features.
The Chevrolet Blazer is a midsize SUV that combines style with functionality, making it suitable for both daily driving and outdoor activities. It's often discussed for its modern design and tech features.
Cadillac Celestic
"...but okay. What does this do to the Cadillac Celestic, which has not been released at all Cadillac..."
The Cadillac Celestic is a new luxury electric car from Cadillac. It's part of their effort to create high-end vehicles that run on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Cadillac Celestic is a luxury electric vehicle from Cadillac, representing the brand's push into the EV market. It is designed to compete with high-end electric cars and showcases advanced technology and luxury features.
Dodge Demon
"...the whole launch of the Dodge demon felt like somebody's YouTube video anyway. And that was done by Dodge. Yes."
The Dodge Demon is a special version of the Dodge Challenger that is built for racing. It has a very powerful engine and is designed to go really fast in a straight line.
The Dodge Demon is a high-performance variant of the Dodge Challenger, designed specifically for drag racing. It features a supercharged V8 engine and is known for its extreme power and speed.
Dodge Charger
"...the V8 might make a return in the new charger, which is not a forward or anymore. We're back to the original charge everybody, which is two door. Yes."
The Dodge Charger is a large car that is popular for its powerful engines and sporty design. It's known for being fast and is often used in car racing and performance events.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its performance-oriented variants, including those equipped with powerful V8 engines. It has a long history in American muscle car culture and is often associated with high-performance models.
AutoTempest
"...when you do you need auto tempest.com. Any car anywhere at any price auto tempest searches all the major car listing sites on the web local or nationwide."
AutoTempest is a website that helps you find cars for sale by searching multiple car listing sites at once, making it easier to compare options.
AutoTempest is a car search engine that aggregates listings from various car listing sites, allowing users to find cars available for sale across the web.
turbochargers
"Do small lag less turbo chargers, not legolas. It's moving. Full of movie references."
A turbocharger is a part that helps an engine produce more power by forcing in more air. Some turbochargers can take a moment to respond when you press the gas, but newer ones are designed to react faster.
Turbochargers are devices that use exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which forces more air into the engine, increasing power. They can sometimes have a delay in response, known as 'turbo lag', but modern designs aim to minimize this lag.
ZF-8 speed
"He is the former owner of a BMW M235i rear wheel drive with the ZF-8 speed."
The ZF-8 speed is a type of automatic transmission that helps the car change gears smoothly and quickly, making driving easier and more enjoyable.
The ZF 8-speed transmission is an automatic gearbox known for its smooth shifting and efficiency. It is widely used in various luxury and performance vehicles, including BMW models.
BMW M235I
"...ng transmissions. He is the former owner of a BMW M235i rear wheel drive with the ZF-8 speed. He kind of ..."
The BMW 2 Series is a small luxury car that is fun to drive and has a nice interior. It's popular with people who enjoy a sporty feel in a compact package.
The BMW 2 Series is a compact luxury car that offers sporty performance and a premium interior. It's often discussed for its driving dynamics and appeal to enthusiasts.
N55
"He kind of breaks apart the pieces, the components of these this car because he acknowledges that that engine, that N55,"
The N55 is a type of engine made by BMW that uses a turbocharger to provide more power and better performance in their cars.
The N55 is a turbocharged inline-six engine produced by BMW, known for its smooth power delivery and strong performance characteristics. It is commonly found in several BMW models.
horsepower
"You've got all the horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower means the car can go faster and accelerate better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, often used to describe the output of engines. It indicates how quickly work can be done and is a key factor in a vehicle's performance.
Audi A4
"In fact, it made him miss his old 1.8 liter 2001 A4. I remember those."
The Audi A4 is a stylish car that is comfortable and fun to drive. The 2001 version is known for its good handling and a range of engine options.
The Audi A4 is a compact executive car known for its blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The 2001 model is part of the B6 generation, which offered a variety of engines and features.
boost
"but he said it had a little mound of boost, a mound of boost. You had to go look for it in the mid range..."
Boost is the extra power that a turbocharger adds to an engine by forcing more air into it. This helps the engine produce more horsepower.
Boost refers to the increase in air pressure provided by a turbocharger or supercharger, which allows an engine to produce more power. It is essential for enhancing performance in turbocharged engines.
paddle shifters
"Apparently, the ZF8 could keep the engine above 6,000 RPM 90% of the time with paddle shifters. But that N55 engine never rewards the driver for using the paddle shifters..."
Paddle shifters are levers behind the steering wheel that let you change gears in a car without using a clutch pedal, making driving more fun.
Paddle shifters are controls located behind the steering wheel that allow drivers to manually change gears in an automatic transmission, enhancing driving engagement.
torque
"Of course it is. It's just a plateau of torque. The ZF also didn't encourage him to exercise the engine."
Torque is how strong an engine is when it turns. It helps a car speed up and pull heavy things. More torque usually means better acceleration.
Torque is a measure of rotational force in an engine, which is crucial for acceleration and pulling power. It represents the engine's ability to do work and is often discussed in relation to how quickly a car can accelerate.
RPM
"bring him right up to 5,000 RPM, never giving him a chance to savor the mid-range torque in a fun way."
RPM means how many times the engine's parts spin in a minute. Higher numbers usually mean the car is going faster, but too high can hurt the engine.
RPM stands for revolutions per minute, a measure of how fast an engine's crankshaft is spinning. Higher RPMs typically indicate more power and speed, but can also lead to engine strain if sustained for too long.
chassis
"It all fits in this chassis. We're good to go. The good cars, the really good cars, it's deliberate."
The chassis is like the skeleton of a car. It holds everything together, including the engine and wheels, and helps the car drive smoothly.
The chassis is the base frame of a vehicle, which supports the body and components like the engine and suspension. It's crucial for the vehicle's structural integrity and handling characteristics.
Porsche Cayman
"...ower it makes. Everybody complained about the GT4 Cayman. The 981 generation, third gears to tall."
Porsche 981
"The 981 generation, third gears to tall. Where did Porsche test it on the Nordschleife?"
The Porsche 981 is a model of sports cars made by Porsche, specifically the Boxster and Cayman, that were built between 2012 and 2016. They are known for being fun to drive and having good handling.
The Porsche 981 refers to the generation of the Porsche Boxster and Cayman produced from 2012 to 2016. This generation is known for its lightweight design and improved performance compared to its predecessor.
Nordschleife
"Where did Porsche test it on the Nordschleife? Which is a third and fourth gear track."
The Nordschleife is a long and difficult racetrack in Germany where many car companies test their cars. It's known for its twists and turns, making it a tough place to drive.
The Nordschleife, also known as the Nürburgring, is a famous racetrack in Germany known for its challenging layout and is often used by manufacturers like Porsche for testing their vehicles. It is considered one of the most demanding tracks in the world.
naturally aspirated engine
"...being a naturally aspirated engine, wind it out in third gear, reach red line, then happily shift to fourth..."
A naturally aspirated engine gets air into the engine without any extra help from a turbo or supercharger. This means it can feel more responsive and fun to drive, especially when you push the gas pedal.
A naturally aspirated engine is one that relies on atmospheric pressure to draw air into the combustion chamber, rather than using a turbocharger or supercharger. This type of engine typically provides a more linear power delivery and can be more engaging to drive at higher RPMs.
red line
"...reach red line, then happily shift to fourth, then you're back in the sweet spot of the engine..."
The red line is the highest speed your engine should go before it could break. It's like a warning sign telling you to change gears before it's too late.
The red line is the maximum engine speed indicated on the tachometer, beyond which the engine may experience damage or failure. It's important for drivers to shift before reaching this limit to maintain engine health.
Nissan Gtr
"That's what the Nissan GTR was when Todd and I discovered that"
The Nissan GT-R is a fast sports car that many people love for its speed and technology. It's designed to handle well and go really fast, making it fun to drive.
The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for its advanced technology and powerful twin-turbocharged engine. It has a reputation for exceptional handling and acceleration, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
all-wheel drive system
"...the grip from the all-wheel drive system is so good, but it's all the tires are turning at the same rate. So when you back out and turn the wheels, it's skipping across the ground."
An all-wheel drive system helps a car use all four wheels to drive, which can make it easier to control and safer to drive in bad weather or on slippery roads.
An all-wheel drive (AWD) system distributes power to all four wheels of a vehicle, improving traction and handling, especially in adverse conditions. This enhances grip and stability during acceleration and cornering.
throttle mapping
"I have seen this proliferate. And that is the throttle mapping. Because it's all it is. It's a map. Okay. The throttle mapping for any car you get in."
Throttle mapping is how a car's computer decides how much power to give when you press the gas pedal. It can make the car feel faster or slower depending on how it's programmed.
Throttle mapping refers to the way a vehicle's engine management system interprets the driver's input on the accelerator pedal and adjusts the throttle position accordingly. This can affect the responsiveness and performance of the vehicle, allowing for different driving experiences based on how the mapping is set up.
manual transmission
"So when I drive a manual transmission on a canyon road and I get up to a speed where I am at, let's say red line is 7,000."
A manual transmission is a system in cars where you have to change gears yourself using a stick and a pedal. It gives you more control over how the car drives.
A manual transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. This allows for greater control over the vehicle's power and speed compared to automatic transmissions.
Jeep Cherokee
"...ig jeep history, folks. Not counting his mom's 86 Cherokee pioneer when he was 16 years old."
The Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV that can handle rough roads and is good for both city driving and adventures. It's popular for its flexibility and comfort.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV known for its off-road capability and versatility. It's often discussed for its blend of practicality and ruggedness, appealing to both urban and outdoor drivers.
Jeep Wrangler
"when he was 16 years old. He had an 88 Wrangler, 98 Wrangler Sport, 98 Wrangler Sahara to replace..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough, boxy car that can drive on rough roads and trails. It's popular for people who love outdoor adventures and want a vehicle that can handle tough conditions.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional off-road capabilities. It has a loyal following and is often discussed for its versatility and adventure-ready nature.
Chevrolet Silverado
"... replace the totaled sport. They took a break for Silverado because he bought a house and thought he needed a..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for work or family use. Many people like it because it can do a lot of different jobs well.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability, towing capacity, and versatility. It's often discussed in the context of work and personal use, making it a staple in the truck market.
Ford Mustang GT
"...years. When he was 15 to 17, his parents had a 95 Mustang GT and a 76 Corvette, his dad's,"
The Ford Mustang GT is a powerful and stylish car that many people love for its speed and cool looks. It's considered a classic American sports car.
The Ford Mustang GT is a performance variant of the iconic Mustang, known for its powerful engine and sporty design. It's often discussed for its status as a classic American muscle car.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...5 to 17, his parents had a 95 Mustang GT and a 76 Corvette, his dad's, and he got to occasionally drive them..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people dream of owning. It's known for its speed and cool looks, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car that has become a symbol of American automotive engineering. Its sleek design and powerful engine make it a popular topic among car enthusiasts.
Acura MDX
"is that his current life drives a 2007 Accure MDX. Likes the updated MDX much more than the one the..."
The Acura MDX is a roomy SUV that is nice to drive and has a lot of tech features. It's popular with families because it has plenty of space and comfort.
The Acura MDX is a midsize luxury SUV known for its spacious interior and advanced technology features. It's often discussed for its family-friendly design and comfortable ride.
Dodge Ram
"which is helpful. He's got a RAM, right? Looks like he's got a RAM."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that can carry heavy things and is great for work or play. Many people like it for its strength and usefulness.
The Dodge Ram, now known as the Ram Truck, is a full-size pickup truck recognized for its strong performance and towing capabilities. It's often discussed for its ruggedness and versatility in both work and leisure.
Mercedes-Benz Sclass
"Yeah, yeah. And he also says are his dreams of a Mercedes S-Class convertible AMG, something that he should give up on."
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a very fancy car that is designed for comfort and luxury. People talk about it because it has a lot of high-tech features and is known for being one of the best cars in the world.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a luxury sedan that represents the pinnacle of comfort, technology, and performance in the automotive world. It's often discussed for its advanced features and status as a luxury vehicle.
Acura TLX Type S
"and she likes it. Can you fit in a new TLX type S? Look, I realize I'm being very cavalier with you..."
The Acura TLX Type S is a sportier version of the regular TLX that is faster and more fun to drive. It's a good option for people who want luxury with a bit of excitement.
The Acura TLX Type S is a performance-oriented version of the TLX, featuring a more powerful engine and sportier handling. It's often discussed for its blend of luxury and performance.
Acura TLX
"But I take your point. The problem with the TLX, of course, as we've always talked about, is not ..."
The Acura TLX is a nice car that is comfortable to drive and has lots of tech features. It's a good choice for people who want a luxury feel without being too flashy.
The Acura TLX is a luxury sedan that emphasizes comfort and technology, appealing to those looking for a refined driving experience. It's often discussed for its blend of performance and luxury features.
Audi Allroad
"Yep. So I thought, maybe an Audi all-road. And then, yeah, I keep coming back to that perception thing."
The Audi Allroad is a fancy car that looks like a mix between a car and an SUV. It's designed to be comfortable and practical for different kinds of driving.
The Audi Allroad is a luxury wagon that combines the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car. It's often discussed for its versatility and upscale features.
BMW M40I
"...hat vehicle allowance to go get yourself a BMW X3 M40i. That's a surprisingly fun car, yeah."
The BMW X3 is a small luxury SUV that is comfortable and good for everyday use. It's popular for its mix of space and sporty driving.
The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. It's often discussed for its versatility and premium features.
Toyota Supra
"... are amazing. I doubt you could probably fit in a Supra. You might fit, but you know, you'd be pretty unh..."
The Toyota Supra is a cool sports car that many people love for its speed and style. It's popular among car fans who enjoy modifying and racing cars.
The Toyota Supra is a sports car that has gained a cult following for its performance and tuning potential. It's often discussed in the context of racing and car culture due to its iconic status.
Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG
"We loved it too. The GLA AMG 45, really fun car. That led me down the world of..."
The Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG is a fancy small SUV that is fun to drive fast. It's designed for people who want luxury and excitement in a compact package.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA AMG is a high-performance version of the GLA compact SUV, known for its sporty handling and luxury features. It's often discussed for its blend of practicality and performance.
Toyota GR Corolla
"... from my perspective. I kind of want you to get a GR Corolla, but I also don't think you'll fit and be comfort..."
The Toyota GR Corolla is a sportier version of a regular Corolla, made for people who like to drive fast and have fun. It's designed to be more exciting than the usual Corolla.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a performance-oriented version of the standard Corolla, designed for enthusiasts who seek a sporty driving experience. It's gaining attention for its agility and fun driving dynamics.
Toyota Corolla
"...om my perspective. I kind of want you to get a GR Corolla, but I also don't think you'll fit and be comfort..."
Volkswagen Golf
"...s absolutely a sports car compared to a Jeep. The Golf R is fun on its own right. But I'm just saying, t..."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small car that is easy to drive and great for everyday use. Many people like it because it's comfortable and fun to drive.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car known for its practicality, comfort, and fun driving experience. It's often discussed for its balance of performance and everyday usability.
Subaru Wx
"...g a little more casual in branding. I did think a Subaru WX would be great for you. It's good."
The Subaru WRX is a small car that is really fun to drive, especially in tough weather. It's known for being sporty and good in different driving conditions.
The Subaru WRX is a performance-oriented compact car known for its all-wheel-drive system and rally heritage. It's often discussed for its sporty performance and practicality in various driving conditions.
Kia Stinger
"that's too much car. Kia Stinger. All-wheel drive with the big six cylinder in it."
The Kia Stinger is a sporty car that is fun to drive and has a lot of space. It's a good choice for people who want a mix of performance and everyday usability.
The Kia Stinger is a sporty sedan that combines performance with practicality, offering a compelling alternative in the sports car segment. It's often discussed for its value and driving dynamics.
Jeep Cj
"It relates to where we've been. He's been a Jeep CJ driver for 40 years. And wants to look at start g..."
The Jeep CJ is an old version of the Jeep that is known for being tough and good for off-roading. It's a classic car that many people remember fondly.
The Jeep CJ is a classic model that laid the foundation for modern Jeep vehicles, known for its simple design and off-road capability. It's often discussed for its historical significance and nostalgic appeal.
Mazda Miata
"...iving skills, but he doesn't want to start with a Miata and work his way up. He says, I don't have enough..."
The Mazda Miata is a small, two-seat car that is really fun to drive. It's light and sporty, making it a favorite for people who love driving.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight, two-seat roadster celebrated for its engaging driving experience and affordability. It's often mentioned for its fun factor and is a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Porsche Panamera
"...Cayman would treat you very, very well. A Porsche Panamera would treat you very, very well. But a BMW M2 wou..."
The Porsche Panamera is a fancy car that is both fast and comfortable. It's designed to be a luxury car you can drive every day while still enjoying a sporty feel.
The Porsche Panamera is a luxury sports sedan that combines high performance with everyday usability. It's often discussed for its blend of comfort and speed, making it a unique offering in the Porsche lineup.
BMW M2
"...namera would treat you very, very well. But a BMW M2 would be great. A super would be excellent."
The BMW M2 is a fast and sporty car that many people enjoy driving. It's designed for performance and is popular with car lovers.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance version of the 2 Series, known for its powerful engine and agile handling. It's often discussed among enthusiasts for its sporty characteristics and driving experience.
Honda S2000
"... been eyeing other cars like the 370 Zee Nismo or S2000 among others. Yeah, that's hard."
The Honda S2000 is a small sports car that is very fast and fun to drive. It's popular with people who enjoy a thrilling driving experience.
The Honda S2000 is a two-seat sports car known for its high-revving engine and precise handling. It's often discussed for its performance and is a beloved model among car enthusiasts.
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