991: Worldwide Plague Of Enthusiasts, Losing The Perfect Car, Names Are Way Too Long
About this episode
A lively discussion kicks off with Todd and Paul sharing their excitement about upcoming events, including their annual trip to the Nürburgring and the 1000th podcast celebration. They dive into the latest hybrid offerings from Porsche and Mercedes, exploring the staggering power figures and market implications. The hosts also engage with listeners' car debates, featuring a couple from Switzerland seeking a versatile vehicle, ultimately landing on a fun Miata. They tackle a heartbreaking story of a listener who lost his rare Genesis G70, offering alternatives and insights into the current market. The episode wraps up with a mix of car news, listener questions, and a humorous take on the future of car names.
Mercedes AMG GTS E Performance
"So it is the Porsche 911 Carrera for GTS T hybrid, the 2025 Mercedes AMG GTS E performance."
The Mercedes AMG GTS E Performance is a fast and luxurious sports car that uses a hybrid engine, which means it combines a traditional engine with electric power for better performance.
The Mercedes AMG GTS E Performance is a high-performance sports car that combines luxury with powerful hybrid technology. It represents the brand's commitment to performance and innovation.
Porsche 911
"So it is the Porsche 911 Carrera for GTS T hybrid, the 2025 Mercedes AMG GTS E performance."
The Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is a faster and more powerful version of the regular 911. It's designed for those who want a sportier driving experience.
The Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is a high-performance variant of the iconic 911 sports car, known for its powerful engine and dynamic handling. The GTS trim offers enhanced features and performance compared to the standard models.
horsepower
"10 years ago. Unless you were talking about the funny car dragsters, nothing had horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the car can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time.
torque
"10 years ago. Unless you were talking about the funny car dragsters, nothing had horsepower or torque with a comma in it."
Torque is a way to measure how strong an engine is when it comes to turning the wheels. More torque means better acceleration and pulling power.
Torque is a measure of rotational force in an engine, indicating how much twisting force is available to turn the wheels. It's crucial for acceleration and overall vehicle performance.
net loss
"...they actually lost 5 billion net. So I had a fiscal year ending March 2025..."
Net loss means the company spent more money than it made, resulting in a financial loss.
Net loss refers to the amount by which a company's expenses exceed its revenues, indicating a financial loss over a specific period.
fiscal year
"...the fiscal year ending March 2025. The guesstimate was 560 million and they lost 5 billion..."
A fiscal year is a 12-month period that companies use to keep track of their finances, which can be different from the regular calendar year.
A fiscal year is a one-year period that companies use for financial reporting and budgeting, which may not align with the calendar year.
Power Stop
"...upgrade with Power Stop. Whether you drive weekend track days with your performance car..."
Power Stop is a brand that makes better brakes for cars. They offer parts that help your car stop faster and more reliably, which is especially useful for performance driving.
Power Stop is a company that specializes in aftermarket brake components, offering upgraded brake kits designed for better performance and durability. Their products are popular among car enthusiasts and those looking to enhance their vehicle's braking capabilities.
Volkswagen Golf
"... car situation includes Mark's family who owned a Volkswagen Golf sports van, which is the car that Mark learned to..."
Ford Explorer
"Okay, good. They also considered the GLB, the Explorer, and eventually just came across the Kia EV9. Whi..."
manual transmission
"Now, you can squeeze some fun out of it, it happens to be manual transmission."
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, which some people find more fun.
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 performance, often resulting in a more engaging driving experience.
Mazda Miata
"...they quickly found a 2016 ND Miata. Nobody listening a surprise, 6,000 miles for 20 grand..."
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small sports car that is fun to drive. The ND is the latest version from 2016, and it's known for being light and agile, making it great for driving enthusiasts.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight two-seater sports car known for its excellent handling and driving enjoyment. The ND generation, introduced in 2015, features a more modern design and improved technology compared to its predecessors.
Jeep Wrangler
"...I cannot believe they were actually able to rent a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara. Really?"
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara is a type of Jeep designed for both off-road driving and everyday use. It's popular for its strong build and ability to handle rough terrains, making it a favorite for outdoor adventures.
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara is a variant of the iconic Wrangler, known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It offers features that enhance comfort and style while maintaining the vehicle's adventurous spirit.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
"It was fun to drive, not Miata fun. You identified long ago, it's either Miata or Jeep Wrangler."
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small, sporty car that many people enjoy driving because it's very fun and easy to handle. It's a convertible, so you can drive with the top down.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight, two-seat roadster known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. It's often praised for its sporty performance and open-top design.
off-roading
"They went off-roading. Love the freedom of being able to go almost anywhere they wanted without dealing with tourist crowds."
Off-roading means driving a vehicle on rough, unpaved surfaces instead of regular roads. It's a fun way to explore nature and go places that regular cars can't reach.
Off-roading refers to driving a vehicle on unsurfaced roads or tracks, often involving rough terrain such as dirt, mud, rocks, and sand. It's popular among enthusiasts who enjoy exploring remote areas and challenging driving conditions.
hybrid
"...They've looked into the hybrid version and the electric range should cover their daily commutes and city trips..."
A hybrid car has two types of engines: one that runs on gas and another that runs on electricity. This helps save fuel and is better for the environment.
A hybrid vehicle uses both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Jeep Sahara 4xE
"...that would probably mean looking at a used Jeep since a new Sahara 4xE starts at 99,000 in Switzerland..."
The Jeep Sahara 4xE is a version of the Wrangler that can run on electricity and gas, making it better for the environment while still being able to go off-road.
The Jeep Sahara 4xE is a plug-in hybrid variant of the Wrangler, combining off-road capability with electric driving range for improved efficiency.
BMW X4
"...with BMW X3s X1s, maybe X4. You've probably thought of those..."
The BMW X4 is a luxury SUV that looks more like a coupe, meaning it has a sportier style while still offering space for passengers and cargo.
The BMW X4 is a compact luxury SUV that features a coupe-like design, combining sporty aesthetics with the practicality of an SUV.
BMW X1
"...with BMW X3s X1s, maybe X4. You've probably thought of those..."
The BMW X1 is a smaller luxury SUV that is easy to drive and has a flexible interior for carrying things. It's a good option for city driving.
The BMW X1 is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV that offers a sporty driving experience and a versatile interior, making it a popular choice for urban drivers.
BMW X3
"...with BMW X3s X1s, maybe X4. You've probably thought of those..."
The BMW X3 is a luxury SUV that is smaller than the X5. It's designed for comfort and has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo.
The BMW X3 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that combines performance with practicality, offering a spacious interior and advanced technology features.
Mini Countryman
"Sure. And you might be able to, if you do a used countryman, you could get one well below your budget and pro..."
The Mini Countryman is a small SUV that looks like a Mini car but has more space inside. It's perfect for people who want a fun car that can carry more stuff and passengers.
The Mini Countryman is a compact crossover that combines the iconic Mini styling with added space and versatility. It is significant for appealing to consumers who want the fun driving experience of a Mini but need more room for passengers and cargo.
used car market
"And you might be able to, if you do a used Countryman, you could get one well below your budget..."
The used car market is where people buy and sell cars that have been owned before. It's usually cheaper than buying a brand new car.
The used car market refers to the buying and selling of pre-owned vehicles, often providing more affordable options compared to new cars.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...do, which is sold in Europe in Switzerland as the Land Cruiser style, look at the Land Cruiser style."
Toyota Prado
"But if you look at the Toyota Prado, which is sold in Europe in Switzerland as the Land Cruiser style, look at the Land Cruiser style."
The Toyota Prado is a smaller version of the Land Cruiser, designed for off-road driving and adventure. It's popular in many countries for its reliability.
The Toyota Prado is a mid-size SUV that is part of the Land Cruiser family. It is known for its off-road capabilities and is often used in various markets around the world.
2.8 liter diesel
"And it's got the cool 2.8 liter diesel."
A 2.8 liter diesel engine is a type of engine that uses diesel fuel and has a size of 2.8 liters. Diesel engines are often more efficient and powerful for big vehicles.
The 2.8 liter diesel refers to the engine size and type, indicating a diesel engine with a displacement of 2.8 liters. Diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency and torque, making them suitable for larger vehicles like SUVs.
Mazda Cx30
"I also, not sure if it's worth mentioning the Mazda CX30 just as a runabout"
The Mazda CX-30 is a small SUV that is good for city driving and can handle some light outdoor activities.
The Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers a blend of practicality and style, making it suitable for urban driving and light adventures.
Suzuki Jimny
"Okay. It is the Suzuki Jimny. Oh, funny."
The Suzuki Jimny is a small, tough car made for going off-road. It's popular because it's simple and can handle rough paths really well.
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional off-road capabilities. It has gained a cult following for its simplicity and effectiveness in challenging terrains.
Suzuki Samurai
"And then somebody would inevitably pipe up about the Suzuki Samurai."
The Suzuki Samurai is a small, old-school off-road vehicle that many people used to love for its ability to drive on rough terrain. It's simple and fun to drive.
The Suzuki Samurai is a small, lightweight off-road vehicle that gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. It is known for its simplicity and capability in off-road conditions.
Bmw X5
"...eed to look at the plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW X5 and the Cayenne. Yeah."
The BMW X5 is a fancy SUV that has lots of space and nice features. It's known for being fun to drive, even though it's a big car, and people like it because it looks good and feels comfortable.
The BMW X5 is a luxury midsize SUV that combines performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It is significant for being one of the first luxury SUVs to offer a sporty driving experience, making it a popular choice among consumers looking for both utility and style.
Porsche Cayenne
"...the plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW X5 and the Cayenne. Yeah."
off-road capable running gear
"...you can get that with off-road capable running gear. But also it'll run two-wheel drive when you don't need it."
Off-road capable running gear means the parts of a vehicle that help it drive well on bumpy or uneven ground. This includes things like strong suspensions and special tires made for tough conditions.
Off-road capable running gear refers to the components and systems in a vehicle that enable it to perform well on rough terrains, such as rugged suspension systems, all-terrain tires, and four-wheel drive systems.
Lexus Gx550 Lexus
"...d Cruiser, the Prado that we get over here or the GX550 Lexus, that's all we'll drive all the time. One of the ..."
The Lexus GX 550 is a big luxury SUV that can go off-road and has a lot of space inside. It's great for people who want a nice car that can handle rough terrain and still be comfortable.
The Lexus GX 550 is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior. It is significant for its blend of ruggedness and luxury, appealing to those who need a capable vehicle for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
Genesis G70
"....com. You know how we've talked about the Genesis G70, and we like it. It's one of our favorites."
The Genesis G70 is a nice small luxury car that is comfortable and has lots of cool features. It's a good choice for people who want a fancy car without spending too much money.
The Genesis G70 is a luxury compact sedan that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology features. It is significant for its competitive pricing and high-quality materials, making it a strong contender in the luxury car market.
Pontiac Sunfire
"...hase include a 1997 Chevy Cavalier 5-speed, an 04 Sunfire Auto. A 2005 Kia Rio 5-speed currently owns a 201..."
The Pontiac Sunfire is a small car that was made a while ago and is known for being affordable and sporty. It's a good option for people who want a fun car without spending too much.
The Pontiac Sunfire is a compact car that was produced in the late 1990s and early 2000s, known for its sporty design and affordability. It is often discussed for its role as an entry-level vehicle for younger drivers.
Kia Rio
"...hevy Cavalier 5-speed, an 04 Sunfire Auto. A 2005 Kia Rio 5-speed currently owns a 2012 Super WRX STI limit..."
The Kia Rio is a small, affordable car that is great for getting around. It's known for being reliable and good on gas, making it a smart choice for people who want to save money.
The Kia Rio is a subcompact car that offers practicality and efficiency at an affordable price. It is significant for its value proposition, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable transportation.
Kia Forte
"...per WRX STI limited at 1986, 945 speed, and a Kia Forte coupe SX6 speed from 2016. That comes back up lat..."
The Kia Forte is a small car that is affordable and good on gas. It's a great choice for people who need a reliable car for everyday driving.
The Kia Forte is a compact sedan that emphasizes value, efficiency, and modern technology features. It is significant for its affordability and practicality, making it a popular choice for daily commuters.
Porsche 944
"... going. Sorry, he currently owns the 1987 Porsche 944 S5 speed, and then the total Genesis G70. He's do..."
Audi S5
"...ng. Sorry, he currently owns the 1987 Porsche 944 S5 speed, and then the total Genesis G70. He's done ..."
The Audi S5 is a sporty version of the regular A5 car, which means it has a stronger engine and handles better. It's a stylish car that also feels nice to drive.
The Audi S5 is a performance-oriented version of the A5, offering a more powerful engine and sportier handling while maintaining the luxury and comfort Audi is known for. It is significant for its sleek design and advanced technology features, appealing to those who want both style and performance.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
"... tried to line up a test drive for an Alpha Romeo Giulia 4 Sonder, and he ran out of time for he had to he..."
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a small luxury car that looks stylish and drives really well. It's made for people who want a fun and exciting ride.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a compact luxury sedan known for its sporty handling and Italian styling. It is significant for its blend of performance and elegance, appealing to those who appreciate a dynamic driving experience.
Hyundai Elantra N
"...car he's gotten is to drive list, include Hyundai Elantra N Manual and the latest Gen Civic SI. He says he's ..."
The Hyundai Elantra N is a sportier version of the regular Elantra, which is a small car. It's built for people who want a fun driving experience, with a powerful engine and cool features.
The Hyundai Elantra N is a high-performance version of the standard Elantra sedan, designed to offer an exhilarating driving experience with sporty handling and a powerful engine. It stands out in the compact car market for its combination of practicality and performance, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.
Honda Civic
"...clude Hyundai Elantra N Manual and the latest Gen Civic SI. He says he's heard so much about it, even tho..."
BMW New Bmw
"...aru are missing out on an opportunity to make the new BMW E36 and make a four-door version of 86 chassis. E..."
The BMW New Class is a group of cars that BMW made a long time ago, which helped the company become well-known for making nice cars. These cars had new ideas and styles that changed how cars looked and worked.
The BMW New Class refers to a series of compact sedans and coupes produced in the 1960s and 1970s that helped establish BMW as a premium brand. This line is significant for introducing features and designs that would influence future BMW models.
Toyota Supra
"...ry sorry you lost it. All the manual sports cars, Supra Nissan Z Mustang G86. I believe you've considered..."
Ford Mustang
"...st it. All the manual sports cars, Supra Nissan Z Mustang G86. I believe you've considered that GRD6 becaus..."
Nissan Z
"...ry you lost it. All the manual sports cars, Supra Nissan Z Mustang G86. I believe you've considered that GRD..."
The Nissan Z is a new sports car that looks cool and goes fast. It's part of a long line of Z-cars from Nissan, and it mixes old-school style with new technology.
The Nissan Z is a modern sports car that pays homage to the brand's long history of Z-cars, known for their performance and style. The latest iteration combines retro design elements with advanced technology and a powerful engine, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
BMW M2
"...70 with a 2.5 liter. I'm going to hold up the BMW M2. The first M2, the first generation of BMW M2."
The BMW M2 is a super fun version of a small BMW car that is made for people who love to drive fast. It has a strong engine and is built to handle really well on the road.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance version of the 2 Series coupe, designed for driving enthusiasts who seek a thrilling experience on the road. It is significant for its powerful engine and agile handling, making it a favorite among sports car fans.
Cadillac CT4
"...ut you know what it is. It's the Cadillac CT5 and CT4 of these series Blackwing, my friend. So I went l..."
The Cadillac CT4 is a small luxury car that is stylish and comfortable. It's made for people who want a nice car that doesn't cost too much compared to other luxury cars.
The Cadillac CT4 is a compact luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, technology, and comfort. It is significant for its modern design and competitive pricing in the luxury segment, appealing to younger buyers.
Cadillac CT5
"But you know what it is. It's the Cadillac CT5 and CT4 of these series Blackwing, my friend. So ..."
Porsche Gts Carrera
"...nd the, I'm going to do it all. The Porsche 992.2 GTS Carrera 4T hybrid. There it is."
The Porsche Carrera GT is a super-fast sports car that is very rare and special. It has a powerful engine and is loved by car enthusiasts for how well it drives.
The Porsche Carrera GT is a limited-production supercar known for its exceptional performance and engineering. It features a powerful V10 engine and is celebrated for its driving dynamics, making it a sought-after collector's item.
Mazda Cx50
"... color, you can also get on things like the Mazda CX50. And I can almost see it there because we're lean..."
The Mazda CX-50 is a small SUV that is fun to drive and looks good. It's made for people who need space for passengers and stuff but still want a car that feels sporty.
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV that emphasizes sporty handling and a stylish design, catering to consumers looking for versatility without sacrificing performance. It is significant for its blend of practicality and driving enjoyment.
Acura Nsx
"...give you a story, Michael. And that is the yellow Acura NSX that we recently drove in our Emira and Ferrari 3..."
The Acura NSX is a fancy sports car that is super fast and has a mix of gas and electric power. It's known for being really high-tech and is considered one of the best sports cars you can buy.
The Acura NSX is a high-performance sports car that combines luxury with cutting-edge technology, featuring a hybrid powertrain for enhanced efficiency and performance. It is significant for its role in redefining what an American supercar can be, blending Japanese engineering with exotic styling.
Ferrari 360
"...Acura NSX that we recently drove in our Emira and Ferrari 360 spider comparison. Love it, that's a great one."
Lotus Emira
"...he yellow Acura NSX that we recently drove in our Emira and Ferrari 360 spider comparison. Love it, that'..."
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
"Seth Kay asks about the AMG GT and the 9-11,"
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is a really fast and fancy sports car. It has a powerful engine and is made to be both comfortable and exciting to drive.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is a high-performance sports car that showcases the brand's engineering excellence and luxury. It features a powerful V8 engine and is designed for both speed and comfort, making it a standout in the luxury sports car market.
Porsche 911 Turbo
"911 twin, but the turbo actual 911 turbo, even though all the rest of these are turbo,"
The Porsche 911 Turbo is a super-fast sports car that looks great and drives really well. It's special because you can use it every day, but it's also built for racing and going really fast.
The Porsche 911 Turbo is a high-performance version of the iconic 911 sports car, known for its powerful turbocharged engine and exceptional handling. It is significant for its blend of everyday usability and track-ready performance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.