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Ahhhhh, the French Champagne

Ahhhhh, the French Champagne

Smith and Sniff Dec 22, 2025 52 min
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About this episode

A lively Christmas-themed episode features Richard Porter and Johnny Smith reminiscing about the 90s while dressed in retro attire. They share humorous anecdotes about their past, including fashion faux pas and memorable moments from their time on automotive shows. The duo also discusses quirky traditions, such as the Catalan Yule log, and engages in playful banter about kit cars and their absurdities. With a mix of nostalgia and light-hearted comedy, the episode captures the essence of holiday cheer and friendship.

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Technical Too Afraid to Ask
Term

oversteer

"Things became uncontrollable to the point where there was a combination of buka oversteer."

When a car turns, the back end can swing out more than the front. This is called oversteer and can make the car feel like it's spinning if you don't steer or brake properly.

Car

Mercedes A-class

"[713.0s] So I can be a Mercedes A-class. [715.0s] Oh, wow."

The Mercedes A‑Class is a small, fancy car made by the German company Mercedes‑Benz. It’s popular for its sleek look and high-tech gadgets inside.

Car

Citroen DS

"[742.0s] I was passing one of those, [744.0s] and there was somebody in it repairing a puncture on their car. [747.0s] But their car was a Citroen DS."

The Citroën DS is a famous old French car from the 1950s and 60s. It was known for its sleek look and smooth ride, thanks to special design features that were ahead of its time.

Car

BMW XR3

"[1403.0s] My XR3 was on fire."

The XR3 is a special version of the BMW 3 Series that’s faster and more fun to drive because it has a stronger engine and better handling.

Brand

Venturi

"[1464.0s] Yeah, it's a Venturi."

Venturi is a small car company from France that makes fast, sporty cars. They’re not as famous as big brands like Ford or Toyota, but they have a niche following among car enthusiasts.

Part

heater crank

"unless they've got the heater crank. Because, you know, if anyone has had a convertible, you can do that thing."

In a convertible car, you can open the roof. The heater crank is a button that turns on the heater so it stays warm even with the top off.

Car

XC90

"Some dickhead can't read what's written on the side of an F-ing XC90."

The XC90 is a big family car from Volvo that can seat up to seven people. It’s popular for its safety and roomy inside space.

Term

kit cars

"[2785.0s] Who wants to talk about kit cars? [2793.0s] Let's talk kit cars."

A kit car is like a DIY project for cars. You buy the parts and instructions, then put it together yourself to make your own car.

Term

kit cart

"So when you see a kit cart, no offense to anyone that owns one"

A kit car is a car you can build yourself from parts that come in a box. People often call it a "kit cart" because you can drive it once it's assembled.

Car

DeVrian

"The flaccid devrian"

DeVrian makes cars that look like old sports cars, but you build them from parts they provide. They’re popular because they’re cheaper than buying a real classic car.

Car

Dutton Faton

"The flaccid Dutton faton"

Dutton makes a car that looks like a Porsche 911, but you build it from parts they sell. It’s a popular choice for people who want the look of a 911 without the high price.

Car

Fury Spider

"The flaccid fury spider"

Fury Spider is a car you can build from parts that look like an old sports car. It’s another option for people who want a classic style without buying the original.

Concept

replicas

"[2995.0s] Yeah, they're not kit cars. [2996.0s] No. [2997.0s] They're replicas."

Replicas are cars made to look like a particular model, but they might not be the exact same car. They’re often built by enthusiasts to race or show off.

2 cars featured

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