AutoAlex on The Backlash For Buying His Dream Car | EP47
About this episode
Auto Alex shares his journey from working at Car Throttle to launching his own YouTube channel, Auto Alex, which quickly gained popularity. He discusses the backlash he faced after purchasing a Porsche Macan, reflecting on the challenges of being in the public eye and the pressure of audience expectations. The conversation also touches on his passion for restoring high-mileage cars, the importance of community within the automotive world, and his plans for future projects, including a new series and events. Alex's candid insights into the automotive industry and his personal experiences make for an engaging listen.
In this episode of the Talkin’ Shop Podcast we sit down with YouTuber Alex Kersten (AutoAlex) — the man who walked away from the hugely successful Car Throttle to build his own automotive empire. Alex opens up about the pressure of going solo, what it was like to launch AutoAlex Cars and hit over 300,000 subscribers in just three weeks, and how he almost gave it all up before it even began. He talks candidly about the backlash from fans when he bought a “too nice” car (yep- the Porsche Macan story!), why he sold it, and how he’s learned from his mistakes.We also chat about restoring forgotten classics, dream road trips, the magic of old-school motoring, and how he and his team are shaping the next generation of British car shows. This one’s packed with laughs, honesty, nostalgia and some home truths about YouTube life, the car scene, and what success really means.
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Brought to you by Eclipse Diagnostics. If you work on commercial vehicles, vessels or machinery, check out Jaltest – the UK's leading multi-brand diagnostic tool. Quote "TALKINSHOP" in your enquiry for a free cable saver with your order; on-site training included:
https://www.eclipse-tech.co.uk/talkin-shop/
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Alex Kersten:
https://www.youtube.com/@AutoalexCars
https://www.youtube.com/@Autoalexv2
https://www.youtube.com/@AutoAlexPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/autoalex/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Autoalex-Alex-Kersten/100076398660374/#
https://www.linkedin.com/company/eclipse-automotive-technology-ltd/
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YouTube videos mentioned in this podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfCF-Ws2dlI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbX1V46I9LQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7hq_4mhRc4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zptUEj-E13E
Land Rover Discovery 2
"...looking around me at a Disco 2 on a ramp in quite a nice unit in a secluded part of Reading."
The Land Rover Discovery 2 is a type of SUV that can handle rough terrains and is great for outdoor activities. It's known for being roomy and comfortable.
The Land Rover Discovery 2, also known as the Disco 2, is a mid-size SUV produced from 1998 to 2004. It is known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior, making it popular among adventure enthusiasts.
Porsche 911
"And yeah, clearly never getting rid of it. Even for that 9-11, even I was like, oh no, that'd be gone. That'd be gone."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around for a long time. It's loved for how it looks and drives, and many people consider it a dream car.
The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. It has been in production since 1964 and is celebrated for its performance, handling, and engineering excellence, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
hot hatches
"...which is the hot hatches. So, me, for example..."
Hot hatches are fast and fun versions of small cars that have a hatchback design. They are made to be sporty but still practical for everyday use.
Hot hatches are high-performance versions of hatchback cars, designed for sporty driving while maintaining practicality. They typically feature powerful engines, sport-tuned suspensions, and enhanced handling characteristics.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...on the trailer back of our Land Cruiser,..."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a tough SUV that can handle rough terrain and is known for being reliable. It's popular for both off-roading and as a comfortable family vehicle.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a series of four-wheel drive vehicles known for their durability and off-road capabilities. They are often used for both luxury and rugged applications, making them popular worldwide.
restomod
"But it's buying a car that should be scrapped, that no one loves, that's been sitting for a while and tarting it up, fixing it, giving it a completely new lease of life and then taking it on an adventure."
Restomod is when you take an old car, fix it up, and add new parts to make it better. It's like giving a classic car a modern upgrade while keeping its original look.
Restomod refers to the practice of restoring a classic car while adding modern components and technology to improve performance and comfort. This approach allows enthusiasts to enjoy the aesthetics of vintage vehicles with the reliability and features of contemporary cars.
Nürburgring
"...and then going to the Nürburgring. It's, for a lot of people, it's really unrealistic."
The Nürburgring is a well-known race track in Germany where many car companies test their vehicles. It's famous for being very difficult and is popular among car lovers.
The Nürburgring is a famous motorsport complex in Germany, known for its challenging racetrack that is often used for testing and racing by manufacturers and enthusiasts alike. It's considered one of the most demanding tracks in the world due to its length and variety of corners.
BMW 316i
"...Mum's old green E21 BMW 316i that had a rust hole in the passenger foot well."
The BMW 316i is a small car from the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was part of the 3 Series lineup and is remembered for being fun to drive and stylish.
The BMW 316i is a model from the E21 generation of the BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 1975 to 1983. It is known for its compact size and sporty handling, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Porsche 944
"...she also had a Porsche 944."
The Porsche 944 is a sports car made by the German company Porsche. It was popular in the 1980s and 1990s for its good handling and performance.
The Porsche 944 is a sports car produced by Porsche from 1982 to 1991. It is known for its balanced handling and front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts.
Ford Granada
"... When we went to Germany, we were driving an old Granada and the four-speed automatic gearbox broke."
The Ford Granada is an older car that was popular in the past. It's known for being comfortable and practical for everyday use.
The Ford Granada is a mid-size car that was produced from the 1970s to the early 1990s, known for its comfort and practicality. It was popular in Europe and North America and is often discussed for its nostalgic value.
Dodge Journey
"...bout with you already is helping people in their journey, you know, with the whole, again, the van thing ..."
The Dodge Journey is a family-friendly SUV that has lots of space for people and cargo. It's designed to be practical and affordable for everyday use.
The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV that was produced from 2008 to 2020, offering versatility and family-friendly features. It is often discussed for its spacious interior and affordability in the SUV market.
coilovers
"I still don't have those bloody gas coilovers on there yet. I still need to get the top bounce for that."
Coilovers are special parts of a car's suspension that help control how the car rides and handles. They can be adjusted to change how high or low the car sits and how it feels on the road.
Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single unit. They allow for adjustable ride height and damping, which can enhance handling and performance.
Porsche 928
"So there was a 928 with four doors and four seats. And it had like suicide doors on it."
The Porsche 928 is a type of sports car that was made by Porsche. It has a unique design with the engine in the front and is known for being both fast and comfortable.
The Porsche 928 is a luxury sports car produced by Porsche from 1978 to 1995. It was notable for its front-engine layout and was designed to combine the performance of a sports car with the comfort of a grand tourer.
Porsche 959
"But you know, my greatest loves are Carrera GT, Porsche 959."
The Porsche 959 is a very advanced sports car made by Porsche in the late 1980s. It has a powerful engine and special features that made it stand out from other cars.
The Porsche 959 is a high-performance sports car that was produced by Porsche from 1986 to 1989. It was one of the most technologically advanced cars of its time, featuring all-wheel drive and a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine.
Porsche Carrera GT
"...sed on that. But you know, my greatest loves are Carrera GT, Porsche 959. They for me are like poster cars. ..."
Porsche Panamera
"...in. They've got the Taycan, then they've got the Panamera and I'm like the same cars. It's not, but it's li..."
Porsche Taycan
"...they've got the Taycan, then they've got the Panamera and I'm like the same cars. It's not, but it's like the same sort of purpose..."
The Porsche Taycan is a high-end electric car made by Porsche. It's known for being fast and having a lot of modern features.
The Porsche Taycan is an all-electric luxury sedan that combines performance with cutting-edge technology. It represents Porsche's entry into the electric vehicle market, offering impressive acceleration and range.
Mercedes 500e
"Porsche has had a hand in many cars, you know, Audi RS2, the Mercedes 500e and all that stuff."
The Mercedes 500e is an electric car made by Mercedes-Benz. It was one of their early attempts to make a luxury electric vehicle.
The Mercedes 500e is a luxury electric vehicle that was produced in the 1990s. It was part of Mercedes-Benz's efforts to innovate in the electric car market.
Audi RS2
"Porsche has had a hand in many cars, you know, Audi RS2, the Mercedes 500e and all that stuff."
The Audi RS2 is a fast version of a station wagon made by Audi. It was made with help from Porsche and is known for being both practical and sporty.
The Audi RS2 is a high-performance version of the Audi 80 Avant, developed in collaboration with Porsche. It was notable for its combination of practicality and sports car performance.
V6 engine
"the Jaguar V6, you know, that was originally a Porsche developed engine in the 80s."
A V6 engine is a type of engine that has six cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's often used in cars because it offers a good mix of power and fuel efficiency.
A V6 engine is a six-cylinder engine arranged in a V configuration. It is known for providing a good balance of power and efficiency, making it popular in many vehicles.
twin turbo
"It's got a three liter V six twin turbo with 340 brake horsepower."
Twin turbo means the engine has two turbochargers that help it produce more power. This makes the car faster and more efficient.
A twin-turbo setup uses two turbochargers to increase an engine's power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This results in improved performance and efficiency compared to a single turbocharger.
brake horsepower
"It's got a three liter V six twin turbo with 340 brake horsepower."
Brake horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. It tells you how much power the engine can produce before any energy is lost in the car's parts.
Brake horsepower (BHP) is a measurement of an engine's power output before losses from the drivetrain are taken into account. It indicates the engine's raw power and is often used to compare performance between vehicles.
three liter V6
"It's got a three liter V six twin turbo with 340 brake horsepower."
A three-liter V6 engine is a type of car engine that has six cylinders shaped like a 'V' and can hold three liters of air and fuel. It's popular because it offers a good mix of power and fuel economy.
A three-liter V6 engine has six cylinders arranged in a V configuration and a total displacement of three liters. This type of engine is known for providing a good balance of power and efficiency.
BMW 530
"...hat I should have always bought, which is a G 31 530 diesel touring BMW. And I've had it for over a ye..."
The BMW 5 Series is a larger luxury car that's comfortable and packed with technology. It's great for people who want a nice ride with plenty of space.
The BMW 5 Series is a mid-size luxury sedan that has been in production since 1972, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. It is often discussed for its spacious interior and advanced features, making it a favorite among business professionals.
MPG
"...it's got crap MPG. It's small. And also for me, especially I'm going up and down the motorway..."
MPG means how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. Higher MPG means the car uses less fuel, which is better for your wallet and the environment.
MPG stands for 'miles per gallon' and is a measure of fuel efficiency in vehicles. It indicates how many miles a car can travel on one gallon of fuel, which is crucial for understanding operating costs and environmental impact.
SUV
"...I think this about like cause I X fours, you know, they slope back to SUVs. I don't get the point in them..."
An SUV is a big car that can be used on different types of roads, including rough ones. They usually have more space inside for passengers and luggage.
SUV stands for 'Sport Utility Vehicle', which is a versatile vehicle designed for both on-road and off-road use. SUVs typically offer higher ground clearance and more cargo space compared to regular cars.
three-liter diesel
"This is a three litter diesel. It should be doing better than this."
A three-liter diesel engine is a type of engine that is bigger and runs on diesel fuel. Diesel engines usually get better fuel economy and have more power for heavy vehicles.
A three-liter diesel engine refers to an internal combustion engine with a displacement of three liters that runs on diesel fuel. Diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency and torque characteristics, making them popular in larger vehicles.
Porsche Boxster
"...nd then I'm doing 10 MPG. So I recently bought a Boxster GTS, the four liter one. And now I am four liter ..."
The Porsche Boxster is a two-seater sports car that has a soft top you can open. It's known for being fun to drive and is often seen as a more affordable way to own a Porsche.
The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster that offers a thrilling driving experience with its lightweight design and agile handling. Introduced in 1996, it has become a popular choice for those seeking a more affordable entry into the Porsche brand.
all-wheel drive
"but we need a practical car. It's all wheel drive."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of a car get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain configuration that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously. This enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or off-road situations.
Grand Tour
"...do you think because of us losing the Grand Tour top gear, all these well-known car programs, that sort of helped people want to recreate something similar?"
The Grand Tour is a TV show about cars, where hosts drive and review different vehicles while having fun and going on adventures. It's similar to another famous show called Top Gear.
The Grand Tour is a popular automotive television series featuring car reviews, challenges, and travel segments, created by former Top Gear presenters. It showcases a mix of humor, adventure, and automotive culture, appealing to car enthusiasts.
Aston Martin
"...like they did on the, with the Aston, the Maserati and the Jag."
Aston Martin is a brand that makes luxury sports cars, known for their stylish looks and powerful performance. They are often featured in movies, especially James Bond films.
Aston Martin is a British luxury sports car manufacturer known for its high-performance vehicles and elegant design. The brand is often associated with James Bond films, adding to its iconic status.
BMW 330i Touring
"...obviously he sold me Barney, the 330i touring. And then I think a couple of weeks later we went back..."
The BMW 330i Touring is a sporty wagon version of the BMW 3 Series. It offers a good balance of performance and space, making it suitable for both driving enjoyment and everyday use.
The BMW 330i Touring is a variant of the BMW 3 Series, known for its sporty performance and practicality as a wagon. It combines the driving dynamics of a sedan with the added cargo space of a wagon, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who need versatility.
Land Rover Range Rover
"... so this year, and he said, I've got this purple Range Rover. Do you want to buy it? It's one of one. It owes ..."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can handle rough terrains while keeping you comfortable inside. It's known for being luxurious and is often seen as a status symbol.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV that combines off-road capability with high-end comfort and technology. Since its debut in 1970, it has set the standard for luxury SUVs and is often discussed for its blend of ruggedness and refinement.
high mileage
"It's done high mileage, 186,000 miles. It needs a full respray as well."
High mileage means the car has been driven a lot, usually more than 100,000 miles. Cars with high mileage might have more problems because they've been used so much.
High mileage refers to a vehicle that has been driven a significant number of miles, often over 100,000. Cars with high mileage may experience more wear and tear, which can affect their reliability and resale value.
Ferrari 360
"...eople are going to switch off. Case in point, the Ferrari 360 that I used to own bought it. I was like, oh my ..."
The Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale is a special version of the Ferrari 360 that is made for racing. It's lighter and faster, making it very exciting to drive.
The Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale is a track-focused version of the 360 Modena, featuring enhancements in performance and handling. It is revered for its lightweight construction and racing pedigree, making it a sought-after model among collectors.
BMW M3
"...you meant? I know. Yeah. Honestly, on mine, on my M3, I looked at the service. I saw it was a year ol..."
The BMW M3 is a fast and sporty version of the regular BMW 3 Series. It's designed for people who love driving and want a car that feels exciting on the road.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its powerful engines and sporty handling. It has a rich motorsport heritage and is often regarded as one of the best performance sedans available.
BMW F12
"...ally strangely enamoured by, which is the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Yeah. Yes. The Xavius to the 812. Ye..."
The BMW 6 Series is a stylish and powerful car that you can get as a coupe or convertible. It's designed for people who want a mix of luxury and sportiness.
The BMW 6 Series is a luxury grand tourer that combines performance with elegance, available in coupe and convertible body styles. It is known for its powerful engines and stylish design, making it a popular choice among those seeking a sporty yet luxurious driving experience.
Ferrari F12
"...I'm actually strangely enamoured by, which is the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Yeah. Yes. The Xavius to the 812. Ye..."
Ferrari F50
"...ere we go. There we go. Yeah, brilliant. F40 and F50 for me. Oh, really? Yeah. And if I was going mode..."
The Ferrari F50 is a super-fast sports car made by Ferrari in the 1990s. It's very rare and is known for being one of the best cars for speed and performance.
The Ferrari F50 is a limited-production supercar that was produced in the 1990s, featuring a V12 engine and a lightweight carbon fiber body. It is celebrated for its raw performance and connection to Ferrari's racing heritage.
Ferrari F40
"... one. There we go. There we go. Yeah, brilliant. F40 and F50 for me. Oh, really? Yeah. And if I was go..."
Renault Clio Williams
"...ol hot hatches as well, like 205s. And I love my Clio Williams. That's going to get cams and, you know, tune and..."
The Renault Clio Williams is a special version of a small car made for fun driving. It's known for being sporty and has a unique look.
The Renault Clio Williams is a limited-edition hot hatch that was produced in the early 1990s, known for its performance and motorsport heritage. It is celebrated among enthusiasts for its engaging driving experience and distinctive styling.
Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow
"...t my car, car and classic. Nice. It's Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. Oh, wow. It's purple. Oh, wow. And the interior..."
The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow is a very fancy car that was made a long time ago. It's known for being super comfortable and having a beautiful interior.
The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow is a luxury sedan produced from 1965 to 1980, known for its opulent interior and smooth ride. It marked a significant shift in Rolls-Royce's production techniques and is considered a classic among luxury car enthusiasts.
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