Cars, Tacos, And A Secret Drive-In Movie?
About this episode
The podcast dives into the upcoming Hot Rod Tour of Texas, featuring co-founder Bobby Sparkman and his team. They discuss the event's history, registration details, and highlights like the kickoff party, scenic Hill Country route, and exclusive access to the Stars and Stripes Drive-In with a secret movie screening. Guests share personal stories about past tours, including memorable stops and community involvement. The episode also touches on local car events and the passion behind keeping classic car culture alive through driving tours and social gatherings.
Craving a road trip that feels like a rolling car show with heart? We map out the Hot Rod Tour of Texas with organizers Bobby and Sabra Sparkman and dig into why this hill country run sells out fast, brings a symphony to the town square, and caps the weekend with a secret drive-in feature on the biggest screen at Stars and Stripes. From the free Thursday night kickoff in downtown Victoria to carefully scouted stops that can handle 350 cars, you’ll hear how the team balances logistics, safety, and pure fun.
We share what registration includes—driver and passenger shirts, two catered meals, and venue access—and why Eventbrite helps keep scammers away. The route heads north through the hill country with a Texas history stop at a restored fort, quick time at a beloved New Braunfels shop, and awards at the Luckenbach post office. Hotels in Victoria, New Braunfels, and Fredericksburg filled fast, so we offer tips on booking and why planning early matters. Along the way, we spotlight the culture that makes this tour special: teens piloting with grandparents, builders unveiling progress, Sabra’s hand-made caps selling out, and the Cobars returning to play beneath vintage aircraft.
We also widen the lens. Bobby’s crew supports car culture year-round with city shows, festival events, and cruises that keep people driving rather than parking. Then we switch gears for Motor Minute and tackle planned obsolescence—myth or real strategy—and close with a frank review of the Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid calligraphy AWD, covering design, mileage, and everyday comfort.
Spots are already about 75 percent full. Join the ride, invite your co-pilot, and get your registration in before the last weekend of April sneaks up. If you enjoy this show, tap follow, share it with your car club, and leave a quick review so more drivers can find us.
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Ford Model A
"He drove the entire tour in a model A with his grandfather. I think we saw them."
The Ford Model A is an old car made almost 100 years ago. It was one of the first cars many people could afford and drive.
The Ford Model A is a classic car produced by Ford from 1927 to 1931. It was the successor to the Model T and was known for its improved performance and comfort compared to its predecessor.
hot rod
"And the one that I sticks out in my mind is the the hot rod shop with the body shop."
A hot rod is an old car that people change to make it faster and look cooler, usually with special paint and parts.
A hot rod is a classic American car, typically from the early to mid-20th century, that has been modified for increased performance and distinctive style, often with custom bodywork and powerful engines.
body shop
"And the one that I sticks out in my mind is the the hot rod shop with the body shop."
A body shop is a place where cars get fixed on the outside, like fixing dents or repainting.
A body shop is a facility where vehicles are repaired and restored, especially the exterior panels and paintwork, often after accidents or for customization.
planned obsolescence
""Yeah, we're going to call this planned obsolescence. And here's what I'm talking about. If you've ever felt like your car started falling apart right after the warranty expired,""
Planned obsolescence means that some cars or parts are made to stop working well after a certain time, usually after the warranty ends, so people have to buy new ones. It's like things are designed to wear out on purpose.
Planned obsolescence is a strategy where manufacturers design products to have a limited useful life, so they become outdated or non-functional after a certain period, often shortly after the warranty expires. This encourages consumers to purchase new products more frequently.
trade-in
"General Motors president Alfred P. Sloan back then famously introduced an annual model update to entice owners to trade in their vehicles for the latest model and style."
Trading in means giving your old car to the dealer to help pay for a new one.
A trade-in is when a car owner exchanges their current vehicle to a dealer as partial payment toward a new car purchase.
General Motors
"General Motors president Alfred P. Sloan back then famously introduced an annual model update to entice owners to trade in their vehicles for the latest model and style."
General Motors is a big company that makes many kinds of cars you might see on the road.
General Motors is a major American automotive manufacturer known for brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick.
annual model update
"General Motors president Alfred P. Sloan back then famously introduced an annual model update to entice owners to trade in their vehicles for the latest model and style."
Every year, car companies make a new version of their cars with small changes so people want to buy the newest one.
An annual model update is a marketing strategy where car manufacturers release a new version of a vehicle each year with styling or feature changes to encourage customers to buy the latest model.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
""Or a Monte Carlo or a.""
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a type of car made by Chevrolet. It was popular a long time ago and is known for being a stylish two-door car.
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a mid-size car produced by Chevrolet, known for its popularity in the 1970s and 1980s as a personal luxury coupe and also for its involvement in NASCAR racing.
GM
"You know, GM made a bunch of 6.2 liter engines that failed on many levels. Yes. And they bought them all back."
GM is a big car company in the U.S. that makes many types of cars and trucks you might see on the road.
GM, or General Motors, is a major American automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles including Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick.
6.2 liter engine
"You know, GM made a bunch of 6.2 liter engines that failed on many levels. Yes. And they bought them all back."
A 6.2 liter engine is a big engine that powers some cars and trucks, making them strong and fast.
A 6.2 liter engine refers to an internal combustion engine with a displacement of 6.2 liters, commonly used in performance and heavy-duty vehicles. GM produced several versions of this engine, including V8 variants.
pot metal
"Well, I understand. But how do you. Design it to end at a certain time? Pot metal."
Pot metal is a cheap kind of metal that breaks easily. It's used to make parts that don't last very long.
Pot metal is a term for inexpensive, low-quality metal alloys often used in manufacturing parts that are not expected to last long. These alloys typically have poor durability and are prone to failure under stress or over time.
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
"I had a very nice experience with the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe. Now it comes in several trim levels, including SE, SEL, the limited and the calligraphy."
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a medium-sized SUV that can carry families and has different versions with features like a hybrid engine and all-wheel drive. It’s comfortable and roomy for passengers.
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV from Hyundai, offering various trim levels and configurations including hybrid and all-wheel drive options. It is known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features.
trim levels
"Now it comes in several trim levels, including SE, SEL, the limited and the calligraphy."
Trim levels are different versions of the same car that come with more or fewer features. You can pick the one that has what you want and fits your price.
Trim levels refer to different versions of a car model that offer varying features, equipment, and sometimes performance options. They allow buyers to choose a configuration that fits their needs and budget.
all-wheel drive
"Oh, I reviewed or am reviewing the hybrid calligraphy all wheel drive."
All-wheel drive means the car can send power to all four wheels at the same time. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that powers all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, improving traction and stability, especially in slippery or off-road conditions.
Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy
"Oh, I reviewed or am reviewing the hybrid calligraphy all wheel drive."
The Calligraphy is the fanciest version of the Hyundai Santa Fe. It has nicer materials inside and more features. The hybrid all-wheel drive means it uses both gas and electric power and can drive all four wheels.
The Calligraphy is the top-tier trim level of the Hyundai Santa Fe, often featuring premium materials, advanced technology, and more luxurious appointments. The hybrid all-wheel drive version combines fuel efficiency with enhanced traction.
hybrid
"Oh, I reviewed or am reviewing the hybrid calligraphy all wheel drive."
A hybrid car uses both gas and electricity to help it go farther without using as much fuel. It’s better for the environment and saves money on gas.
A hybrid vehicle uses a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It can switch between or combine power sources as needed.
midsize SUV
"This is a midsize SUV, although it looks like it is a full size."
A midsize SUV is a medium-sized car that is bigger than small SUVs but not as big as the largest ones. It can carry more people and stuff but is still easy to drive.
A midsize SUV is a sport utility vehicle that is larger than compact SUVs but smaller than full-size SUVs, offering a balance of passenger space, cargo capacity, and maneuverability.
third row
"So it does have a third row."
The third row is an extra row of seats in the back of the car so it can carry more people, usually seven or more.
A third row refers to an additional row of seats in a vehicle behind the second row, allowing the vehicle to seat more passengers, typically seven or eight in total.
horsepower
"Turbocharged four cylinder hybrid engine that turns out 231 horsepower and 271 pound feet of torque..."
Horsepower tells you how strong the engine is and how much power it can make to move the car.
Horsepower is a unit measuring the engine's power output, indicating how much work it can perform over time.
pound feet of torque
"Turbocharged four cylinder hybrid engine that turns out 231 horsepower and 271 pound feet of torque..."
Torque is the twisting power that helps the car start moving and pull heavy things.
Torque is a measure of rotational force the engine produces, which affects how quickly a vehicle can accelerate and tow loads.
turbocharged
"Turbocharged four cylinder hybrid engine that turns out 231 horsepower and 271 pound feet of torque..."
Turbocharged means the engine has a special device that pushes extra air in to make the car more powerful.
Turbocharged refers to an engine that uses a turbocharger to force more air into the combustion chamber, increasing power output without increasing engine size.
six speed automatic transmission
"...which was plenty for the six speed automatic transmission."
This is a system that changes the car's gears by itself, with six different gear levels to help the car run well.
A six speed automatic transmission automatically changes through six gear ratios to provide smooth acceleration and improve fuel efficiency.
towing capacity
"And it will tow up to one ton."
Towing capacity tells you how heavy a trailer or load the car can pull without problems.
Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely pull behind it, often important for hauling trailers or heavy loads.
mileage
"Mileage. City 35, highway 34 for a combined to 34. I got 32.6 miles per gallon over 394.8 miles."
Mileage means how far the car can go using one gallon of gas, which shows how good it is on fuel.
Mileage refers to how many miles a vehicle can travel per gallon of fuel, indicating its fuel efficiency.
base trim price
""The base trim price is $52,500. That's the base trim price. As tested, $52,985.""
Base trim price means the cost of the simplest version of a car before adding any extras or upgrades.
The base trim price refers to the starting price of the most basic version of a car model without any optional features or upgrades.
Kia Sorento
""Kia Sorento. It's cousin, $38,690.""
The Kia Sorento is a type of family SUV that many people buy because it has lots of space and features for a good price.
The Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV known for its value, practicality, and available features, competing in a popular segment of family vehicles.
Toyota Highlander
"Toyota Highlander, $48,964."
The Toyota Highlander is a type of SUV that many families like because it has plenty of space and is easy to own. It's a popular choice if you want a bigger car for passengers and cargo.
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features. It competes in the popular SUV segment with various other models.
Mitsubishi Outlander
"Mitsubishi Outlander, which I never would compare this to, but it's close competitor, $29,995."
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a smaller SUV that can carry people and stuff. It's a good choice if you want a car that doesn't cost too much but still has useful features.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact to midsize SUV that offers versatility and value, often competing with other SUVs in its class. It is known for its available hybrid variant and affordable pricing.
Toyota Corolla Cross
"Next week, I'm going to review the Toyota Corolla Cross, which is kind of a itty bitty, not too itty bitty, not too teeny weeny crossover, but it's called a Toyota Corolla Cross."
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a small SUV that is easy to drive and has more space than a regular car. It's made by Toyota, a well-known car company.
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a compact crossover SUV that combines the practicality of a small SUV with the reliability and efficiency associated with the Corolla nameplate. It offers a higher driving position and versatile cargo space compared to a traditional sedan.
Hyundai
"But Hyundai, they have come a long way baby in a short period of time."
Hyundai is a car company from South Korea that makes cars many people can afford. They've gotten much better at making cars that are nice and reliable in just a few years.
Hyundai is a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for producing affordable and reliable vehicles. In recent years, Hyundai has significantly improved its vehicle quality, design, and technology, gaining strong global market presence.
cruise in
"The Easter bunnies coming to the tailpipes and tacos cruise in at the loopy tortilla Tex-Max and Katie April 4th, 8 to 11 a.m. And you're invited to bring the kids and grandkids. It's a cruise in like you've never attended before."
A cruise in is like a car meet where people bring their cars to hang out, look at each other's vehicles, and have fun together.
A cruise in is a casual car gathering event where enthusiasts drive their vehicles to a common location to socialize, show off their cars, and enjoy food and entertainment.
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