Chainmail Dreams, Horsepower Screams, And A Third Row That Shouldn’t Exist
About this episode
Exploring the quirky world of Renaissance festivals, the hosts share their top five fall road trip destinations for enthusiasts looking to dress up and enjoy themed events. From the bustling California Renaissance Pleasure Faire to the massive Texas Renaissance Festival, they discuss the unique experiences each location offers. The episode also dives into powerful classic cars, highlighting underrated drag cars from the 60s, and concludes with a detailed review of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, discussing its features, performance, and the peculiar addition of a third row.
Skip the time machine and grab the keys—we’re charting five Renaissance festivals worth the drive, then mashing the throttle on a set of street-legal legends before closing with a grounded, real-world review of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner. We start with why people keep returning to these immersive fairs: the craft markets, roaming characters, dense 16th‑century villages, and the freedom to show up as a spectator or a knight in chainmail. From Pennsylvania’s vineyard-backed village to Maryland’s nine-week run and Minnesota’s roomy grounds, we build toward Texas, the largest Ren fest in the U.S., where hundreds of shops, two dozen stages, and a sprawling campground turn weekends into stories you can’t make up.
Then we pivot to the machines that rewired car culture. The Chevy Impala Z11, Pontiac Catalina Super Duty, Ford Thunderbolt, Dodge Hemi Dart, and Ford Fairlane 500 R-Code prove how factory “ratings” barely hinted at the truth. Lightweight bodies, big-inch V8s, and limited production created cars that ran elevens and reset expectations for what a street-legal car could be. Rarity, auctions, and a little fear from the automakers themselves only added to the legend.
To bring it all home, we take a clear-eyed look at the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner. Still body-on-frame and proud of it, the latest generation swaps the old V6 for a turbo four that tows with confidence, pairs with an eight-speed, and balances on-road comfort with real off-road bones. The interior stays rugged with smart tech options, but the third row feels cramped and the long list of trims can overwhelm. We sort what’s worth paying for, where it stacks up against Wrangler and Bronco, and who will love it most.
If you enjoyed the ride—from mead to muscle—follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a fall road trip idea, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find us.
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
Ford Model T
"...is that a Model T perfect what is that it's an oil burner I can tell you that yeah..."
The Model T is a famous car made by Ford a long time ago. It was the first car that many people could afford, helping more families own cars.
The Ford Model T is a historic automobile produced by Ford Motor Company from 1908 to 1927. It is widely regarded as the first affordable automobile, which made car travel accessible to the general public.
muscle car
"...time now for just car culture two powerful cars for the time too powerful for their time are you..."
Muscle cars are powerful cars that were very popular in the 1960s and 1970s. They are known for their strong engines and sporty designs, often used for racing.
Muscle cars are high-performance vehicles, typically American-made, known for their powerful engines and aggressive styling. They became popular in the 1960s and 1970s, often associated with street racing and automotive culture.
limited edition
"automakers built limited edition factory drag cars with unreal amounts of horsepower these were intended for the track..."
Limited edition cars are special versions of regular cars made in fewer numbers. They usually have unique features that make them more exciting and valuable.
Limited edition cars are special models produced in smaller quantities, often featuring unique features or performance enhancements. They are typically more desirable among collectors and enthusiasts.
Chevrolet Impala
"first one is a 1963 chevy impala z 11 50 impala z 11's were built as drag cars for the track only..."
The Chevrolet Impala Z11 is a special version of the Impala made in 1963 for racing. It was built to be very fast and is popular among car collectors today.
The Chevrolet Impala Z11 is a limited edition model from 1963 designed specifically for drag racing. It was known for its powerful engine and performance capabilities, making it a sought-after classic car.
horsepower
"the fact calls into question that uh official power rating because the cars were definitely quick had more juice on it..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means a car can go faster and perform better.
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 do over time, influencing a car's performance.
cubic inches
"may have been part of the reason gm would ban engines over 400 cubic inches..."
Cubic inches measure how big an engine is. A bigger engine can usually produce more power, which helps the car go faster.
Cubic inches is a measurement used to describe the engine displacement, which is the total volume of all the cylinders in an engine. Larger displacement typically means more power and torque.
Pontiac Catalina
"...e knucklehead uh next one we've got is a 63 pi at catalina super duty they call it the swiss cheese there's..."
The Pontiac Catalina is a big car that was made by the Pontiac company for many years. The 1963 version is special because it was built to be really fast and light, which makes it popular among car enthusiasts and collectors.
The Pontiac Catalina was a full-size car produced by Pontiac from 1950 to 1981, with the 1963 model being particularly notable for its performance variants like the Super Duty. The '63 Catalina Super Duty is often referred to as 'Swiss cheese' due to its lightweight construction, which included numerous holes drilled into the chassis to reduce weight for racing. This model is significant in automotive history for its role in the muscle car era and its racing pedigree.
quarter mile
"which is not enough to move a full sized car down the quarter mile in 12 that thing was heavy too..."
The quarter mile is a distance of 1,320 feet that cars race to see how fast they can go. It's a popular way to test how quick a car is.
The quarter mile is a common drag racing distance used to measure a car's acceleration and performance. It's a standard benchmark for performance cars.
Ford Thunderbolt
"the next one is a 64 forward fair lane thunderbird thunderbolt i should say the god of thunder and rock and roll the 64 thunderbolt..."
The Ford Thunderbolt is a special racing version of the Fairlane car from 1964. It had a big engine that made it very fast for drag racing.
The Ford Thunderbolt was a high-performance version of the Ford Fairlane, designed for drag racing. It featured a powerful 427 cubic inch V8 engine and a lightweight body.
427 cubic inch V8
"capable of ripping off quarter mile estimates in the leavens with his mighty 427 cubic inch side oiler the v8..."
The 427 cubic inch V8 is a type of engine that is very powerful. The number refers to how big the engine is, which helps it produce a lot of power.
The 427 cubic inch V8 is a powerful engine configuration commonly used in performance cars. It refers to the engine's displacement, which contributes to its horsepower and torque.
Dodge Hemi Dart
"the next one we've got is a 68 dodge hemi dart it is a full blown hemi uh the 68 dart was just his name would suggest 426 street hemi..."
The 1968 Dodge Hemi Dart is a special version of the Dart car that has a very powerful engine called a Hemi. It was made in limited numbers, which makes it very collectible.
The 1968 Dodge Hemi Dart is a high-performance variant of the Dart that features a powerful 426 cubic inch Hemi engine. Only 100 units were produced, making it a rare and sought-after muscle car.
Hemi
"if we had a little thing here uh squeezed into the engine bay christler was uncomfortable with the factory installing hemi's in compacts..."
Hemi is a type of engine design that helps cars go faster by allowing air and fuel to mix better. The 426 Hemi is a well-known powerful engine used in some classic cars.
Hemi refers to an engine design with hemispherical combustion chambers, which allows for better airflow and higher performance. The 426 Hemi is one of the most famous high-performance engines in automotive history.
Ford Fairlane 500 R-Code
"the next one here is a 66 forward fair lane 500 r code for the 66 and 67 seasons only..."
The 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 R-Code is a special version of the Fairlane car that has a stronger engine, making it faster and more exciting to drive.
The 1966 Ford Fairlane 500 R-Code is a high-performance version of the Fairlane, known for its powerful engine options and sporty design. The R-Code designation indicates it was equipped with a high-output engine.
Ford Fairlane
"...the 66 four fair lane so there you go that is oh the bonus car there you go..."
The Ford Fairlane is a classic car that Ford made from the mid-1950s to the early 1970s. It was known for its performance, especially in racing.
The Ford Fairlane was a full-size car produced by Ford from 1955 to 1970. It was popular in the muscle car era and had various performance variants, especially in the 1960s.
Toyota 4Runner
"...time now for this hour's car review i had a chance to drive the 2025 toyota forerunner final assembly..."
The Toyota 4Runner is a tough SUV that can handle off-road adventures. The 2025 version has updated features to make it even better.
The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. The 2025 model continues this tradition with modern features and technology.
trim levels
"there are nine of them including variants of the trd which has the most of them sr5 limited platinum and trail hunter..."
Trim levels are different versions of the same car model. Each version can have different features, like better technology or more comfort options.
Trim levels refer to the different versions of a vehicle model that come with varying features and options. Each trim level can offer different amenities, performance specifications, and price points.
body-on-frame
"this is a standard suv in other words body on frame and we were going to call this a mid-size suv seats five..."
Body-on-frame means the main part of the vehicle, called the frame, is separate from the body. This makes the vehicle stronger and better for rough driving.
Body-on-frame is a vehicle construction method where the body is mounted on a separate frame. This design is typically used in trucks and SUVs for enhanced durability and off-road capability.
four-wheel drive system
"...homework is needed for its multifunction four-wheel drive system i didn't try it it has lots of adjustments..."
A four-wheel drive system means that power goes to all four wheels of the car, which helps it drive better on rough or slippery surfaces. It's great for off-roading or driving in bad weather.
A four-wheel drive (4WD) system allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This is particularly useful for off-road driving and in challenging weather conditions, providing better traction and control.
infotainment screen
"...optional huge infotainment screen that i had it's a bump up from the standard one and even the seven incher that i think that is on the standard forerunner..."
An infotainment screen is the screen in your car that shows maps, music, and other information. Bigger screens usually make it easier to use these features.
An infotainment screen is a display in a vehicle that provides entertainment, navigation, and information features. Larger screens often offer more functionality and better user experience.
third row seating
"...third rows of no go for me engine"
Third row seating means there are extra seats in the back of the car for more passengers. But using these seats can take away space for luggage or other items.
Third row seating refers to an additional row of seats in a vehicle, typically found in larger SUVs and minivans, allowing for more passenger capacity. However, it can reduce cargo space when in use.
turbocharged
"no more v6 2.4 liter turbocharged four cylinder 278 horsepower it's fine 317 pound feet of torque"
Turbocharging means using a device to push more air into the engine, which helps it produce more power without needing a bigger engine. It's a way to make smaller engines perform better.
Turbocharging is a technology that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing for more fuel to be burned and increasing power output without significantly increasing engine size. This results in better performance and efficiency.
eight-speed automatic transmission
"eight speed automatic transmission it'll tow three tons wow so you know it's got to be stout right"
An eight-speed automatic transmission is a type of gearbox that automatically changes gears for you. More gears can help the car run more smoothly and save fuel.
An eight-speed automatic transmission allows for smoother shifting and better fuel efficiency by providing more gear ratios. This can enhance performance by keeping the engine in its optimal power band.
air ride suspension
"what could use improvement optional air ride suspension if you're going to get one of those high-end ones"
Air ride suspension is a type of car suspension that uses air instead of metal springs. It can make the ride smoother and can be adjusted for different driving conditions.
Air ride suspension uses air-filled bags instead of traditional springs, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved ride quality. This system can enhance comfort and handling, especially in off-road conditions.
base trim
"hey let's go all the way right let's do it on air ride base trim price 57.4 that's base"
Base trim means the most basic version of a car, without any extra features or upgrades. It's the starting point for that model.
The base trim refers to the standard version of a vehicle without additional options or upgrades. It typically includes the essential features but lacks luxury or performance enhancements found in higher trims.
trim price
"trim price 57.4 price is tested 62 625 but you can get in one the two-wheel drive model"
Trim price is how much a specific version of a car costs. Different versions can have different prices based on the features they include.
Trim price refers to the cost associated with a specific version of a vehicle, which can vary based on features, options, and packages included. Higher trims typically come with more advanced features and higher prices.
Ford Bronco
"competitors the Jeep Wrangler starts at $32,095 Ford Bronco"
The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV made for off-road driving. It's designed to be tough and is popular for outdoor adventures.
The Ford Bronco is a classic SUV that has been reintroduced with modern features while retaining its off-road capabilities. It's designed for adventure and is known for its rugged styling and performance.
Jeep Wrangler
"...no bells and whistles 41 270 competitors the Jeep Wrangler starts at $32,095 Ford Bronco $38,995 which is p..."
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.