Hyundai i20
The Hyundai i20 is a small hatchback designed for practical driving, often in city conditions. In the podcast, it’s mentioned in connection with fuel-economy and endurance-style attempts. That’s why it’s being brought up in that conversation.
walk away locking
Walk-away locking means the car locks itself when you leave with the key fob. It’s a convenience feature that prevents forgetting to lock the doors.
Blue Link
Blue Link is a phone app that connects to your car. It can help you check things like whether the car is locked when you’re away.
Honda Zrv
The Honda ZR-V is a compact crossover SUV made for everyday driving. The podcast is talking about a feature called “Blue Link,” which is related to car connectivity. They’re comparing whether their current car has something similar to the ZR-V.
Honda Hrv
The Honda HR-V is a small crossover SUV meant for normal daily driving. It’s designed to be practical and easy to live with. The podcast is checking whether a specific HR-V has a certain feature.
Honda Connect
Honda Connect is Honda’s system that connects your car to your phone or the internet. It’s used for things like remote updates and alerts about the car.
Honda insight
The Honda Insight is a Honda hybrid car. It uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to help save fuel. Here, they’re discussing what happened with that specific car.
OBD2
OBD2 is the car’s built-in computer system for reporting problems. A mechanic can plug in a scanner to read codes that tell you what the car detected.
codes
In OBD2 context, “codes” are fault codes stored by the vehicle’s computer when it detects a problem. Clearing codes can temporarily remove the warnings from the scanner, but the underlying issue may still be present if it triggers again.
traction
Traction is how well the tires can grip the road. If you have “no traction,” the tires start slipping instead of grabbing and moving forward smoothly.
Accord Euro
The Accord Euro is a Honda Accord variant sold in some markets (like Australia). They’re saying it’s been registered, so it’s ready to drive legally.
knock sensor
A knock sensor helps the car detect harmful engine knocking. If it’s replaced, it usually means the car’s computer saw signs of knock and needed to correct or prevent damage.
power steering pump
The power steering pump helps make the steering easier. If it was replaced, the car likely had steering problems like hard steering or noise.
lower control arm bushes
These bushes are the flexible mounts that connect the suspension parts. If they wear out, the car can feel loose or make knocking noises, and the tires may wear unevenly.
rubber hose
These are the flexible tubes that move fluids around the car. Over time, rubber can get brittle or start leaking, so replacing them helps keep everything working properly.
round clamps
Those “round clamps” are the metal bands (or similar rings) that hold a hose tight onto a connection. They help stop leaks, even on lines that aren’t under extreme pressure.
easy hoses in epping
This is a local shop the host recommends for making or redoing custom hoses. They’re saying the shop was helpful and the price was better than ordering from overseas.
fuel pump
The fuel pump is what sends gas from the tank to the engine. If it starts failing, the car may struggle to start or run poorly because the engine isn’t getting enough fuel.
Mercedes
“Mercedes” is the car brand. Here, the speaker is saying they replaced parts on their Mercedes fuel system.
1994 BMW 318is coupe
This is a BMW 3 Series coupe from 1994, and the “318is” is the sportier version of the 318. People like it because it’s a smaller, more driver-focused BMW that’s fun to modify and drive.
Tesla 36 Model
coffee and cars
They’re talking about driving their cars to casual meetups, like a “coffee and cars” gathering. The point is that the car needs to be usable for real life, not just sitting in a garage.
recommissioning
Recommissioning means getting a car ready to drive again after it’s been sitting unused. It’s basically a careful “wake it up” checklist so you don’t find out something is wrong the first time you try to drive it.
shocks
Shocks are the parts in the suspension that help the car settle after bumps. They keep the wheels from bouncing too much so the ride stays controlled.
genuine parts
Genuine parts are the official replacement parts made for that car. They’re more likely to fit correctly and match the original design than cheaper alternatives.
replacement part numbers
A part number is like an exact ID for a specific car part. Using the right one helps make sure you’re buying the correct suspension component for that exact vehicle.
front struts
Struts are suspension parts up front that help control how the front wheels move. If they’re worn out, the car can feel bouncy or less stable, especially over rough roads.
Bilsteins
Bilstein makes shock and strut parts for cars. If you’re replacing suspension, Bilstein is a well-known name people choose for better control and ride quality.
idle pulley
An idle pulley is a small wheel that helps guide a belt and keep it tight. If it starts making noise, it can mean the pulley bearings are wearing out, especially after the car hasn’t been driven.
cars and coffee
“Cars and coffee” is a casual car meet where people bring their cars and hang out. It’s a common way for car people to show what they’re working on.
LSD
An LSD is a special rear-axle differential that limits how much the wheels can spin at different speeds. It helps the car put power down better when traction is uneven.
water pump impellers
The water pump impeller is the spinning part that pushes coolant around the engine. If it’s made from plastic and it wears out, the engine may not cool properly and can start running hot.
run hot
“Run hot” means the engine operates at higher-than-normal temperatures for extended periods. That can accelerate cooling-system wear and contribute to failures like water pump issues, especially on engines already known to have impeller-related problems.
m-tech
“M-tech” is a BMW option that gives the car a sportier look. It’s not the same thing as the exact seat/trim choice being described in this car.
m-performance wheels
These are BMW “M-performance” wheels—an optional wheel style meant to give a sportier look. The important part is that the wheel size can be different depending on the exact BMW model.
automatic
An automatic transmission shifts gears by itself. You don’t have to use a clutch or move a gear lever like you would in a manual car.
manual gearbox
A manual gearbox is the kind where you choose the gears yourself. Usually you use a clutch pedal and a gear stick, and converting from automatic can be more complicated than it sounds.
manual gear stick
A manual gear stick (shifter) is the lever used to select gears in a car with a manual gearbox. Its presence in a photo is a quick visual clue that the car may actually be configured for a manual drivetrain, even if the listing says otherwise.
body kit
A body kit is an aftermarket set of exterior parts—typically bumpers, side skirts, and sometimes spoilers—that changes a car’s shape and styling. In this segment, the speaker says the body kit makes the car “look like an M3,” meaning the kit gives it a more aggressive BMW M-style appearance even if the underlying car isn’t an M3.
VIN
VIN is the car’s unique ID number. It’s like a fingerprint for the vehicle, so authorities can confirm they’re registering the right car.
engine number
The engine number is a stamped ID on the engine itself. Registration offices may check it to make sure the car you’re bringing in matches the records.
historic inspection
A historic inspection is an assessment process for older vehicles, often tied to eligibility for historic/collector registration. The goal is to verify the car’s condition and authenticity before it’s approved under historic rules.
quick ratio steering
Quick-ratio steering means you don’t have to turn the steering wheel as much to get the wheels to turn a lot. The result is usually quicker, more responsive steering when you’re driving hard or turning in tight spaces.
quick rack
A “quick rack” is a steering setup that makes the wheels respond faster to steering-wheel movement. You turn the wheel a smaller amount to get the same steering angle at the tires.
steering box
A steering box is part of the steering system that turns your steering-wheel input into the motion that steers the front wheels. Different designs can change how direct and “quick” the steering feels.
boot
“Boot” just means the trunk—the storage space in the back of the car. They’re saying it’s nicely kept and organized.
rattle
A “rattle” is a noise from something vibrating—often loose plastic trim or panels inside the car. They’re saying that if you take an older BMW apart, it’s easy to end up with rattles.
328 i convertible
This is a BMW 3 Series “328i” convertible. The story is about how taking apart the dash and putting it back can lead to annoying noises like creaks and rattles.
gurgled
“Gurgled” means the car made a weird bubbling or gurgling sound. That can be a sign something isn’t running quite right, but they don’t say exactly what caused it here.
thermostat
The thermostat helps control how hot the engine runs by regulating coolant flow. If it’s not working right, the car can heat/feel strange and make unusual sounds.
rear springs
Rear springs are what help your car ride smoothly and keep the rear at the right height. When you replace them, other parts nearby may need to be moved carefully so you don’t damage anything.
drive shafts
Drive shafts are the parts that send power from the gearbox to the wheels. When you’re doing suspension work, moving them out of the way can prevent you from stressing or damaging related joints.
CV
A CV joint is part of the drivetrain that helps the car keep power going to the wheels even when the suspension moves. If you pry or lever in the wrong place, you can damage the CV joint or its protective parts.
coil over
A coilover is a suspension part that combines the spring and the shock into one assembly. People like it because it can make the car sit lower and handle better, and sometimes it’s adjustable.
divorce shock
They’re describing a suspension where the spring and shock are separate parts. Instead of one combined unit, you have the spring doing one job and the shock doing another.
barrel spring
A barrel spring is a spring shaped like a barrel. When the suspension compresses, it can fold inward, which can help fit the suspension in a smaller space.
full droop
Full droop means the suspension is at its most extended position, with the wheel hanging down. That’s the point where parts are stretched out the most, which can change how you work on them.
travel
“Travel” means how far the suspension parts can move. The speaker is saying there’s enough movement to adjust the spring without taking the whole setup apart.
6 bolt
“6 bolt” means the connection uses six bolts. That’s important because it determines the exact mounting pattern for the driveshaft-to-differential connection.
E36 compact
The BMW E36 Compact is a smaller E36-era BMW. The speaker is saying it used a rear setup similar to the E30, which can make parts swaps and repairs easier.
diff
A “diff” is the part that helps the two wheels on the same axle turn at different speeds, especially when you’re cornering. They’re discussing how it comes apart and how many bolts hold it in place.
spline
A spline is like a toothed connection between two parts that transfers power. They’re saying the job is easier because you don’t have to separate a splined connection from the differential.
Datsun 180b SSS
The Datsun 180B SSS is a sportier version of the 180B model. In this clip, it’s used as a comparison to describe the vibe and character of the car they’re driving.
1 to 1 5th gear
“1 to 1” means 5th gear is set up so the engine speed and drivetrain speed are closely matched. That often makes the car feel more direct and strong in that gear instead of needing big RPM changes to keep moving.
final
“Final” here is the final drive ratio, which is a gearing step that multiplies the engine’s effort to the wheels. A higher number usually makes the car feel stronger off the line, while a lower number helps it go faster at a given RPM.
close ratio
A “close ratio” gearbox means the gears are spaced closely together. When you shift, the engine speed doesn’t fall much, so the car keeps pulling instead of feeling like it loses momentum.
rear wheel drive
Rear-wheel drive means the back wheels get the power. Many driving enthusiasts like it because the car can feel more “connected” when you steer and accelerate.
interchangeable parts
Interchangeable parts are pieces that can be used in more than one car or version. That usually makes repairs and upgrades simpler and cheaper.
M3
The BMW M3 is the high-performance, track-focused version of the 3 Series, and the E36-era M3 is a benchmark for analog driving feel. In this segment, the host is praising it as “god tier,” tying it to the E36 generation discussion.
straight 6
A “straight 6” is an engine with six cylinders arranged in a single line. People like it because it tends to run smoothly and feel refined as it revs.
interior is completely stripped
“Completely stripped” means taking out most of the inside parts of the car. People do this to save weight and to make it easier to work on the car for track or build projects.
engine mounts
Engine mounts are the parts that hold the engine to the car and help reduce shaking. If an engine mount fails, the engine can shift, and that can crack nearby parts like covers during repairs.
timing belt
The timing belt is a belt inside the engine that keeps the engine’s moving parts working in sync. When mechanics do timing-belt work, they usually have to open up the front of the engine and remove cover pieces.
roof rails
Roof rails are the metal bars/tracks on top of a car. They’re used to mount things like a roof rack or cargo carrier.
historic registration
Historic registration means an older car is officially registered under special rules. The idea is that it’s treated differently than a normal daily car, and the speaker mentions it affects how easily the car’s status is noticed.
number plate recognition system
A number plate recognition system is basically cameras that can read a car’s license plate automatically. It helps authorities quickly check whether a car matches certain rules or records.
Mercedes W124
The Mercedes W124 is an older Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the late 1980s through the 1990s. It’s known for being a solid, long-lasting daily car, and the host mentions it because he was driving it when police stopped him.
logbook
A logbook is paperwork for a car that proves it’s registered and legally allowed to be driven. The police officer is checking that the driver has the required documents.
Mitsubishi Galant VR4
The Mitsubishi Galant VR4 is a turbocharged Mitsubishi sedan that’s famous for being fast and having good grip. The “VR4” part is the performance version, and it’s the kind of car people used in rally-style driving because it could put power down well.
work your way up through the ranks
He’s talking about how rally drivers usually don’t start at the top. They begin with simpler, less expensive cars and improve step-by-step until they can move into better equipment.
100,000 miles
“100,000 miles” just means the car has been driven a lot. On older cars, that kind of mileage can mean more wear, so it’s a notable detail when someone is talking about reliability.
Mini Deluxe 998 CC
The Mini Deluxe is a classic small British car. “998 CC” means the engine is about 1.0 liter, which helps explain why it was known for being light and economical rather than fast.
disc brakes
Disc brakes are the kind where pads squeeze a metal disc to slow the wheels down. They usually work more consistently than older drum brakes, especially when you’re braking hard for a long time.
master cylinder
The master cylinder is the part that turns your foot on the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure. That pressure is what makes the brakes actually clamp down at the wheels.
rear brake biasing thingies
Brake biasing is about deciding how hard the front brakes and rear brakes work relative to each other. Rally drivers tune it so the car stays controllable instead of the rear wheels locking up and sliding.
rear wheel cylinders
Wheel cylinders are the parts that use brake fluid pressure to push the brake mechanism at each wheel. They’re commonly used with drum brakes to squeeze the braking surfaces.
synchro's
Synchros help a manual transmission shift smoothly by matching the spinning speeds of the gears. If they’re worn out, shifting gets difficult, and you may have to use extra steps to avoid gear grinding.
double to clutch
Double-clutching is a way to shift a manual gearbox smoothly when it’s not happy with normal shifting. It helps match speeds so the gears don’t grind.
engine rebuild
An engine rebuild means taking the engine apart and fixing or replacing worn internal parts. It’s done to get the engine back to good health after it’s been stressed hard.
ride height
Ride height is how high the car sits off the ground. More ride height usually means more clearance for rough roads so you don’t hit the bottom as easily.
rallies were rough back then
They’re describing how tough the old rally events were, with rough roads and long nights. That context explains why the car needed changes and repairs to survive the abuse.
mapping events
They’re describing an older way of preparing for rally stages—basically making your own route information ahead of time. That helps the co-driver guide the driver during the race.
modern era of rallying
They’re talking about how rallying has changed over time. The way teams plan and drive the stages today is different from how it was done in earlier decades.
Andrew Hunter
Andrew Hunter is the co-driver—basically the person who reads the rally notes and helps the driver know what’s coming next. They’ve been partners for a long time, which matters in rallying.
1968 London to Sydney marathon
This was a huge long-distance driving event from London to Sydney in 1968. The hosts are saying they met there, and it eventually led them into rallying.
Toyota Corolla K10
This is a specific older Corolla (the “K10” version). The hosts are saying it had a suspension design that was different from what you’d normally see on other Toyotas, which can make it handle better on bumpy rally roads.
transverse leaf
A leaf spring is a type of suspension made from layered metal strips. “Transverse” means it’s set up sideways across the car, which changes how the suspension supports the wheels and rides over rough roads.
front leaf spring
This is a leaf spring at the front of the car. Leaf springs can be adjusted by changing how many spring leaves are in the pack, which can make the car sit higher and feel stiffer over bumps.
Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car built for performance. It has a very recognizable shape, with a low and wide look. The podcast is comparing another car’s profile to a Corvette’s overall appearance.
McPherson struts
McPherson struts are a popular suspension design that uses one main unit to handle both damping (shock absorption) and support. It’s a different approach than leaf springs, so mentioning them helps explain how the car’s ride and handling are being controlled.
anti roll bar
An anti-roll bar helps keep the car from leaning too much when you turn. It connects the suspension on both sides so the car stays flatter, and the speaker is saying this leaf-spring setup changes how that roll control works.
roll of the car
When a car turns or hits uneven ground, the body can tilt to one side. That tilting is called “roll,” and suspension parts are what control how much it happens.
stiffness
Stiffness here means how hard it is for the suspension to move when the wheels hit bumps. Stiffer setups control body motion better, but they can feel tougher on rough surfaces.
leaf springs
Leaf springs are a suspension system that uses stacked metal strips to soak up bumps. They can feel a bit bouncy or rough compared with newer suspension designs. In off-road or rally driving, they can still work well because the spring flexes as the leaves load up.
staged effect
With a multi-leaf spring, the suspension doesn’t all flex the same way at once. As the car hits bigger bumps, more of the spring’s leaves start working. That can make small bumps smoother while still handling big hits.
bottoming out
Bottoming out is when the suspension gets compressed to its limit and something physically hits. It feels like a hard thump and can make the tires lose grip briefly. Off-road and rally cars try to avoid it so the wheels stay planted.
Ford Escort Lotus
This is a special rally version of the Ford Escort that was tuned with help from Lotus. The “twin-cam” part matters because it helps the engine rev quickly, which is useful in rally stages.
twin cam
“Twin cam” means the engine uses two camshafts to control the valves. That usually helps the engine spin faster (rev higher), which can be a big advantage in racing.
outback track
This is a rally-style road in Australia’s remote outback. The conditions can be rough and dusty, which changes how drivers and co-drivers plan overtakes.
cylinder head
The cylinder head is the top part of the engine where the combustion happens and where the valves are controlled. Changing it can make the engine breathe better, which can help it rev higher.
Mel McEwan
Mel McEwan is the person the speaker got an engine part from. Because he raced these cars, his cylinder head was likely proven in competition.
Lynn Wilson
Lynn Wilson is the co-driver the speaker met. In rally racing, the co-driver reads instructions so the driver knows what’s coming next on the road.
dust
Dust from cars ahead can make it harder to see the road and can make the surface less grippy. Getting through the dust is often when a driver can finally see clearly and push again.
rebuild the motor
Rebuilding the engine means opening it up and fixing worn parts inside. People do it when the engine isn’t running as well as it should, especially for harder driving like rallying.
camshaft
The camshaft is the part that times the engine’s valves. If you change it, you can change how the engine makes power—often to make it stronger at higher engine speeds.
headwork
Headwork is work done on the top part of the engine (the cylinder head). It can improve how well the engine breathes, and it’s often done along with other changes like a camshaft.
dropped onto three cylinders
If an engine “drops onto three cylinders,” one cylinder stops working properly. The car then runs rough because it’s only firing in three places instead of four.
getting a rally car running
This part is about the hands-on steps to get a car ready for a rally. They troubleshoot a problem and do major engine work so the car can actually start and drive.
took the head off
“Taking the head off” means removing the top part of the engine. Mechanics do this when the problem is serious enough that they need to inspect or fix what’s happening inside the cylinders.
XP Falcon Station wagon
This is a Ford Falcon from the XP generation, in a wagon (Station wagon) body style. It’s the kind of car someone might use to tow a trailer and carry rally equipment, then work on the rally car at home or at a helper’s place.
Mick
Mick is the helper the speaker is talking about. He sounds like a mechanic/support person who helped get the rally cars ready over a long stretch of the speaker’s career.
Finland
Finland is known for rallying, especially in winter conditions. If a car went there, it likely faced tough surfaces and weather.
Sweden
Sweden is famous for rallying too, including winter stages. Going there suggests the car was prepared for slippery, changing grip.
roll cage
A roll cage is a strong metal frame inside the car that helps protect the driver during a crash. Rally cars often have one, and it can be removed or put back depending on rules or who the car is being sold to.
sponsors
“Sponsors” are businesses that support a rally team and put their logos on the car. When the sponsorship situation changes, the car’s look can change too.
Hyundai i30
The Hyundai i30 is a compact car made for everyday use. It’s designed to be practical and comfortable for regular driving. The podcast is mentioning the i30 as part of a group of cars being discussed.
grip
Grip means how well the tires can hold the road. More grip lets you go faster through turns without losing control or sliding.
momentum
Momentum here means keeping your speed and flow through the turn. If you slow down too much, you’ll need more power to get back up to speed, which is harder in lower-power cars.
scrub off speed
To “scrub off speed” means to slow down more than you want. In rally driving, you try not to waste grip because it’s hard to get back up to speed right away.
backed it in
“Backed it in” means turning the car into the corner while letting the rear slide a bit. The tradeoff is that if you slide too much, you can lose speed and come out slower.
slid it
“Slid it” means the tires aren’t gripping fully and the car is sliding through the turn. That can look cool, but it often makes you slower exiting the corner because you’re not using the tires efficiently.
torque
Torque is the engine’s pulling strength. If you don’t have enough torque, it’s harder to speed back up after you slow down in a corner.
apex
The apex is the inside point of a corner that drivers try to hit. Getting through it with good speed helps you accelerate out and set up the next part of the course.
Newton meter
A newton-meter is a way to measure how strong the engine’s twisting force is. More torque can help the car pull harder when you need to accelerate.
Group A rally car
“Group A” refers to a set of racing rules for rally cars. The idea was that the race cars had to be closely related to cars you could buy, with limits on what teams could change.
junior rally series
A junior rally series is like a training league for rally drivers. People compete there to earn the chance to move up to bigger, tougher events.
navigation
Navigation means finding and following the correct route. In those rallies, being accurate with directions could matter as much as driving fast.
bogged
“Bogged” means getting stuck in soft ground like mud or sand, where the car can’t keep moving efficiently. Rally drivers try to avoid it because it costs time and can damage components if the car is repeatedly forced to dig itself out.
grid references
Rally crews use “grid references” like map coordinates. It helps them figure out where they need to go next, even if they don’t have GPS.
plot the course
In rallying, “plot the course” means planning the route using maps and the rally notes. The goal is to get to the right places on time, even in remote areas.
Holden
Holden was an Australian car brand. The speaker is saying a Holden team was competing in South Australia and even got lost because the navigation was challenging.
60 second window
A “60 second window” means the rules give you a one-minute range where your time still counts the same. So you don’t always have to be perfect to the second to score well.
13 inch wheels
Switching to 13-inch wheels can let you run tires with more sidewall “cushion.” That helps the tires grip better and handle bumps on rough roads.
GR
“GR” is Toyota’s performance and racing brand. It’s the label Toyota uses today for motorsport-derived parts and projects.
Toyota Sports Corner
Toyota had a motorsport/parts program called “Toyota Sports Corner.” It’s basically the earlier branding for what later became Toyota’s performance division identity.
Citroen AMI
The Citroën Ami is a small vehicle designed to be simple and easy to drive. The podcast says some were imported, but others were assembled locally in Melbourne. That local assembly is part of why it’s being mentioned.
Australian Rally Championship
The Australian Rally Championship is the main rally racing series in Australia. Drivers race against the clock on special stages, and it’s a big deal for teams and manufacturers.
works car
A “works car” means the factory team is involved. It’s a rally car that the manufacturer supports directly, not just a privateer team running their own setup.
Toyota Corolla Sportiva
This is a special rally version of the Toyota Corolla. In the episode, they’re talking about a 2005-era Sportiva that was modified a lot for racing.
running gear
“Running gear” means the important mechanical parts that help the car drive and grip the road. In this case, they used the Celica GT4’s mechanical parts inside a Corolla-based rally car.
Toyota Celica GT4
The Toyota Celica GT4 is a rally-focused Celica. In this conversation, they say the car used Celica GT4 parts—especially the parts that help it drive and handle—inside a Corolla-based rally car.
EVO
“EVO” is short for a Mitsubishi rally car line called the Lancer Evolution. They’re saying the Corolla-based rally car was built to be competitive with that kind of car.
parity
“Parity” here means making different rally cars as fair as possible against each other. They did special driving tests to check that the rules and modifications kept the cars on a similar playing field.
four-wheel drive turbo cars
Four-wheel drive sends power to all four wheels, which helps the car grip better. A turbocharger helps the engine feel much stronger, especially when you accelerate.
drop the clutch and side step
This is a technique for launching a manual car hard. You release the clutch quickly, but you “feather” it briefly to control how the car hooks up and accelerates.
dog box
A “dog box” is a race-style manual transmission. It shifts fast because it uses special clutches that lock gears in place, but it can be less smooth and needs more precise shifting.
top gear
Top gear is the highest gear in the transmission. It’s usually the one that lets the car go fastest with the engine spinning less than in lower gears.
braking was unbelievable
They mean the car stops extremely well. Hard braking depends on the brakes and tires working together, and on the brakes handling heat without fading.
privateer
A privateer is basically a non-factory team. They compete on their own budget instead of being fully supported by a car manufacturer.
RRP021
“RRP021” is likely an ID or registration-style code for that specific car. People use codes like this to keep track of which exact vehicle it was.
Subaru
Subaru is a car brand that also has a strong rally reputation. Here it’s mentioned as an example of how car companies connect with enthusiasts.
foothold in the market
This phrase means “getting started and becoming known” in a market. Here, it’s about Subaru using rallying to build reputation before their later, more famous models. The goal was to be noticed early.
Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX is a Subaru performance car known for having all-wheel drive and a turbo engine. Here, it’s mentioned as a later “big moment” for Subaru, compared to earlier rally cars. The point is Subaru was building recognition before the WRX became the headline model.
turbocharged four wheel drive
It means the engine has a turbo to make more power, and the car sends power to all four wheels. Rally stages often have slippery or uneven ground, so all-wheel drive helps the car grip. The turbo helps the engine produce strong pull when you need it.
1.8 litre
“1.8 litre” is how big the engine is, based on the total cylinder volume. It’s a basic spec that helps you understand what kind of engine the car had. In turbo rally cars, the engine size works together with the turbo to make power.
state rally championship
A state rally championship is a series of rally races within one state. Drivers earn results across multiple events, and the best overall driver wins. The speaker is saying they used their car in that series and dominated it.
hydraulic lifters
Hydraulic lifters are engine parts that help keep the valve timing correct automatically using oil pressure. They’re convenient for everyday driving, but racers sometimes switch away from them when building for higher revs.
engine management system
The engine management system is the car’s computer for the engine. It decides things like when to inject fuel and how to run the ignition, so changes to engine parts still work together correctly.
fuel injectors
Fuel injectors are the parts that spray fuel into the engine. When you build a turbo engine for more power, you may need different injectors so the engine gets the right amount of fuel.
solid lifters
Solid lifters are a mechanical part inside the engine that helps open and close the valves. They usually need regular adjustment so the valve timing stays correct, which is why people talk about shimming.
shim the valves
Shimming the valves is how you fine-tune the spacing in the valve train. If the gap is too tight or too loose, the engine can wear faster and run less smoothly, so mechanics adjust it with thin metal shims.
shim kit
A shim kit is a collection of thin metal spacers with different thicknesses. You use the right thickness to set the correct gap for the valves during maintenance.
gearbox was the weak link
The gearbox is the transmission that sends power to the wheels. Saying it was the “weak link” means it tended to break or wear out sooner than the rest of the car when driven hard.
low range
Low range is the drivetrain setting for very slow, difficult traction where you need more pulling power. The speaker says people thought low range would help, but they found high range was quicker for their rally stages.
dual range four wheel drive
It’s a 4-wheel-drive system that also has two “gears” for the drivetrain. High range is for regular driving; low range is for slow, tough situations where you need extra pulling power.
high range
High range is the drivetrain setting meant for faster, easier driving. In this story, using high range kept the car in the right gearing so it could stay “on boost” longer and go faster.
turbo engine
A turbo engine uses a device that pushes extra air into the engine. That extra air helps the engine make more power, and in this story the gearing choice helped the car stay in that strong-power zone longer.
ratio gearbox
Gear ratios are how the gearbox changes the engine’s speed to the wheels. The right ratios can keep the engine in its strongest zone longer, which helps you go faster.
boost
Boost is the turbo’s “extra push” that makes the engine feel stronger. If the gearing keeps the engine in the right revs, you get that extra push for longer and the car can be faster.
switch on the go
It means you can change from high range to low range (or vice versa) while you’re still driving. That can save time in fast, changing conditions like rally stages.
fast speed gearbox
This is the higher-speed gear setup the driver uses once the car is in a more normal, faster part of the stage. It’s basically the opposite of “low range,” meant for quicker movement.
Subaru Just Subaru
The Subaru Justy is a small car made by Subaru. It’s meant for practical, everyday driving and efficiency. The podcast is using it as a quick example of a Subaru model.
warming it up properly
“Warming it up properly” refers to letting an engine reach operating temperature before driving it hard. In this discussion, the speaker argues that poor warm-up habits contributed to failures, even though the engines could be reliable in competition when handled correctly.
interchangeability of parts
This means parts are similar enough that you can replace them without a lot of hassle. In racing, that helps teams fix cars quickly and keep them running.
body shell
A body shell is basically the car’s frame and outer structure without the mechanical parts. For a rally car, people sometimes use a body shell and then build the rest of the car around it.
RX4
The RX-4 is a Mazda rotary car. Here, they’re saying they took the engine from an RX-4 and put it into a different car body shell to make it work for rallying.
13B
“13B” is the name of a specific Mazda rotary engine. They’re saying they used that engine from one car and installed it into another car to make it faster and more suitable for rallying.
12A engine
The 12A is a particular Mazda rotary engine. Rotary engines make power in a different way than normal piston engines, and the 12A is the smaller version they’re comparing to a bigger one.
rotaries
“Rotaries” means Mazda’s rotary engine type. Instead of pistons going up and down, it uses a spinning rotor, and with the right setup it can still make good low-end pull.
peripheral porting
Peripheral porting is a way of shaping where the rotary engine’s ports are. It usually helps the engine breathe best at high RPM, so it can feel stronger at the top end.
side porting
Side porting is changing the rotary engine’s port locations. The goal is to make the engine pull harder at lower RPM instead of only feeling strong at high revs.
extended port
Extended porting means modifying the rotary engine’s ports so they work over a longer range. That can help the engine make more torque at lower speeds, not just when you rev it hard.
dynoed
“Dynoed” means the engine was tested on a dyno machine. A dyno measures how much power the engine makes so you can compare tuning changes.
Kapunda in South Australia
Kapunda is a place in South Australia. They’re saying the engine builder did the dyno testing there.
big downdraft IDA
“IDA” is a type of carburetor used to mix fuel and air. A downdraft carburetor feeds the mixture downward, and bigger carbs can help the engine breathe more for stronger power.
naturally aspirated
Naturally aspirated means there’s no turbo or supercharger. The engine relies on normal air intake, so tuning the intake and ports strongly affects how it runs.
Weber carburetor
A Weber carburetor is a device that mixes fuel and air for the engine using mechanical parts. People associate it with older race cars because it can make the engine sound and respond in a very “raw” way when you press the gas.
out right national champion
He’s saying he won the overall national championship, not just a single race moment. He’s explaining that he won stages, but the big achievement was beating the factory teams for the overall title.
Rotary vs conventional rally car ownership
They talk about what it was like to own different rally cars for both racing and normal driving. Ed explains why he liked each one and how it helped him as a driver.
Datsun 1600
The Datsun 1600 is an older Japanese car that rally drivers liked because it’s light and fun to drive. Ed is saying he owned one for regular driving while he was also racing, because it felt like the right car for him.
Rotary engine
A rotary engine is a type of engine that works with a spinning rotor instead of pistons. It was a distinctive design, so people who know how to maintain and rebuild it are especially valuable.
Reliance Rotary
Reliance Rotary is the specialized shop that John Waterhouse ran for rotary engines. The episode uses it to explain where this unusual engine was serviced and rebuilt.
reliability inverted commas
The host is basically saying “reliability” might be a bit of a marketing claim. For some engines, real-world dependability depends on how people tune and maintain them.
tuning community
That means the group of car enthusiasts who specialize in a particular engine. They often share the best ways to set them up and keep them running well.
seals
In this context, “seals” are referring to the rotary engine’s internal sealing components (especially apex seals) that control compression and prevent hot gases from leaking past the rotor. Replacing seals during a rebuild is a common way to restore sealing performance and reduce the chance of internal damage.
three piece seal
This is talking about an early rotary-engine seal design where the sealing part is made in three segments. If one segment wears out or comes loose, it can lead to worse sealing and potentially damage inside the engine.
parts made
This means they had to get special parts made because the original ones weren’t available. That’s common with older or niche race engines.
automated manual
An automated manual is basically a regular manual gearbox, but the car uses motors/actuators to do the clutch and shifting for you. You still move the gear lever, but the car handles the clutch action.
actuator
In this context, an actuator is the mechanical/electromechanical device that physically moves parts to perform shifting. The speaker describes an actuator that operates the shift mechanism when you move the gear lever.
gear lever
The gear lever is what you move to tell the car you want a different gear. In an automated manual, the car then does the clutch/shifting actions for you.
claw
The “claw” is the part inside the gearbox that actually grabs and locks into the selected gear. When the actuator moves it, the transmission can engage that gear.
rpm
RPM tells you how fast the engine is spinning. Higher RPM usually means the engine is working harder, and it often happens when you accelerate or when a gear ratio forces the engine to spin faster.
rear engine no front engine
It means the engine sits in the back of the car instead of the front. That changes how the car balances and handles compared with most cars that have the engine up front.
Audi
Audi is a German car brand. In this part of the conversation, the speaker uses it as a reference point for how the car looks and how it fits into the Volkswagen group’s brands.
aerodynamic
Aerodynamic means the car’s shape helps it cut through air more easily. That can improve efficiency and stability, especially at speed.
Jaguar Etype
The Jaguar E-type is a famous classic sports car from Jaguar. In this conversation, it’s mentioned as a comparison for how expensive or special the NSU was.
oil prices hit in the early 70's
In the early 1970s, gasoline got much more expensive. That hurt cars that used a lot of fuel, which is why rotary cars—known for higher fuel use—struggled when prices rose.
Audi TT
The Audi TT is a small sporty Audi with a coupe or roadster body. It’s a popular car to talk about because it shows how Audi builds sporty cars in the modern era.
NSU
NSU was an old German car company that existed long before today’s Audi. The discussion is about how those older companies ended up becoming part of the Volkswagen Group and helped shape Audi’s history.
Volkswagen group
The Volkswagen Group is the big company that owns several car brands. Here, it’s mentioned because it acquired older companies like NSU, which helps explain where Audi’s history comes from.
Auto Union
Auto Union is a historic German racing and manufacturing organization that’s part of the lineage behind Audi’s “four rings” identity. The speaker is suggesting that NSU and Auto Union are connected to the same broader origin story for Audi’s heritage.
four rings
Audi’s “four rings” is the logo with four interlocking rings. It’s meant to represent Audi’s history and the companies that came together to form the brand.