Chris Hartsock - EP.155
About this episode
Bobby and Aaron welcome Chris Hartsock back to discuss his journey with right-hand drive cars, particularly his beloved Supra. The conversation dives into the evolution of car culture, the challenges of building and maintaining high-performance vehicles, and the nostalgia of early car forum days. Chris shares stories about his experiences with various cars, including his Honda Civic Type R and Evo, and reflects on the importance of community and knowledge sharing in the automotive world. The episode also touches on the pros and cons of giveaway cars and the impact of social media on car enthusiasts.
In this episode of the Right Hand Drive Guys Podcast, we sit down with one of our closest friends from right here in Maine—Chris Hartsock. Chris has a garage that speaks volumes: a legendary MKIV Supra and a rally-bred Evo 8. But his story goes back to his early days when he owned a Honda S2000… and somehow managed to squeeze a Honda Ruckus into it! We talk about his evolution as an enthusiast, the cars that shaped his journey, and the community that keeps the passion alive.
Whether you’re here for the wild stories, JDM legends, or just to hang out with friends, this episode delivers it all.
Guest: Chris Hartsock @UMADEVO
Location: Maine
Topics Covered:
- Early Beginnings – How Chris got into cars and what hooked him on JDM culture.
- The S2000 Era – Stories from his time owning a Honda S2000, including the infamous Honda Ruckus-in-the-trunk story.
- Current Garage – Breaking down his MKIV Toyota Supra and Evo 8, what makes each car special, and how they fit his driving style.
- Motorsport Passion – From spirited drives to the motorsports influence that shaped his choices.
- Friendship & Cars – Reflections on years of building, driving, and enjoying cars alongside close friends.
Key Takeaways:
- Chris’s journey shows how humble beginnings can grow into dream car ownership.
- The importance of car culture and friendships that form around it.
- Why enthusiasts hold onto certain cars for life.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @RHDGUYS and connect with us to suggest future guests or topics!
Toyota Supra
"...just pretty much Supra talk at that point, just we talked about pricing, we talked about availability..."
The Toyota Supra is a popular sports car that many people love for its speed and style. It's often modified for better performance, making it a favorite among car fans.
The Toyota Supra is a sports car known for its performance and tuning potential. It has a rich history in the automotive world, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its engineering and design.
Honda Civic Type R
"...I had a right hand drive Civic Type RX and I had not a clue about it, right?"
The Honda Civic Type R is a special version of the Honda Civic that is built for performance. It has a more powerful engine and better handling, making it a favorite among people who love fast cars.
The Honda Civic Type R is a high-performance variant of the standard Civic, known for its sporty design and enhanced driving dynamics. It's popular among car enthusiasts for its powerful engine and agile handling.
Honda Integra GSR
"speed with a JDM GSR. And, dude, I did that in my, I look at my dad's garage now and I'm like, well, how did I do this?"
The Honda Integra GSR is a sportier version of a car made by Honda. It's known for being fun to drive and is popular among people who like Japanese cars.
The Honda Integra GSR is a performance-oriented variant of the Honda Integra, known for its sporty handling and high-revving engine. It's a popular choice among car enthusiasts, especially in the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) community.
Nissan GT-R
"...I saw the 8080 GTR, like one of the first like five cars they gave away in..."
The Nissan GT-R is a fast sports car that many people admire for its speed and technology. It's popular among car enthusiasts for its ability to perform well on the track and the street.
The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for its advanced technology and powerful engine. It's often celebrated in automotive circles for its impressive performance and handling capabilities.
HKS
"...it's not a guy, you know, walking in there wearing an HKS shirt. No, it's some mama three that bought a shirt for her husband and ended..."
HKS is a company that makes parts to make cars go faster and perform better. They are especially popular with people who like to modify their cars for racing or performance.
HKS is a well-known aftermarket performance parts manufacturer based in Japan, specializing in tuning parts for various car models. They are particularly popular among car enthusiasts for their high-performance exhaust systems, turbo kits, and engine management systems.
DCT
"Now it has all completely bald tires, a valve in the, in the DCT is messed up. The, the hood is like the hinges are bent because they tried to close like some tools in the hood and the hinges are bent."
DCT is a type of automatic transmission that helps cars change gears faster and more smoothly. It uses two clutches to manage the gears, making driving easier and more efficient.
DCT stands for Dual-Clutch Transmission, a type of automatic transmission that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear shifts, allowing for quicker and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
Honda Civic
"Yeah, yeah. Yeah, literally speaking of Civic, I know you've had some heartbreak when it comes ..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's dependable and saves on gas. It's been around for a long time, and some versions are really fun to drive, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in the automotive market since its introduction in 1972. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, the Civic has garnered a loyal following and is often discussed for its performance variants and modifications.
salvage title
"It was it was a salvage title out of bit of her, dude. It was like in rough shape."
A salvage title means the car has been in a bad accident or has serious damage, and the insurance company decided it wasn't worth fixing. Cars with salvage titles can be cheaper, but they might have hidden problems.
A salvage title is a designation for a vehicle that has been damaged and deemed a total loss by an insurance company. This often means the car has been in a serious accident or suffered significant damage, making it less valuable and potentially more difficult to insure.
rough shape
"It was like in rough shape. It had a it had a B16 in it that was blown up and they had like spray bomb, the wheels pink and like over spray on the tire and stuff."
When a car is in 'rough shape', it means it's not in good condition. It might have dents, scratches, or other problems that need fixing.
The phrase 'rough shape' describes a vehicle that is in poor condition, often due to damage, neglect, or wear and tear. It indicates that the car may require significant repairs or restoration to be functional or presentable.
B16
"It had a it had a B16 in it that was blown up and they had like spray bomb, the wheels pink and like over spray on the tire and stuff."
The B16 is a type of engine made by Honda that is popular for being powerful and able to spin fast. It's often used in smaller cars like the Honda Civic.
The B16 is a series of inline-four engines produced by Honda, known for their high-revving capabilities and performance in compact cars. It's commonly found in models like the Honda Civic and Integra, particularly in the 1990s.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
"...I buy my EVO and I had just bought in my EVO. Like I had it for like a week, maybe two."
The EVO is a sporty car made by Mitsubishi that is famous for its speed and performance, especially in racing. It's a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, often referred to as the EVO, is a high-performance version of the Mitsubishi Lancer, known for its rally heritage and turbocharged engines.
EVO
"...the EVO's EVO stock and I'm ambitious with it. You know, so I come home and like, dude, this branch, huge branch"
The EVO is a fast car made by Mitsubishi that's great for racing and driving on different surfaces. It's known for being powerful and fun to drive.
The Mitsubishi EVO, short for Lancer Evolution, is a high-performance car known for its rally heritage and all-wheel-drive system. It features turbocharged engines and is popular among car enthusiasts for its handling and performance capabilities.
H22 engine
"...somewhere in there, I had that H 22 EK and that thing ripped, dude."
The H22 engine is a type of engine made by Honda that is known for being powerful. It's often found in sporty cars and is popular among people who like to modify their cars for better performance.
The H22 engine is a 2.2-liter inline-four engine produced by Honda, known for its high performance and used in various Honda models, including the Prelude and some Civic variants. It's popular for tuning and racing due to its potential for power.
SRT4
"I remember SRT fours were like a big deal at that time."
The SRT4 is a fast car made by Dodge that was popular among car fans. It has a special engine that makes it quicker than regular cars, and people liked to race them.
The Dodge SRT4 is a high-performance version of the Dodge Neon, featuring a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. It was known for its impressive speed and handling in the compact car segment.
built head
"So we went with a two one stroker, bottom end. And then I did the FP red and like, dude, that the car was fast."
A built head is a part of the engine that has been improved to make it work better. It helps the engine breathe more easily, which can make the car faster.
A built head refers to an engine cylinder head that has been modified or upgraded to improve airflow and performance. This can include changes like porting, polishing, and upgrading valves and springs.
stock turbo
"I did a built head on it stock turbo and it made 300 wheel and like that thing was fast, dude."
A stock turbo is the original turbocharger that comes with the car. It's meant to give the car extra power without needing any changes.
A stock turbo is the turbocharger that comes standard with a vehicle from the manufacturer. It is designed to provide a balance of performance and reliability without the need for aftermarket modifications.
stroker
"So we went with a two one stroker, bottom end. And then I did the FP red and like, dude, that the car was fast."
A stroker is a modification that makes the engine bigger by changing how far the pistons move. This can help the engine produce more power.
A stroker refers to an engine modification that increases the engine's displacement by using a longer stroke length. This can result in more power and torque, as a larger displacement allows for more air and fuel to be burned.
FP red
"And then I did the FP red and like, dude, that the car was fast."
FP red is a type of turbocharger that helps the engine produce more power. It's made by a company called Forced Performance and is popular among car enthusiasts.
FP red refers to a specific model of turbocharger produced by Forced Performance, known for its high performance and ability to support significant power increases in modified engines.
wheel horsepower
"It made 580 wheel. And then I blew a hole out of the trans the stock trans."
Wheel horsepower is the actual power that your car's wheels can use to move. It's different from engine horsepower because some power is lost in the parts that connect the engine to the wheels.
Wheel horsepower refers to the amount of power that is delivered to the wheels of a vehicle, as opposed to the engine's total horsepower. This measurement accounts for losses in the drivetrain, giving a more accurate representation of a car's performance on the road.
transmission
"And then I blew a hole out of the trans the stock trans. So yeah, yeah, big hole."
The transmission is like the car's gear system. It helps the car go faster or slower by changing gears, similar to how a bicycle works when you shift gears.
The transmission is a crucial component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It allows the vehicle to change gears, which is essential for controlling speed and torque.
harness
"And I remember cutting the harness. And I was like, because it was running, this car was running."
A harness in a car is a bundle of wires that connects different electrical parts, helping them work together. It's important for things like lights, the engine, and other systems to function properly.
In automotive terms, a harness refers to a collection of wires and connectors that transmit electrical signals and power throughout a vehicle. It is essential for the operation of various electrical components.
BR 350 SE
"I bought a BR 350 SE that car was one of three"
The BR 350 SE is a special and rare car, with only a few made. It's unique because of its color and is considered a collector's item.
The BR 350 SE is a rare sports car, with only three units made in a specific color. Its exclusivity and performance make it a collector's item.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR
"Dude, the just the graphite gray Evo nine MR is like the best of the best."
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR is a special version of a car designed for racing and performance. It's popular because it's fast and has a lot of features that make it fun to drive.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR is a high-performance version of the Lancer Evolution IX, known for its rally-inspired design and capabilities. The 'MR' designation indicates a more refined and lightweight variant, making it a sought-after model among enthusiasts.
Evo nine
"It's like so you get the SE lip on it with the Evo nine rear. Like, dude, that thing is just like perfect."
The Evo nine is a special version of a car called the Mitsubishi Lancer. It's designed for speed and handling, making it great for racing and driving enthusiasts.
The Evo nine refers to the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX, a high-performance version of the Lancer compact car. It is known for its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, making it popular among car enthusiasts and in motorsports.
clutch fan
"I have the factory clutch fan like the it had separated and like kind of walked into the crank pulley and I couldn't drive it."
A clutch fan is a fan that helps cool the engine. It turns on when the engine gets hot and turns off when it's cool, which helps save energy.
A clutch fan is a type of cooling fan that is engaged or disengaged based on the engine temperature. It helps to maintain optimal engine temperature by allowing the fan to spin faster when needed and slow down when not, improving efficiency.
N.A.T.
"...like what's an N.A.T. like, OK, like what's an N.A.T. kit going to cost? He's like, well, you know, you're about like 15, 16 grand in an N.A.T...."
N.A.T. means adding a turbo to an engine that doesn't have one. It helps the engine produce more power than it normally would without a turbo.
N.A.T. stands for Naturally Aspirated Turbo, which refers to a modification that adds a turbocharger to an engine that was originally designed to be naturally aspirated. This can significantly increase the engine's power output.
BUSHER Racing
"...So BUSHER Racing got with Mitsubishi because I did a bunch of research."
BUSHER Racing is a company that helps make Mitsubishi cars faster and better for racing. They work closely with Mitsubishi to create special versions of their cars.
BUSHER Racing is a company that specializes in performance modifications and racing for Mitsubishi vehicles, particularly the Lancer Evolution. They are known for their involvement in the EVO community and for working directly with Mitsubishi.
DSM
"...the guy is like insane with DSMs and E-Vos."
DSM stands for Diamond Star Motors, which is a group of cars made by Mitsubishi and Eagle. They are popular for being fast and having turbo engines.
DSM refers to the Diamond Star Motors platform, which includes cars like the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon. These cars are known for their turbocharged engines and performance potential.
Honda S2000
"I drove out to STM in Rochester, New York in my S2000. And I brought that home in the passenger seat, dude."
The Honda S2000 is a small sports car that seats two people. It's known for being fun to drive and has a powerful engine that can go very fast.
The Honda S2000 is a two-seat roadster known for its high-revving engine and agile handling. It was produced from 1999 to 2009 and has become a favorite among driving enthusiasts for its performance and lightweight design.
Mercedes-Benz C300
"My airbags deployed because I had a C300 that was lowered. And so I took it right in the headlights and the grille, totaled my car."
The Mercedes-Benz C300 is a stylish and comfortable car that many people enjoy driving. It's known for being a luxury sedan with good features.
The Mercedes-Benz C300 is a luxury sedan known for its comfort and performance. It's part of the C-Class lineup, which is popular among those seeking a blend of style and technology.
Chevrolet Camaros
"... making T56s forever. Like they came in Mustangs, Camaros, Vipers, I believe. I mean, dude, I mean, it's a ..."
Dodge Vipers
"...56s forever. Like they came in Mustangs, Camaros, Vipers, I believe. I mean, dude, I mean, it's a Tremac t..."
The Dodge Viper is a super-fast sports car that looks really cool and has a big engine. It's famous for being a lot of fun to drive, but it's also very powerful, which can be intimidating for some drivers.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and striking design. Produced from 1992 until 2017, it has become an icon in the automotive world, often celebrated for its raw performance and driving experience.
Ford Mustangs
"...ey've been making T56s forever. Like they came in Mustangs, Camaros, Vipers, I believe. I mean, dude, I mean..."
Nissan Skylines
"...e, you know, that's a huge struggle for you guys. Skylines period. Yeah."
The Nissan Skyline is a car that many people admire for its speed and cool features, especially the sportier versions called GT-R. It's popular in racing and has a lot of fans around the world.
The Nissan Skyline is a series of cars that gained fame for their performance, particularly the GT-R variants, which are celebrated for their advanced technology and racing pedigree. The Skyline has a strong following, especially among car enthusiasts and in motorsport circles.
Chevrolet Corvettes
"...come from? I mean, they put them in like the 0304 Corvettes. Corvettes."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a classic American sports car that many people love for its speed and stylish looks. It's been around for a long time and is known for being a good value compared to other fast cars.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a legendary American sports car that has been in production since 1953. Known for its performance, sleek design, and affordability compared to other sports cars, the Corvette has a rich history and is often discussed for its advancements in technology and engineering.
Gordon T50
"right. And I was like, cause I just done the T-50. I had 300 miles, bro, on this new T-506."
The T.50 is a super-fast car created by a famous car designer, known for being very light and fun to drive. It's a special car that many car lovers are excited about because of its unique features.
The Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 is a hypercar designed by renowned automotive engineer Gordon Murray, known for its lightweight construction and innovative engineering. It represents a new standard in performance and driving experience, often discussed for its unique approach to car design.
Jeep Cherokee
"I need to do like, they do the SRT-8 Cherokee or the CTS-V Brembo"
The Jeep Cherokee is a type of SUV that can handle rough roads and is great for outdoor adventures. It's also comfortable enough for daily driving, making it a favorite for many people.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and families alike since its debut in 1974. Its combination of rugged capability and everyday usability makes it a frequent topic of discussion, especially in relation to its performance variants like the SRT-8.
Cadillac Ctsv
"they do the SRT-8 Cherokee or the CTS-V Brembo brake conversion."
The Cadillac CTS-V is a fancy car that goes really fast and has a lot of nice features inside. It's like a luxury car that also feels sporty and fun to drive.
The Cadillac CTS-V is a high-performance version of the Cadillac CTS sedan, known for its powerful engine and luxury features. It competes with other luxury sports sedans and is often discussed for its blend of comfort and performance.
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.