Classic Auto Mall - #216 - Stewart Howden with Guests Drake Darrin + Keith Martin
About this episode
Stewart Howden hosts a lively discussion with guests Drake Darrin and Keith Martin, exploring the legacy of Dutch Darrin, a pioneering automotive designer. Drake shares fascinating stories about his great-uncle's work on iconic cars like the Packard Darrin and Kaiser Darrin, highlighting the challenges and innovations of early automotive design. The conversation also touches on the evolution of gearboxes, the importance of driver engagement, and the allure of classic cars. Listeners will gain insights into the world of classic automobiles and the personal connections that enthusiasts have with their vehicles.
Show #216 airdate 10-22-25 Stewart welcomes Drake Darrin great nephew of renowned car designer Howard "Dutch" Darrin who designed high-end cars for the 1930's Hollywood elite including #ErrolFlynn (the @LeoDiCaprio of the time), #CaryGrant, #RoslynRussell and #DickPowell plus #KeithMartin of Sports Car Market on sizing a car before buying and softening on creature comforts in Classics like AC, automatic transmission, air conditioning and power steering. @Netflix
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Recorded in our Showcase Studio just inside the entrance of the Classic Auto Mall in Morgantown, PA, Host Stewart Howden, Classic Auto Mall President and Classic Car Specialist Steve Saffier talk about this unique and amazing place often with amazing guests.
YES...Classic Auto Mall is a REAL former shopping mall that covers almost EIGHT football fields with an average of nearly ONE THOUSAND classic vehicles under one, climate controlled roof and they're all FOR SALE!
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Porsche 914
"...t I'm going to guest for Steve today. My guest is 914. And Steve's guest is 706."
The Porsche 914 is a sporty car made by Porsche between 1969 and 1976. It has a unique look and is more affordable than other Porsche cars, which makes it a favorite for car lovers. People talk about it because it's fun to drive and stands out from other cars.
The Porsche 914 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Porsche from 1969 to 1976. It is significant for its unique design and affordability compared to other Porsche models, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The 914 is often discussed for its distinctive styling and driving experience.
Porsche 904
"...e's guest is 706. Well he won without going over, 904. Oh, that dog gone, Steve."
The Porsche 904 is a light sports car made in the mid-1960s, famous for its success in racing. It was one of the first cars from Porsche to use a fiberglass body, which helped it be fast and nimble. People talk about it because it's rare and important in racing history.
The Porsche 904 is a lightweight sports car produced in the mid-1960s, known for its racing success and innovative design. It was one of Porsche's first production cars to feature a fiberglass body, making it both fast and agile. The 904 is often discussed for its historical significance in motorsport and its rarity.
Kaiser Darrin
"...the Kaiser Darin, which was the fiberglass, beat the Corvette to the market kind of car, didn't it? Correct, it did. And the pocket doors, which everybody thinks are so cool..."
The Kaiser Darrin is a classic American sports car from the 1950s. It had a special design with sliding doors that made it stand out, but it was also challenging to maintain.
The Kaiser Darrin was a sports car produced in the early 1950s, notable for its fiberglass body and unique sliding doors. It was one of the first American cars to feature a fiberglass body, predating the Corvette.
Packard Darrin
"...the Packard Darins and the Kaiser Darin, which was the fiberglass, beat the Corvette to the market kind of car, didn't it?"
The Packard Darrin is a stylish convertible car made by Packard in the 1940s. It's known for its luxury and unique design, making it a classic among car enthusiasts.
The Packard Darrin is a luxury convertible produced by Packard in the 1940s, known for its elegant design and custom coachwork. It represents the blend of luxury and sportiness typical of Packard vehicles.
fiberglass
"...the fiberglass, beat the Corvette to the market kind of car, didn't it? Correct, it did."
Fiberglass is a strong and lightweight material made from glass fibers. It's often used in cars to make them lighter and help with fuel efficiency.
Fiberglass is a composite material made from fine glass fibers and resin, commonly used in automotive manufacturing for its lightweight and durable properties. It allows for innovative designs like the body of the Kaiser Darrin.
Chevrolet Corvette
"... Kaiser Darin, which was the fiberglass, beat the Corvette to the market kind of car, didn't it? Correct, it..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car made in America since 1953. It's known for being fast and having a cool design, making it a symbol of American cars. People talk about it because it has a long history and has changed a lot over the years.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car that has been in production since 1953. Known for its powerful performance and distinctive design, the Corvette has become a symbol of American automotive engineering. It is often discussed for its impact on the sports car market and its evolution over the decades.
Willys Jeep
"...eventually Willys Jeep. And they wanted him to build an electric gear shift, which he ended..."
The Willys Jeep is a famous vehicle that was used by the military during World War II. It was built to go off-road and handle tough conditions, which made it very popular.
The Willys Jeep is a military vehicle that became iconic during World War II. It was designed for versatility and off-road capability, making it a favorite among soldiers and later civilians.
Mercedes
"Not much different than people buying porches and Mercedes and doing the same thing later in later years."
Mercedes is a well-known car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars. They are famous for their high-quality vehicles and advanced technology.
Mercedes-Benz is a prestigious German automotive brand known for luxury vehicles, buses, and trucks. The brand is recognized for its innovation, safety features, and performance.
Citroën
"...they started working with Daimler Benz, with Renault, with Citron. And at this big show in Paris, he was given a big award..."
Citroën is another French car company that is famous for making unique and stylish cars. They often focus on new ideas and technology in their vehicles.
Citroën is a French automobile manufacturer known for its innovative designs and technology. They have produced several iconic models and are recognized for their contributions to automotive engineering.
Daimler Benz
"...they started working with Daimler Benz, with Renault, with Citron. And at this big show in Paris, he was given a big award..."
Daimler Benz is a famous car company that makes luxury cars. It's now known as Mercedes-Benz and has a long history of creating high-quality vehicles.
Daimler Benz is a historical automotive manufacturer known for luxury vehicles and is now part of Mercedes-Benz. They have a rich heritage in engineering and design, producing iconic models over the years.
Renault
"...they started working with Daimler Benz, with Renault, with Citron. And at this big show in Paris, he was given a big award..."
Renault is a car company from France that makes many different types of vehicles, including small cars and vans. They are known for being creative in their designs.
Renault is a French automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to commercial vehicles. They are recognized for their innovation and design in the automotive industry.
Rolls-Royce
"...some potential buyer over at Rolls-Royce or whichever, he would spark up a conversation..."
Rolls-Royce makes very expensive and luxurious cars that are often seen as a status symbol. They are known for their attention to detail and high-quality materials.
Rolls-Royce is a luxury automobile manufacturer known for its high-end vehicles and craftsmanship. The brand is synonymous with prestige and quality in the automotive world.
Duesenberg
"...one of his top cars is a Duesenberg done for Randolph Hearst. Right. And again, he had this structure built in,..."
Duesenberg was a famous car brand that made very luxurious and powerful cars in the early 1900s. They were known for their quality and were often made specifically for wealthy customers.
Duesenberg was a luxury automobile manufacturer known for its high-performance vehicles and exquisite craftsmanship during the early 20th century. Their cars were often custom-built and featured advanced engineering for their time.
coachwork
"...coachwork on chassis of Bentley, Bugatti,..."
Coachwork is the outer part of a car that you see, like the body and shape. It's especially important for fancy cars that are made to look beautiful.
Coachwork refers to the body of a vehicle, particularly in the context of custom-built or luxury automobiles. It involves the design and construction of the exterior shell that houses the vehicle's components.
Bugatti
"the manufacturers, Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, all those guys built the frame and the chassis..."
Bugatti is a famous car brand that makes very fast and expensive cars. They are known for their unique designs and powerful engines.
Bugatti is a luxury automotive brand known for its high-performance sports cars and exquisite design. Founded in 1909, Bugatti has a rich history in automotive engineering and racing.
chassis
"all those guys built the frame and the chassis and the engine and the suspension..."
The chassis is the main structure of a car that holds everything together, like the engine and wheels. It's important for how the car is built and how it drives.
The chassis is the base frame of a vehicle, which supports the body and components like the engine and suspension. It is crucial for the structural integrity and performance of the car.
Hyundai Grandeur
"of course. So some of these are just so grandeur. And you see them at some of these concours."
The Hyundai Grandeur is a large car made since 1986, known for being roomy and comfortable. It's a good choice for people who want a nice car without spending too much money. People talk about it because it offers a lot of features for a full-size car.
The Hyundai Grandeur, also known as the Azera in some markets, is a full-size sedan that has been produced since 1986. It is recognized for its spacious interior, comfort, and value, appealing to buyers looking for a premium experience without the premium price. The Grandeur is often discussed for its features and competitive positioning in the full-size sedan segment.
Packard
"...And Packard then said to him, we would like for you to design for us. So I have these beautiful sales posters..."
Packard is a car brand that made luxury cars in the United States, especially popular in the early 20th century.
Packard was a prominent American automobile brand that produced luxury vehicles and was known for its craftsmanship and design.
Lexus
"You know, kind of like, I guess, Maybach and Mercedes-Benz or any of Lexus and Toyota or any of these modern companies"
Lexus is a luxury car brand that is part of Toyota. They make high-end cars that are known for being comfortable and reliable.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota. Established in 1989, Lexus is known for its high-quality vehicles, luxurious features, and reliability.
coach building
"What goes around, it comes around, here is a coach builder back then. And for me to try to describe to people what coach building is in the 20s, 30s and 40s, I always say, look, you have to go to an auction and see catalogs where it states a Rolls-Royce buy one of the 150 different coach builders in this era."
Coach building is when special companies make custom bodies for cars. In the past, wealthy buyers could choose different styles for their cars from various builders, making each car unique.
Coach building refers to the practice of constructing custom car bodies on a vehicle chassis. This was particularly popular in the early 20th century when luxury automakers like Rolls-Royce would commission unique designs from various coach builders, allowing for a high degree of personalization and exclusivity.
BMW M5
"...houlders. So for me to fit into something like an M5 is a little tight."
The BMW M5 is a super-fast version of the regular BMW 5 Series car, first made in 1984. It's known for being powerful and fun to drive while still being comfortable for everyday use. People talk about it because it combines speed with luxury.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series, first introduced in 1984. It is renowned for its powerful engine, sporty handling, and luxurious features, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The M5 is often discussed for its blend of performance and everyday usability.
BMW M550
"is a little tight. So I've got the M550, which is a real little screamer. Oh, I bet."
The BMW 5 Series is a luxury car made since 1972, known for being fun to drive and having lots of nice features. It's a popular choice for people who want a comfortable and sporty car. People often talk about it because it combines luxury with a sporty feel.
The BMW 5 Series is a line of mid-size luxury sedans that has been in production since 1972, known for its performance, technology, and upscale features. It is a key model in BMW's lineup, often praised for its driving dynamics and comfort. The 5 Series is frequently discussed for its balance of luxury and sportiness.
Chevrolet C10
"...5 actual miles? Like trucks, maybe a 66 Chevrolet C10 step side with a 350 V8 and a TCI 700 R4 automati..."
The Chevrolet C10 is a classic pickup truck made from the 1960s to the early 1990s. It's known for being tough and useful, which makes it popular among truck lovers. People often talk about it because it's a classic design that many like to restore.
The Chevrolet C10 is a classic pickup truck produced from the 1960s to the early 1990s, known for its robust build and versatility. It has a strong following among classic truck enthusiasts and is often restored or modified for modern use. The C10 is frequently discussed for its iconic design and reliability.
Ford Mustangs
"...ac with multiple AACA awards and let's not forget Mustangs. Like a 67 hardtop, three owners,"
The Ford Mustang is a classic American car that started being made in 1964. It's known for being powerful and stylish, and it represents a sense of freedom in car culture. Many people love Mustangs for their fun driving experience and cool looks.
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1964. It is celebrated for its performance, distinctive styling, and cultural significance, often representing freedom and rebellion in American car culture. The Mustang continues to be a popular choice for car enthusiasts and collectors.
Shelby Cobra
"and a fully known history or a 1998 Mustang Cobra convertible with 38,209 actual miles, one of just..."
The Shelby Cobra is a powerful sports car made in the 1960s, famous for being light and fast. It's known for its racing history and has become a symbol of strong American cars. People talk about it because it's a classic and highly sought after by collectors.
The Shelby Cobra is a high-performance sports car that was produced in the 1960s, known for its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine. It is celebrated for its racing pedigree and has become a symbol of American muscle. The Cobra is often discussed for its impact on the sports car world and its collector value.
Dodge pickup
"The 1936 Dodge pickup sat in black over red. This is chopped and channeled."
The 1936 Dodge pickup is an old truck that has a unique design and is built to be strong and useful. It's a classic vehicle that many people admire.
The 1936 Dodge pickup is a classic truck known for its distinctive styling and robust build. It represents an era of American automotive design that emphasized utility and aesthetics.
Nash Metropolitan Series 3 Convertible
"...Also, the 1956 Nash Metropolitan Series 3 Convertible. Sky blue and snow-berry white over black and white."
The Nash Metropolitan is a small, stylish car from the 1950s that many people find interesting because of its unique design. It's a convertible, meaning the roof can be opened up, making it fun to drive in nice weather.
The Nash Metropolitan Series 3 Convertible is a small car produced by Nash Motors in the 1950s, known for its unique design and compact size. It features a distinctive look that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Jaguar XK-E Series 1
"...the 1967 Jaguar XK-E Series 1 Roadster Warwick Gray over Navy Blue."
The Jaguar XK-E, or E-Type, is a famous British sports car known for its beautiful design and speed. The Series 1 refers to the first version of this car, which many people love to collect.
The Jaguar XK-E, also known as the E-Type, is a British sports car that was produced from 1961 to 1975. The Series 1 is particularly sought after for its design and performance, making it a classic car enthusiast favorite.
Jaguar Ctype
"You see it and you know exactly what it is the minute you see it. Unlike the Jaguar C-Type that we were talking about where people see it and didn't really know what it was."
The Jaguar C-Type is a classic sports car made in the 1950s, famous for winning races. It helped Jaguar become known for making great racing cars. People talk about it because it's important in racing history and is highly collectible.
The Jaguar C-Type is a classic sports car that was produced in the 1950s, known for its racing success and innovative design. It played a significant role in establishing Jaguar's reputation in motorsport, particularly at the Le Mans 24-hour race. The C-Type is often discussed for its historical importance and collectible status.
Cadillac Series 60 Sport Coupe
"So how about this one is a great car. The 1937 Cadillac Series 60 Sport Coupe. Sudan blue over saddle. Stunning Resto Mod build."
The Cadillac Series 60 Sport Coupe is a classic car from 1937 that was known for its stylish look and strong engine. It's a symbol of luxury from that time period.
The Cadillac Series 60 Sport Coupe was a luxury car produced by Cadillac in 1937, known for its elegant design and powerful performance. It represents a significant era in American automotive history, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.
Chevrolet Impala
"The 1964 next in line, the 1964 Chevrolet Impala SS, tell you what, these 1964s are really coming on strong..."
The 1964 Chevrolet Impala is a well-known car from the 1960s that many people love for its looks and performance. The SS version is a sportier model that has better features for driving.
The 1964 Chevrolet Impala is a classic American car known for its stylish design and powerful engine options. It remains a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts, especially the SS (Super Sport) variant, which offers enhanced performance features.
Hyundai Sonata
"... full-size and you look at it and you go, Hyundai Sonata? Yeah, that doesn't look very full-size."
The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size car that has been around since 1985. It's known for being comfortable and affordable, making it a good choice for families. People talk about it because it offers a lot of features for the price.
The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan that has been in production since 1985, known for its value, comfort, and modern features. It has gained popularity for offering a good balance of quality and affordability in the competitive sedan market. The Sonata is often discussed for its reliability and family-friendly design.
Toyota Corolla
"...y wouldn't have gone over well. So but his Toyota Corolla Marizzo edition, these things are a little light."
The Toyota Corolla is a very popular car that has been around since 1966. It's known for being reliable and saving gas, making it a great choice for everyday driving. People talk about it because it's a good, practical car that many people trust.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in the world, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. First introduced in 1966, it has become a staple in the compact car segment, appealing to a wide range of drivers. The Corolla is often discussed for its reputation as a dependable daily driver.
Ford Gt350
"So a lot of tours go through there. The GT350 tour that Lee Cross puts on, they take through, t..."
Porsche 911
"Not bad. And as opposed to our 75 911, which is a much more of a sport,"
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been made since 1964. It's known for its unique shape and great performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts. People often talk about it because it's a classic car that has changed a lot over the years.
The Porsche 911 is a legendary sports car that has been in production since 1964, known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. It is celebrated for its performance, handling, and iconic status in automotive history. The 911 is frequently discussed for its evolution and influence on the sports car segment.
Audi 100
"...heck was I thinking? Or the time we took our Audi 100 LS from Knoxville, Tennessee to Atlanta"
The Audi 100 is a luxury car made from 1968 to 1994, known for being well-engineered and comfortable to drive. It helped Audi become known for making quality cars. People talk about it because it influenced many of Audi's later models.
The Audi 100 is a mid-size luxury sedan produced from 1968 to 1994, known for its advanced engineering and comfortable ride. It played a significant role in establishing Audi's reputation for quality and innovation in the automotive industry. The Audi 100 is often discussed for its influence on future Audi models and its legacy.
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