Corvettes, the Can-Am Lotus, luxury MPVs
About this episode
A lively discussion covers a range of automotive topics, including the intriguing Lotus 66, a modern take on a Can-Am car that never saw the track. The hosts reminisce about the Corvette's evolution, particularly its mid-engine design, and share personal anecdotes about classic cars and racing experiences. They also touch on the resurgence of luxury MPVs, highlighting their practicality and potential comeback in a market dominated by SUVs. The episode features engaging banter, listener correspondence, and insights into upcoming automotive events.
The latest episode of My Week In Cars finds Steve Cropley and Matt Prior back in the Autocar store room as they talk about a Can-Am Lotus - yours for a million quid - the helpfulness of an old tractor if you've lost your licence, the GM President on driving Corvettes, luxury people carriers and much more besides, including your correpsondence.
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Porsche tractor
"...could be driven on a separate license. So a classic Deutz, Fent and even early Porsche tractors could be seen regularly around the city."
Porsche, known for sports cars, also made tractors in the past. These tractors are now seen as classic vehicles and are appreciated by collectors.
Porsche produced tractors in the 1950s and 1960s, which are now considered classic vehicles. These tractors are known for their robust construction and performance, making them popular among collectors and enthusiasts.
Ferguson TEA-20
"...the standard engine went into the Ferguson TEA-20 and Rupert sends a photo of his 48 Ferguson, which is in regular working use."
The Ferguson TEA-20 is an old tractor model that many people still use today. It's known for being strong and reliable, making it a favorite among farmers and collectors.
The Ferguson TEA-20 is a popular vintage tractor known for its innovative design and reliable performance. It was widely used in agriculture and is still cherished by enthusiasts today.
Morgan Plus Four
"...the derivative was used in a Morgan Plus Four, good strong engine."
The Morgan Plus Four is a classic sports car from Britain. It's known for being light and well-made, and many people love driving it because it's fun and stylish.
The Morgan Plus Four is a classic British sports car known for its lightweight design and traditional craftsmanship. It features a strong engine and is popular among car enthusiasts for its performance and style.
Geely
"...under Geely built fairly recently..."
Geely is a car company from China that owns several other car brands, including Lotus. They are known for making various types of vehicles and expanding their business.
Geely is a Chinese automotive manufacturer that has expanded its portfolio by acquiring several brands, including Lotus. They focus on innovation and expanding their market presence.
Can-Am
"but using most of the plans for a Can-Am car that was proposed by Colin Chapman but never used. And the idea was that McLaren, in those days, Bruce McLaren and Denny Halb were making big inroads into the races there, making a lot of money, lots of American series..."
Can-Am is a type of car racing that took place in North America. It allowed for very powerful cars, often with no limits on engine size, making them really fast and exciting to watch.
Can-Am refers to the Canadian-American Challenge Cup, a racing series that featured high-powered sports cars from the 1960s to the early 1980s. It was known for its lack of restrictions on engine size and design, leading to some of the most powerful and innovative race cars of the time.
horsepower
"...the thing is, I'm normally deeply intimidated by cars with 830 horsepower, but somebody upstairs was saying, you'd need the big boy brave pants to..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go and the quicker it can speed up.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. In automotive terms, higher horsepower typically means a vehicle can accelerate faster and achieve higher speeds.
induction stacks
"...but it still had those, those amazing, amazing induction stacks that come out of the center of the motor with it. And they're so big, they won't fit together without being slightly sort of put in a, you know, in a rather asymmetrical way..."
Induction stacks are parts of an engine that help bring air into it. They can make the engine work better by allowing more air to flow in, which is important for power.
Induction stacks are components of an engine's intake system that help direct air into the engine for combustion. They can enhance performance by optimizing airflow, especially in high-performance applications.
Lotus
"...But yeah, I mean, Geely is, in a degree, well Lotus is..."
Lotus is a British car company that makes sports cars known for being light and fast. They are popular among people who love to drive because of how well they handle on the road.
Lotus is a British sports car manufacturer known for its lightweight and high-performance vehicles. The brand is famous for its engineering focus on handling and agility, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Lola T70
"...I mean, I've been at Shelsley Wolfe plenty of times and seen Lola T70 go up there."
The Lola T70 is a race car from the 1960s that was built to be fast and light. It's famous for competing in races and is still admired by car enthusiasts today.
The Lola T70 is a sports car designed for racing, known for its lightweight construction and powerful performance. It was popular in the 1960s and is often seen in historic racing events.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...lovely, happy piece about his connection with the Corvette. And he was, you know, talking about being squee..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car from America that many people love because it's fast and looks great. It's been around for a long time and is known for being fun to drive.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance and distinctive design. It has a rich history dating back to 1953 and is celebrated for its powerful engines and agile handling, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
mid-engined car
"...the latest mid-engined Corvette is obeys the intentions of Dantov..."
A mid-engined car means the engine is placed in the middle of the car, which helps it handle better and feel more balanced when driving. It's often used in sports cars for better performance.
A mid-engined car has its engine located near the center of the vehicle, which can improve handling and balance compared to front-engine designs. This layout is common in high-performance sports cars.
concept cars
"...Dantov, who built a load of concept cars, mid-engined V8 concept cars, starting in the 60s..."
Concept cars are special vehicles that car companies create to show off new ideas and designs. They usually aren't sold to the public but help companies decide what to make in the future.
Concept cars are prototype vehicles that showcase new design ideas and technologies. They are often not intended for production but serve to gauge public interest and explore future possibilities.
Volvo XC90
"one of the engineers told me a story about this, about the XC90, I think, was in 2014-2015,"
The Volvo XC90 is a large, comfortable SUV that is popular for families. The 2014-2015 versions are known for being safe and having a lot of room inside.
The Volvo XC90 is a luxury SUV known for its safety features and spacious interior. The 2014-2015 model years are part of the second generation, which introduced a more modern design and advanced technology.
leaf springs
"And some of those, the steel leaves, as Land Rover owners know, tend to get more and more clogged up with rubbish and friction, and the damping goes wrong and all that. So the Volvo engineers started doing a bit of development on it..."
Leaf springs are metal strips that help hold up a car and make the ride smoother by soaking up bumps in the road. They're often used in trucks and older cars.
Leaf springs are a type of suspension component used in vehicles, consisting of multiple layers of metal strips. They help support the weight of the vehicle and provide a smooth ride by absorbing shocks from the road.
Subaru 360S
"...failure and a bunch of, what would have had them, 360s had them, 900s, I don't know whether they... 360..."
The Subaru 360 is a tiny car that was made a long time ago in Japan. It's very small and was designed to be affordable and easy to drive in the city.
The Subaru 360 is a microcar that was produced from 1958 to 1971, known for its compact size and economical performance. It holds a nostalgic place in automotive history as one of Japan's first mass-produced cars.
Saab 900S
"...nch of, what would have had them, 360s had them, 900s, I don't know whether they... 360s, yeah. Anyway,..."
The Saab 900 is a car that was made in Sweden and is known for its unusual style and powerful engines. Many people like it for its safety and unique character.
The Saab 900 is a compact executive car produced by the Swedish automaker Saab from 1978 to 1998, known for its unique design and turbocharged engines. It has a loyal following and is often celebrated for its quirky features and safety innovations.
front-engine
"...I still got a lot of sympathy for these front-engine cars, because you sit behind this great big shapely thing in front of you..."
In a front-engine car, the engine is located at the front of the vehicle. This is a common design that helps with stability and handling.
Front-engine refers to a car design where the engine is located at the front of the vehicle. This is the most common layout and can provide good handling and stability, especially in larger cars.
Porsche 911S
"don't you, Porsche 911s, you can see the little haunches either side, which help you place the car on the road, but yeah, it's unusual, isn't it? Because you see nothing at all."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that many people love for its speed and unique shape. It's known for being fun to drive and has been around for many years.
The Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. It has a long history of being a favorite among driving enthusiasts due to its handling and performance capabilities.
Griffith 500
"Were you around when we had a Griffith 500 long termer for a little while?"
The Griffith 500 is a sports car made by TVR, a British company. It's known for being fast and having a unique look, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The TVR Griffith 500 is a British sports car known for its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine. It was produced in the early 1990s and is celebrated for its performance and distinctive styling.
Porsche 968
"Ferrari F355, Porsche 968 Club Sport, Porsche 911, 993..."
The Porsche 968 Club Sport is a special version of the Porsche 968 that is lighter and designed for better performance. It's popular with people who enjoy driving.
The Porsche 968 Club Sport is a lightweight, performance-oriented version of the Porsche 968, produced in the early 1990s. It is known for its agile handling and is a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Ferrari F355
"...s ever, because it was the Griffith 500, Ferrari F355, Porsche 968 Club Sport, Porsche 911, 993, and ma..."
manual gearbox
"...not too big, not too fast, manual gearbox, wonderful..."
A manual gearbox is a type of car transmission where you have to change gears yourself using a stick and a pedal. Many people enjoy it because it gives them more control over how the car drives.
A manual gearbox, also known as a manual transmission, allows the driver to manually select gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. This type of transmission is often favored by driving enthusiasts for the control it offers.
Rover 4.3
"Well, I don't know how much they are. I think you'd probably be safest with a Rover, wouldn't you? Yeah, I think so. Yes, a 4.3 or 5.0 litre, I think."
The Rover 4.3 is a car made by the British company Rover. It has a 4.3-liter engine, which is a measure of how powerful it is.
The Rover 4.3 refers to a model from the British automaker Rover, known for its luxury vehicles. This particular model features a 4.3-liter engine, which provides a balance of performance and comfort.
V8
"and when some occasional V8 thunders by, it's great."
A V8 is an engine with eight cylinders that are arranged in a V shape. It's known for being powerful and making a loud, strong sound when it runs.
A V8 is a type of engine configuration that features eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. This design is known for producing a lot of power and a distinctive engine sound, often associated with performance vehicles.
Peugeot 205
"...we had a Peugeot 205 convertible, and we've had obtainer leases and things,..."
The Peugeot 205 convertible is a small car that you can take the roof off of, making it fun to drive in nice weather. It was popular back in the day for being sporty and easy to handle.
The Peugeot 205 convertible is a compact car that was popular in the 1980s and 1990s, known for its nimble handling and fun driving experience. It was part of the Peugeot 205 lineup, which included various body styles and engine options.
Morgan Super 3
"...this Morgan Super 3 is still around my house at the moment, and that is quite, it is quite pleasant..."
The Morgan Super 3 is a special type of car with three wheels instead of four. It's known for its classic look and fun driving style, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Morgan Super 3 is a unique three-wheeled sports car known for its retro styling and lightweight design. It offers a distinctive driving experience and is often appreciated for its craftsmanship and character.
EVs
"because, I think not least because the concept of EVs and range extenders and so on have been superseded, you know, what people actually want has moved on."
EVs are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and are getting more common as technology improves.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than traditional gasoline or diesel engines. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and advancements in battery technology.
Ford Motor Company
"...the chief designer at Ford Motor Company, so a big guy responsible for all those trucks, all those Mustang revivals and all kinds of things."
Ford Motor Company is a big car company in the U.S. that makes cars and trucks. They're well-known for popular vehicles like the Mustang, which is a sporty car.
Ford Motor Company is an American multinational automaker known for its automobiles, trucks, and SUVs. It has a rich history in the automotive industry and is famous for iconic models like the Ford Mustang and F-Series trucks.
Ford Mustang
"... guy responsible for all those trucks, all those Mustang revivals and all kinds of things. But they were...."
The Ford Mustang is a popular sports car from the United States that people love for its speed and cool looks. It's been around for many years and is often seen as a symbol of American freedom.
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964. It is known for its powerful performance, stylish design, and cultural significance, often symbolizing freedom and rebellion in American car culture.
Citroen Ec3 Aircross
"...s we can. You were amazed by the packaging of the Citroen EC3 Aircross, says Nick, fitting seven seats into a four and ..."
The Citroen C3 Aircross is a small SUV that looks cool and has a lot of space inside. It's great for people who want a car that can handle both city driving and trips to the countryside.
The Citroen C3 Aircross is a compact SUV known for its stylish design and spacious interior. It offers a comfortable ride and is aimed at those looking for a versatile vehicle for both city and outdoor adventures.
Toyota Corolla
"...ht. It was the, yes, the direct successor to the Corolla Verso. So it was a, it was a sort of MPV based on..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it's dependable and saves on gas. It's been around for a long time and is a good choice for anyone looking for a simple, reliable vehicle.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in the world, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It has been a staple in the compact car segment since its introduction in 1966, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Toyota Alphard
"...ou've seen, what's that Toyota that you? Oh, the Alphard. The Alphard. This is Toyota, isn't it? The Alpha..."
The Toyota Alphard is a big, comfortable van that's great for families or people who need a lot of space. It's known for being reliable and has nice features inside.
The Toyota Alphard is a luxury MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) that offers spacious interiors and high-end features, making it popular for families and those seeking comfort. It is well-regarded for its reliability and smooth ride.
Volkswagen Californias
"yeah, the Mercedes, Marco Polos, whatever they call those classes, they're like 80, 70, 80 grand, something like that. I think more or Toyota, the Volkswagen California's 60, 60 grand. So anything MPV shaped is, is an expensive car. Most, you know, for the most part. And they've got good,"
The Volkswagen California is a camper van that you can use for road trips and camping. It has space inside to sleep and cook, making it perfect for adventures.
The Volkswagen California is a camper van based on the Transporter, designed for leisure and travel. It offers flexible living space and is popular among outdoor enthusiasts for its versatility and practicality.
Jaguar Dtype
"transporter has a lower drag coefficient than a D-Type Jaguar. Wow. But obviously the D-Type has better aerodynamics overall, because it's much smaller, but, but they, they clearly can be very sleek and difficult through the air."
The Jaguar D-Type is a classic race car from the 1950s that is famous for its sleek shape and speed. It's very valuable today because of its history and success in racing.
The Jaguar D-Type is a legendary sports car produced in the 1950s, known for its aerodynamic design and success in motorsport, particularly at the Le Mans race. It is celebrated for its engineering and remains a highly sought-after collector's item.
Audi A2
"... But would you buy one, Matthew? Well, I have an Audi A2 with no rear seats in it. And that is basically a..."
The Audi A2 is a small, practical car that can fit a lot of stuff inside. It's made from lightweight materials, which helps it use less fuel and be easier to drive around town.
The Audi A2 is a compact MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) that was produced from 1999 to 2005, known for its innovative aluminum construction and efficient use of space. It was designed to be practical and economical, appealing to families and urban drivers.
Citroen C1
"... and effective it is. Yeah. Who has just bought a Citroen C1? Well, a bloke called Darren Geldard wrote to us..."
The Citroen C1 5 doors is a small car that's perfect for driving around the city. It has five doors, which makes it easy to get in and out, especially for passengers in the back.
The Citroen C1 5 doors is a compact city car designed for urban driving, known for its small size and efficiency. It offers practicality with its five-door layout, making it easy to access the rear seats.
Suzuki Swift
"So what were you in? I was in a Suzuki Swift Sport. Oh, man. I think it was, I've got, it cam..."
Suzuki Swift Sport
"So what were you in? I was in a Suzuki Swift Sport. Oh, man. I think it was, I've got, it came up q..."
The Suzuki Swift Sport is a small car that's fun to drive and has a sporty feel. It's great for people who want a car that's easy to handle but still has some excitement.
The Suzuki Swift Sport is a sporty variant of the Suzuki Swift, known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. It combines practicality with performance, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a compact car.
Honda Civic
"we had three cars in our team, a two Honda Civic Type Rs, which were quite quick, and one Suzuki Swift Sport..."
The Honda Civic Type R is a sporty version of the regular Honda Civic, designed for better performance and handling. It's often used in racing and is known for being fun to drive.
The Honda Civic Type R is a high-performance variant of the Honda Civic, known for its sporty handling and powerful turbocharged engine. It's popular among car enthusiasts for its track capabilities and everyday usability.
Toyota Yaris
"...the, it's only out accelerating Citroën C1 and a Toyota Yaris, you know, but other than that, it's not a fast ..."
The Toyota Yaris iA is a small car that's easy to drive and saves a lot of gas. It's a good option for people who want something affordable and practical for getting around town.
The Toyota Yaris iA is a subcompact sedan that emphasizes fuel efficiency and practicality, making it an ideal choice for city driving. It is known for its compact size and affordability.
BMW M3
"...his pub in Hartley-Winley, which is just off the M3. And yeah, there's various bits hanging on the w..."
The BMW M3 is a fast and sporty version of a regular BMW car. It's designed for people who love to drive and want a car that feels exciting and powerful.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its powerful engines and sporty handling. It has a strong motorsport heritage and is often regarded as one of the best sports sedans in the world.
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