Cropley buys a car! Plus Longbow, Ineos, a first Ferrari
About this episode
Steve Cropley shares his excitement about purchasing a Peugeot 205 GTI rally car, aiming to participate in amateur motorsport events. The hosts discuss various automotive topics, including the integration of EV charging solutions, insights from Å koda's CEO Klaus Zelma, and the unique design of the new Longbow electric sports car. They also touch on the challenges facing small car production in Europe and the ongoing debate about classic cars versus modern vehicles. Listener letters spark discussions about midlife crisis road trips and parking preferences, adding a personal touch to the episode.
The latest episode of My Week In Cars finds Steve Cropley and Matt Prior discussing all things motoring including the new Longbow sports car, a mega off-road Ineos on portal axles, Kei cars for Europe, and Cropley’s new car! There’s much more besides too, including your correspondence, about a listener’s first Ferrari.
You can make sure you never miss an Autocar podcast by subscribing wherever you get your podcasts. And if you'd be wiling to rate and review the Pod, we'd appreciate it more than you know, too.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Anderson EV charger
"...happened to have one of these, you know, a TAP Stroke Anderson Evie charger that we could plug into and just pay a few quid..."
Anderson makes chargers for electric cars that you can use at home. Their chargers help you easily charge your car when you're not at a gas station.
Anderson is a company that specializes in electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, particularly home charging stations. Their chargers are designed to be user-friendly and efficient, making it easier for EV owners to charge their vehicles at home or in shared spaces.
Volkswagen Group
"...because I know that, although they're part of Volkswagen Group and they use a lot of Volkswagen componentry..."
Volkswagen Group is a big company in Germany that owns many car brands like Volkswagen, Audi, and Å koda. They help each other by using similar parts and technology to make cars.
Volkswagen Group is a major automotive conglomerate based in Germany, owning several well-known brands including Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Å koda, and Lamborghini. They share technology and components across these brands, which helps in reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Å koda Rapid
"...the original Rapid from the 1930s. And a first-gen Octavia, which is late 50s, early 60s."
The Å koda Rapid is an old car from the 1930s made by a company called Å koda. It was known for being well-designed and advanced for its era.
The Å koda Rapid was a model produced by the Czech automaker Å koda in the 1930s, known for its innovative design and engineering for the time.
Skoda Octavia
"...e original Rapid from the 1930s. And a first-gen Octavia, which is late 50s, early 60s. Yeah, I can remem..."
The Skoda Octavia is a practical car that's great for families because it has a lot of space inside. It's known for being reliable and a good value, making it a smart choice for everyday driving.
The Skoda Octavia is a compact car that has gained a reputation for its practicality, spacious interior, and value for money. It is one of Skoda's best-selling models and is often praised for its reliability and efficiency.
Skoda Felicia
"actually built... Was it a Felicia? No, but they built like a wagon,"
The Skoda Felicia is an older compact car that many people remember fondly. It's known for being practical and easy to drive, making it a popular choice in its time.
The Skoda Felicia is a compact car that was produced in various forms from the late 1950s to the late 1990s, known for its practicality and affordability. It has a nostalgic appeal among classic car enthusiasts.
Land Range Rovery
"...almost like a Land Cruiser slash Range Rover-y type utility vehicle out of the Octavia original Octavia estate platform."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can go off-road. It's known for being comfortable and stylish while still being tough.
The Range Rover is a luxury SUV produced by Land Rover, known for its off-road capabilities and high-end features. It combines luxury with ruggedness.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"No, but they built like a wagon, almost like a Land Cruiser slash Range Rover-y type utility vehicle out of ..."
Ferrari Portofino
"...a beautiful red Portofino with tan leather and all the bits,..."
The Ferrari Portofino is a fancy sports car known for being fast and stylish. It has a roof that can open up like a convertible, and it's made by the famous car brand Ferrari.
The Ferrari Portofino is a luxury sports car that combines performance with elegance, featuring a retractable hardtop and a powerful V8 engine. It's designed for both comfort and speed, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Aston Martin
"I've owned many Porsches, Bentley's and Aston's,"
Aston Martin is a luxury car brand that makes stylish sports cars often seen in movies.
Aston Martin is a British luxury sports car manufacturer known for its elegant design and association with James Bond films.
Porsche 911 GT3
"...who have just bought a new 911 GT3."
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a special version of the Porsche 911 that is designed for high performance, especially on race tracks. It has a powerful engine and features that make it very fun to drive.
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance variant of the iconic 911 sports car, known for its track-focused capabilities and naturally aspirated flat-six engine. It's celebrated for its precise handling and exhilarating driving experience.
Polestar 3
"What should we talk first, Steve? Shall we talk Polestar 3?"
The Polestar 3 is a new electric SUV made by Polestar, which is a brand that focuses on high-performance electric cars. It's designed to be both stylish and environmentally friendly.
The Polestar 3 is an electric SUV from Polestar, a performance brand that originated from Volvo. It combines luxury features with advanced electric vehicle technology.
Renault 5
"You know, the Alpine, the Renault 5, I've just bought a car that we might talk about later."
The Renault 5 is a small car made by Renault that was popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It's known for being easy to drive and park in cities.
The Renault 5 is a supermini car produced by the French automaker Renault from 1972 to 1985. It was known for its compact size and practicality, making it popular in urban environments.
Audi
"...I've been in the Audi a lot recently as well."
Audi is a well-known car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars with lots of technology and comfort features.
Audi is a German automobile manufacturer known for its luxury vehicles, advanced technology, and Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Alpine A290
"...but I had to go in both versions of the Alpine A290, though. Oh, the lower-powered one too."
The Alpine A290 is a small sports car made by the brand Alpine. It comes in different versions with varying power levels, making it fun to drive.
The Alpine A290 is a compact sports car known for its performance and handling characteristics. It features different power variants that cater to enthusiasts looking for spirited driving experiences.
0-60 time
"...they claim that there's a second difference in 0-60, you know, something like 6.8 versus 7.8."
0-60 time is how long it takes a car to go from stopped to going 60 miles per hour. It's a way to see how fast a car can speed up.
0-60 time refers to the time it takes for a vehicle to accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a car's acceleration capabilities.
Honda Super N
"But what about the... Because it was a Tokyo mobility show the other week. Oh, yeah. You've seen the Super N or Super 1, the Honda?"
The Honda Super N is a new type of car that Honda is showing off to highlight new ideas and technology in vehicles. It's not a regular car you can buy yet, but it's interesting to see what the future might hold.
The Honda Super N is a concept vehicle showcased at automotive events, emphasizing innovative design and technology. It's part of Honda's exploration of future mobility solutions.
Honda E
"Cross between the Honda E, you know, the short-range battery car that hasn't done very well because the range is too short."
The Honda E is a small electric car that's great for driving around town. It has a unique, retro design but doesn't go very far on a single charge, so it's best for short trips.
The Honda E is a small electric vehicle designed for urban environments, known for its retro styling and compact size. It features a short-range battery, making it ideal for city driving but less suitable for long trips.
Euro 6 regulations
"And then because of the latest Euro 6 regulations..."
Euro 6 is a set of rules in Europe that make sure cars don't pollute the air too much. It helps keep the environment cleaner by limiting harmful gases that cars can release.
Euro 6 regulations are European Union standards that limit the amount of harmful pollutants that vehicles can emit. They aim to reduce air pollution and improve air quality by enforcing stricter limits on nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter, and other emissions from vehicles.
ADAS
"Yeah, plus GSR2, ADAS, driver assistance system."
ADAS means special technology in cars that helps drivers stay safe. It can do things like help with braking or keep the car in its lane.
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and facilitate driving. These systems can include features like automatic braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control.
Renault Twingo
"...the Twingo is revealed and it's going to cost less than 20,000 euros, which is getting there, I think. And it looks like a nice little car, it's pretty Twingo-ish. It's quite recognizable."
The Renault Twingo is a small car that's easy to drive around cities. It's known for its unique look and is great for parking in tight spaces.
The Renault Twingo is a compact city car known for its distinctive design and practicality. It has been popular in Europe for its small size and maneuverability, making it ideal for urban driving.
LFP battery
"And it's going to have an LFP battery, the new cheaper type of battery."
LFP batteries are a type of battery used in electric cars. They are safer and cheaper than some other types of batteries, making them a popular choice.
LFP stands for Lithium Iron Phosphate, a type of lithium-ion battery known for its safety, stability, and lower cost compared to other lithium batteries. They are increasingly used in electric vehicles for their longevity and thermal stability.
LFP batteries
"And Renault have discovered these LFP batteries, and there's even talk that..."
LFP batteries are a kind of battery used in electric cars. They are safer and cheaper to make than some other types of batteries, which is why car companies are interested in using them.
LFP batteries, or lithium iron phosphate batteries, are a type of lithium-ion battery known for their safety, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. They are increasingly used in electric vehicles due to their stability and lower production costs compared to other lithium-ion chemistries.
driver assistance systems
"...and two, driver assistance systems. You know, all the sensors and everything else."
Driver assistance systems are features in cars that help drivers stay safe and make driving easier. Examples include systems that help keep the car in its lane or automatically brake if there's an obstacle.
Driver assistance systems are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and facilitate driving. They include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Jaguar Ipace
"we're not going to buy big electric saloons. We're not. You know, the Jaguar I-Pace, which seemed like such a progressive vehicle just a few years ago,"
The Jaguar I-PACE is an electric SUV that doesn't use gas, which means it's better for the environment. It's designed to be luxurious and fast, making it a cool choice for those who want an eco-friendly car.
The Jaguar I-PACE is an all-electric SUV that showcases Jaguar's commitment to sustainable luxury. It combines performance with advanced technology, offering a stylish alternative in the growing electric vehicle market.
Peugeot 205
"...arked on the hillside was this Renault... sorry, Peugeot 205 rally car, just sitting there."
The Peugeot 205 CTI is a fun little convertible car that you can drive with the top down. It's known for being sporty and enjoyable to drive, especially in nice weather.
The Peugeot 205 CTI is a convertible version of the popular 205 hatchback, known for its sporty performance and fun driving experience. It holds a special place in automotive history as a beloved compact car from the 1980s.
Prescott Hill Climb
"And then I went and did another day at Prescott Hill Climb, the Bugatti owners club, Hill Climb near here, near Cheltenham."
The Prescott Hill Climb is a racing event where cars go up a hill as fast as they can. It's a fun competition for car enthusiasts and takes place in the UK.
The Prescott Hill Climb is a popular motorsport event held in the UK where drivers race their cars up a hill, testing their speed and handling. It's a part of the British Hill Climb Championship and attracts a variety of vehicles, including classic and modern sports cars.
Peugeot 205 GTI
"...und this rather excellent rally-prepared Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9, caged, seam-welded race seats in it. Quite ..."
The Peugeot 205 GTI is a sporty version of a small car that became famous for being fun to drive. It's lightweight and quick, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Peugeot 205 GTI is a legendary hot hatch that became iconic in the 1980s for its performance and driving dynamics. It is celebrated among car enthusiasts for its lightweight design and engaging driving experience.
Peugeot 309
"...the Peugeot 309 that I'm trying to replace was also green, different green with a green."
The Peugeot 309 is a small car that was made in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It's known for being practical and good on fuel.
The Peugeot 309 is a compact car produced by the French automaker Peugeot from 1985 to 1993. It was known for its practicality and efficiency.
brake horsepower
"...this car's probably got about an almost 140, 150 brake horsepower and it's very light."
Brake horsepower tells you how powerful an engine is before any energy is lost to things like heat or friction. It's a way to measure how fast a car can go.
Brake horsepower (BHP) is a measure of an engine's power output before losses like friction and heat are accounted for. It's an important metric for understanding a car's performance.
Lotus Elise
"The 309 we had, by the time we finished with it, had weighed the same as a Lotus Elise, which was 830, 820, some of that."
The Lotus Elise is a small, lightweight sports car that is very fun to drive. It's designed for great handling and speed, making it popular with car lovers.
The Lotus Elise is a lightweight sports car known for its exceptional handling and performance. It features a minimalist design and is powered by a small, efficient engine, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
rally prep
"...it's going to go to rally prep though, the Cornwall folks and just get everything looked at because it hasn't really done anything very much for about five years."
Rally prep is getting a car ready for rally racing. This means making sure the car is safe and can perform well on rough roads.
Rally prep refers to the process of preparing a vehicle for rally racing, which includes modifications and inspections to ensure it can handle the demands of off-road racing. This can involve tuning the engine, upgrading suspension, and ensuring safety features are in place.
Suzuki Swift Sport
"...it, well, I did get a bit revved up by the Suzuki Swift Sport that I ran in the Birket six hour the other week...."
The Suzuki Swift Sport is a small car that's designed to be really fun to drive. It's zippy and handles well, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a sporty feel on the road.
The Suzuki Swift Sport is a sporty version of the popular Swift hatchback, known for its agile handling and lively performance. It appeals to driving enthusiasts looking for a compact car that offers fun behind the wheel.
Suzuki Swift
"...red a bit, well, I did get a bit revved up by the Suzuki Swift Sport that I ran in the Birket six hour the other..."
Lotus Amira
"...ather than... Because we know that cars like the Amira, cars like the A110 are a lovely idea, but every..."
The Lotus Emira is a new sports car that is built to be fast and fun to drive. It's designed to be lightweight, which helps it handle well on the road, making it exciting for car lovers.
The Lotus Emira is a modern sports car that combines lightweight design with powerful performance, representing a new era for the Lotus brand. It aims to attract enthusiasts with its engaging driving experience and stylish design.
Alpine A110
"...e we know that cars like the Amira, cars like the A110 are a lovely idea, but everybody loves them, but..."
Mercedes-Benz SL
"...ases and two further bags in the boot of an R230 slash R231 Mercedes SL. That's the 2001 to 2020 ver..."
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible car that can turn into a coupe when you close the roof. It's known for being very comfortable and stylish, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy driving in luxury.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster known for its blend of performance and comfort, featuring a retractable hardtop. It has a long history of being a symbol of elegance and engineering excellence in the sports car segment.
Land Rover Defender
"... a family holiday ten years ago, I suppose, in a Defender. Was it in the Landy?"
The Land Rover Defender is a tough car that's great for driving off the beaten path, like in the mountains or on rough roads. It's known for being reliable and can carry a lot of gear, which makes it a favorite for family trips.
The Land Rover Defender is a rugged off-road vehicle known for its durability and capability in challenging terrains. It has a rich history and is often associated with adventure and exploration, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nissan Leafs
"... EVs, the driving positions, even in things like Leafs, were compromised because you sat too high at th..."
The Nissan Leaf is an electric car that runs on batteries instead of gasoline, which means it doesn't produce any harmful emissions. It's designed to be easy to drive and is a popular choice for people looking to go green.
The Nissan Leaf is one of the world's best-selling electric vehicles, known for its practicality and efficiency. It represents a significant step towards sustainable transportation, offering a zero-emissions driving experience.
MG Mgb
"...ussed plenty of times on this pod, you get in the MGB and you sort of think, ah, yeah, what a simple....."
The MG MGB is an old-school sports car that many people love because it's fun to drive and looks great. It's simple and easy to work on, which makes it a favorite among car fans.
The MG MGB is a classic British sports car that gained popularity in the 1960s for its affordable price and fun driving experience. It is celebrated for its simple design and has a strong enthusiast following.
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.