Crowning The Hatchback King — The Carmudgeon Show w Jason Cammisa & Derek Tam-Scott — Ep. 191
About this episode
A lively discussion centers on the evolution of hot hatches, particularly focusing on the Volkswagen GTI and the original Jeep Cherokee's place in this category. Jason Cammisa and Derek Tam-Scott debate the merits of various GTI generations, from the classic Mark I to the modern Mark VII, while also making a case for the Cherokee as an unexpected contender in the hot hatch realm. The episode features anecdotes, personal stories, and a humorous take on automotive culture, making it an engaging listen for fans of hatchbacks and automotive history.
Volvo
"The first Volvo car arrived in the US in 1955. Ever since, we've helped lead the way in safety innovations."
Volvo is a car company from Sweden that makes vehicles known for being very safe and reliable.
Volvo is a Swedish automotive manufacturer known for its focus on safety and innovation in car design.
Jeep Cherokee
"We're going to make the case for why the original Jeep Cherokee was a hot hatch despite having live axles at both ends."
The Jeep Cherokee is a type of SUV that is known for being good at driving off-road and is popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been popular for its off-road capabilities and versatility since its introduction in the 1970s.
Volkswagen Gtis
"... we're going to talk about various generations of GTIs and how they compare against one another and the ..."
Dodge Viper
"... it Paris. No. And this is Wisconsin or Chevrolet Viper aimed to find the shop chair that sucked and make..."
The Viper is a super-fast sports car with a really powerful engine. It's known for being exciting to drive, but it's also quite loud and not very practical for everyday use.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and aggressive styling. Produced from 1992 to 2017, it has become a symbol of American muscle and is often discussed for its raw performance and driving experience.
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4
"Viper is giving away a 2021 Python green Porsche GT4."
The Porsche GT4 is a sporty car that's designed for performance on the track. The 2021 version has a powerful engine and is built to handle well, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche GT4 is a high-performance variant of the Porsche Cayman, known for its track-focused design and powerful engine. The 2021 model features a naturally aspirated flat-six engine and is celebrated for its handling and driving dynamics.
Ac Ace
"... remain hilarious, but very irreverent. I watched Ace Ventura Pet Detective the first one recently. Did..."
The AC Ace is a classic sports car that looks really cool and is fun to drive. It's important because it helped inspire the famous AC Cobra, which is very well-known.
The AC Ace is a British sports car that was produced from 1953 to 1963, known for its lightweight design and classic styling. It is significant for being the predecessor to the famous AC Cobra, often discussed for its historical importance in the sports car world.
Bmw 3
"...bout what percentage of the size of a Jeep is the BMW 3 Series back then. And whether that has changed, h..."
The BMW 3 Series is a small luxury car that has been around for a long time. It's popular because it's fun to drive and has nice features, making it a favorite for people who want a stylish and comfortable vehicle.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been in production since 1975. It is known for its sporty performance, luxury features, and strong resale value, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Jeep Wagoneer
"...the Cherokee was the replacement for the Waggeneer. So the Waggeneer was that full frame, big wood panel thing."
The Jeep Wagoneer is a large SUV that was popular in the past, known for its roomy interior and wooden panels on the sides. It was a luxury vehicle for families.
The Jeep Wagoneer is a full-size SUV that was produced from 1963 to 1991. It is known for its spacious interior and classic wood paneling, making it a symbol of luxury in its time.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
"The Grand Waggeneer? Aha! The Waggeneer was renamed to be the Grand Waggeneer because there was an XJ Cherokee that was called the Waggeneer."
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a large SUV that combines luxury and off-road performance. It's known for being spacious and comfortable.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a full-size SUV known for its luxury features and off-road capabilities. It has a rich history, originally launched in the 1960s and revived in recent years with modern technology and design.
Jeep Waggoneer
"The Waggeneer was the top-spec model. The Waggeneer was basically the like Range Rover in the sense that it was the Jeep guts with a more useful civilized body."
The Jeep Waggoneer is a large SUV known for being tough and capable off-road, but it also had a comfortable interior, making it good for family trips.
The Jeep Waggoneer was a full-size SUV that combined rugged off-road capability with a more refined interior, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Land Rover Range Rover
"...-spec model. The Waggeneer was basically the like Range Rover in the sense that it was the Jeep guts with a mor..."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can handle rough terrains while still looking stylish inside and out. It's well-liked for its comfort and ability to go off-road, making it a popular choice for those who want both luxury and adventure.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and premium features. Since its introduction in 1970, it has become a symbol of luxury and adventure, often discussed for its blend of ruggedness and refinement.
Jeep Wrangler
"...over is Waggeneer to Jeep. Well, but it's now the Wrangler, but it was back then the CJ. Yeah, so the Waggen..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough, boxy vehicle that is great for driving on rough roads and trails. It's popular with people who love outdoor adventures and want a car that can handle tough conditions.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional off-road capabilities. Since its debut in 1986, it has maintained a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
"Because the, nearing the end of the Cherokee's life, it was to be replaced by what we now know as the Grand Cherokee. But there was still so much demand for the Cherokee that they kept them both and renamed its replacement the Grand Cherokee."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a bigger and fancier version of the Jeep Cherokee, designed for people who want more space and comfort in their SUV. It's also good for off-road driving.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that was introduced in 1992 as a more upscale and larger alternative to the Cherokee. It features a more luxurious interior and advanced technology compared to its predecessor.
AMC
"Renault had controlling interest in AMC by the end of the development process."
AMC was a car company in the United States that made smaller cars and also owned the Jeep brand. They were important in the history of American cars until they were bought by another company.
American Motors Corporation (AMC) was an American automobile manufacturer known for producing compact and economy cars, as well as the Jeep brand. It was acquired by Chrysler in 1987, but its influence can still be seen in vehicles like the Jeep Cherokee.
suspension tuning
"And they had a lot to say about the suspension tuning. And I think that what made the Cherokee different from every other SUV on the market..."
Suspension tuning is how car makers adjust the parts that help the car's wheels move smoothly over bumps and turns. It affects how comfortable the ride feels and how well the car handles.
Suspension tuning refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's suspension system to optimize handling, comfort, and performance. It involves modifying components like springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars to achieve desired characteristics.
coil spring suspension
"...they put coil spring suspension with self-leveling in the back, which was like a big deal."
Coil spring suspension is a system that uses coiled metal springs to help the car handle bumps in the road better. It makes the ride smoother and helps the car stay stable while driving.
Coil spring suspension uses coil springs to support the vehicle's weight and absorb shocks from the road. This type of suspension provides a smoother ride and better handling compared to leaf springs.
Range Rover
"I mean, the Range Rover also didn't exist in the US at the time. Correct. The Range Rover did not make its US debut until 1977."
The Range Rover is a high-end SUV that started being sold in 1970. It wasn't available in the United States until 1977, which was important for American buyers looking for luxury vehicles.
The Range Rover is a luxury SUV that was first introduced in 1970 and is known for its off-road capabilities and upscale features. It did not become available in the US until 1977, marking a significant entry into the American market for luxury SUVs.
Bronco
"...the Bronco, all those station wagon things that had come out scout, international scout, all those station wagon-shaped things..."
The Bronco is a tough SUV made by Ford that has been around for many years. It's designed to handle rough terrain and is popular for outdoor adventures.
The Ford Bronco is a series of SUVs that were originally produced from 1966 to 1996, and then reintroduced in 2020. It is known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
International Scout
"...influenced the arrival of the Range Rover, the Bronco, all those station wagon things that had come out scout, international scout..."
The International Scout is an older SUV that was made by International Harvester. It was designed to be used both on regular roads and off-road, making it popular for adventures.
The International Scout is a classic SUV produced by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980. It was one of the first SUVs designed for both on-road and off-road use, and it has a strong following among classic car enthusiasts.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"And also, don't forget, Land Cruiser, right? That also sort of happened a little bit later..."
The Land Cruiser is a strong SUV made by Toyota that is built to last and can handle tough terrains. It's also comfortable for everyday driving.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a series of four-wheel drive vehicles produced by Toyota since 1951. It is renowned for its durability, off-road capability, and luxury features, making it a favorite for both adventure and everyday use.
FJ55
"...a couple of years later, but 67 was the FJ55."
The FJ55 is a specific version of the Land Cruiser made by Toyota in 1967. It looks like a station wagon and is good for both driving on rough roads and carrying people.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55, introduced in 1967, is a variant of the Land Cruiser known for its unique station wagon design. It combines off-road capability with a spacious interior, making it a versatile vehicle.
straight six engine
"And they took their old straight six, the four two, and they cut it down into a four cylinder..."
A straight six engine is a type of engine where six cylinders are lined up in a row. It's known for running smoothly and is often found in bigger cars.
A straight six engine is an inline engine with six cylinders arranged in a straight line. This design is known for its smooth operation and is often used in larger vehicles.
nox sensor
"But it had nox sensor in 1984."
A NOx sensor checks how much nitrogen oxide is in the exhaust from a car's engine. This helps reduce pollution and makes the engine run better.
A NOx sensor measures the levels of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases of an engine. This helps in controlling emissions and optimizing engine performance.
iron block engine
"which we know is that, you know, indestructible iron block, iron head, lasts five billion miles."
An iron block engine is made from strong iron, making it very durable. These engines are known for lasting a long time without problems.
An iron block engine is constructed with a cast iron engine block, known for its durability and strength. These engines are often associated with longevity and reliability.
Chevy 2.8 liter V6
"Oh, there was one year, the two point eight liter V six from Chevy. Yes. It was a Chevy two point eight liter V six, which actually, this is another interesting thing in the research."
The Chevy 2.8 liter V6 is an engine made by Chevrolet that has six cylinders arranged in a V shape. It was used in some of their cars and trucks to offer a good mix of power and fuel economy.
The Chevy 2.8 liter V6 is a small-displacement V6 engine produced by Chevrolet, known for its use in various models during the 1980s and early 1990s. It was designed to provide a balance of performance and fuel efficiency for mid-sized cars and trucks.
horsepower
"And AMC refused to give horse power numbers back in the day. Their policy was to not talk about power."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. It tells you how much work the engine can do, which helps you understand how fast a car can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement used to quantify the power output of an engine. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, which is crucial for understanding a vehicle's performance capabilities.
V8 engine
"...the four oh made more power than the five nine V eight did."
A V8 engine is a type of engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It is usually more powerful than smaller engines and is often used in trucks and sports cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder internal combustion engine with cylinders arranged in two banks of four in a V configuration. V8 engines are known for their power and performance, commonly found in larger vehicles like trucks and performance cars.
five-speed manual
"It was a five-speed manual 86 with two and a half liter. Two and a half liter."
A five-speed manual is a kind of car transmission where you can choose from five different speeds yourself. It gives you more control over how fast the car goes.
A five-speed manual refers to a type of transmission that allows the driver to manually select from five different gear ratios. This gives the driver more control over the vehicle's power and speed compared to automatic transmissions.
two and a half liter
"It was a five-speed manual 86 with two and a half liter. Two and a half liter."
Two and a half liter means the size of the engine. A bigger engine usually means the car can go faster and has more power.
The term 'two and a half liter' refers to the engine displacement, which is the total volume of all the cylinders in an engine. A larger displacement typically indicates more power, as it can burn more fuel and air.
cooling system
"And it was like cooling system exploded. Like it was just the car had sat for like years."
The cooling system helps keep the engine from getting too hot. It uses a liquid called coolant to absorb heat and then releases it through a part called the radiator.
The cooling system in a vehicle is responsible for maintaining the engine's temperature within a safe operating range. It typically includes components like the radiator, water pump, and coolant, which work together to dissipate heat from the engine.
transmission
"The transmission exploded on the GWB."
The transmission helps your car change gears so it can go faster or slower. It's an important part that connects the engine to the wheels.
The transmission is a crucial component of a vehicle that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. It allows the car to change speeds and is essential for both acceleration and deceleration.
Chrysler New Yorkers
"...shes on it. Everyone's like, how are you doing in New Yorkers? And finally somebody stopped and while he was sc..."
The New Yorker is a big, old luxury car that was known for being very comfortable and stylish. It's a classic car that many people remember fondly from the past.
The Chrysler New Yorker is a full-size luxury car that was produced from 1940 to 1996, known for its classic styling and comfortable ride. It represents a bygone era of American automotive design and is often discussed for its historical significance.
Nissan Sentra SE
"...and bought her a Centra SE with the money. And I added some money and I did breaks on it, whatever."
The Nissan Sentra SE is a version of the Sentra that has some sporty features. It's a compact car that's good for everyday driving.
The Nissan Sentra SE is a sportier trim of the compact Sentra sedan, known for its balance of performance and practicality. It often features enhancements in styling and equipment compared to the base model.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"So we took it everywhere. We went to Tahoe and you know, somebody and like... And then the n..."
The Tahoe is a big SUV that can fit a lot of people and gear, making it great for families or trips. It's known for being powerful and comfortable, perfect for both city driving and adventures.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that offers spacious seating and strong towing capabilities. Since its introduction in 1995, it has been favored by families and those needing a versatile vehicle for both daily driving and outdoor activities.
four-wheel drive
"...if you had four-wheel drive and snow tires, which much fewer cars did back then, then you could sort of fuck right off"
Four-wheel drive means that all four wheels of a car can get power from the engine at the same time. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather or off-road.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This enhances traction and control, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.
Audi 5000
"But yeah, it was mostly her daily transport other than she saw an Audi 5,000 on the side of the road with a for sale sign and bought it on the spot."
The Audi 5000 is a luxury car that was known for being very comfortable and having some advanced features for its time. It helped Audi become a well-respected brand.
The Audi 5000 is a mid-size luxury car that was produced from 1978 to 1991, known for its innovative technology and comfortable ride. It is often discussed for its role in establishing Audi as a premium brand in the automotive market.
timing belt
"It's apparently thrown that belt a couple more times."
A timing belt is a part of the engine that helps keep everything moving in sync. If it breaks, it can cause serious engine problems.
The timing belt is a crucial component in an engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring the engine's valves open and close at the proper times.
hot hatch
"But the idea is that this really is America's favorite hot hatch."
A hot hatch is a small car with a hatchback design that is built for speed and fun driving. They usually have powerful engines and sporty features.
A hot hatch is a high-performance version of a hatchback car, designed for sporty driving and often featuring a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and enhanced handling characteristics.
Maruti Swifts
"I mean, if you compare it to the contemporary hot hatch, like you remember, like Suzuki Swift's and like Chevy Sprints and Mitsubishi Mirages and all those..."
The Swift is a small car that's great for driving in the city because it's easy to park and saves on gas. It's popular because it's affordable and reliable.
The Maruti Suzuki Swift is a compact hatchback that has gained popularity in markets like India since its launch in 2000. Known for its fuel efficiency and practicality, it is often discussed for its value as a city car.
Suzuki Swifts
"I mean, if you compare it to the contemporary hot hatch, like you remember, like Suzuki Swift's and like Chevy Sprints and Mitsubishi Mirages and all those..."
Mitsubishi Mirages
"...uki Swift's and like Chevy Sprints and Mitsubishi Mirages and all those... We're just coming up with these ..."
The Mirage is a small, inexpensive car that's great for saving money on gas. It's a good choice for people who want a simple and reliable vehicle for getting around town.
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact car that has been in production since 1978, known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. It is often discussed for its practicality as a budget-friendly option for city driving.
Jaguar Mark I
"...sert of this. The rearview mirrors moved from the Mark I position, which is after the quarter windows."
The Jaguar Mark I is an old luxury car that was known for being very stylish and comfortable. It's important because it helped Jaguar become famous for making nice cars.
The Jaguar Mark I is a luxury sedan produced from 1955 to 1959, known for its elegant design and performance. It is significant for being one of the first models to establish Jaguar's reputation for luxury and style.
Ford Taurus
"Then... Taurus show was nuts, because Taurus show had like $40 t..."
The Taurus is a large car that can fit a lot of people and is comfortable for long drives. It was very popular for families because of its space and reliability.
The Ford Taurus is a full-size sedan that was first introduced in 1986 and became one of Ford's best-selling models. It is often discussed for its role in shaping the modern sedan market and its family-friendly features.
Renault R5 Turbo
"P36M3s were both amazing. That Renault R5 Turbo. You know I've done 45 episodes of Revelations no..."
The Renault 5 Turbo is a sporty version of a small car that was made for racing. It's known for its cool looks and fun driving experience.
The Renault 5 Turbo is a high-performance version of the Renault 5 hatchback, produced in the early 1980s. It is celebrated for its rally heritage and distinctive styling, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Nissan Leaf
"And that was all done for packaging. Because leaf springs stick out so far. They needed a long fron..."
The Nissan Leaf is a small car that runs on electricity instead of gas, making it better for the environment. It's popular because it's cheaper to run and helps save on fuel costs.
The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that has been a pioneer in the electric vehicle market since its launch in 2010. It is significant for its affordability, practicality, and contribution to reducing emissions.
Renault Clio Williams
"...n, there's all kinds of Renault products like the Clio Williams, which neither of us has ever driven."
The Clio Williams is a sporty version of a small car that was made in limited numbers. It's loved by car fans for its fun driving experience and cool looks.
The Renault Clio Williams is a high-performance version of the popular Clio hatchback, produced in the early 1990s. It is celebrated for its sporty handling and limited production, making it a sought-after model among enthusiasts.
Peugeot 205 GTI
"...t. And, you know, coming from someone who owned a 205 GTI Rally, which is the... The super mega lightweight..."
The 205 GTI is a small, fun car that was really popular in the 1980s because it was light and fast. It's loved by car enthusiasts for how exciting it is to drive.
The Peugeot 205 GTI is a hot hatch that gained fame in the 1980s for its lightweight design and spirited performance. It is often discussed as one of the best small performance cars of its era, known for its engaging driving dynamics.
Volkswagen Golf
"And then we had Mark III. I had a Mark III golf that I turned into a GTI VR6 forwardor. You've dr..."
The Golf is a small car that is easy to drive and has a lot of space inside for passengers and luggage. It's popular because it's reliable and fun to drive, making it a great choice for many people.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car that has been in production since 1974, known for its practicality, performance, and quality. It has a strong following and is often discussed for its versatility and fun driving experience.
Volkswagen Passat
"...ly... Anything in width was B-Series car, meaning Passat. Anything in length was A."
The Passat is a medium-sized car that has a lot of room inside for people and their stuff. It's a good choice for families because it's comfortable and reliable.
The Volkswagen Passat is a mid-size sedan that has been in production since 1973, known for its spacious interior and solid performance. It is often discussed for its practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice for families.
Mercedes-Benz SL
"...y case, so my R129 was there. We had our R129 300 SL. We had the B5 Audi wagon."
The SL is a fancy convertible car that looks really nice and drives smoothly. It's known for being luxurious and powerful, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy driving in style.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster that has been in production since 1952, known for its elegant design and high-performance capabilities. It represents the pinnacle of luxury and engineering, often discussed for its blend of style and performance.
Volkswagen Egolf
"It didn't slow us down. Those are the winter tires that I have on the E-Golf. And I also have those same tires on the pitch basking on the cabriolay."
The e-Golf is an electric version of the regular Golf, which means it runs on electricity instead of gas. It's a good choice for those who want to save on fuel and help the environment.
The Volkswagen e-Golf is the electric version of the popular Golf model, offering a practical and eco-friendly alternative for drivers. It combines the versatility of the Golf with electric power, making it a significant player in the growing electric vehicle market.
Jaguar Fpace Svr
"And, you know, one of the attendees, one with the Jag, the Jag SUV, the F-Pace SVR, as opposed to the F-Type."
The F-Pace SVR is a fast and fancy SUV that combines luxury with performance. It's designed for people who want a powerful vehicle that still feels upscale.
The Jaguar F-Pace SVR is a high-performance version of Jaguar's luxury SUV, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It represents the brand's commitment to blending performance with luxury in the SUV segment.
Chevrolet C6
"...cks normally AC7 Grandsport, and they also have a C6 Grandsport, and they had a CT4 Blackwing that the..."
The Corvette is a fast sports car that looks really cool and is known for its speed and performance. It's a favorite among car enthusiasts who love driving and racing.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car that has been an American icon since its introduction in 1953. Known for its powerful engines and sleek design, it represents the pinnacle of American automotive engineering.
Cadillac CT4
"...nd they also have a C6 Grandsport, and they had a CT4 Blackwing that they would also track. And so they..."
The CT4 is a small luxury car that looks nice and has a lot of modern features. It's a good choice for people who want a stylish and comfortable ride.
The Cadillac CT4 is a compact luxury sedan that was introduced in 2020, designed to compete with other premium brands. It is known for its stylish design, advanced technology, and performance-oriented features.
Mazda Miata
"... frustrating, especially because I used to have a Miata track car before. You cannot get that car to rota..."
The Miata is a small, fun sports car that is very light and easy to drive. It's loved by many for its great handling and the joy of driving with the top down.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight sports car that has been celebrated for its engaging driving experience since its launch in 1989. It is often discussed for its affordability, simplicity, and the joy it brings to driving enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Jettas
"The later cars had one fives in... I think in Jetta's, I don't remember if Golf's whatever, doesn't matter whether it's one eight or two liters..."
The Jetta is a small sedan that is easy to drive and has a good amount of space for passengers and luggage. It's a popular choice for people looking for a reliable and comfortable car.
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan that has been a staple in the Volkswagen lineup since 1979. It is known for its practicality, comfortable ride, and strong performance, making it a popular choice for everyday drivers.
Honda Civic Type-R
"...the aid with lots of power, you know. Or even the Civic Type R. I mean, Civic Type R is a great example."
The Civic Type-R is a sportier version of the regular Honda Civic, designed to be faster and more fun to drive. It's popular among car lovers who want a compact car that feels exciting on the road.
The Honda Civic Type-R is a high-performance version of the popular Civic model, known for its sporty design and dynamic driving capabilities. It has gained a reputation for being one of the best hot hatches on the market since its introduction.
Smart Crossblade
"... that and I was with a client who did that in his crossblade, which is the crossblade is the no windshield, no..."
The Crossblade is a small, unusual car without a roof, designed for city driving. It's different from most cars because it's very compact and has a fun, unique look.
The Smart Crossblade is a unique, open-top city car produced in limited numbers from 2002 to 2003. Known for its quirky design and compact size, it is often discussed for its unconventional approach to urban mobility.
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