Drive What You Build, Or Miss The Point
About this episode
A lively discussion unfolds at the Back to the Past car show, featuring guest Sonny Bennett, owner of a stunning 1958 GMC Apache. Sonny shares his journey in the paint and body business, emphasizing the challenges of building custom cars for clients versus personal projects. He discusses the evolution of his Apache, which now boasts modern performance features, and reflects on the joys of driving classic cars. The episode also touches on automotive history and current industry news, making it a rich blend of personal stories and broader automotive insights.
A turquoise 1958 GMC Apache pulled us in with classic lines, then surprised us with a 2016 heartbeat: a 5.3 V8, 6L80, four-wheel discs, cold AC, and the kind of road manners that beg for long miles. With shop owner and builder Sonny Bennett at the mic, we dive into what it takes to craft a true driver from an old truck—why stock-style pulley systems matter, how water-based paint helps with real-world repairs, and why anyone claiming “no filler” is selling you a lumpy fantasy. Sonny’s ethos is simple and sharp: fix it right or don’t touch it, drive what you build, and let the miles be the proof.
We also explore the business side of bodywork: initial estimates versus supplements, the hidden damage no one sees until teardown, and the big reasons Sonny refuses direct repair programs that let insurers dictate methods and margins. His shop serves the car and the customer, not a spreadsheet. That same clarity fuels his personal fleet stories—matching a ’58 when a ’55 was elusive, rebuilding a wrecked cab the right way, and finishing the Apache during the early days of COVID when the shop was deemed essential. The result? A classic that gets 21 mpg and cruises to Gulfport without a hiccup.
The ride continues with a high-dollar Nova that took home top trophies before popping an engine on the return trip, proving that reliability is earned on the road, not on a stage. Then there’s the 1967 Camaro project, acquired with a trove of pro-touring parts and a decades-old backstory involving a hot tub trade. We round it out with our racing calendar—Talladega, F1 in Austin, NHRA dates—and a fast lap through auto history, from Packard’s twin six to the Hydramatic and the El Camino. We close on EV news and incentives fading, with automakers stepping in to keep prices competitive.
If you love honest shop wisdom, restomod ingenuity, and the thrill of cars built to be driven, you’ll feel right at home. Follow and subscribe for more episodes, share this one with a fellow car nut, and drop a review to tell us whether you’d modern-swap or keep it period-correct.
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
Chevy Apache
"But what if something like that came in like a 58 Chevy Apache came in with a dinged fender that needed some work"
The Chevy Apache is an old pickup truck made by Chevrolet in the 1950s. It's known for its strong build and classic look, making it a favorite for people who like to restore old vehicles.
The Chevy Apache is a series of pickup trucks produced by Chevrolet from 1955 to 1959. Known for their classic styling and durability, these trucks are popular among collectors and restorers.
restoration shop
"Well, there's two different deals. You have a collision shop or you have a restoration shop"
A restoration shop is a place where old cars are fixed up to look and work like they did when they were new. This can include repairing the body, engine, and interior of the car.
A restoration shop specializes in restoring classic or vintage vehicles to their original condition. This often involves extensive work on the body, interior, and mechanical systems to bring the car back to its former glory.
Chevrolet Bel
"So I have a high end build 55 Chevrolet Bel Air... I wanted a matching 55."
The Chevrolet Bel Air is a famous car from the 1950s, known for its stylish look and is popular among collectors. The 1955 model is especially loved for its design.
The Chevrolet Bel Air is a classic American car produced from 1950 to 1981, known for its distinctive styling and popularity in the 1950s. The 1955 model is particularly sought after by collectors for its iconic design and performance.
cruising the coast
"On October 2nd, I left the city of Houston with 85 miles on it. I go to cruising the coast every year. And the next morning I woke up with 485 miles on it."
Cruising the Coast is a fun event where car lovers drive their classic and cool cars along the coast, showing them off and enjoying the scenery together.
Cruising the Coast is an annual automotive event held in the Gulf Coast region, where car enthusiasts gather to showcase their vehicles, participate in parades, and enjoy various car-related activities.
6L80 transmission
"There's what kind of transmission you got in there. It's got a 6L80. That truck has a six-speed transmission four-wheel disc air condition"
The 6L80 is a type of automatic transmission that helps cars change gears smoothly. It's known for being efficient and is found in many GM trucks and cars.
The 6L80 is a six-speed automatic transmission developed by General Motors, commonly used in a variety of their vehicles. It features a wide gear ratio range, which helps improve fuel efficiency and performance.
cab panel
"...the truck was wrecked real bad in the B pillar and I had to put a whole cab panel on the truck..."
The cab panel is a part of a truck's body where the driver sits. If it's damaged, it might need to be replaced to fix the truck properly.
A cab panel is a structural component of a truck that forms part of the cab, which is the area where the driver and passengers sit. Replacing a cab panel can be necessary after significant damage, such as from a wreck.
water-based paint system
"...I have the water based paint system in my shop..."
A water-based paint system is a way to paint cars using water instead of harsh chemicals. It's better for the environment and can still look great.
A water-based paint system uses water as a solvent instead of traditional solvents like paint thinner. This type of paint is often more environmentally friendly and can provide a high-quality finish.
PPG Fleet Line color
"So that's a ppg fleet line color called hotlix turquoise And I tried to go with you bought it because of the name right"
PPG Fleet Line is a type of paint used for cars. Hotlix Turquoise is a specific color that many people find attractive for customizing vehicles.
PPG Fleet Line is a brand of automotive paint known for its durability and variety of colors, often used in custom car painting. The specific color mentioned, Hotlix Turquoise, is likely a vibrant shade that appeals to car enthusiasts.
Chevrolet Corvette
"Absolutely money. Yeah, I built a corvette one time"
The Corvette is a famous sports car made by Chevrolet. It's known for being fast and stylish, and many car lovers enjoy driving them.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a classic American sports car known for its performance and distinctive styling. It has a long history and is often associated with high-speed driving and car culture.
Gmc Sierra
"...eah, and what what your engine is it? It's a 2016 GMC Sierra 53"
The GMC Sierra EV is an electric truck that can do everything a regular truck can, but it runs on electricity instead of gas. It's built for people who need a tough vehicle but also want to help the environment.
The GMC Sierra EV is an all-electric version of GMC's popular Sierra pickup truck, designed to offer the utility of a truck while being environmentally friendly. It features advanced technology and a powerful electric drivetrain, making it suitable for both work and leisure. The Sierra EV is significant as it represents the growing trend of electrifying traditional vehicles in the pickup segment.
Chevrolet Nova
"I have a 55 Bel Air and I just finished a 66 Nova. Oh, and they're yours mine"
The Chevrolet Nova is a smaller car that became popular in the 1960s. The 1966 model is well-liked for its design and performance, making it a favorite among collectors.
The Chevrolet Nova is a compact car that was popular in the 1960s and 1970s, known for its performance and affordability. The 1966 model is particularly noted for its classic styling and is a favorite among car enthusiasts.
$135,000
"I've got people interested in it and the price is over 135,000. So that's a pretty expensive car."
$135,000 is a lot of money for a car, which means this particular Chevrolet Nova is very special or rare, making it valuable to buyers.
The price of $135,000 indicates that the Chevrolet Nova in question is considered a high-value collector's item, likely due to its condition, rarity, or modifications. Such prices are common in the collector car market.
Lucid Air
"... car is gonna go everywhere that truck and my bel Air goes nice. There you go Nice. So as I said, the ..."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that offers a lot of luxury features and a long driving range on a single charge. It's designed to be a high-end option for those looking for an electric vehicle with style and performance.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that aims to compete with high-end brands like Tesla and Mercedes-Benz. It features cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and a focus on performance, making it a significant player in the electric vehicle market. The Lucid Air is often discussed for its innovative design and the potential to redefine luxury electric driving.
motor
"Well coming back. I blew the motor up in the nova... I got a new motor as of thursday"
The motor is the part of the car that makes it go. It's like the heart of the car that gives it power.
In automotive terms, a 'motor' typically refers to the engine of a vehicle. It is the component that converts fuel into mechanical energy to power the car.
Chevrolet Camaro
"...I'm getting ready to start at 67 Camaro..."
The Chevrolet Camaro is a popular sports car that was first made in 1967. It's known for its powerful engines and sporty look, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1966. The 1967 model is particularly notable as it was the first year of production, featuring a sporty design and a range of powerful engine options.
NASCAR
"...we got nas car the craftsman trucks ran yesterday. They ran at taladega. I watched a little bit of the qualifying..."
NASCAR is a type of car racing that happens mostly on circular tracks. It involves specially designed cars that look like regular cars but are built for speed and safety.
NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing events. It features a series of races on oval tracks and is famous for its high-speed competition and fan engagement.
Talladega
"...they ran at taladega. I watched a little bit of the qualifying..."
Talladega is a big racetrack in Alabama where NASCAR races happen. It's known for fast cars and exciting races.
Talladega is a famous superspeedway located in Alabama, known for hosting some of the most exciting NASCAR races. It features a 2.66-mile oval track and is renowned for its high speeds and dramatic finishes.
Xfinity Series
"...you got xfinity. They're running today..."
The Xfinity Series is a type of NASCAR race that helps new drivers get experience before they race in the main NASCAR events. It's like a training ground for future stars.
The Xfinity Series is a NASCAR racing series that serves as a stepping stone for drivers aspiring to compete in the top-tier NASCAR Cup Series. It features a mix of experienced drivers and up-and-coming talent racing on various tracks.
Formula One
"And guess where formula one is at this weekend Well, they're in austin at circuit of the americas."
Formula One is a type of car racing that features very fast cars on different tracks around the world. It's known for its exciting races and advanced technology.
Formula One is the highest class of single-seater auto racing, known for its high-speed races and advanced technology. It features a series of races known as Grands Prix, held on various circuits around the world.
Circuit of the Americas
"Well, they're in austin at circuit of the americas. It is a 59 lapper."
Circuit of the Americas is a famous racetrack in Austin, Texas, where different types of car races, including Formula One, take place.
Circuit of the Americas is a motorsport racetrack located in Austin, Texas, known for hosting various racing events, including Formula One and MotoGP races.
NHRA
"NHRA The showcase of speed that's going to be october 24th."
NHRA stands for National Hot Rod Association, which is an organization that oversees drag racing events where cars race in a straight line to see who is fastest.
The NHRA, or National Hot Rod Association, is the largest motorsport sanctioning body in the world, primarily focused on drag racing events.
Packard Twin Six
"...starting in 1915 packard introduces the twin six and uh it was really two sixes put together. So they created their v 12 is what it amounted to..."
The Packard Twin Six is a classic car from 1915 that had a powerful engine made by combining two smaller engines. It was made to compete with very fancy cars like Rolls-Royce.
The Packard Twin Six was a luxury automobile introduced in 1915, notable for its V12 engine, which was essentially two six-cylinder engines combined. It was designed to compete with other luxury brands of the time, such as Pierce-Arrow and Rolls-Royce.
hydromatic transmission
"GM introduces the hydromatic transmission now. This is the first mass produced fully automatic transmission the hydromatic came out first in the osmobile models."
The hydromatic transmission is a type of automatic transmission that shifts gears for you, so you don't have to do it manually. It was a big deal when it was first introduced because it made driving more comfortable.
The hydromatic transmission was the first mass-produced fully automatic transmission, introduced by GM. It eliminated the need for manual gear shifting, making driving easier and appealing to the luxury market.
Oldsmobile
"This is the first mass produced fully automatic transmission the hydromatic came out first in the osmobile models."
Oldsmobile is a car brand that was part of General Motors. They were known for making cars that were often more luxurious and comfortable to drive.
Oldsmobile was a brand under GM that introduced the hydromatic transmission in its models. It aimed to position itself in the luxury market by offering automatic transmissions.
Chevrolet El Camino
"1958 chevrolet introduces the El Camino. Now this was a hybrid vehicle kind of the car styling with the truck utility."
The Chevrolet El Camino is a type of vehicle that looks like a car but has a truck bed. It was designed to offer the utility of a truck while still being stylish like a car.
The Chevrolet El Camino, introduced in 1958, was a unique vehicle that combined car styling with truck utility. It was marketed as a pickup with the grace of a passenger car.
Chevrolet Malibu
"...th a passenger car grace And uh got really was a Malibu With a chabelle. Yeah, yeah"
The Chevrolet Malibu is a car that is designed for everyday driving, offering a comfortable ride and enough space for passengers. It's a good option for people looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle.
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that has been a staple in the Chevrolet lineup since the 1960s. It is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy, making it a practical choice for families and commuters. The Malibu is often discussed for its balance of affordability and features in the competitive sedan market.
Chevrolet Chevelle
"With a chabelle. Yeah, yeah Uh, they're originally back in the then in 1958 59 miles were kind of modest. They're very expensive nowadays But uh, they became one of the main features of the chevrolet line as they went on through the years"
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a car that was made by Chevrolet from the 1960s to the 1970s. It was known for being stylish and powerful, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Chevrolet Chevelle was a mid-sized car produced by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1977. It became popular for its performance and style, and it played a significant role in Chevrolet's lineup during its production years.
Honda Civic
"then finally in 1972 The Honda Civic debuts in american now. This is the Honda Civic then It'll almost fit in the trunk of the current model Honda Civic based on the size It was built because of the uh early 70s fuel crisis a lot of people bought them"
The Honda Civic is a small car that started being sold in America in 1972. It is popular because it is reliable and gets good gas mileage, helping to change how people viewed cars made in Japan.
The Honda Civic debuted in 1972 and has since become one of the best-selling cars worldwide. It is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, reshaping perceptions of Japanese cars in the American market.
tax credit
"7500 tax credit for electric vehicle buyers now dead..."
A tax credit helps you pay less in taxes. For electric car buyers, it means they can get some money back when they file their taxes, making the car cheaper to buy.
A tax credit is a financial incentive that reduces the amount of tax owed to the government. In the context of electric vehicles, it encourages buyers by providing a rebate on their taxes, making the purchase more affordable.
sticker price
"...cut the small crossover sticker price by up to 9800 for 2026..."
The sticker price is the price you see on a car when you look at it in a dealership. It's the amount the manufacturer suggests you pay before any discounts.
The sticker price is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) displayed on a vehicle's window. It represents the base price of the vehicle before any discounts or additional fees.
federal subsidies
"Replicating the value of the tax credit which expired september 30th with similarly generous incentives."
Federal subsidies are money given by the government to help people buy electric cars, making them cheaper.
Federal subsidies are financial incentives provided by the government to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles, making them more affordable for consumers.
EV
"automakers decision on how to price and market evs now that federal subsidies have disappeared will vary."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of using gas or diesel fuel.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel.
Tesla Model 3
"...debuted new versions of its model y crossover and model 3 sedan priced near $40,000 Just wait long enough"
The Tesla Model 3 is an electric car that runs on batteries instead of gasoline. It's known for being fast and having a lot of cool technology, making it a popular choice for people who want an eco-friendly vehicle.
The Tesla Model 3 is a fully electric sedan that has gained popularity for its performance, range, and advanced technology features. It represents Tesla's effort to make electric vehicles more accessible to the average consumer, with a starting price around $40,000. The Model 3 is often discussed for its role in the shift towards sustainable transportation and its impact on the automotive industry.
Tesla Model Y
"...esla Meanwhile, they debuted new versions of its model y crossover and model 3 sedan priced near $40,000 ..."
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"You own a car you love. Well, why not let Gulf Coast Auto Shield protect it?"
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a business that helps keep your car looking new by protecting its paint and applying special coatings. They have a team of experts who know how to take care of cars.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a company that specializes in automotive protection services, including paint protection and ceramic coatings. They offer services to help maintain the appearance and value of vehicles.
ceramic coating
"We promise you'll be impressed whether you're looking to massage your original paint to a like new appearance Apply a ceramic coating install a paint protection film"
Ceramic coating is a special product that you can put on your car's paint to protect it from dirt and scratches. It makes the car shiny and helps keep it looking new for a long time.
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle to protect it from environmental contaminants and enhance its shine. It creates a durable layer that can last for years with proper maintenance.
paint protection film
"We promise you'll be impressed whether you're looking to massage your original paint to a like new appearance Apply a ceramic coating install a paint protection film"
Paint protection film is a clear layer that you can put on your car to protect it from scratches and damage. It helps keep your car looking good for longer.
Paint protection film is a clear, durable material applied to the surface of a vehicle to shield it from scratches, chips, and other damage. It helps maintain the car's appearance and resale value.
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.