Driven Radio Show #326: Chuck Sundstrom of Radford Racing School
About this episode
Chuck Sundstrom from Radford Racing School joins the Driven Radio Show to discuss his extensive background in motorsports and the unique offerings at Radford. The conversation covers everything from high-performance driving courses in powerful Dodge vehicles to the school's focus on safety and skill development. Chuck shares insights into new programs, including family-oriented courses and special events like drag racing experiences with professional instructors. The episode is filled with entertaining anecdotes and practical advice for aspiring drivers and car enthusiasts alike.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ford Thunderbird (1959)
"I know you're talking to the guy about the 59 T bird. Yeah, yeah, I've got one located. So we're starting to chat a little bit about what condition it's in, how it's running, etc."
The Ford Thunderbird is a classic car that was popular in the late 1950s. The 1959 version is known for its unique design and comfortable features, making it a desirable collector's item.
The Ford Thunderbird is a classic American car that was first introduced in 1955. The 1959 model is part of the second generation and is known for its distinctive styling and luxury features.
manual crank windows
"So it's still manual crank windows. You've got drums all the way around the way column thing."
Manual crank windows are the kind of windows you have to turn a handle to open or close, instead of just pressing a button. They are usually found in older cars.
Manual crank windows refer to the traditional window mechanism where the driver or passengers must manually turn a crank to raise or lower the windows, as opposed to using electric controls. This feature is often found in older or more basic car models.
Callaway
"Oh, Callaway twin turbo with the Corvette hardtop..."
Callaway is a company that makes cars faster and more powerful, especially Corvettes. They add special parts to improve performance.
Callaway is a company known for modifying and enhancing performance vehicles, particularly Corvettes. They are famous for their twin-turbo systems that significantly increase horsepower.
twin-turbo
"Oh, Callaway twin turbo with the Corvette hardtop..."
A twin-turbo system is a way to make a car's engine more powerful by using two special devices that help the engine breathe better.
A twin-turbo system uses two turbochargers to increase an engine's power output. This setup allows for quicker spool-up and more power at various RPMs compared to a single turbo.
hardtop
"hardtop that really, really makes a difference in how stiff those cars are..."
A hardtop is a type of car that has a solid roof instead of a soft one that can be taken down. It makes the car stronger and can help it handle better.
A hardtop refers to a car body style that has a rigid roof structure, as opposed to a convertible. Hardtops typically provide better structural rigidity and can enhance performance.
rare option
"It is a supremely rare option."
A rare option is a special feature that not many cars have, making it more valuable and sought after by collectors.
A rare option refers to a feature or package that was produced in limited quantities, making it more desirable among collectors and enthusiasts. In this context, it highlights the exclusivity of the vehicle.
zero to sixty time
"...four point four second zero to sixty ran the quarter in twelve nine..."
Zero to sixty time tells you how fast a car can go from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a way to see how quickly a car can speed up.
Zero to sixty time measures how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric that indicates a car's acceleration capabilities.
torque
"...three hundred eighty two horsepower and five hundred sixty two pound feet of torque when a stock Corvette put out two hundred forty horsepower..."
Torque measures how strong an engine is at moving the car. More torque means the car can accelerate faster and handle heavier loads better.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in cars relates to how much pulling power an engine has. It affects acceleration and the ability to move heavy loads, making it crucial for performance, especially in sports cars.
horsepower
"...three hundred eighty two horsepower and five hundred sixty two pound feet of torque when a stock Corvette put out two hundred forty horsepower..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and more powerful the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. In automotive terms, it indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, influencing a vehicle's speed and acceleration.
Radford Racing School
"...our guest this week is Chuck Sunstrom of Radford Racing School, a Michigan native. Chuck is well-known and respected as a motorsports veteran and drag racing instructor."
Radford Racing School teaches people how to race cars, especially in drag racing. They have experienced teachers who help students learn the skills needed to race safely and effectively.
Radford Racing School is a well-known institution that offers various motorsport training programs, including drag racing. It is recognized for its experienced instructors and comprehensive curriculum.
drag racing
"...Chuck is well-known and respected as a motorsports veteran and drag racing instructor. Over the past two decades, he has pursued his drag racing passion as a full-time driver..."
Drag racing is a fast-paced car race where two cars go straight down a track to see which one is faster. It's all about who can go from zero to top speed the quickest.
Drag racing is a type of motor racing where two vehicles compete to see which can cover a straight distance in the shortest time, typically a quarter-mile. It emphasizes acceleration and speed.
Pontiac Firebird
"...r, mechanic, track manager, and race director at Firebird International Raceway and Spokane County Raceway..."
The Pontiac Firebird is a sporty car that was made a long time ago and is loved for its cool design and speed. It's especially famous for its high-performance version called the Trans Am.
The Pontiac Firebird is a classic American muscle car that was produced from 1967 to 2002. It is known for its aggressive styling and performance, particularly in its Trans Am variant, which has a dedicated fan base.
driver training
"You know, the facility was built in Phoenix at the campus of Firebird Raceway in 1991. It's been a staple of not only the community there, but worldwide in the motor sports community. We do every type of driver training, you know, from team courses, defensive driving courses..."
Driver training is when people learn how to drive better and safer. It can help you become a more skilled driver, whether you're just starting or want to improve your racing skills.
Driver training encompasses various educational programs designed to improve driving skills and safety. This can include defensive driving, high-performance driving, and specialized training for racing drivers.
high performance driving courses
"We do every type of driver training, you know, from team courses, defensive driving courses, high performance driving courses, road racing, advanced road racing."
High performance driving courses help drivers learn how to control their cars better when driving fast. They teach skills for handling tricky situations on the road or track.
High performance driving courses are specialized training programs that teach drivers how to handle vehicles at high speeds and in challenging conditions. These courses often focus on advanced techniques, vehicle dynamics, and safety.
NASCAR drivers
"...we teach Formula drivers, NASCAR drivers, drag racing, anything you can think of."
NASCAR drivers are people who race cars in a series called NASCAR. They drive fast cars on oval tracks and need special skills to win races.
NASCAR drivers are professional racers who compete in the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing events. They drive specially designed stock cars on oval tracks and require unique skills for high-speed racing and strategy.
Formula drivers
"...we teach Formula drivers, NASCAR drivers, drag racing, anything you can think of."
Formula drivers are people who race cars in a special kind of racing called Formula racing. They need a lot of training to drive very fast cars safely on tracks.
Formula drivers are professional race car drivers who compete in Formula racing series, such as Formula 1. These drivers require specialized training and skills to handle high-speed, open-wheel race cars on various circuits.
defensive driving
"...we came up with a new course called defensive driving and that's a family course. Oh, good. So you can take the whole family..."
Defensive driving means being careful and aware while driving to avoid accidents. It teaches drivers how to react safely to different situations on the road.
Defensive driving is a set of driving skills that allows a driver to defend against possible collisions caused by bad drivers, weather, or other hazards. It emphasizes awareness and proactive measures to avoid accidents.
anti-lock brake techniques
"...all of our courses have a lot of the safety driving with anti-lock brake techniques"
Anti-lock brake techniques are ways to use your brakes safely in cars that have special braking systems. These systems help you stop without skidding, which keeps you in control of the car.
Anti-lock brake techniques refer to the methods used to effectively operate a vehicle equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS). These techniques help prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing for better control and shorter stopping distances.
Dodge Srt
"...y the official high performance driving school of Dodge SRT and, you know, we basically change it just over ..."
The Dodge SRT Viper is a super fast sports car with a really powerful engine. It's famous for its cool looks and thrilling performance, making it a dream car for many.
The Dodge SRT Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and striking design. Produced from 1992 to 2017, it has become an icon of American muscle and performance engineering.
Dodge Demon 170
"We have 7 Dodge Demon 170s. We have 5 2018 Dodge Demons."
The Dodge Demon 170 is a super fast version of a Dodge car that is built for racing and going really fast in a straight line.
The Dodge Demon 170 is a high-performance variant of the Dodge Challenger, designed for extreme acceleration and speed, often used in drag racing.
Dodge Neons
"You know, because I was thinking you would have a bunch of, you know, old Dodge Neons out there just in case for the really young teen drivers."
The Dodge Neon is a small, inexpensive car that was made for many years. It's often seen as a good choice for new drivers because it's easy to handle and not very expensive.
The Dodge Neon is a compact car that was produced by Dodge from 1994 to 2005. It was known for its affordability and was popular among younger drivers and as a budget-friendly option.
Dodge Hellcat
"...they're actually driving a Hellcat, they're following instructor and they're teaching them line and weight transfer..."
The Dodge Hellcat is a powerful sports car that is famous for its very strong engine, making it one of the fastest cars on the road.
The Dodge Hellcat is a high-performance variant of the Dodge Challenger and Charger models, known for its supercharged V8 engine that produces extreme horsepower and torque.
drag strip
"...we put you on the drag strip. You put on the drag strip, 10 second pass..."
A drag strip is a straight track where cars race against each other to see who can go the fastest in a short distance.
A drag strip is a specially designed racetrack for drag racing, where two vehicles race side by side over a straight distance, typically a quarter-mile, to see which one is faster.
skid pad
"Well, you know, it's kind of funny because you think about it. Our skid pad training, we have our, our purpose-built skid cars that have what we call training wheels, hydraulics on all four corners so we can lift the car up."
A skid pad is a special area where drivers can practice how to control their cars when they start to slide. It's a safe place to learn how to handle tricky driving situations.
A skid pad is a flat, circular area used for practicing vehicle control and handling, particularly in slippery conditions. It allows drivers to learn how to manage oversteer and understeer safely.
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
"So that's kind of a cool, fun thing. The demons in the desert, you get to go drive a 2018 demon. I mean, you spend a learning to drive it and you get to go drive one."
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is a super-fast car made for racing. It has a powerful engine that helps it go really fast in a straight line, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is a high-performance variant of the Challenger, known for its extreme power and drag racing capabilities. It features a supercharged V8 engine and is designed for maximum acceleration and speed.
Goodyear
"We have a scholarship program we do with Goodyear every year. Young drivers, if they want to be an F one driver someday, they start out in that four car."
Goodyear is a company that makes tires for cars and trucks. They also support young drivers who want to race.
Goodyear is a well-known American tire company that produces tires for various types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and racing vehicles. They are involved in motorsports and have programs to support young drivers.
Formula 4 car
"Day two, you drive the open wheel car, the formula four car. You get that total experience for the whole day on track."
A Formula 4 car is a type of race car that is used for training young drivers. It's designed to be fast and safe for learning how to race.
Formula 4 is a category of single-seater racing cars designed for young drivers to learn the fundamentals of racing. These cars are built to be safe and provide a competitive environment for developing driving skills.
autocross
"Then we do an autocross course where we teach weight transfer. But it's time."
Autocross is a type of car racing where drivers take turns driving through a course marked by cones. It's more about skill and control than going fast, and each driver races alone to get the best time.
Autocross is a timed competition in which drivers navigate one at a time through a defined course on either a sealed or unsealed surface. It emphasizes precision and skill rather than speed, making it a popular motorsport for enthusiasts.
BMW New Bmw
"... the other programs, if you go to you purchase a new BMW, you purchase the different types of cars. They'..."
The BMW New Class is a group of cars made by BMW a long time ago that helped the company become known for luxury cars. They were important for introducing new ideas and styles in car design.
The BMW New Class refers to a series of compact sedans and coupes produced by BMW in the 1960s and 1970s, which played a crucial role in the brand's transformation into a luxury automaker. It introduced innovative engineering and design that laid the foundation for future BMW models.
Chevrolet Novas
"And, you know, my dad was racing. He was racing Nova's back in the 70s with big black Chevy's and, you know,"
The Chevrolet Nova is a small car that was popular a long time ago. It was known for being affordable and having some powerful engine options, making it fun to drive.
The Chevrolet Nova was a compact car produced by Chevrolet from 1962 to 1979, known for its affordability and performance options. It became popular in the muscle car era for its lightweight design and powerful engine choices.
Chevrolet Camaro
"So I've still got that. We've got I've got a 68 Camaro that actually bought in high school that I've ra..."
The Chevrolet Camaro is a cool and powerful car that many people enjoy driving. It has a sporty look and is known for being fast, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car that debuted in 1966, designed to compete with the Ford Mustang. Known for its powerful engines and sporty design, the Camaro has a strong following among car enthusiasts.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...that when I was doom scrolling Can I send you my Corvette? some night recently, I don't know if they're ba..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people love. It's been around for a long time and is famous for being fun to drive and looking great.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its sleek design and powerful engine options. It has been an iconic American car since its introduction in 1953, often celebrated for its performance on both the road and racetrack.
BMW M5
"68 Camaro, the dragster. Um, I have a BMW M5 competition. I love that car."
The BMW M5 is a really fast and fancy car that feels great to drive. It's part of a series of cars made by BMW that are designed to be both comfortable and super quick.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It combines luxury with speed, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who appreciate both comfort and performance.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
"...ot a couple other things in there. I've got a 71 Monte Carlo that my son's been building a big block car. I'v..."
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a stylish car that was made for comfort and looks nice. It was popular in the past and is still remembered fondly by many car fans.
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a personal luxury coupe that was produced from 1970 to 2007, known for its comfortable ride and stylish design. It gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s for its performance and has a nostalgic appeal among classic car enthusiasts.
BMW E46
"... Volkswagen squareback. And yeah, so we have two E46 wagons. And so, yeah, who knows."
The BMW 3 Series is a small luxury car that's fun to drive and has a nice interior. It's popular because it combines comfort with a sporty feel.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been a staple in the BMW lineup since 1975. Known for its balance of performance, luxury, and practicality, it is often praised for its driving dynamics and quality interior.
Porsche Cayenne
"Oh, that's right. We were driving home in a cayenne and it broke down outside of Nashville. OK, and ..."
The Porsche Cayenne is a fancy SUV that drives like a sports car. It's known for being powerful and comfortable, making it a great choice for families who want something sporty.
The Porsche Cayenne is a luxury SUV that blends the performance characteristics of a sports car with the practicality of an SUV. Since its launch in 2002, it has helped Porsche expand its brand into the SUV market while maintaining a focus on performance.
Mercury Mountaineer
"...s here on this show, Daryl is working on Mercury Mountaineer, classic Corvette, Nissan Xterra, unusual Merced..."
The Mercury Mountaineer is a roomy SUV that can fit a lot of people and stuff. It's good for driving on different types of roads and is comfortable for families.
The Mercury Mountaineer is a mid-size SUV that was produced from 1997 to 2010, known for its spacious interior and off-road capabilities. It shares a platform with the Ford Explorer and is appreciated for its comfort and versatility.
Nissan XTerra
"...on Mercury Mountaineer, classic Corvette, Nissan Xterra, unusual Mercedes-Benz, and a 64 Dodge Custom 88..."
The Nissan XTerra is a tough SUV that can handle rough roads and outdoor adventures. It's known for being reliable and practical for people who like to explore.
The Nissan XTerra is a compact SUV that was produced from 1999 to 2015, designed for off-road capability and rugged use. It is known for its durability and practicality, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Dodge Custom
"Nissan Xterra, unusual Mercedes-Benz, and a 64 Dodge Custom 880. Neither of ours anymore."
The Dodge Custom 880 is a big car from the 1960s that was made for comfort and space. It has a classic look and was popular for families back in the day.
The Dodge Custom 880 is a full-size car produced in the 1960s, known for its spacious interior and classic styling. It represents the era of American cars that prioritized comfort and size over performance.
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.