Ep. 308: Should We Buy It? Making Financially Terrible Decisions Can Be Fun!
About this episode
A lively discussion unfolds as hosts Tommy and his father dive into the quirks of car ownership, including the story behind Tommy's 1946 Jeep CJ2 named Wilbur. They humorously debate the merits of potentially purchasing a first-generation Ford Explorer and share their thoughts on the best-selling RAV4, highlighting its new trims and features. The episode also touches on distracted driving, the evolution of automotive safety, and the challenges of restoring classic vehicles, all while maintaining a light-hearted banter that keeps listeners engaged.
( https://www.alltfl.com/ ) Check out our new spot to find ALL our content, from news to videos and our podcasts! In this episode of TFL Car Chat, Roman and Tommy are dangerously close to making another financially terrible (but incredibly fun) car purchase. They reveal the specific vehicle they’ve been eyeing, debate whether it’s worth the money, and break down what makes it so tempting — even if logic says to run the other way.
They also share everything you need to know about the brand-new 2026 Toyota RAV4 after driving it for the first time, plus an update on Tommy’s 1946 Jeep and the potential money pit that it could turn into!
( http://www.patreon.com/tflcar ) Visit our Patreon page to support the TFL team!
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Jeep CJ2
"Tommy, in today's podcast, I asked you why you named your 1946 Jeep CJ2 a Wilbur."
The Jeep CJ2 is an old model of Jeep made in 1946. It's famous for being tough and is often used for off-road driving.
The Jeep CJ2 is a classic off-road vehicle produced by Jeep in the mid-20th century. It is known for its ruggedness and capability, particularly in military and civilian applications.
Ford Explorer
"Yeah, should we buy a first generation Ford Explorer and name it Wilbur?"
The Ford Explorer is a type of SUV that first came out in 1990. The first version is known for being roomy and good for families.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that was first introduced in 1990. The first generation is known for its spacious interior and versatility, making it a popular choice for families.
Land Rover Range Rover
"Perry is the P38 Range Rover."
The P38 Range Rover is a luxury SUV made by Land Rover, known for its off-road capabilities and comfortable ride.
The P38 Range Rover is the second generation of the Range Rover, produced from 1994 to 2002. It features a more modern design and improved technology compared to its predecessor.
Toyota Tercel
"Perry is a Tercel."
The Toyota Tercel is a small, affordable car that was known for being reliable and great on gas.
The Toyota Tercel is a subcompact car that was produced from 1978 to 1999. It is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Jeep
"...how I might go bankrupt trying to fix an old Jeep..."
Jeep is a brand that makes tough vehicles, often used for off-roading and adventure driving.
Jeep is a brand known for its rugged off-road vehicles, including the Wrangler and Cherokee. They are popular for their durability and off-road capabilities.
Jeep Wrangler
"...there's this that is like coming right at me and doesn't look like they're going to stop. Whoa. And it was driven by a lady."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough, off-road vehicle that can handle rough terrain. It's known for its unique look and the ability to take off parts like the doors and roof for a more open driving experience.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities. It's popular among outdoor enthusiasts and is often recognized for its distinctive boxy shape and removable doors and roof.
automatic emergency braking
"...because now people can rely on automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist and lane centering and then they're able to, you know, be more distracted and still operate their cars."
Automatic emergency braking helps prevent accidents by automatically stopping the car if it senses that a crash is about to happen. It uses cameras and sensors to see what's in front of the car.
Automatic emergency braking is a safety feature that detects an impending collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact. This technology uses sensors and cameras to monitor the road ahead and respond quickly to potential hazards.
lane keep assist
"...and lane keep assist and lane centering and then they're able to, you know, be more distracted and still operate their cars."
Lane keep assist helps drivers stay in their lane by gently steering the car back if it starts to drift. It uses cameras to see the lane markings on the road.
Lane keep assist is a driver assistance technology that helps prevent unintentional lane departures by providing steering assistance to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. It uses cameras to monitor lane markings and can gently steer the car back into the lane if it begins to drift.
lane centering
"...lane keep assist and lane centering and then they're able to, you know, be more distracted and still operate their cars."
Lane centering helps keep the car in the middle of the lane by adjusting the steering automatically. It's like having a helper that makes sure you don't drift to one side.
Lane centering is a feature that actively keeps a vehicle centered in its lane by making continuous adjustments to the steering. It works in conjunction with lane keep assist and enhances the driving experience by reducing the need for constant steering corrections.
Opel Rekord
"...and they bought their very first new car, which was an Opel Rekord. Uh-huh."
The Opel Rekord is a car that was made by the German company Opel. It was popular in Europe and known for being a good, affordable family car.
The Opel Rekord was a mid-size car produced by the German automaker Opel from 1953 to 1986. It was known for its practicality and affordability, making it a popular choice in Europe during its production years.
Skoda
"So they had a Skoda and they bought this Opel Rekord as a way of like, you know, showing..."
Skoda is a car brand from the Czech Republic. They make different types of cars, including small cars and larger ones.
Skoda is a Czech automobile manufacturer founded in 1895, known for producing a range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs. It is now a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group.
Jeep YJ
"...if that lady was in a new Jeep, it wasn't a new Jeep, it was a YJ. Yeah, well, that was your screw."
The Jeep YJ is a type of Jeep Wrangler made between 1987 and 1995. It's recognized for its rugged look and ability to drive off-road, which many people enjoy.
The Jeep YJ is a model of the Jeep Wrangler produced from 1987 to 1995. It is known for its boxy design and solid off-road capabilities, making it popular among off-road enthusiasts.
Toyota RAV4
"...but it is the RAV4. I want to welcome all of our Patreon supporters."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that many people use for family trips and daily driving. It's known for being dependable and has good safety features.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability and versatility. It is popular among families and offers a range of safety features, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.
Tesla Model Y
"What did I say? I think it's the Model Y was the most popular car in the world, but it wa..."
The Tesla Model Y is a popular electric car that looks like a small SUV. It's known for being eco-friendly, having a long battery life, and lots of cool tech features.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that has gained immense popularity for its impressive range, performance, and advanced technology features. It is significant as it represents Tesla's expansion into the SUV market, appealing to families and those seeking a versatile electric vehicle.
plug-in hybrid
"But now they're kind of trying to separate some of the models into their own little sub model slash brands. So what we're looking at now is we've got the core models. Then you also have this new sporty model called the GR Sport..."
A plug-in hybrid is a type of car that uses both gas and electricity. You can plug it into a wall outlet to charge its battery, which helps it drive on electricity for a longer time before using gas.
A plug-in hybrid is a vehicle that can be powered by both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. It has a larger battery than traditional hybrids, allowing it to be charged from an external power source for extended electric-only driving.
GR Sport
"Then you also have this new sporty model called the GR Sport, which is supposed to be like its own little thing over here, the little high performance version."
GR Sport is a special version of some Toyota cars that are designed to be sportier and more fun to drive. They usually have better handling and a sportier look than regular models.
The GR Sport is a sporty trim level offered by Toyota, part of their Gazoo Racing (GR) performance line. It typically features enhancements in styling, handling, and performance compared to standard models.
Woodland trim
"And then you've got the Woodland, which is kind of the off-roading trim of the RAV4."
The Woodland trim is a special version of the Toyota RAV4 made for off-roading. It has features that help it handle rough terrain better than regular RAV4 models.
The Woodland trim is a specific variant of the Toyota RAV4 designed for off-road capability. It typically includes features such as all-terrain tires, enhanced suspension, and additional off-road technologies.
Toyota TRD
"...it used to be called the TRD, but Toyota basically said that they're no longer going to call it the TRD..."
TRD is a special performance brand from Toyota that makes cars and trucks better for racing and off-roading.
TRD stands for Toyota Racing Development, which is Toyota's performance division that focuses on enhancing the performance and off-road capabilities of their vehicles.
body on frame vehicles
"...they're going to save for body on frame vehicles..."
Body on frame means the main part of the vehicle is built on a strong frame, which helps it handle rough terrain better. This is common in trucks and some SUVs.
Body on frame is a vehicle construction method where the body of the vehicle is mounted on a separate frame. This design is often used for trucks and SUVs, providing durability and off-road capability.
off-roading
"Yeah, the off-roading was incredibly, unbelievably mild. But I don't think there's much more you can do with the Woodster, as you call it, Dad."
Off-roading means driving on rough surfaces instead of smooth roads. It's what you do when you take a car or truck onto dirt paths or trails.
Off-roading refers to driving a vehicle on unpaved surfaces, such as dirt roads, trails, or rough terrain. It often requires vehicles designed for durability and traction, such as SUVs or trucks.
roof rack
"You got a roof rack, which is cool with the crossbars."
A roof rack is a frame on top of a car that helps you carry things like bikes or luggage. It's useful for trips where you need extra space.
A roof rack is a set of bars secured to the roof of a vehicle, used to carry items such as luggage, bikes, or other gear. It's especially useful for outdoor activities or long trips.
off-road capability
"But in terms of off-road capability, the main difference between the Woodland and the standard one..."
Off-road capability means how well a vehicle can drive on rough surfaces like dirt or rocks. Vehicles with good off-road capability can handle tough conditions better than regular cars.
Off-road capability refers to a vehicle's ability to perform well on unpaved surfaces, such as dirt, mud, rocks, and sand. This includes features like higher ground clearance, specialized tires, and durable construction.
Toyota Cruiser Fj
"...we did a video earlier this week where in Japan at least they unveiled the new FJ, the Land Cruiser FJ,..."
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is a new version of the famous Land Cruiser, known for being tough and good for off-roading. It's built to handle rough terrains while still looking stylish.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is a modern interpretation of the classic Land Cruiser, designed for off-road capability with a rugged aesthetic. It features a blend of traditional Land Cruiser traits and contemporary technology, making it suitable for both urban and off-road environments.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"... in Japan at least they unveiled the new FJ, the Land Cruiser FJ, which would compete with this if they actual..."
locking rear differential
"Except the FJ is a real off-roader because it's got a locking rear diff."
A locking rear differential helps both back wheels of a car turn together, which is useful when driving on rough or slippery ground.
A locking rear differential allows both rear wheels to turn at the same speed, which improves traction on uneven surfaces, making it beneficial for off-roading.
off-road credentials
"It's got real off-road credentials."
Off-road credentials are the special features that help a vehicle drive well on rough ground, like strong tires and good suspension.
Off-road credentials refer to the features and capabilities of a vehicle that make it suitable for off-road driving, such as suspension, tires, and drivetrain.
rock rails
"It's got the rock rails."
Rock rails are strong bars on the sides of off-road vehicles that protect them from getting damaged when driving over rocks.
Rock rails are protective bars mounted on the sides of off-road vehicles to prevent damage to the body when driving over rocks and rough terrain.
snorkel
"So it's got the snorkel."
A snorkel is a tube that helps the engine get clean air when driving through water or dust. It keeps the engine running well in tough conditions.
A snorkel is an air intake system that raises the engine's air intake above the vehicle's roof, allowing it to breathe clean air while fording through water or driving in dusty conditions.
Toyota Sequoia
"Then with more money, you get the Land Cruiser and eventually you go to the Sequoia."
The Toyota Sequoia is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and things. It's good for families and can tow trailers.
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that offers a spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It is often seen as a more affordable alternative to the Land Cruiser.
Toyota Prius
"... start with the basic hybrid, the thing that the Prius introduced, which is what this has, right?"
The Toyota Prius is a car that uses both gas and electricity to drive, which helps it use less fuel and be better for the environment. It's one of the first cars to do this and is well-known for being very efficient.
The Toyota Prius is a pioneering hybrid vehicle that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It has become a symbol of environmentally friendly driving and is often discussed for its role in popularizing hybrid technology.
Ford Bronco Sport
"Yeah, the Broncosport. Which is the Broncosport. Yeah, because that's the only car in this class."
The Ford Bronco Sport is a small SUV that is built to handle off-road driving, making it a good choice for adventurous drivers.
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV designed for off-road capability, featuring rugged styling and advanced technology to enhance its performance in challenging terrains.
Subaru
"And I'm talking about Subaru here, very off-road worthy."
Subaru is a car brand from Japan that makes vehicles designed to handle rough terrain and off-road driving.
Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and off-road capabilities, particularly in models like the Outback and Forester.
BMW X3M
"...ou know, it's in the tradition of the BMW X5M or X3M. There's a lot of German premium vehicles that, ..."
The BMW X3 is a fancy small SUV that is fun to drive and comfortable. It’s a great choice for people who want a mix of luxury and practicality in their vehicle.
The BMW X3 is a luxury compact SUV that combines sporty performance with practicality, appealing to those who desire both comfort and driving excitement. Its significance lies in its balance of luxury features and everyday usability.
Ford Lobo
"...where kind of the magic falls off. It's like the Lobo, right? It does drive different."
The Ford Lobo is a big pickup truck that is similar to the Ford F-150, popular in Mexico. It’s known for being strong and useful for both work and family needs.
The Ford Lobo is essentially the Mexican version of the Ford F-150, known for its robust build and capability as a full-size pickup truck. Its significance lies in its popularity in the Latin American market, where it serves as a versatile work and family vehicle.
Ford Maverick
"... don't increase the horsepower, it feels like the Maverick Lobo, which is this cool sport truck."
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is easy to drive and park. It's popular because it can carry things in the back and is also available as a hybrid, which saves on gas.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that has gained attention for its affordability and versatility, appealing to a new generation of truck buyers. It is significant for offering a hybrid option, making it an economical choice for those needing a truck.
Toyota GR Corolla
"Because you're going to have utility. I mean a GR Corolla, sorry. You're going to have utility and you're ..."
The Toyota GR Corolla is a sportier version of the regular Corolla, designed for people who love to drive fast and enjoy better handling. It’s a fun car that still has the practicality of a regular Corolla.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a performance-oriented version of the popular Corolla, featuring enhanced power and handling for driving enthusiasts. Its significance lies in Toyota's commitment to producing sporty variants of their mainstream models.
Volkswagen Touareg
"..., you had, like, the Mercedes ML, the Volkswagen Touareg, Kia Borrego even, right? Kia Sorento."
Kia Borrego
"...ke, the Mercedes ML, the Volkswagen Touareg, Kia Borrego even, right? Kia Sorento."
The Kia Borrego is a big SUV that has plenty of room for families and can tow things like trailers. It’s a good option for people who need space and want a lot of features without spending too much.
The Kia Borrego is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior and strong towing capabilities, making it suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its significance lies in its value proposition, providing a lot of features for the price.
Kia Sorento
"...Volkswagen Touareg, Kia Borrego even, right? Kia Sorento. All these manufacturers put a low range into th..."
The Kia Sorento is a medium-sized SUV that has lots of space for families and their stuff. It’s a good choice for people who need a comfortable car that can handle different driving conditions.
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and versatility, making it a popular choice for families. Its significance lies in its spacious interior and available all-wheel drive, appealing to those who need a practical vehicle for various lifestyles.
Porsche Cayenne
"adds a lot of weight. I think when the Cayenne went from the first gen of the second gen, it sh..."
The Porsche Cayenne is a fancy SUV that is known for being fast and comfortable. It’s a good choice for people who want a luxury vehicle that can also handle everyday driving.
The Porsche Cayenne is a luxury SUV that combines high performance with practicality, making it a popular choice among affluent buyers. Its significance lies in how it helped Porsche expand its brand beyond sports cars into the SUV market.
Ford Bronco
"...en further. So do you remember when the original Bronco came out? The big Bronco, not the baby Bronco."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV made for off-roading, meaning it can drive on rough trails and through mud. It has a long history and is loved by people who enjoy outdoor adventures.
The Ford Bronco is an iconic off-road vehicle that has been revived for modern adventurers, known for its rugged design and capability. Its significance is rooted in its history as a symbol of outdoor exploration and adventure.
Suzuki Jimny
"... theory. Yeah, I mean, so you're saying, bring a Jimny here. Yeah."
The Suzuki Jimny is a small, tough car made for off-roading, meaning it can drive on rough trails and through mud. It’s loved by people who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a reliable vehicle.
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional capability in challenging terrains. Its significance lies in its cult following among off-road enthusiasts who appreciate its simplicity and performance.
Jeep Renegade
"We had a Jimny here. Oh, we had the Renegade. No, no, no."
The Jeep Renegade is a small SUV that looks cool and can drive on rough paths. It's perfect for people who want a car that can handle city driving but also go on adventures.
The Jeep Renegade is a subcompact SUV that combines Jeep's off-road heritage with modern styling and technology. It appeals to urban drivers who want a vehicle capable of handling both city streets and light off-road adventures.
Suzuki Samurai
"Go even further back. Oh, the Suzuki Samurai. Yes."
The Suzuki Samurai is a small SUV that is very light and can drive on rough roads. It became popular because it’s simple and great for off-roading.
The Suzuki Samurai is a compact SUV known for its lightweight design and off-road capabilities, which gained a cult following in the 1980s and 1990s. Its significance lies in its simplicity and effectiveness as an off-roader.
Fiat 500
"...g and be like, it's two doors. She drives a Fiat 500. Yeah, and she doesn't love the size of the Fiat..."
The Fiat 500 is a tiny car that is great for driving in the city because it’s easy to park. It has a cute design and is good on gas, making it a fun choice for city dwellers.
The Fiat 500 is a small city car known for its retro styling and compact size, making it ideal for urban driving. Its significance lies in its charm and efficiency, appealing to those looking for a stylish yet practical vehicle.
Fiat 500e
"She drives a LR3 more. She loves the 500E because it was a free car. OK, so she loves what..."
The Fiat 500e is an electric version of the small Fiat 500 car, which means it doesn’t use gas and is better for the environment. It’s perfect for city driving and is easy to park.
The Fiat 500e is the electric version of the popular Fiat 500, designed for urban driving with zero emissions. Its significance lies in its compact size and eco-friendly features, appealing to environmentally conscious drivers.
Toyota Camrys
"A ton of Corolla's that are the basic. A ton of Camry's. So you could you could be the CEO or the chairman of the board"
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that is known for being reliable and comfortable to drive. Many people choose it because it’s practical and lasts a long time.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and strong resale value, making it a popular choice among families and commuters. Its significance lies in its consistent ranking as one of the best-selling cars in the United States.
Volkswagen Bus
"...e, black, silver. But they might have a green ID bus or an orange. Something that I was selling in th..."
The Volkswagen Bus is a classic van that is famous for its unique shape and was popular in the 1960s. It’s loved by many for its spaciousness and ability to carry lots of people and stuff.
The Volkswagen Bus, also known as the VW Type 2, is an iconic vehicle that became synonymous with the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Its significance lies in its unique design and versatility, making it a beloved choice for families and travelers.
Jeep Cherokee
"..., Jeep, a lot of Jeeps had low ranges. Yeah, the Cherokee. Okay, yeah."
The Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures. It's popular with people who like to explore and need a vehicle that can go anywhere.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a significant place in the Jeep lineup, appealing to those who seek adventure and versatility.
Mazda Miata
"... bargains, but now last week it happened with the Miata. Last two weeks ago, right?"
The Mazda Miata is a small sports car that is fun to drive and has a classic design. It's popular because it’s affordable and gives a great driving experience.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight sports car celebrated for its engaging driving experience and affordability. It is significant for its role in reviving interest in small, fun-to-drive roadsters.
Tesla Model S
"Oh, sorry. Thank you for buying the Tesla, our Model S that we bought earlier this year. It's time to m..."
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric car that can go very far on a single charge. It’s famous for its speed and advanced technology, making it a favorite among electric vehicle fans.
The Tesla Model S is a luxury electric sedan known for its impressive range, performance, and cutting-edge technology features. It has played a crucial role in establishing Tesla as a leader in the electric vehicle market.
Willys Jeep
"Which bought the rights to essentially my Jeep, the Willy's Jeep. Yeah, I built them."
The Willys Jeep is an old-fashioned vehicle that was used by the military in World War II. It’s famous for being tough and able to go anywhere, and it started the Jeep brand we know today.
The Willys Jeep is a historic vehicle originally designed for military use during World War II, known for its ruggedness and off-road capability. Its significance lies in its role as the foundation for the modern Jeep brand and its enduring popularity among off-road enthusiasts.
Mahindra Thar
"... day, they still build a version of it called the Thar. You want to look up a Mahindra Thar, T-H-A-R."
The Mahindra Thar is a tough off-road vehicle that looks a bit like old Jeeps. It’s popular with people who want to go on adventures and drive on rough trails.
The Mahindra Thar is a rugged off-road vehicle that draws inspiration from classic Jeep designs, known for its capability and simplicity. Its significance lies in its appeal to adventure seekers and those looking for a no-frills off-roading experience.
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