Future Classics: Updated for '26 #62

The Chevrolet Bel Air is a classic-era Chevrolet model name associated with mid-century styling and a strong collector interest. The podcast suggests that a specific year (like a 57) is not a “future classic” because it’s already considered a classic today. It’s used to frame the idea of what counts as collectible versus what might become collectible later.

Corvette is Chevrolet’s long-running sports car line, known for its performance-focused design and strong enthusiast following. In this segment, the hosts discuss how Corvettes might behave in the collector-car market (“off a cliff”), which is why it’s brought up as a future classic candidate.

The hosts are debating whether a car must be “collectible” (high demand, desirability, or rarity) to qualify as a “classic.” They argue that a car can become a classic through nostalgia, looks, and cultural presence—even if it wasn’t rare or desirable at the time.

The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster/convertible model line known for its long-running popularity and “grand touring” character. Here, the hosts mention the SL as an example of a limited-production or special variant path—some versions are rarer than others, which can affect future classic status.

The Ford Falcon is a model line that was sold in multiple body styles, including station wagons. In this discussion, the hosts cite a Falcon wagon as another example of a car that can become interesting or “classic” over time, even if it wasn’t viewed as a top collectible when new.

The Ford Mustang is an American muscle car known for its long-running popularity and wide range of performance versions. It often comes up in conversations about “future classics” because there are both modern and older Mustangs with strong enthusiast followings. In the podcast context, it’s grouped with other iconic “boss” and classic muscle models.

The Ford Model T is an early mass-market car that became famous for making car ownership widespread. The hosts use it as a contrast: in 1925 it was seen as common, but today it’s valued as automotive history and a classic.

The Volkswagen Beetle is a long-running, iconic compact car whose design became a cultural symbol. The hosts use it to argue that even a car that seems ordinary or common can still be considered a classic once it becomes nostalgic and historically significant.

The Toyota Corolla is a mainstream compact car that’s known for being practical and widely sold. It’s often used as an example of a car that’s common and dependable rather than rare or collectible. The podcast’s point is that a Corolla likely won’t be considered a classic in the same way as lower-volume or more distinctive models.

The Volkswagen Beetle is a long-running, iconic small car known for its distinctive shape. The podcast references the Super Beetle and then the later revival, using it to talk about how the model name and concept have continued over time. It’s brought up as part of a broader discussion about which cars become lasting icons.

Pebble Beach refers to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California, one of the most prestigious classic-car shows in the U.S. The host uses it as a shorthand for “top-tier collector status” for cars that are preserved and cared for.

“Future classics” is the episode’s theme: cars that may become collectible and culturally important in the coming years. The hosts debate what makes a car qualify—commonness alone isn’t enough; it also needs interest, preservation, and a story that enthusiasts will keep valuing.

The Cadillac CT5V Blackwing is a high-performance American sports sedan built around a supercharged V8, manual-transmission option, and a rear-wheel-drive layout. In this segment, the host frames it as a “rocket ship” because it combines big V8 power with a driver-focused chassis and period-correct tech that feels like an era of analog performance.

A supercharged V8 is an eight-cylinder engine that uses a belt-driven forced-induction system (the supercharger) to cram more air into the cylinders. That typically boosts power and torque compared with a naturally aspirated V8 of the same displacement.

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) means the engine’s power is sent to the rear wheels. Compared with front-wheel drive, RWD often gives a different balance and steering feel, and it’s commonly associated with performance cars because it can be easier to tune for traction and handling.

A “sedan V8” describes a V8-powered sedan, which is becoming rarer as many manufacturers move toward smaller turbo engines, hybrids, or EVs. The host uses it as a shorthand for a specific kind of enthusiast configuration: big displacement, traditional engine character, and sedan practicality.

The Cadillac CT4 is a compact luxury sedan from Cadillac. In this segment, the hosts mention it as a possible “future classic,” tying the model to a specific color and winter testing context.

The Cadillac CT6 is a full-size luxury sedan, and the podcast mentions it in a testing context. It also references a specific shade of blue and that the car was shot in winter, which suggests the episode is discussing the vehicle’s presence and comfort. The CT6 is included as part of a luxury sedan comparison or review segment.

The Cadillac CT5 is a midsize luxury sedan positioned above the CT4. Here, the hosts compare it to the CT4 by size (“one size down”), which helps explain why the CT4 is a smaller alternative within Cadillac’s sedan lineup.

The Volvo V60 is a wagon (estate) that’s part of Volvo’s lineup, and it’s discussed here as a “future classic” candidate. The hosts focus on how uncommon certain V60 versions are—especially non-cross-country trims—making them more likely to stand out over time.

Polestar is a performance-leaning Swedish brand closely associated with Volvo’s electrified and performance efforts. Here, it’s mentioned as Polestar engineered the V60, implying a more specialized, rarer version than the standard Volvo V60.

The Lars Anderson Auto Museum is a well-known car museum in the United States. The hosts reference it as the setting for a “Swedish car day,” using the location to illustrate how the Volvo V60 turns heads in a niche enthusiast event.

An inline-six is an engine layout where six cylinders are arranged in a single straight line. It’s often praised for smooth power delivery because the firing order is naturally balanced.

Suspension upgrades are changes to components like springs, dampers, bushings, or anti-roll bars to improve ride quality and handling. On performance trims, these upgrades help the car stay composed during hard cornering and braking.

Brakes are the components that slow and stop the car by converting motion into heat through friction. In performance builds, brake hardware is often upgraded to reduce fade and improve stopping consistency.

A turbo four is a four-cylinder engine equipped with a turbocharger to increase power by forcing more air into the cylinders. “Inline turbo four” specifies the cylinders are arranged in a straight line (not V-shaped).

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) uses both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, and it can be charged from an external power source. This lets it drive some distance on electricity alone, while still having an engine for longer trips.

“Supercharged and turbocharged” means the engine uses both a supercharger and a turbocharger. The goal is to improve boost across a wider RPM range—superchargers can provide boost at lower speeds, while turbos are efficient at higher speeds.

Crossovers are vehicles built on a car-like platform that blend SUV styling with more car-like driving dynamics. They’ve largely replaced wagons for many buyers because they offer higher seating and easier access to cargo.

“Quiet luxury” is a style idea where a car (or anything) looks premium without loud branding or flashy design cues. The host uses it to describe Volvo’s approach—confident, refined, and not trying to “announce” itself.

The Honda Civic is a compact car that’s been a long-time staple in the market, with many generations and trims. It’s commonly discussed because it’s easy to live with and has performance-oriented variants. In the podcast, it’s mentioned as a specific car before moving on to another topic.

The Toyota Sienna is a minivan, and the host calls it a “classic currently” before saying they wouldn’t choose it as a future classic. This mention is mainly contrast—setting up why the Civic Type R stands out more as an enthusiast-focused future collectible.

A diffuser is an aerodynamic device under the rear of the car that helps manage airflow as it exits the body. By accelerating and smoothing the underbody flow, diffusers can improve downforce and stability, especially at speed.

A rear spoiler is an aerodynamic add-on at the back of the car designed to change airflow and increase downforce. More downforce helps keep the car planted at speed, but it can also add drag depending on shape and how it’s mounted.

Horsepower is a measure of engine power—how much work the engine can do over time. When the host says the Civic Type R is “315 horsepower,” they’re pointing to its output level as part of why it’s a serious performance hatchback.

A “two liter inline four” describes the engine’s displacement and layout: 2.0 liters total volume, with four cylinders arranged in a straight line (inline) in one cylinder bank. This layout is common in compact performance cars because it packages well and can be tuned for strong turbo performance.

“Manual only” means the car is offered exclusively with a manual transmission rather than an automatic. Enthusiasts often prefer manuals because they give more direct control over gear selection and engine speed, which can make the car feel more engaging on track.

The Acura Integra Type S is a performance-focused version of the Integra, built around a sporty, driver-oriented setup rather than pure track hardware. In this segment, the host compares it directly to the Civic Type R, emphasizing how it feels more “road ready” while still delivering Type R-like thrills.

The Honda Civic Type R is Honda’s high-performance hot hatch, known for being track-capable while still being usable on the street. The host contrasts it with the Integra Type S, noting the Type R’s more aggressive, track-oriented character and even pointing out the distinctive interior color scheme.

Sonoma Raceway is a road course in California used for professional racing and driver training. In this segment, it’s the track where the host experienced a “hot lap” style drive in a Civic Type R, highlighting how lap speed depends on smooth control through corners.

A “hot lap” is a single, maximum-effort circuit where the driver focuses on getting the best possible time rather than managing tires or fuel. The host uses it to describe the kind of smooth, controlled rhythm you see from a racing driver when they’re pushing hard.

“Flow state” refers to a mental and physical condition where a driver feels fully in sync with the car and track—inputs become instinctive and timing feels effortless. Here it’s used to explain why fast driving isn’t just about aggression; it’s about smooth, controlled coordination through corners.

The Volkswagen Jetta GLI is a sporty, performance-oriented version of the Jetta, positioned as a “daily-driver hot sedan.” In this segment, the host highlights that it keeps a manual transmission and delivers strong torque, while aiming to age well visually and in its interior layout.

The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car, and the podcast ties it to the idea of the GTI not being a future classic. The mention is part of a comparison about which popular performance models are likely to become collectible versus those that remain too common. The Golf is referenced as part of that same “future classic” framing.

The Volkswagen GTI is the brand’s iconic hot-hatch, and in this segment it’s used as a comparison point for what might (or might not) become a future classic. The host specifically notes a current GTI availability constraint tied to automatic transmission, and suggests the interior/tech may age poorly.

A tech interface is the way the car’s digital systems are presented and controlled—typically the infotainment screens, menus, and control layout. The host contrasts the GLI’s interface with the GTI’s “maddening” tech, arguing the GLI’s approach should age better.

Torque is the twisting force an engine produces, and it strongly influences how quickly a car accelerates, especially at lower speeds. The host’s “ton of torque” comment is meant to describe the Jetta GLI’s strong pull in everyday driving.

The Volkswagen Jetta GLI is the sporty, performance-oriented version of the Jetta, positioned as a “more interesting” alternative to the standard Jetta. In this segment, the hosts discuss it as a potential future classic, especially because it’s still offered with a manual transmission.

A manual transmission is a gearbox that requires the driver to use a clutch pedal and shift lever to change gears. In enthusiast circles, manuals are often seen as more engaging and can increase a car’s collectibility when manufacturers discontinue them.

An automatic transmission shifts gears for you without a clutch pedal. The hosts mention that most buyers prefer automatics, which influences whether a manufacturer keeps offering manuals.

The Lucid Air is an electric luxury sedan known for its modern design and electric powertrain. The podcast references it in a broader “what car are you thinking of?” style conversation, comparing it to other classic-sounding names. It’s mentioned as a specific example of a newer, higher-end electric model.

The Nissan Z is a long-running Japanese sports-car nameplate known for a driver-focused layout and a classic “Z-car” identity. Here, the host specifically calls out the new Nissan Z with a manual transmission, emphasizing that it’s engaging to drive even if it isn’t the biggest seller.

“Z4 Supra” refers to the BMW Z4 and Toyota Supra pairing that share a platform and similar modern performance-car architecture. The host is saying they considered that option too, but it didn’t feel as special to them.

Horsepower is a measure of engine power—how much work the engine can do over time. When the host fixates on “400 horsepower,” they’re emphasizing a round-number power target that’s often used as a shorthand for how strong the car feels.

A six-speed manual transmission is a gearbox where the driver selects gears using a clutch and a shift lever, with six forward gear ratios. More gears can help keep the engine in its best power band more often, which can make the car feel more responsive and “race-like.”

The Toyota Supra is a modern sports coupe known for its performance-focused engineering and strong enthusiast following. In this segment, the host compares it to the Nissan Z and argues that the Z feels less like a “grand tourer” than the Supra does, even though the Supra is also a two-seat sports car.

A “grand tourer” (often shortened to GT) is a car type designed for comfortable, high-speed long-distance driving—typically prioritizing refinement and ride comfort over outright track sharpness. The host is using the term to contrast comfort-focused touring with a more stiff, race-car-like feel.

The BMW 2 Series is a compact performance-oriented BMW model, and the podcast compares its feel to a grand touring style. It’s described as heavier and stiffer, and the speaker notes it doesn’t feel as much like a “grand tourer” as the Supra does. In that context, the 2 Series is part of a comparison about ride feel and driving character.

The Nissan 350Z is an early-2000s Z-car that helped define the modern enthusiast image of the Nissan Z line. The host mentions it to explain their personal connection to the Z “lineage,” since the 350Z was a popular sports coupe in that era.

The Audi TT is a compact sports coupe/roadster known for its distinctive, retro-inspired design and “small GT” vibe. The host compares the Nissan Z’s look to the Audi TT’s retro-futuristic styling and mentions liking the TT for that reason.

In car talk, “analog” means the driving experience relies more on direct mechanical feel than on screens, digital tuning, or heavy electronic mediation. The host uses it to contrast the Miata’s straightforward, driver-focused character with more tech-heavy cars.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight, two-seat roadster known for its simple, fun driving character. It’s frequently praised because it focuses on handling and driver engagement rather than raw power. The podcast brings it up as a key part of the conversation about great sports cars.

A “35th anniversary” edition is a special model celebrating a milestone, usually with unique styling and/or equipment. The hosts mention it as a time marker for the Miata’s longevity and continued appeal.

A roadster is an open-top two-seat car, typically with a simple, lightweight layout and a focus on driving feel. The hosts call the Miata one of the last “affordable small roadsters,” highlighting its category as a distinct style of car.

The hosts are describing a driving philosophy: prioritizing the fun of momentum, cornering, and responsiveness in a small car over raw straight-line speed. Their “small car fast” framing suggests that you can feel “track-like” excitement at modest speeds on winding roads.

Horsepower is a measure of engine output power. Here, they’re using the Miata’s post-2019 increase to 181 hp (up from about 155) as a marker of why those later cars may be more desirable.

A soft top is a fabric convertible roof (as opposed to a hardtop). On the Miata ND, the hosts imply the soft-top configuration is part of what makes those post-2019 cars especially “pure” and desirable.

The ND generation is the Miata’s modern roadster era (the fourth-generation Miata). The hosts specifically call out post-2019 ND cars with a soft top as especially desirable because they deliver a “pure driving” feel.

The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck and is often discussed as a mainstream, high-volume vehicle. In the podcast, it’s mentioned in the context of what might become a future classic, with the conversation shifting toward the Ranger Raptor as the more likely candidate. The F-150 is included as the baseline for that discussion.

A twin-turbo V6 uses two turbochargers to force more air into a V6 engine, improving power and torque. The hosts pair this with the Ranger Raptor’s high horsepower figure to emphasize its performance character.

Four-wheel drive (4WD) sends power to both the front and rear axles for better traction. The hosts mention it as standard on the Ranger Raptor to underline its off-road capability.

The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup line that’s positioned as a practical alternative to larger trucks. Here, the host contrasts the Ranger’s “name brand cache” with the Ranger Raptor, arguing the standard Ranger is more familiar while the Raptor trim is more collectible.

BFGoodrich KO tires refer to BFGoodrich’s all-terrain tire line (the KO/KO2 family), which is designed for off-road traction and durability. The host is noting the truck’s tire size and brand as part of what could make it appealing to future collectors.

The Nissan Frontier Pro 4X is a Frontier trim aimed at off-road capability, typically with more aggressive tires and suspension than the base models. The host says they’d want one for everyday needs, but they wouldn’t buy it expecting it to become a future classic.

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a high-off-road trim of the Tacoma, known for being more extreme than standard trims. In this segment, it’s used as a comparison point: the host says the Ranger Raptor is “way more than I needed,” while the Tacoma TRD Pro is even more over-the-top.

The Lexus RCF is a performance coupe built around a big V8 and a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, which is a classic recipe for a driver-focused “GT” feel. In this segment, the hosts frame the RCF as a potential future collectible because it was discontinued and seems underbought compared with how desirable it might become.

The Lexus LFA is a limited-production supercar known for its high-revving performance and rarity. The hosts use it as an example of how an “underappreciated and undersold” Lexus can later become extremely valuable.

A “V8” is an engine with eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, typically producing strong low- to mid-range power and a distinctive sound. The hosts emphasize the RCF’s V8 as part of why it feels like a traditional performance car.

A “GT car” (grand touring) is designed for comfortable high-speed cruising while still offering performance. The hosts call the RCF Track Edition a bit of an “oxymoron” because track-focused versions are usually more stripped-down and less about long-distance comfort.

The BMW M3 Competition is a higher-output, track-capable trim within the M3 lineup, typically featuring performance upgrades over a standard M3. In this segment, it’s referenced as an example of how “track-focused” variants exist within mainstream performance models.

In this context, “pricing” is about market value changes over time—how much the car costs today versus what it cost new. The hosts discuss whether the RCF’s pricing will keep falling or stabilize as it becomes more collectible.

The Audi S5 is a performance-oriented version of the A5, typically positioned as a premium sport coupe/sportback with stronger engines and sport tuning than the base model. Here it’s used as a pricing comparison point for how expensive the Lexus RCF was when new.

The Honda HR-V is a compact crossover SUV. In this segment it’s mentioned as the car the speaker’s brother considered, before the conversation pivots to the more performance-oriented Hyundai Veloster N. The HR-V functions here as a contrast point between mainstream practicality and an enthusiast-focused hatch.

The Hyundai Venue is a small crossover designed for budget-friendly daily transportation. The podcast mentions it alongside the HR-V, with advice not to choose the Venue in that specific situation. It’s referenced as part of a practical buying discussion rather than a performance debate.

Hyundai’s N program is the automaker’s in-house performance branding and engineering effort. It’s designed to create cars with more driver-focused dynamics—things like sharper steering/braking feel and tuned power delivery—rather than just adding cosmetic upgrades. In this segment, it’s used to explain why the Veloster N is “enthusiast level” even if it isn’t priced like top-tier sports cars.

The Hyundai Elantra is a compact car, and the podcast specifically brings up the Elantra N as a performance-focused version. The discussion centers on whether the Elantra N could be a standout choice, including curiosity about how it drives. It’s mentioned as part of a “what should we pick” conversation around performance and value.

The Hyundai Elantra N is a performance-focused version of the Elantra, tuned for sharper steering and more aggressive driving feel than a regular Elantra. In this segment, it’s framed as the “sensible” pick versus the more unusual hatchback, which matters for how future classics are judged.

The Honda Civic Si is a performance trim of the Civic, typically known for being a driver-focused, affordable “everyday” sport compact. The hosts mention it alongside the GTI as a more visible alternative that can eclipse the Elantra N in popularity and survival odds.

The Mini Cooper S is a performance-oriented trim of the Mini hatchback, typically positioned as the sportier option with more power and firmer tuning than the base model. Here it’s mentioned as an example that contradicts a rule-of-thumb about buying used “sport editions.”

A “three door hatchback” is a hatchback body style with three doors total—typically two front doors plus one rear hatch door. The host uses it to argue that future production will favor four-door sedans over this rarer layout, which affects how many examples survive.

The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine two-seat sports car that shares much of its engineering DNA with the Porsche 718 family. The podcast mentions it in the context of the “just discontinued Porsche 718,” treating Boxster as one of the choices. It’s discussed as part of the broader question of which Porsche model to pick.

“718” refers to Porsche’s 718 family, which includes the Boxster and Cayman models. The podcast mentions it as “just discontinued,” framing it as a specific generation of Porsche mid-engine sports cars. It’s brought up because the conversation is about choosing between the Boxster and Cayman within that 718 lineup.

The Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine two-door sports car closely related to the Boxster, sharing the same general performance layout. The podcast mentions it alongside the Boxster as part of the “Porsche 718” discussion and asks which one to choose. It’s brought up because it’s a popular alternative for people who want the same core driving feel with a different body style.

The Porsche 944 Turbo is a turbocharged variant of the 944, a front-engine Porsche that’s often remembered as an overlooked model compared with the 911. The hosts mention it as an example of how a “sleeping” car can become a future classic once it’s no longer easy to find or afford.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5N is a performance-focused version of Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 electric crossover, with “N” branding aimed at enthusiast driving. The hosts argue it could qualify as a future classic because it’s one of the first EVs to feel truly distinctive rather than just a battery-powered version of something familiar.

The Porsche 718 Boxster is a mid-engine roadster built around a compact, sporty chassis and (in most years) turbocharged flat-four or flat-six options. In this segment, the hosts discuss it as a likely future collectible, tying that to how Porsche models can appreciate as supply shrinks and demand rises.