Getting it Right with Horsepower Heritage's Maurice Merrick
About this episode
Maurice Merrick, creator of the Horsepower Heritage podcast, joins the hosts for a lively discussion about automotive storytelling, podcasting challenges, and the evolution of car culture. They share anecdotes from Car Week, the Slow Baja expedition, and their favorite automotive guests. Maurice reflects on his eclectic car collection and the importance of community in the automotive world. The conversation also touches on the future of electric vehicles, the impact of social media on car events, and the thrill of live interviews. Tune in for insights and entertaining stories from the automotive realm.
This week on That Car Show, it’s our pal Maurice Merrick. Maurice is the creator and host of Horsepower Heritage, the highly-regarded podcast for the discerning automotive enthusiasts among us. In the automotive world that Dan, Lindsey and I inhabit, Maurice is like a VISA card… everywhere you want to be. He’s also a fantastic storyteller, a master of the craft and a good friend. This is also the first episode of Season Two of That Car Show and we genuinely appreciate you joining us each week. Do us a favor and hit subscribe on your podcast platform of choice and tell your enthusiast friends. 2026 is going to be amazing, and we want them along for the ride, too. It’s Horsepower Heritage’s Maurice Merrick and it’s a fun one. It’s That Car Show. Sheffield Watches: sheffieldwatches.com and @sheffield_allsport_watchesDrake Motorcars: drakemotorcars.com and @drakemotorcars
Rolls-Royce Ghosts
"...e years. I do seem to recall a couple of podcast ghosts in the attic with the steering committee, rest i..."
The Rolls-Royce Ghost is a super fancy car that many people dream of owning. It's known for being incredibly luxurious and comfortable, with lots of attention to detail.
The Rolls-Royce Ghost is a luxury sedan known for its opulence, craftsmanship, and powerful performance. It represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury and is often discussed for its exclusivity and the status it conveys.
Le Mans
"...to talk about his book, Racing in the Dark, how the Bentley boys conquered Le Mans. Right. Right. Right."
Le Mans is a famous car race that lasts for 24 hours. Cars race around a track, and it's known for being very tough on both the cars and the drivers.
Le Mans is an annual 24-hour endurance race held in France, known for its challenging conditions and prestigious history. It is one of the most famous and oldest sports car races in the world, attracting manufacturers and drivers from around the globe.
horsepower
"...Peter returns to horsepower heritage this week to talk about his new book, Super Veloce, how the Italian car industry conquered the world."
Horsepower tells you how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the car can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, and is a key factor in determining a vehicle's performance.
Super Veloce
"...to talk about his new book, Super Veloce, how the Italian car industry conquered the world."
Super Veloce means 'super fast' in Italian and is used for very fast cars, especially from brands like Lamborghini. It shows that these cars are built for speed.
Super Veloce, which means 'super fast' in Italian, is often used to describe high-performance variants of cars, particularly from brands like Lamborghini. It signifies a focus on speed and racing capabilities.
Ford Model 39
"and a 39 Ford. OK, and that's cool."
The Ford Model 39 is a vintage car from the 1930s that many car enthusiasts appreciate for its style and history.
The Ford Model 39 is a classic car from the late 1930s, known for its design and popularity during that era.
Bmw 2002S
"I had BMW 2002s. Yeah, that I knew."
The BMW 2002 is a small, sporty car from the 1970s that many people love for its fun driving experience.
The BMW 2002 is a compact car produced in the late 1960s and 1970s, known for its sporty performance and is considered a precursor to the modern BMW 3 Series.
Land Rover Series
"And after that, somewhere along the line, I got into series Land Rovers."
The Land Rover Series is a line of tough, off-road vehicles made by Land Rover that are great for adventures and rough terrains.
The Land Rover Series refers to a range of off-road vehicles produced by Land Rover from 1948 to 1985, known for their ruggedness and capability in challenging terrains.
Ford Model A Roadster
"There's a 31 Ford Model A Roadster in the garage."
The Ford Model A is an old car made by Ford between 1927 and 1931. It's famous for being one of the first cars that many people could afford.
The Ford Model A is a classic car produced by Ford from 1927 to 1931. It was one of the first mass-produced cars and is known for its affordability and reliability during its time.
Ford Model
"...'s an Alfa Romeo in the garage now. There's a 31 Ford Model A Roadster in the garage. BMW motorcycle, a 73 R..."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that regular people could afford. It changed how cars were made and helped many families own a vehicle for the first time.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing. Its introduction of assembly line production made cars accessible to the general public, significantly impacting society.
BMW R 75/5
"BMW motorcycle, a 73 R 75 slash five."
The BMW R 75/5 is an old motorcycle made by BMW in 1973. It's known for being dependable and has a unique design that many motorcycle fans appreciate.
The BMW R 75/5 is a classic motorcycle model produced in 1973, known for its reliability and performance. It features a distinctive design and is part of BMW's heritage in motorcycle manufacturing.
two car solution
"Speaking of which, Ryan, Lindsay, what would your perfect two car solution be? This is the big question, right?"
A 'two car solution' means having two cars that work well together for different purposes. One might be for everyday use, and the other could be for fun or special occasions.
A 'two car solution' refers to the idea of having two different vehicles that complement each other, often to cover a range of driving needs or preferences. For example, one car might be a practical daily driver while the other is a performance or luxury vehicle.
Land Rover Range Rover
"Like the most recent one is a the full size Range Rover and a Minimoque was the funniest one I've seen recently."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV made by Land Rover. It's known for being very comfortable and good at driving off-road, making it popular among people who want both luxury and adventure.
The Range Rover is a luxury SUV produced by Land Rover, known for its off-road capabilities and premium features. It's often considered a status symbol due to its high price and luxurious interior.
Polestar
"...I've got a Polestar and I've got a GT4 and that covers all the bases. The Polestar is 440 horsepower, whatever."
Polestar is a brand that makes electric cars, known for being fast and environmentally friendly. They focus on combining good performance with electric technology.
Polestar is a performance electric vehicle brand that originated from Volvo, focusing on high-performance electric and hybrid cars. The Polestar models are known for their combination of performance and sustainability.
all wheel drive
"It's all wheel drive. You know, it's flies under the radar, doesn't look like anything, right?"
All wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain configuration that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Volvo 240
"...n old one, two, four Mercedes or something or old 240 Volvo. It's kind of got that vibe about it."
The Volvo 240 is an older car that's known for being very safe and lasting a long time. Its unique shape makes it stand out, and many people still love it today.
The Volvo 240 is a mid-size car produced from 1974 to 1993, known for its boxy design and reputation for safety and durability. It has become a classic, often discussed for its reliability and the loyal following it has garnered over the years.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon)
"But I think, you know, if I was bringing a little more money into the house, I would have a GT3 Touring and 991.2 and some sort of of G-Wagon."
The G-Wagon is a luxury SUV made by Mercedes-Benz. It's known for being very strong and capable off-road, while also being very comfortable and stylish inside.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, commonly known as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV known for its rugged design, off-road capabilities, and high-end features, making it a popular choice among affluent buyers.
Land Rover
"But what would yours be, Maurice? Because I have an idea and one of them would probably be a Land Rover. But you tell us."
Land Rover is a brand that makes tough and luxurious SUVs, great for off-roading and adventures.
Land Rover is a British automotive brand known for its luxury SUVs and off-road vehicles. They are renowned for their ruggedness and capability in challenging terrains.
Porsche 911
"And it's kind of I've already I've already trod down that path, right? So, yeah, probably a probably a 70, 9-11. OK. Yeah."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car known for being fast and fun to drive. It's been around for a long time and is loved by car enthusiasts for its unique shape and powerful performance.
The Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 1964. Renowned for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout, it has become an icon in the automotive world, often celebrated for its driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
Mercedes
"You know, I mean, great Mercedes engineering."
Mercedes is a well-known car brand that makes luxury cars. They are famous for their high-quality engineering and advanced features.
Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for its luxury vehicles, buses, and trucks. The brand is recognized for its engineering excellence and innovative technology.
Alfa Romeo Giulietta
"And I just love it. It's a 60 Giulietta Spyder. It's what Al Fiesti call an Abnormale."
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a small car from Italy that looks really nice and is fun to drive. It's known for being stylish and having a sporty feel.
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is a compact car that has been celebrated for its stylish design and sporty performance. It represents Alfa Romeo's commitment to blending Italian aesthetics with driving enjoyment, often discussed for its character and charm.
Alfa Romeo 1750
"So mine has a 1750 twin cam and a five speed. Nice. The previous owner set it up for touring and it's perfect for that."
The Alfa Romeo 1750 is a car model known for its sporty feel and good handling. It has a 1750cc engine, which means it can perform well on the road.
The Alfa Romeo 1750 refers to a series of cars produced by Alfa Romeo, known for their sporty performance and handling. The '1750' designation typically refers to the engine displacement, which is 1750cc, and these cars often feature a twin-cam engine design.
five-speed
"So mine has a 1750 twin cam and a five speed. Nice. The previous owner set it up for touring and it's perfect for that."
A five-speed means the car has a manual transmission with five different gears to choose from. This helps the driver control the car's speed better.
A five-speed transmission refers to a manual gearbox with five forward gears, allowing for better control of the vehicle's speed and power delivery. It provides a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
twin cam
"So mine has a 1750 twin cam and a five speed. Nice. The previous owner set it up for touring and it's perfect for that."
A twin cam engine has two camshafts that help the engine breathe better, which usually makes it more powerful and efficient. It's a common design in sporty cars.
A twin cam engine, or dual overhead cam (DOHC), features two camshafts per cylinder bank, allowing for better airflow and higher RPMs. This design typically enhances engine performance and efficiency.
vintage touring
"Long term, Ryan, is I want to do some vintage touring in that car. You know, and I've I've done vintage touring before."
Vintage touring is when people take older cars on long drives, usually for fun and to enjoy beautiful scenery. It's a way to meet other car lovers and share the experience of driving classic cars.
Vintage touring refers to organized events where classic or vintage cars are driven over long distances, often through scenic routes. Participants enjoy the experience of driving their vintage vehicles while socializing with other enthusiasts.
cars and coffee
"I mean, cars and coffee is fun, right? Or just kind of cruising on your own for the the morning is fun."
Cars and coffee is a fun event where people with cool cars come together to chat and drink coffee. It's a chance to see different types of cars and meet other car fans.
Cars and coffee is a casual gathering where car enthusiasts meet to show off their vehicles, share stories, and enjoy coffee together. These events often feature a variety of cars, from classic to modern, and provide a social atmosphere for car lovers.
Ford Excursion
"...ith other vintage cars, you know, on a multi day excursion, it's it's just a different experience. That's w..."
The Ford Excursion is a really big SUV that can fit a lot of people and pull heavy things like trailers. It's great for road trips or carrying lots of stuff.
The Ford Excursion is a large SUV that was produced from 2000 to 2005, known for its enormous size and towing capabilities. It is often discussed for its utility and ability to transport large groups or heavy loads, making it a favorite among those needing a robust vehicle.
Ford Expeditions
"...n friends ever since. So he runs these slow Baja expeditions, I think twice a year, once in the fall and once..."
The Ford Expedition is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families or trips where you need extra space, and it can also pull heavy things like trailers.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and towing capacity, making it a popular choice for families and those needing extra cargo space. It combines comfort with utility, often discussed for its performance in both urban and off-road environments.
Drake Motor Cars
"...what does one expect to encounter along the way? That car show is proud to partner with Drake Motor Cars."
Drake Motor Cars makes luxury cars that are often different from typical brands. They create unique and stylish vehicles for people who appreciate high-quality design.
Drake Motor Cars is a manufacturer known for producing high-end, luxury vehicles. They often focus on unique designs and performance, appealing to car enthusiasts looking for something special.
Ford Broncos
"here at that car show. Think Velocity Broncos, Audi RS6s, Acura NSXs and air cooled Porsches. ..."
Audi Rs6S
"Think Velocity Broncos, Audi RS6s, Acura NSXs and air cooled Porsches."
The Audi RS6 is a super-fast version of the Audi A6, designed for people who love speed and performance in a luxury car.
The Audi RS6 is a high-performance version of the Audi A6, featuring a powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine and advanced all-wheel-drive technology, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
Acura Nsxs
"...r show. Think Velocity Broncos, Audi RS6s, Acura NSXs and air cooled Porsches. You can see their compl..."
Ineos Grenadier
"brought along, uh, Ineos Grenadier quarter master. Nice. Which I got an opportunity to drive great vehicle."
The Ineos Grenadier is a tough, off-road vehicle made for adventures. It looks a bit like older Land Rovers and is built to drive on rough roads.
The Ineos Grenadier is a rugged off-road vehicle designed for adventure and utility, inspired by classic models like the Land Rover Defender. It features a boxy design and is built to handle tough terrains.
Baja 1000
"the 50th anniversary of South fishes, um, ownership of the Baja races, right? So, um, the Baja 1000 kind of the first few years were a little bit creaky."
The Baja 1000 is a famous race in Mexico where drivers compete on rough roads and deserts. It's known for being very challenging and exciting.
The Baja 1000 is an iconic off-road race held annually in Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. It challenges drivers with a mix of terrain, including desert, mountains, and coastal areas, making it a significant event in motorsport history.
project car
"Anybody with project cars knows that."
A project car is a car that someone buys to fix up or make better. People enjoy working on them to create something unique or to restore them to good condition.
A project car refers to a vehicle that an enthusiast buys with the intention of restoring, modifying, or improving it over time. These cars often require significant work and investment to reach the owner's vision.
Land Rover Defender
"... getting to ride with the Land Rover team in the Defender, uh, that five or six defenders in the, uh, Tour..."
The Land Rover Defender is a tough vehicle designed for driving off the road, like in the mountains or on rough paths. It's popular for its strong build and ability to handle tough conditions while still being comfortable inside.
The Land Rover Defender is a rugged off-road vehicle known for its durability and capability in challenging terrains. It has a rich history dating back to the 1940s and is often discussed for its blend of luxury and practicality, making it a favorite among adventure seekers.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
"...t episode, Bobby Green is a charter member of the PT Cruiser Spotters Anonymous Club. So I love, I love the c..."
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a small car that looks a bit old-fashioned but is fun and practical. It has a lot of space inside for passengers and their stuff.
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a compact car produced from 2000 to 2010, known for its retro styling and versatile interior. It gained a cult following for its unique design and practicality, often discussed in the context of quirky cars.
Tesla My Model
"...Yeah. He sold me a set of 35 Ford wire wheels for my Model A and something for my Model A Roadster. Yeah. A..."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that can go a long way on a single charge. It's packed with cool technology and has a lot of space for passengers and cargo.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact all-electric SUV that shares many components with the Model 3 sedan. Known for its impressive range, advanced technology, and spacious interior, it has quickly become a popular choice among electric vehicle buyers.
Ford Mustang
"... Land Rover Defender Octa and a 2018 Ford GT350 R Mustang. Wow. Okay. There you go. Not a dark horse. No. ..."
The Ford Mustang is a classic American car that's known for being fast and stylish. It's been around for many years and is loved by many people for its sporty look and powerful engine.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964. Known for its powerful engines and sporty design, it represents freedom and performance, making it a staple in car culture and a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Toyota Corolla
"...eople are raving about that three cylinder turbo Corolla, you know, anybody we know. Yeah, yeah, right, ri..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it's dependable and doesn't use much gas. It's a great choice for getting around town without spending too much money on repairs or fuel.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in the world, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It has a reputation for being a practical choice for daily commuting and is often praised for its low maintenance costs.
Bmw I3
"...atever. So no kidding. You know, I considered the BMW i3 when it first came out. I mean, I'm not opposed ..."
The BMW i3 is a small electric car that's different in shape and made with eco-friendly materials. It's designed for city driving and helps reduce pollution since it doesn't use gas.
The BMW i3 is an electric car that was introduced in 2013, known for its unique design and sustainable materials. It represents BMW's commitment to electric mobility and is often discussed for its innovative technology and urban-friendly size.
Tata Motors Aria
"...ere there was a hydrogen station when was it the ARIA when that came out? Yeah, the ARIA and the Mariah..."
The Tata Motors Aria is a big car that can carry a lot of people and things. It's designed to be affordable and practical for families.
The Tata Motors Aria is a crossover SUV that was introduced in India, known for its spacious interior and value for money. It represents Tata's entry into the competitive SUV market and is often discussed for its practicality and features.
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