GT-R Lawsuit; GT3 RS tire "fix"?; Tow rigs; Q&A
About this episode
Matt Farah dives into a range of topics from the latest GT3 RS tire adjustments to suggestions for tow rigs. The discussion includes a recent incident at Laguna Seca involving a crashed car and the reasoning behind Porsche's decision not to produce a four-cylinder 911. Listeners will appreciate the insights on efficient towing options, including the Cayenne SE hybrid and Ram 1500, as well as a fun tangent about a treasure hunt documentary. The episode balances automotive advice with engaging stories.
Matt Farah and Zack Klapman discuss whether tires "fixed" what they didn't like about the new Porsche GT3 RS; there's an update to a legal scuffle between Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca and the owner of an amazing R34 GT-R; we get some ideas for tow vehicles; why Porsche won't build a "cheap" 911; and Patreon questions include:
- Weekend track car idea: NC Miata or BMW 135i?
- Why are early 2000s Mini Cooper S underappreciated?
- Can you have wide front tires AND good steering feel?
- How to avoid being labeled a "Florida car"?
- Easy, impressive meals to cook
- How does a Lotus compare to a 718 Cayman for road trips?
- F/M/K: Larry Chen's 996 Turbo / Magnus' 277 / Scotto's RWB
- What car would our 18-year old selves invest in?
- How to talk someone out of a car they'll regret
- Fun cruiser: Alfa Spider or R129 SL500?
- Rent a Miata or a C8 for a weekend in the the South?
- Is the Elantra N still a deal at $40k?
- Should you let a younger family member ride in your "unsafe" car?
And more!
Recorded February 6, 2026
SHOW NOTES
Factor
Eat smart at FactorMeals.com/tire50off and use code tire50off to get 50% off your first box, plus Free Breakfast for 1 Year.Eat like a pro this month with Factor. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription is active
DeleteMe
Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to www.joindeleteme.com slash TIRE and use promo code TIRE at checkout.
Want your question answered? Want to watch the live stream, get ad-free podcasts, or exclusive podcasts? Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thesmokingtirepodcast
Use Off The Record! and ALWAYS fight your tickets! Enter code TST10 for a 10% discount on your first case on the Off The Record app, or go to http://www.offtherecord.com/TST.
Watch our car reviews: https://www.youtube.com/thesmokingtire
Tweet at us!
https://www.Twitter.com/thesmokingtire
https://www.Twitter.com/zackklapman
Instagram:
https://www.Instagram.com/thesmokingtire
https://www.Instagram.com/therealzackklapman
Laguna Seca
"...a dude's car got crashed into on the Laguna Seca by a track worker, and it is problematic..."
Laguna Seca is a well-known racetrack in California where many car races happen. It's famous for being difficult and fun for drivers.
Laguna Seca is a famous racetrack located in California, known for its challenging layout and elevation changes. It hosts various motorsport events, including car races and motorcycle competitions.
four cylinder 911
"...why Porsche will not do a four cylinder 911. It's the Smoke and Tire podcast..."
A four-cylinder 911 would mean making a version of the famous Porsche 911 car with a smaller engine that has four cylinders instead of six. People are curious about this because it could change how the car performs.
The concept of a four-cylinder 911 refers to the idea of Porsche producing a version of their iconic 911 sports car with a four-cylinder engine instead of the traditional six-cylinder. This has been a topic of discussion among enthusiasts regarding performance and brand identity.
Porsche 911
"...d lastly, why Porsche will not do a four cylinder 911. It's the Smoke and Tire podcast. Let's go. When ..."
Porsche Cayenne
"The leaders right now seem to be, if we're going SUV, a Cayenne SE hybrid. So like there's the Cayenne hybrid..."
The Porsche Cayenne SE Hybrid is a fancy SUV that uses both gas and electric power to drive. It's designed to be powerful and comfortable, making it a popular choice for those who want a luxury vehicle.
The Porsche Cayenne SE Hybrid is a luxury SUV that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved efficiency and performance. It's known for its sporty handling and high-end features.
twin-turbo V6
"which is a twin turbo V6. The S has the V8. So I haven't really looked into..."
A twin-turbo V6 is an engine that has six cylinders and uses two turbochargers to make it more powerful. This means it can go faster and use fuel more efficiently.
A twin-turbo V6 engine uses two turbochargers to increase the engine's power output and efficiency. This setup allows for quicker acceleration and improved performance compared to naturally aspirated engines.
Dodge 2500
"You should get a Dodge 2500. I refuse to believe that a Porsche SUV with a fucking motor generator, 100 kilowatt motor generator in it, and Porsche grade brakes has worse brakes than a Dodge."
The Dodge 2500 is a strong pickup truck that can carry heavy things and is often used for tough jobs. It's built to be durable and powerful.
The Dodge 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing capacity and rugged performance. It's often used for work purposes and can handle heavy loads, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.
Mazda Cx5
"A totally valid argument. And I think that the trucks have better brakes than like a CX-5 or something like that because they have heavy duty brakes meant for long duration braking downhills. But if you're talking Cayenne stuff, I would assume we should check that the"
towing capacity
"...the odds are you're going to be doing a lot of highway towing. And you might actually run up on, you know, really the upper limit of what the SUV could do, which is 7,700 pounds."
Towing capacity is how much weight a car can pull behind it, like a trailer. The Porsche Cayenne can pull a lot, making it useful for transporting heavy items.
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. For the Porsche Cayenne, this capacity is significant, allowing it to tow trailers or other vehicles without compromising performance.
Ram 1500
"The Ram 1,500 has a 10,000 pound. So even like worst case, you're still 25% from the end."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is comfortable to drive. It's popular for people who need to tow things like trailers.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its balance of performance, comfort, and utility. It's often used for towing and hauling due to its robust capabilities.
range extended EV
"...the self charging car, the range extended EV, which is like, damn, but it's not going to be for a year..."
A range extended EV is a car that can run on electricity but also has a gas engine to help it go further when the battery runs low. This means you don't have to worry as much about finding charging stations on long trips.
A range extended EV (electric vehicle) is a type of hybrid vehicle that uses a small internal combustion engine to generate electricity, extending the driving range beyond what the battery alone can provide. This allows for longer trips without the need for frequent recharging.
Stellantis
"...even Stalantis, even Stalantis, makers of..."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of cars, like Jeep and Dodge. They were created when two companies combined.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturer formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It produces a variety of vehicles under several brands, including Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Peugeot.
range extended pickup truck
"We buy the first range extended pickup truck, we tow a race car. You know, we don't need to, we don't need to center..."
A range extended pickup truck can run on electricity for short trips but has a gasoline engine that kicks in when the battery runs low, helping you drive further without worrying about charging.
A range extended pickup truck is a hybrid vehicle that combines an electric powertrain with a gasoline engine to extend its driving range. This allows for electric-only driving for shorter distances while providing the option of using gasoline for longer trips.
Ford F150
"I did, I, the, so the ram half ton and the F-150 hybrid, if we have to..."
The Ford F-150 Hybrid is a pickup truck that uses both gas and electricity to run. This helps save fuel and is better for the environment while still being powerful enough for heavy jobs.
The Ford F-150 Hybrid is a version of the best-selling F-150 pickup truck that combines a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency and performance. It offers the benefits of both power and eco-friendliness.
Ram half ton
"I did, I, the, so the ram half ton and the F-150 hybrid, if we have to..."
The Ram half ton is a type of pickup truck that can carry heavy loads and is often used for both work and personal driving. It's known for being comfortable and powerful.
The Ram half ton refers to the Ram 1500, a full-size pickup truck known for its capability and comfort. It's designed for both work and everyday use, offering a range of engines and features.
Ford Maverick
"...towed an SF 90X in it with a Maverick. I mean, England, England."
The Ford Maverick is a small pickup truck that can be used for carrying things and is also available as a hybrid, which means it can save on gas.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that offers a versatile and efficient option for those needing a vehicle for both work and personal use. It features a hybrid powertrain option, making it one of the more fuel-efficient trucks on the market.
Ford Ranger
"...at least fine with a Ranger. Folks got to take a quick break because support is coming in hot from factor."
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck that's good for people who need a strong vehicle for work or outdoor activities.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck known for its ruggedness and capability, suitable for both work and leisure activities.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...the old, the oddball suggestion that was a, was land cruiser with the bigger motor, which I think could work..."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a large SUV that can handle rough terrains and is known for being very reliable. It's spacious inside and great for families or adventures.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV known for its off-road capability and durability. It's often favored for its spacious interior and strong performance, making it suitable for various driving conditions.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"...Tahoe, that's boxy..."
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a big SUV that's great for families. It has a lot of space inside and can tow heavy things, making it useful for trips or outdoor activities.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that offers a spacious interior and strong towing capacity. It's popular among families and those needing a versatile vehicle for both city and off-road driving.
Nissan R34
"sent us the story about the R34 skyline at Laguna Seca. The driver was at a track day and for, there was like a red flag..."
The Nissan Skyline R34 is a popular sports car that many car fans admire. It's known for being fast and powerful, and it became famous from movies like Fast and Furious.
The Nissan Skyline R34 is a highly regarded sports car known for its performance and technology, particularly in the realm of motorsports and tuning culture. It gained fame for its role in the Fast and Furious franchise and is celebrated among car enthusiasts for its iconic design and capabilities.
Nissan GT-R
"...there's a blue GTR because the red one gets hit so hard..."
The Nissan GT-R is a fast sports car that many people admire for its speed and technology. It's popular in racing and has a reputation for being very powerful.
The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for its advanced technology and powerful engine. It has a strong motorsport heritage and is often seen in racing events.
OSHA
"...but I know a little something about OSHA having been certified for this business, and I know a little something"
OSHA is a government agency that makes sure workplaces are safe for employees. They create rules to help prevent accidents and injuries on the job.
OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a U.S. agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions. It sets and enforces standards for workplace safety, which can be crucial in environments like race tracks where safety is paramount.
Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tire
"The reason they wanted us to drive it is they put a Michelin PSS5, Pilot's Board S5 tire on it, to make it a little more road friendly."
The Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tire is a type of tire made for sports cars that helps them grip the road better. It's designed to provide good handling and performance.
The Michelin Pilot Sport S5 is a high-performance tire designed for sports cars and performance vehicles. It offers excellent grip and handling characteristics, making it suitable for both track and road use.
PS4s
"...but my God, I mean, these have a ton of grip just like PS4s. Fantastic do everything tire, basically."
PS4s are a type of tire made by Michelin. They are designed to provide excellent grip and handling for sports cars, making them a favorite among drivers who want a good mix of performance and comfort.
PS4s refers to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, which are known for their high performance and grip in both dry and wet conditions. They are popular among car enthusiasts for their balance of comfort and sportiness.
downforce
"...it needs to be very stiff because the downforce at high speed is going to be pushing down on the,..."
Downforce is what keeps a car glued to the road when it's going fast. It helps the tires grip better, making the car more stable and easier to control.
Downforce is the aerodynamic force that pushes a car down towards the road, increasing traction and stability at high speeds. It is crucial for performance vehicles, especially on tracks or during aggressive driving.
secondary bounce
"So when we hit some of the larger expansion joints, the car had like that secondary bounce. Yeah."
Secondary bounce is when a car continues to bounce after hitting a bump. It happens if the car's suspension isn't working well enough to stop the bouncing quickly.
Secondary bounce refers to the additional oscillation or rebound of a vehicle's suspension after it has encountered a bump or expansion joint. This phenomenon can occur when the suspension system is not adequately damped, leading to a bouncy ride.
spring
"Because it's just relying on the spring. Wasn't terrible."
A spring in a car helps to absorb bumps and keep the ride smooth. It supports the weight of the car and helps it stay balanced on the road.
In automotive suspension systems, springs are components that absorb shocks and support the weight of the vehicle. They help maintain ride height and provide a smoother ride over uneven surfaces.
Nürburgring
"...which is Nurburgring records and true lap times, get the regular one or a different 9-11 all together."
The Nürburgring is a well-known race track in Germany where many car manufacturers test their vehicles. It's famous for its difficult turns and long length, making it a popular place for racing and setting speed records.
The Nürburgring is a famous motorsport complex in Germany, known for its challenging track layout and as a venue for testing and racing high-performance cars. It's often used as a benchmark for car performance and lap times.
bucket seat
"And then the buckets, laterally the support's great and they do talk to you, but..."
Bucket seats are special car seats that hug your body more than regular seats. They help keep you in place when you're turning or going fast.
Bucket seats are designed to provide lateral support during cornering, keeping the driver and passengers securely in place. They often have a more contoured shape compared to standard seats, which enhances comfort and driving experience.
lumbar support
"There's no lumbar. So if you have a spine that doesn't like to be sat concave..."
Lumbar support is a feature in some car seats that helps support your lower back. If a seat doesn't have it, you might feel uncomfortable after sitting for a while.
Lumbar support refers to the support provided to the lower back area of a seat, which helps maintain proper posture and comfort during long drives. Without it, drivers may experience discomfort or pain, especially on extended journeys.
pop-out power door handles
"They're not pop-out power door handles like the other 992s. Oh, right."
Pop-out power door handles are door handles that pop out automatically when you unlock the car. They look nice but can sometimes have problems compared to regular handles.
Pop-out power door handles are automatic door handles that extend outward when the vehicle is unlocked or when the driver approaches. They provide a sleek design but can be less reliable than traditional handles.
Mitsubishi Delicioso
"...Mitsubishi Delicioso, pretty good. I want a weekend car and I'm somewhere between an NC Miata and a BMW 135i."
The Mitsubishi Delicioso is a car that was designed by Mitsubishi. It's known for its interesting look and new ideas, but it might not be something you can buy in a store.
The Mitsubishi Delicioso is a concept car that showcases Mitsubishi's design and engineering capabilities. It's known for its unique styling and innovative features, although it may not be widely available as a production vehicle.
Mazda MX-5 / Miata
"...ant a weekend car and I'm somewhere between an NC Miata and a BMW 135i. BMW has higher comfort and wife a..."
Aston Martin Vanquish
"... ends up turning in great, but you don't feel it. Vanquish, same thing. Well, like David Tuig responded to o..."
Porsche 356
"...ere that's light enough like a Lotus or a Porsche 356 or an early 911 where you can run 205 fronts, 225..."
Lotus Amira
"...ynamically and for road trips? Assume you mean an Amira, right? I mean, these are your two choices, right..."
Toyota Supra
"...build quality is about the same as like maybe the Supras. They feel about the same."
Porsche Cayman
"...otus is the best thing to buy if you don't want a Cayman. Like it's hard to, I can't, I'm not going to say"
Porsche Boxster
"with the CEO of Porsche who said, the Cayman and Boxster may be discontinued completely due to the re-engi..."
Mitsubishi Evo
"... loud for that car. Imagine a grand tourer with a Mitsubishi Evo 6 power train in it."
Mclaren F1
"... list, I would have crushed, I would have crushed McLaren F1, Ferrari F40, Ferrari F50, Diablo S, whatever it ..."
Ferrari F50
"...uld have crushed McLaren F1, Ferrari F40, Ferrari F50, Diablo S, whatever it was, it was the SE30, I be..."
Ferrari F40
"I would have crushed McLaren F1, Ferrari F40, Ferrari F50, Diablo S, whatever it was, it was t..."
Toyota Highlander
"I don't, it's not safe. First gen highlanders, like when my sister, like, every time I would dr..."
Subaru BRZ
"I have a BMW 340 for commuting and a BRZ for track work. I want a cruiser interested in R1..."
Mercedes-Benz SL
"...nd your experience with it? My experience with my SL was great. I bought it for $17,000."
Mitsubishi Delica
"...the least interesting of the cars. And bought the Delica, the van. So which Hannah then daily drove for a ..."
Chevrolet C8
"...un on Turro. I could do a Miata for 250 or a base C8 for 750. I would, that sucks."
Hyundai Elantra
"...rease in tariffs slated for South Korea, does the Elantra Ann lose its allure when the price crosses into t..."
Hyundai Veloster
"No, not 2017. Was the Veloster Ann before the Elantra Ann? I think it was."
Lotus Elise
"...e about him letting, letting him ride in my Lotus Elise. For now, I get by saying he needs to be older an..."
Lotus Exige
"that one of the reasons that the Elise and Exige after 2011 are considered street kick cars is one..."
Volkswagen Bus
"...t's true. I think the greatest sleeper is that VW bus that had the 996 powertrain chassis, everything, ..."
Ford Mustang
"...were talking about like a drift car. A Terminator Mustang. Yeah."
Lamborghini Kuntosh
"No, that's not true. Because we've had the Kuntosh, which has not bought to mod the NSX. We put some..."
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.