I Bought a New GR86 AND REGRET IT!
MartiniWorks Podcast
MartiniWorks Podcast Apr 24, 2026
I Bought a New GR86 AND REGRET IT!

I Bought a New GR86 AND REGRET IT!

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72:43
I Bought a New GR86 AND REGRET IT!
Concept

Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR)

“GR” is Toyota’s performance brand. If a car has “GR” in the name, it usually means Toyota aimed it to be more fun and sporty to drive.

Topic

Alt Race

Alt Race is a big car event in Europe. It’s known for lots of cars showing up—often including drifting and famous older racing-style vehicles—usually in a stadium setting.

Concept

drifting around a stadium

Drifting is when a driver makes the car’s back end slide on purpose while still steering through the turn. Stadium events are popular for it because it’s easy for crowds to see the action.

Concept

European car culture

They’re talking about how car fans in Europe do things differently than they’re used to. It’s not just about the cars—it’s about the whole scene and community.

Concept

Japanese cars

They’re saying they really like Japanese cars. That usually means they enjoy how they drive and how easy it is to find parts and support for them.

Topic

Le Mans

Le Mans is a super famous long-distance race where cars have to keep going for a full day. It’s a big deal in racing, especially for European car fans.

Term

JDM

JDM means “Japanese cars sold in Japan.” People use it to describe cars that are especially interesting or hard to find outside Japan.

Term

USDM

USDM just means a car version made for the U.S. market. Enthusiasts use it to talk about what’s “normal” in America versus what’s common elsewhere.

Polo
Car

Polo

The Polo is a small Volkswagen hatchback that’s popular in Europe. They’re saying Europeans might react by wanting something familiar instead of a rare North-American-only car.

Concept

car shipped there for the show

Moving a car for an event usually means paying for transport and dealing with paperwork, not just driving it somewhere. It can get really expensive and complicated when it’s across oceans. The host is highlighting how far people will go to get their car to the right place for a show.

Concept

Hawaii to Europe is an insane trip for a car

Shipping a car from Hawaii to Europe is a huge trip, not a simple “send it” situation. It usually means ocean transport and lots of paperwork. The host is basically saying it’s one of the most extreme shipping routes you can do.

NSX
Car

NSX

The Honda NSX is a famous Honda supercar. The host is basically saying that even cars like an NSX can end up being shipped to places like Europe for events or filming. It’s an example of how big and expensive international car transport can be.

Concept

Life hack for importing cars

The host is talking about a way some military families can bring a car back from overseas more easily than regular people. It’s like a “hack” because the move is part of their assignment, and the shipping can be covered or discounted. It’s not something everyone can do, but it’s why some cars end up back in the U.S.

Concept

OEM plus type things

“OEM plus” means you don’t completely change the car. You keep the factory vibe, but add upgrades that make it a little better—like wheels, suspension, or small performance parts.

Concept

slanty wheels

This sounds like a description of very aggressive wheel fitment—where the tires and wheels sit at a dramatic angle. It’s mostly about the look, and it can make the car less comfortable or less practical.

Concept

dumped on frames type of cars

This is basically describing cars that are lowered extremely. That can look cool, but it often makes the ride harsher and can cause problems like scraping and faster tire wear.

Concept

owning a car in Europe

They’re saying that in Europe—especially in Germany—having a car can be harder and more expensive. That affects what people do with their cars and how much they’re willing to modify them.

Concept

Storage is really difficult there

If it’s hard to park or store a car, it changes how people live with cars. It can make it tougher to own multiple cars or work on them for long periods.

Concept

Insurance is difficult there

Insurance can be more expensive or complicated in some places. When that happens, people may choose cars and upgrades that are easier (and cheaper) to insure.

Concept

Getting your license isn't that hard

How easy it is to get a driver’s license affects who’s driving. If more people can get licensed, you often see more cars on the road and different driving habits.

Concept

Autobahn license (different license for the Autobahn)

Germany can have different driving rules depending on where you’re driving. The Autobahn is special, so you may need the right kind of license or qualification to use it legally.

Company

Mighty Car Mods

Mighty Car Mods is a car show/channel that makes videos about modifying cars. The host is using it as an example of how people approach building and changing cars.

Volkswagen Golf
Car

Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is a common small car that a lot of people modify. The point here is that the hosts are comparing how modifications work in different countries.

Concept

TÜV inspections

TÜV is a German vehicle inspection. It’s where your car has to pass safety and emissions checks, and that can limit what kinds of mods you can legally run.

Term

certification

Some aftermarket parts have to be “approved” before you can legally put them on your car. That approval usually means they meet rules for safety and emissions.

Term

exhaust

The exhaust is the system that carries gases out of the engine. Changing it can affect emissions, so laws and regulations often limit what you can do.

Term

European spec cars

European versions of cars sometimes have to meet different pollution rules than cars sold in the U.S. That can change where parts like the exhaust can fit.

Concept

underground scene

The “underground scene” is basically people who do car mods that don’t follow local rules. The question is whether those mods will become more common when parts come from countries with looser regulations.

Term

emissions rules

Different places have laws about pollution. Those laws can restrict changes like exhaust modifications, depending on where you live.

Concept

LMP1

LMP1 is a type of race car used in long-distance endurance races. Think “top-level prototype” built to run fast for hours at a time.

Topic

DTM cars

DTM is a German racing series for cars that are based on production models. The race cars are heavily modified, but the series is a big part of German motorsport history.

Concept

stanced out

“Stanced out” usually means the car is lowered a lot and the wheels are fitted to look extra aggressive. People do it for the look, and it often takes suspension and wheel changes to pull off.

Concept

pull inspiration from there

They’re basically saying they want to copy ideas from other countries’ car scenes. By seeing real modified cars, they can figure out what kinds of changes look good and work well.

Concept

Euro shows

“Euro shows” refers to European car events and media that often emphasize different aesthetics and engineering priorities than US scenes. The host says they’ve liked that vibe, which suggests their taste in modifications is influenced by European styling and build culture. This helps listeners understand why Japanese and European car culture are both part of their inspiration pipeline.

Term

brakes

They’re talking about brake work that got finished, and then how the brake pedal feels afterward. The pedal feels stiffer and higher than expected, so they want someone to adjust or check it.

Term

ECU

The ECU is the car’s main computer. It uses sensor information (like speed) to run different systems, so if the signal doesn’t reach it after removing ABS, some things (like the speedometer) won’t work.

Term

speedo

“Speedo” means the speedometer. They’re saying it stopped working after removing ABS, likely because the car lost the speed signal it normally uses.

Term

RPM

RPM tells you how fast the engine is spinning. If the car won’t let it go past a certain RPM, it can feel like the engine is being “held back.”

Part

master cylinder

The master cylinder is the part that creates the brake pressure when you press the pedal. If you change other brake parts but not this, the brakes can feel wrong or behave oddly.

Part

booster

The booster helps you push the brakes with less effort. If you only upgrade some brake parts, the pedal feel and braking behavior can still be off.

Concept

drift guys

Drifters are drivers who intentionally slide the car while keeping it controlled. The host is saying this problem is more common with drift-focused modifications than with normal street brake upgrades.

Term

ABS

ABS is a safety system that stops your wheels from locking up when you brake hard. That helps you keep control of the car and steer while you slow down.

Term

outbreak a car

They mean braking so aggressively that the car starts to lose control. ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up, which makes it easier to stay stable.

Term

bias adjuster

A bias adjuster is a knob or device that changes how hard the front brakes and rear brakes work relative to each other. People use it to make the car brake the way they want on a track.

Term

front and rear brake bias

Brake bias is how much of the braking happens in the front versus the back. Changing it can make the car feel more stable or more “twitchy” when you brake, depending on the setup.

Concept

load cell pedal (sim racing)

A load cell pedal uses a sensor that measures force directly, producing a more realistic and consistent pedal feel compared with simpler potentiometer-style pedals. The host compares the GR86’s brake pedal behavior under ABS to the sensation of a load-cell sim rig, implying the pedal resistance changes in a way that feels “sim-like.”

Concept

wheel lockup

Wheel lockup happens when the tires stop rotating while braking, which dramatically reduces traction and steering ability. ABS reduces the chance of lockup by modulating brake pressure so the wheels keep turning near the limit of traction.

Term

modulating

Modulating means the car keeps adjusting how hard the brakes are applied. ABS doesn’t just clamp the brakes and leave it—it changes pressure to keep the wheels from locking.

Term

caliper

The caliper is the part that squeezes the brake pads onto the spinning brake disc. With ABS, the car can reduce that squeeze and then bring it back to help prevent wheel lock.

Term

rotor

The rotor is the spinning brake disc. ABS uses sensor data about wheel movement to decide when to ease off and reapply braking so the wheel doesn’t lock up.

Term

wheel speed sensor

A wheel speed sensor is a small sensor that tells the car how fast each wheel is spinning. If the readings don’t agree, the car may not know which wheel is slipping, so it can back off or change its safety help. That can make braking feel different, especially on slippery surfaces.

Term

locking up

Locking up is when a wheel stops spinning and starts sliding. Sliding tires don’t grip the road as well, and it can also damage the tire. Cars with ABS try to prevent this by pumping or modulating the brakes.

Concept

flat spotting tires

Flat spotting is when a tire locks and slides instead of rolling. The tire gets a worn “flat” patch, which can make the car shake and feel less stable. It’s a big deal because it can also hurt the tire’s grip and lifespan.

Brand

Continental Tires

Continental Tires is a well-known tire brand. The sponsor is basically saying: use their website to pick tires that fit your car. The right tires can make a big difference in how well the car stops and sticks to the road.

Part

Extreme Contact Sport 02 DWS06 plus

This is a type of tire made by Continental. It’s meant to work well in a lot of conditions—dry roads, rainy weather, and even light winter snow—so you don’t have to swap tires as often. The host likes it because it feels confident for everyday driving and for more aggressive driving too.

Part

Viking Contact 8s

This is a winter tire model made by Continental. Winter tires are built to grip better when it’s cold and when roads are covered with snow or slush. The host is saying it performs really well in snow.

Concept

autocross event

Autocross is a timed driving event where you drive a course made with cones. You’re turning and accelerating a lot, so the tires really affect how well you can control the car. The host is saying their tire choice still works for that kind of driving.

Concept

ownership context (switching vehicles because it "didn't really make any sense anymore")

They’re talking about how a car can stop making sense once your life changes. Even if it was a good choice before, it might not match what you need now.

four-runner
Car

four-runner

The 4Runner is Toyota’s rugged SUV. Here they’re saying they had one before, but it no longer fit their needs and it felt too pricey.

Term

automatic

They’re talking about whether the car has an automatic transmission or a manual. They’re saying they’d rather have the manual, because they don’t want to be judged for choosing the automatic.

Term

manual car

A manual car is one where you shift gears yourself using a clutch. If you’ve never driven one before, it can take practice—especially when it’s cold.

Term

winter tire thing

Winter tires are made to grip better when it’s cold, snowy, or icy. The host is saying dealing with them was difficult for a while.

Concept

ice racing

Ice racing means driving on frozen ground where the tires can’t grip well. It’s easy to lose control, so it’s something that needs a lot of caution and preparation.

Term

clutch release

Clutch release is the feel and timing of how the clutch engages as you let the pedal out. Small differences in clutch bite point and pedal/actuator calibration can make a car easy or difficult to drive smoothly without jerking or riding the clutch.

Term

riding the clutch

Riding the clutch is when you don’t fully let the clutch go while you’re moving. It can make the car feel smoother, but it can also wear out the clutch faster.

Term

clutch needs to be worn in

A clutch is the part that lets you smoothly start moving and shift gears. Some people think a brand-new clutch needs time to “settle in,” so it feels smoother after a while.

Term

first to second

Going from first to second is the first shift most people make when they start driving. If that shift feels rough or weird, it can make the whole car feel harder to drive smoothly.

Term

torque

Torque is what makes a car pull and move without needing to rev super high. If a car has less torque where you’re shifting, it can feel like you have to be more precise with the clutch and gas.

GR86
Car

GR86

The GR86 is a small sports car that’s meant to be fun to drive, especially with a manual transmission. Here, the speaker is saying the clutch behavior felt “off,” and other owners talk about it online.

Part

clutch delay valve

Some manual cars use a small valve in the clutch system to make the clutch engage more smoothly. If that valve’s behavior doesn’t match what you expect, the clutch can feel weird or delayed.

Term

all weather tires

All-weather tires are tires meant to work in more seasons, including cold and some snow. The speaker says these tires helped the car feel better when driving in winter.

Concept

drifting every corner

Drifting is when the car’s rear slides while you’re turning. On ice, grip is low, so it’s easier to lose traction and the car can feel like it’s working harder.

Term

windows squeak

They’re describing a squeaky sound from the car’s windows. It’s usually related to how the window slides in its track, and cold weather or dirt can make it worse.

Term

mechanism itself

If they think it’s the mechanism, they mean the actual moving parts inside the system. That’s different from a loose panel—because the noise is coming from how the parts move.

Term

moisture

Moisture and cold weather can make car parts act differently. That can lead to extra squeaks or chirping noises that you don’t notice in warm, dry conditions.

Concept

cold temperatures affecting noises

When it’s cold, some car parts shrink or move differently. That can make annoying noises show up—especially if something is already slightly loose or sensitive.

Concept

dangerously slow

“Dangerously slow” is a driver’s perception that the car can’t accelerate quickly enough for safe merging or passing. In this context, it’s tied to the host’s experience of pressing the gas and getting little response until they downshift and rev higher.

Term

on ramp

An on-ramp is where you speed up to join the highway. The speaker is saying the car struggles to accelerate when they need it most.

Term

second gear

Second gear is a lower gear that helps the car pull harder. The speaker is saying they can’t get moving normally unless they shift down.

Concept

break-in

Break-in is the early period after buying a new car where components are expected to seat and wear in. The speaker implies the car feels weak until break-in is complete, which can happen if the engine management is limiting performance or if the driver is still learning how the car responds.

Scion Frs
Car

Scion Frs

The FR-S is a small sports car designed to be fun and easy to drive. It’s known for being a good base for upgrades and modifications. The podcast mentions it because the speaker had one for a long time and changed it over time.

Concept

tune

A tune is software changes for the car’s computer. It can help the engine run better with modifications so the power feels smoother and more usable.

Subaru BRZ
Car

Subaru BRZ

The Subaru BRZ is a sporty Subaru coupe that’s closely related to the FRS/86. The speaker brings it up because the earlier cars had a torque delivery that didn’t feel as strong low down.

Term

FA 20

FA 20 is the name of the older 2.0-liter engine used in the earlier BRZ/FRS/86. The speaker is saying it didn’t feel strong where you want it most, especially at lower revs.

Term

boxer

A boxer engine is an engine layout where the cylinders sit opposite each other like a flat shape. The speaker mentions it because the GR 86 and earlier twins use this same basic engine style.

Term

FA 24

FA 24 is the newer 2.4-liter flat-four boxer engine used in the GR 86. In this segment, the host credits the FA 24 with smoothing out the earlier car’s torque curve so the car feels stronger and more immediate, even stock.

Concept

fun economy car

It means the car is enjoyable even though it’s not very fast. You’re focusing on things like comfort and how easy it is to live with, not just speed.

Toyota Corolla
Car

Toyota Corolla

The Corolla is a small, everyday car from Toyota. It’s designed to be easy to live with and efficient for daily driving. People bring it up when they mean a normal, practical driving experience.

Toyota Camry
Car

Toyota Camry

The Camry is a regular, everyday Toyota sedan. It’s built to be comfortable and practical for commuting and errands. People mention it when they’re talking about a straightforward, normal driving feel.

Term

stock

“Stock” means the car is still set up the way the factory built it. That matters because changing things like the exhaust can change how loud and how “alive” the car feels.

Term

Subaru engine

The GR86’s engine is related to Subaru’s boxer-engine design. That layout can affect how the engine runs and how it sounds compared with more common engine shapes.

Term

sound symposer

A sound symposer is a system that helps make the engine sound louder or more noticeable inside the cabin. The host is saying their car doesn’t seem to be doing that the way they expected.

Brand

BMW

The host is comparing the GR86 to BMW because they’re used to how BMW makes the car feel and sound. They’re saying the GR86 doesn’t match that expectation.

Brand

M

“M” is BMW’s performance brand. The host is saying they’re used to how BMW M cars feel and sound, and that makes the GR86 feel different in comparison.

Term

sports car vibes

“Sports car vibes” is a subjective way enthusiasts describe the overall driving experience—how responsive, engaging, and confidence-inspiring the car feels. In this discussion, it’s used to contrast the GR86’s stock character versus what the hosts expect from a sports car.

Term

modifications

“Modifications” are changes you make to a car after you buy it—like parts you swap or tune. The point here is that they think the GR86 might feel better with upgrades.

Concept

one owner lease car

A “one owner lease car” typically means the vehicle was owned by a single person (often a company) and used under a lease agreement, then returned and sold. Low-mileage lease returns can be attractive because they may have been maintained consistently, but you still want to verify service history and condition.

Concept

Out-the-door price

Out-the-door price is what you actually hand over at the end—after taxes and fees. It helps you compare deals fairly.

Concept

Entry-level budget base sports car

They’re talking about the idea of a cheap sports car that’s still fun to drive. The goal is to make it affordable by keeping it simple, not by loading it with expensive extras.

Concept

Aftermarket support

Aftermarket support means other companies make upgrades for that car. If a car has a lot of aftermarket parts, it’s easier to modify it or fix things with options.

Term

oil overs

Oil overs are aftermarket suspension parts that let you change how stiff the ride feels and often lower the car. People upgrade them to make the car handle better and look more aggressive.

Part

header

A header is part of the exhaust system that helps the engine get rid of exhaust gases more easily. The speaker says it’s basically required for the kind of improvement they want.

Chevrolet Corvette
Car

Chevrolet Corvette

The Corvette is a sports car made by Chevrolet. It’s designed to be fast and fun to drive. People talk about it because it can offer a lot of performance for the price.

Concept

voting with my wallet

“Voting with your wallet” means your purchases send a message to companies about what you want. If enough people buy a certain type of car (like manuals), manufacturers are more likely to keep making them. The host is saying they bought what they wanted to see more of.

Term

manual transmission

A manual transmission means you shift gears yourself using a clutch and gear stick. It’s usually more involved than an automatic, but some drivers love the control and feel. The host chose it because they wanted manuals to stay available.

Concept

post-covid versus pre-covid prices

They’re talking about how car prices changed after COVID compared to before COVID. The market got more expensive, so the same kind of car can cost way more than it used to. That helps explain why the host feels the GR86 was too expensive.

Concept

depreciation

They’re talking about how much a car loses value over time. If used cars are still expensive, it means your car isn’t depreciating much, so the “deal” you thought you got may not be as good.

Concept

trade-in value

They’re talking about what the dealer gave them for their old car when they traded it in. That number changes how much you really paid for the new car.

Concept

hold their value

“Hold their value” means the car doesn’t get cheap as fast as other cars. If it holds value, you’re less likely to lose a lot of money when you sell it.

Concept

blank slate

A “blank slate” means the car is a good starting point. You can add upgrades and it’ll still make sense, instead of fighting the car’s original setup.

Concept

modify, make it your own

This describes the common enthusiast approach of personalizing a car with aftermarket parts to improve drivability, aesthetics, or performance. The hosts emphasize that with a “blank slate” platform like the GR86, you can feel the improvements quickly as you add parts.

Concept

preparing money saved aside / have a plan

They’re basically saying don’t buy the car and then figure out upgrades later. Save some money and plan what you want to change so you can do it properly.

Concept

fallen builds

“Fallen builds” refers to a style of car ownership where the car is gradually transformed through modifications over time, often reflecting the owner’s taste and priorities. In this segment, it’s contrasted with leaving a car mostly stock, and it ties into the idea of saving money and planning upgrades.

Concept

priced aggressively

“Priced aggressively” usually means the car costs more than you’d expect. It can make you feel like you’re paying extra, even if the car itself is good.

Concept

used market

The “used market” is what the car sells for after it’s been owned before. The point they’re making is they expected used prices to be cheaper, but they weren’t, so the deal didn’t feel as good.

Concept

holding its value

“Holding its value” means the car doesn’t lose money as fast as other cars. Even if you overpay a bit, you may get more back when you sell it later.

Concept

first gen

“First gen” just means the earliest version of that car model. They’re suggesting you can often find a cheaper used one with fewer miles.

Toyota FRS
Car

Toyota FRS

The Toyota FRS is an older version of the same basic sports-car idea. The hosts are saying it can be a smart, cheaper way to get into this platform.

Term

updated tech

“Updated tech” means the car got newer electronics or features inside. Think of things like a better screen, newer controls, or added convenience features.

Concept

face lifted version

A facelift is when a car gets a refresh partway through its life. Usually it means updated looks and sometimes newer features, not a totally new car.

Term

premium

Premium is a more expensive type of gas with a higher octane rating. If the car asks for it, using the right fuel helps the engine run as designed and can prevent rough running.

Concept

regular gas

They’re saying they used regular (cheaper) gasoline. That’s important because some cars need premium fuel, and some don’t. If it can take regular, it can save you money at the pump.

Term

El Quintar interior

“El Quintar” is a type of fabric/upholstery material used in some car interiors. They’re describing their interior as black and suede-like. It’s basically about what the seats look and feel like.

Term

Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay lets you connect your iPhone to the car and use certain apps on the car’s screen. Things like maps and music show up in the dashboard. Some cars make you pay extra to get it.

E46 M3
Car

E46 M3

The BMW M3 (E46) is a classic performance BMW from the early 2000s. People like it because it’s fun to drive and there are lots of parts and knowledge available for it. The host is saying they’d rather buy one than their newer GR86 for the money.

Term

unmolested

“Unmolested” means the car is basically untouched—no big modifications or hack jobs. People like it because it’s more original and usually easier to trust. The host is saying they’d want a clean, stock-feeling M3.

Term

bucket list car

A “bucket list car” is a vehicle someone dreams of owning at some point, usually because it’s rare, iconic, or personally meaningful. It’s not about practicality—it’s more about desire and long-term ownership goals. The speaker calls the E92 M3 their bucket list car.

Concept

two owner car

“Two owner” is a shorthand for how many times the car has been titled/owned. Fewer owners can mean simpler maintenance history and fewer handoffs, which many buyers view as a positive when shopping for a used enthusiast car.

Corvette C6 Corvette
Car

Corvette C6 Corvette

A C6 Corvette is a specific generation of the Corvette (the mid-2000s to early-2010s). The speaker is saying it’s a good deal for the power and driving experience you get.

E36
Car

E36

E36 is a BMW 3 Series from the 1990s. People like it because it’s an older BMW that’s fun to drive and has lots of parts and support.

E24
Car

E24

E24 is an older BMW 6 Series. It’s known for its unique styling—people call it the “sharknose”—and it’s the kind of car enthusiasts look for when they want something classic.

Dodge Viper
Car

Dodge Viper

The Dodge Viper is a very aggressive sports car from Dodge. People like it because it’s powerful and feels very “old-school” to drive. In this segment, it’s mentioned as something the host considered before moving on to other options.

BMW M5
Car

BMW M5

The BMW M5 is a very fast BMW sedan built by BMW’s performance division. It’s the kind of car people buy when they want something quick but still practical. Here, it’s used as a reference point for what the buyer is trying to replace or downgrade from.

Ford Mustang
Car

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang is a popular American sports car. The reason it comes up here is that it can be a great deal at around the $30k range, depending on the version you choose. The hosts are basically saying it’s a smart option for the money.

Audi TTRS
Car

Audi TTRS

The Audi TTRS is a sporty, higher-performance TT from Audi. It’s the kind of car that feels quick and fun without being as big or expensive as some larger performance cars. Here, it’s mentioned as something you might be able to buy for around the same money.

Concept

new car factor

The “new car factor” is the feeling and benefits you get from buying a brand-new car—like knowing it’s in perfect condition and has the newest features. The point here is that a well-kept used car can sometimes be just as good for your day-to-day experience.

Concept

well maintained, somewhat low mileage used car

The hosts are saying that a used car can still be a great choice if it was cared for and doesn’t have too many miles. If the previous owner kept up with maintenance, the car can feel and behave like a much newer one.

Concept

value proposition

A “value proposition” is basically whether the car is worth it for what you actually need. It’s not just about being cool—it’s about whether it fits your life and budget.

Prius
Car

Prius

The Toyota Prius is a fuel-sipping hybrid. The point here is that if you’re mostly doing short errands, a Prius makes more sense than a fun sports car.

Concept

handling

Handling is how the car feels when you drive it—how well it turns and stays stable in corners. The host is saying handling is one of the biggest reasons the car is enjoyable.

Concept

settled mid corner

When a car “settles” in the middle of a turn, it means the suspension and tires start working in a stable way once you’re loaded up. It can feel smoother and more predictable, but it depends on tires and suspension tuning.

Toyota Supra
Car

Toyota Supra

The “Mark V Supra” refers to the fifth-generation Toyota GR Supra (commonly associated with the A90 chassis). The host says they went from a stock setup to Fortunato coilovers on their Mark V Supra and loved the results, implying the suspension change improved how the car felt under real driving conditions.

Concept

drag strip

A drag strip is where cars race straight down a track to see who accelerates fastest. Even though it’s straight-line, suspension can affect how well the tires hook up at launch.

Company

Fortunato

Fortunato makes aftermarket suspension parts, like coilovers. The point here is that you can tune the car’s ride height and how firm it feels, depending on whether you’re driving normally or pushing it on track.

Part

Swift Springs

Swift Springs makes performance coil springs. In this context, it means the suspension can be upgraded with higher-quality springs for better control and ride feel.

Term

CV boots

CV boots are rubber covers that protect the joints that transfer power to your wheels. If they tear, the joint can wear out faster, so the host is saying these coilovers didn’t cause that problem.

Term

adjustability

Adjustability means you can fine-tune the suspension settings instead of leaving them fixed. That helps you get the ride height you want and a ride feel that matches how you drive.

Term

damping

Damping is what controls how the suspension moves over bumps and during cornering. Better damping tuning can make the car feel smoother on the street but still feel stable when you drive aggressively.

Term

digressive piston

A digressive piston is a shock design that helps the car feel comfortable over everyday road imperfections. It also helps keep the ride controlled when you hit bigger bumps or drive harder.

Honda Civic Cx
Car

Honda Civic Cx

This is a 1996 Honda Civic CX—basically a specific version of the Civic from the late 1990s. The “CX” part means it’s a particular trim level, and the hatchback style is a favorite among car people because it’s small and fun to work on.

Topic

build thread of the week

This is a weekly segment where the hosts pick one person’s car build to feature. They talk about the car’s details and share it with the audience so other people can see what’s cool about it.

Term

Midori Green

Midori Green is a special factory-style green paint color for some Honda Civics. People like it because it looks really vibrant and different from typical green colors.

Term

B series type R swap

They’re describing an engine swap. Basically, they put a Type R–style Honda engine into a different Honda so the car drives differently.

Term

gold engine bay

They’re describing the engine compartment being painted or finished gold. It’s mainly a style choice that also hints the car has been heavily worked on.

Term

K twenty four LSE transmission

This mentions a K24 engine paired with an LSE transmission, which is a specific drivetrain combination used to match torque and gearing. In swap builds, choosing the right transmission matters for drivability and how well the car handles added power.

Company

Jackson racing

Jackson Racing makes aftermarket performance parts, especially supercharger kits. In this story, they used one of those kits to add boost.

Term

supercharger

A supercharger forces extra air into the engine so it can make more power. They’re saying most people choose turbo setups, but this one chose a supercharger for a different feel.

Term

turbo route

They mean most people usually add a turbocharger when they want more power. The hosts are pointing out this build chose a supercharger instead, which can change how the car feels.

Part

Workmeister wheels

Work Meister wheels are aftermarket rims. The size and offset change how the tires sit in the wheel wells, which affects both look and handling.

Term

Sixteen by eight plus 15

That number is wheel size and how far the wheel sticks in or out. It matters because it affects tire clearance and how the car looks and fits.

Term

engine swap

An engine swap is when someone removes the original engine and installs a different one. It can make the car faster or more fun, but it usually takes a lot of work to make everything work together.

Term

supercharged

Supercharging means adding a device that pushes extra air into the engine. More air usually means more power, so the car feels faster.

Company

Blackworks racing lower control arms and subframe bracing

Blackworks Racing sells suspension and chassis upgrades. Lower control arms can make the wheels track better, and bracing helps the car feel more solid when you corner or accelerate.

Concept

US built vehicles priced below $30,000

They’re talking about how few cars made in the U.S. are still cheap enough (under $30,000). It’s basically a quick way to show that “affordable” options are getting harder to find.

Term

MSRP

MSRP is the “official” price on the car’s window sticker. Your final deal price can change because of discounts, taxes, and dealer add-ons.

Honda Accord
Car

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a regular, popular family sedan. They’re using its price to show that other new cars can be close in cost to the car being discussed.

Concept

phases of it

They’re talking about how most people don’t start with a brand-new car. Usually you begin with something used, then later you upgrade when you’re making more money.

Concept

prices have gone boo boo

They’re saying car prices have gotten worse for buyers—like the cheapest prices aren’t as low as they used to be. So even if you wait, you might not get the deal you hoped for.

Concept

bottom has come up

They mean the lowest prices you can find are higher than before. So the “cheap” options aren’t as cheap anymore.

Term

manual super final edition

“Super Final Edition” is a limited-run trim concept used on some Toyota GR86/86 variants, typically marking the end of a generation with special styling and equipment. The mention of “manual” highlights that enthusiasts often pay a premium for stick-shift cars, especially in limited editions.

Concept

brand new cars

They’re talking about how buying a brand-new car can be unpredictable. Their point is that the pricing situation for new cars feels strange compared to used cars.

2020 GR Supra
Car

2020 GR Supra

They’re talking about the original sticker price (MSRP) for a 2020 Toyota GR Supra. Then they compare it to today’s prices and point out that the car costs more now than it did when it was new.

Concept

buying 2 to 5 year old cars for the same price

The idea is to avoid paying full new-car prices. Cars lose value fastest early on, so buying one that’s a couple years old can get you a better deal for the same budget.

Term

top trim

“Top trim” means the most fully equipped version of that car. The idea is that you can often get that better-equipped version for less money by buying it used.

Concept

don't buy new cars

Buying a brand-new car usually costs you money right away because the car is worth less the moment you drive it off the lot. The host is saying that unless you plan to keep it for a long time, you’ll likely lose a lot of that money.

Concept

cost of ownership

“Cost of ownership” means what it really costs to keep and use the car over time—not just the purchase price. The host is saying that after adding up the money they spent and got back when selling, it didn’t end up being unusually expensive.

Concept

electric cars

They’re talking about electric cars and how their prices are affecting what other companies do. If EVs become “good enough” for daily life—reliable and reasonably priced—more people will buy them.

Tesla Model Y
Car

Tesla Model Y

The Model Y is Tesla’s best-selling electric SUV/crossover. The hosts bring it up because it helps show what EVs cost and how that affects what other automakers decide to build.

Concept

everyday reliability

This just means how well the car works day after day without annoying problems. If an EV is reliable in everyday life, it’s much easier to recommend and less likely to cause buyer regret.

Concept

zero to 60 time

“Zero to 60 time” is how fast a car can go from stopped to 60 mph. It’s a useful number for speed, but it doesn’t automatically mean the car is fun or satisfying in real life.

Concept

hybrid car

A hybrid car uses a gas engine and an electric motor together. The goal is usually better fuel economy—using electricity to help the car waste less gas.

M2 competition
Car

M2 competition

The BMW M2 Competition is a smaller BMW M car meant to feel sporty and fun. They’re saying it uses a mix of parts from other BMWs, but the final result still feels like its own special car.

Term

parts bin car

“Parts bin car” is a slang way to describe a vehicle that reuses existing components from other models or platforms rather than being engineered entirely from scratch. In BMW’s case, it often means shared engines, transmissions, chassis pieces, and electronics across multiple M models.

BMW M4
Car

BMW M4

The BMW M4 is BMW’s sporty performance car that’s closely related to the M3. They’re saying the M2 feels very similar to the M4, just with a slightly different personality.

Concept

driving multiple cars back to back

Test-driving cars back-to-back helps you compare them more fairly. But if the cars are very similar, you can start to feel like they all blur together.

BMW X3M
Car

BMW X3M

The BMW X3M is a fast, performance-focused version of a regular BMW X3 SUV. The big idea is that it’s not just big and comfortable—it’s tuned to accelerate hard and handle better than most SUVs.

Concept

tunnel vision

“Tunnel vision” is just a way to describe how fast acceleration can make you feel locked onto the road ahead. It’s not a technical feature—more like what it feels like when the car is pulling strongly.

Concept

hucking it around turns

“Hucking it around turns” means driving the car hard through corners instead of taking them gently. They’re saying the SUV felt surprisingly good when they pushed it.

Term

miles per gallon average

MPG is how many miles you can drive on one gallon of gas. The sticker number is a target estimate, and real driving can be higher or lower depending on how you drive and conditions.

Civic Type R
Car

Civic Type R

The Civic Type R is a sporty Honda hatchback with extra performance. They’re basically saying the value tends to stay higher than you might expect, but it depends a lot on how many miles are on it.

Concept

depreciating

Depreciation is how much your car loses value as time goes on. Some cars keep their value better than others, especially if they’re popular and have low mileage.

Concept

hold value

“Hold value” means the car doesn’t get cheaper very fast when you go to sell it. Low mileage helps a lot; lots of miles usually makes it drop more.

Term

special trim

A “special trim” is a nicer or more unique version of the same car. Because fewer people have it (or it’s more desirable), it can keep its value better.

Concept

post-COVID used cars shopping

“Post-COVID used cars shopping” refers to the market shift after the pandemic, when supply constraints and demand changes pushed used-car prices up and kept them elevated. The hosts connect this to why older enthusiast cars are holding value unusually well.

Acura Integra
Car

Acura Integra

The Acura Integra is a compact car made by Acura. Some older versions are especially liked because of their look and driving character. In the podcast, they’re talking about a particular Integra generation they find appealing.

Integra
Car

Integra

The Honda Integra (the generation the hosts describe as “round eyes”) is a popular enthusiast model whose clean, well-kept examples can command strong prices. The segment points to the Integra’s appreciation as part of a broader post-COVID used-car value trend.

Concept

value appreciation

Value appreciation means the car is worth more now than it was before. In this case, the hosts are saying some older enthusiast Hondas are going up in price.

Concept

resale value jump

Resale value jump means the used price of a car goes up a lot. In this story, people realize they can sell for way more than expected because they can quickly look up what similar cars cost.

Concept

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is where people list cars for sale online. The point here is that it makes it easier for sellers to see what other cars are going for, so prices can jump.

BMW 335i
Car

BMW 335i

The BMW 335i is a BMW 3 Series with a turbo engine. It’s popular because it’s quick and there are lots of parts and upgrades available.

Concept

nothing depreciates

They mean used cars aren’t getting cheaper like they normally do. If prices stay high, it’s harder to buy a deal.

Concept

cheap barn finds

They’re talking about hoping to find an old car that’s been sitting around for cheap. But those deals can disappear once more people start looking for them.

Volkswagen GTI
Car

Volkswagen GTI

The Volkswagen GTI is a sporty Volkswagen hatchback. It’s popular because it’s fun to drive but still works as a normal car.

Term

fluid change

A fluid change means draining and refilling the car’s liquids. If a car has been sitting, those fluids can get old, so replacing them is one of the first things you do before driving.

Concept

storage wars

It’s like a TV show where people bid on storage units they haven’t fully seen. You’re gambling a bit because you don’t know exactly what you’ll find until you open it.

Concept

barn wars

It’s basically a game where you go find a car someone has stored away, buy it for a set price, and then you have to live with whatever you got. The fun part is that you don’t really know what the car will be until after you buy it.

Concept

muscle car

A muscle car is an older style of American performance car that’s built to be fast, especially in a straight line. Here it’s just an example of one end of the spectrum of what you could find.

Concept

buy and flipped instantly

“Buy and flip” refers to purchasing a car (or parts) quickly—often because it’s priced below market—and reselling it for profit. When the internet makes listings and pricing instantly searchable, flipping becomes easier and can reduce the number of genuinely good deals for real enthusiasts.

Concept

internet ruined a lot of it

They’re saying the internet changed how car deals work. Because everyone can check prices and listings instantly, it’s harder to find a bargain before someone else does.

Concept

rust free one

“Rust-free” is a major buying criterion for many enthusiast cars because corrosion can be expensive to repair and can affect structural integrity. Buyers often search warmer or drier regions (like parts of Texas) to reduce the chance of hidden rust.

Mazda Rx7S
Car

Mazda Rx7S

The RX-7 is a Mazda sports car. It uses a special engine design (rotary) that’s different from most cars. People often hunt for good-condition ones because rust and wear can be an issue on older cars.

Concept

averaging out listings

This is basically comparing multiple ads to figure out what the car is probably worth. One listing might be too high or too low, so averaging helps you judge the “normal” price.

Concept

buying a car without seeing it until it arrives

Buying sight-unseen (or not seeing the car until it arrives) is common when shopping outside your local area. It increases the importance of photos, seller communication, and verifying details like condition and options before committing.

Brand

Motegi

Motegi makes aftermarket wheels you can put on your car. The hosts are saying Motegi’s wheels look great and are priced well, with different styles and finishes.

Term

flow form

“Flow form” is a way of making wheels that can make them lighter and stronger than some older manufacturing methods. In the episode, they’re praising Motegi’s flow-formed wheels for both performance and price.

Term

forge stuff

Forged wheels are made by pressing metal into shape under high force. That process usually makes the wheel tougher, and the hosts are saying Motegi’s forged wheels are especially impressive.

Term

candy red

“Candy red” is a flashy red paint style that looks deeper and shinier than a flat red. They’re pointing out that Motegi offers finishes like this, even if you can’t see every detail.

Term

matte gunmetal

Matte gunmetal is a dark gray wheel color with a non-shiny (flat) look. It’s mainly about appearance, but it can also affect how the wheel looks when it gets dirty.

Term

matte black

Matte black is black paint that doesn’t shine. In this conversation, it’s mentioned as one of the common, safe wheel color choices.

Term

bronze

Bronze is a brownish metallic color for wheels. It’s a popular “custom” look compared to plain black or gray.

Company

Martini Works

Martini Works is where the hosts point people to look up wheel options for different cars. It’s basically their place to shop or browse fitment options.

Concept

drift set

A “drift set” is the parts setup they use for drifting practice or events. It usually means wheels and tires chosen to help the car slide and handle predictably.

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