Kids, Cars, And Christmas At Tailpipes And Tacos
About this episode
The In Wheel Time Podcast previews the upcoming Tailpipes and Tacos Christmas event, featuring a special kids' car show. Hosts discuss the importance of engaging children in the automotive world, with activities including a designated area for kids to showcase their cars, goodie bags, and trophies. The event will also support Toys for Tots, encouraging attendees to bring unwrapped toys. The hosts share personal anecdotes and details about the event's logistics, including food and drink offerings, making it a festive gathering for families and car enthusiasts alike.
Cars bring people together, but the best events make room for the next generation. We’re rolling out a fresh twist on a beloved Houston-area cruise-in: a safe, dedicated kids’ car corral as part of the Tailpipes and Tacos Christmas edition at Loopy Tortilla in Katy. From pedal cars to parent-controlled ride-ons, we outline how families can show off kid-sized builds while staying clear of traffic and pristine paint. Add goodie bags, special kids’ trophies, and those famous chili pepper awards for the big rides, and you’ve got a holiday meet that’s warm, organized, and wildly fun.
We map every detail so you can plan your morning: Saturday, December 13, 8 to 11 a.m., toy donations for Toys for Tots, free breakfast tacos for participants, and adult beverages available for purchase. You’ll hear why this format teaches respect for cars early, invites grandparents to share stories, and keeps car culture thriving. We also tee up a bonus: Houston Auto Show tickets to give away, making this a perfect on-ramp to a larger world of concept cars, test drives, and new tech at NRG Center.
Between event planning, we hit the gas on everything enthusiasts love—racing calendar highlights as Formula One nears its finale, a quick tour through automotive history with Packard’s twin-6 and the Tucker 48, and a lively Hemmings Sold Cars guessing game that puts real market numbers to dream machines. If you’re searching for family-friendly car shows, Houston car meets, holiday toy drive cruise-ins, or kids’ car events, this conversation delivers the where, why, and how to make your morning count.
Bring a toy, grab a taco, and help a kid discover car culture. Subscribe, share this with your crew, and leave a review so more families can find their way to the corral.
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racing fuel
"...oh, that's great. She's just racing fuel. Oh, racing fuel. I see."
Racing fuel is a special kind of gasoline used in race cars. It has more power than regular gas, helping the cars go faster and perform better during races.
Racing fuel is a type of fuel specifically formulated for high-performance vehicles, often containing higher octane levels than standard gasoline. This allows for better engine performance and efficiency, especially in racing conditions.
Volkswagen Tiguan
"And her Volkswagen Tiguan. Yeah."
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV that is known for being roomy and comfortable. It has a modern look and comes with many tech features that make driving easier.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV that combines practicality with a stylish design and advanced technology features. It's popular for its spacious interior and comfortable ride.
Formula One
"...So Grand, the Carter Grand Prix of Formula One is Sunday, the 30th, and it is in the circuit Doha."
Formula One is a top-level car racing series where teams compete in fast cars on different tracks. It's known for its exciting races and advanced car technology.
Formula One is the highest class of single-seater auto racing, recognized by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). It features a series of races known as Grands Prix, held on various circuits around the world, showcasing the latest in automotive technology and engineering.
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
"It's the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after that, which is the seventh. So they're wrapping up."
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a car race that takes place in Abu Dhabi, usually at night. It's part of a series of races called Formula 1, which features the fastest cars in the world.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is a Formula 1 race held at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It is known for its stunning night race setting and has been part of the Formula 1 calendar since 2009.
ice racing
"you've got ice racing going on up in the great Wisconsin."
Ice racing is a type of car racing that happens on ice, like frozen lakes. Cars have special tires to help them grip the slippery surface while they race.
Ice racing is a motorsport that involves racing vehicles on a frozen surface, typically lakes or specially prepared tracks. It requires specialized tires and techniques to navigate the slippery conditions.
Tesla Semi
"...have floors in the big vehicles like a big like a semi truck, but an SUV or a motor home, like Winnebago..."
The Tesla Semi is a big truck that runs on electricity instead of diesel fuel. It's made to help transport goods more efficiently and is better for the environment, making it a new option for businesses that need to move products.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, promising lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional diesel trucks. Its introduction marks Tesla's expansion into the commercial vehicle sector, aiming to revolutionize the logistics industry.
twin six engine
"...Packard reveals its twin six engine. Now, they introduced this revolutionary twin six engine as the first production V 12 in American automotive history."
The twin six engine is a type of engine that has two sets of six cylinders. It was important because it was the first V12 engine made in the U.S., which means it had more power and ran smoother than many other engines at the time.
The twin six engine refers to Packard's innovative engine design that featured two banks of six cylinders, making it the first production V12 engine in American automotive history, which allowed for smoother operation and more power.
V12 engine
"...first production V 12 in American automotive history."
A V12 engine is a type of car engine that has twelve cylinders arranged in a V shape. This design helps the engine run more smoothly and produce more power.
A V12 engine is a twelve-cylinder engine arranged in a V configuration, which allows for more power and smoother operation compared to engines with fewer cylinders. It is often found in high-performance and luxury vehicles.
dual ignition system
"...had aluminum pistons, had a dual ignition system,..."
A dual ignition system means there are two spark plugs in each engine cylinder. This helps the engine run better and more efficiently.
A dual ignition system uses two spark plugs per cylinder to ignite the air-fuel mixture. This setup improves engine efficiency and performance, especially at higher RPMs.
aluminum pistons
"...Now, it had aluminum pistons, had a dual ignition system,..."
Aluminum pistons are parts of an engine that help it run smoothly. They are made of aluminum, which is light and helps the engine stay cool.
Aluminum pistons are lightweight components used in engines to reduce weight and improve efficiency. They conduct heat well, which helps in maintaining optimal engine temperatures.
V angle
"...but it was a narrow. It was a 67 degree V angle and included hydraulic lifters"
The V angle is the angle formed between the two sides of a V-shaped engine. It helps determine how the engine runs and how much space it takes up.
The V angle refers to the angle between the two banks of cylinders in a V engine. It affects the engine's balance, performance, and how compact it can be.
hydraulic lifters
"...but it was a narrow. It was a 67 degree V angle and included hydraulic lifters"
Hydraulic lifters are parts in an engine that help keep the valves working properly. They automatically adjust to make sure everything runs smoothly and quietly.
Hydraulic lifters are components in an engine that automatically adjust to maintain proper valve clearance. They help improve engine performance and reduce noise.
Ford Model T
"Now, in 1909 Ford sells its first Model T in Britain. Now, the car whenever it went across there, arrived as fully built."
The Ford Model T was a very important car because it was the first one made in large numbers, allowing many people to buy cars for the first time.
The Ford Model T is one of the most significant cars in automotive history, known for being the first mass-produced automobile, which made car ownership accessible to the general public.
horizontal opposed engine
"Now, the engine was the 589 cubic inch horizontal opposed"
A horizontal opposed engine is a type of engine where the cylinders are laid out flat on either side. This helps make the car more stable when driving.
A horizontal opposed engine, also known as a flat engine, features cylinders arranged horizontally on either side of a central crankshaft. This design lowers the car's center of gravity and can enhance stability and handling.
flat-six engine
"which later became their flat six once they got into production. The transmission was a direct drive torque converters."
A flat-six engine is a type of engine with six cylinders laid out flat instead of standing up. This helps the car handle better because it makes the car's weight more balanced.
A flat-six engine is a six-cylinder engine with the cylinders arranged horizontally in two banks of three. This design allows for a lower center of gravity and better weight distribution, which can enhance handling and performance.
four-speed manual transmission
"that became part of the modified cord four speed manual transmission that the cars became famous for."
A four-speed manual transmission is a system in a car that lets the driver change gears manually, with four different options to choose from. This helps the driver control how fast the car goes.
A four-speed manual transmission is a type of gearbox that allows the driver to manually select from four different gear ratios, providing better control over the vehicle's speed and power.
bumpers
"However, the front bumpers were painted wood bumpers because they didn't have time to get the chrome bumpers finished..."
Bumpers are the parts at the front and back of a car that help protect it in case of a crash. They are designed to absorb some of the impact.
Bumpers are protective components located at the front and rear of a vehicle, designed to absorb impact during collisions and protect the car's body and occupants.
suicide doors
"...that's when they put in the rear hinge suicide doors. Now, this also included the famous Cyclops eye..."
Suicide doors are doors that open backward instead of forward. They can make it easier to get in and out of the back seat but can be less safe if the car is moving.
Suicide doors are a type of car door that is hinged at the rear rather than the front, allowing them to open in the opposite direction. This design can provide easier access to the rear seats but can also pose safety risks in certain situations.
Cyclops eye
"...included the famous Cyclops eye that had right in the center of the hood that turned with the steering wheel."
The Cyclops eye is a special headlight design on the Tucker 48 that turns as the car turns, helping the driver see better around corners.
The Cyclops eye refers to a unique design feature on the Tucker 48, where a central headlight is mounted on the hood that turns with the steering wheel. This feature was intended to improve visibility when cornering.
Simplex Automobile
"... is on permanent display at the Williams Swaggart Automobile Museum in Huntington, Pennsylvania."
The Simplex Automobile is an old car from the early 1900s that was known for being well-made and luxurious for its time. It shows how cars have changed and improved over the years.
The Simplex Automobile is a historic vehicle from the early 20th century, known for its engineering and luxury features during its production era. It represents a significant chapter in automotive history, showcasing the evolution of car design and technology.
Lotus Europa
"1966 Lovotis Lotus unveils the Europa. Now, this was very unconventional design at the time, helped popularize mid engine road cars..."
The Lotus Europa is a small sports car made by a British company called Lotus. It was introduced in 1966 and is known for its unique design and great handling on the road.
The Lotus Europa is a sports car produced by Lotus Cars from 1966 to 1975. It was notable for its innovative design and lightweight construction, which contributed to its performance and handling characteristics.
mid engine road cars
"...this was very unconventional design at the time, helped popularize mid engine road cars and expanded the Lotus influence from racing to production sports cars."
Mid-engine road cars are cars where the engine is placed in the middle of the vehicle, rather than at the front or back. This setup helps the car handle better and makes it more fun to drive.
Mid-engine road cars have their engines located between the front and rear axles, which helps improve weight distribution and handling. This design has become popular in sports cars for its performance advantages.
fuel economy standards
"1973, US launched mandatory fuel economy standards. Now, this is important because this was part of the fuel shortages..."
Fuel economy standards are rules that require cars to use less fuel. They were created to help save gas and reduce pollution, especially during times when gas was hard to find.
Fuel economy standards are regulations set by governments to ensure that vehicles meet certain efficiency benchmarks, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. In the US, these standards were introduced in response to the oil crisis of the 1970s to promote more efficient vehicles.
oil crisis
"...the gas shortage during the oil crisis and they pushed the manufacturers to reduce oil consumption..."
The oil crisis was a time in the 1970s when there wasn't enough oil, making it hard for people to get gas for their cars. This led to higher prices and changes in how cars were made to use less fuel.
The oil crisis refers to a period in the 1970s when oil prices skyrocketed due to geopolitical tensions and supply shortages, leading to fuel shortages in many countries. This crisis prompted significant changes in automotive design and fuel efficiency standards.
muscle cars
"...because it's what killed the muscle cars"
Muscle cars are fast cars with big engines that were very popular in America. Because of new rules to save fuel, many of these powerful cars stopped being made during the oil crisis.
Muscle cars are high-performance vehicles, typically American, known for their powerful engines and aggressive styling. The rise of fuel economy standards and the oil crisis significantly impacted their production and popularity in the 1970s.
hybrid and electric vehicle development
"...for modern future hybrid and electrical vehicle development mandated both real and implied to get us to where we are today. Finally, in 1980 GM announces the Saturn project."
Hybrid and electric vehicles are cars that use electricity to help them run, which can save fuel and reduce pollution. They are becoming more popular as people look for cleaner ways to drive.
Hybrid and electric vehicle development refers to the evolution of vehicles that use alternative power sources, such as electric motors and batteries, in addition to or instead of traditional internal combustion engines. This shift aims to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Saturn
"Finally, in 1980 GM announces the Saturn project. This is whenever they envision an all new small car division to battle Japanese competition."
Saturn was a brand of cars made by General Motors that started in the 1990s. They were designed to be different from other cars, using special materials and a new way of selling them.
The Saturn was a line of vehicles produced by General Motors, launched in the late 1980s as a response to Japanese automakers. It was known for its innovative use of polymer body panels and a unique sales approach.
Buick Envision
"...nounces the Saturn project. This is whenever they envision an all new small car division to battle Japanese ..."
The Buick Envision is a smaller SUV that offers a comfortable and nice ride for families. It's designed to be practical while still looking stylish, making it a good choice for people who want a mix of luxury and everyday usability.
The Buick Envision is a compact SUV that combines luxury features with practicality, aimed at providing a comfortable ride for families and individuals alike. It competes in a crowded market of small SUVs, offering a blend of style, technology, and performance.
no-haggle sales model
"...with polymer body panels, had a no-haggle sales model when you went to the dealership."
A no-haggle sales model means that the price of the car is set and you can't negotiate it. This makes buying a car easier because you know exactly what you'll pay without trying to bargain.
A no-haggle sales model is a pricing strategy where the price of a vehicle is fixed, eliminating the traditional negotiation process between the buyer and the dealer. This approach aims to simplify the buying experience and reduce stress for customers.
American Motors Corporation (Amc) Javelin
"...e. And our first car up is going to be a 1971 AMC Javelin. And I looked at that and I thought,"
AMC Javelin
"...our first car up is going to be a 1971 AMC Javelin. And I looked at that and I thought,..."
The AMC Javelin is a classic car made by AMC in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It's known for its sporty look and was popular among car enthusiasts.
The AMC Javelin is a classic American muscle car produced by the American Motors Corporation (AMC) from 1967 to 1974. It was known for its sporty design and performance, competing with other muscle cars of its era.
cubic inch
"It has a detuned 304 cubic inch engine in it."
Cubic inch is a way to measure how big an engine is. Bigger numbers usually mean the engine can produce more power.
Cubic inch is a unit of measurement for engine displacement, which indicates the total volume of all the cylinders in an engine. A larger cubic inch measurement generally means more power.
detuned
"It has a detuned 304 cubic inch engine in it. Destroke from 360."
Detuning means making an engine less powerful than it could be. This is sometimes done to make it more reliable or to follow certain rules.
Detuning refers to the process of reducing the performance of an engine, often to meet regulations or to enhance reliability. This can involve lowering horsepower or modifying engine components.
horsepower
"It currently has a 585 horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how strong an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster or do more work.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, specifically in engines. It indicates how much work an engine can do over time, with higher numbers typically signifying better performance.
Penske race car
"...it is a replica of the Penske, Donahue Penske race car. Okay. And I mean, a real honest to God,..."
Penske race cars are high-performance vehicles used in racing, famous for their speed and engineering. Mark Donahue was a legendary driver who helped make these cars successful.
The Penske race car refers to vehicles associated with the Penske Racing team, known for their success in various motorsport disciplines, including IndyCar and NASCAR. The Donahue Penske race car specifically highlights the legacy of driver Mark Donahue, who was instrumental in the team's early success.
Chevrolet Corvette
"Next up is a 1977 Chevrolet Corvette. Now, why do you even bring that up, Don?"
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car from America. The 1977 version is known for being fast and stylish, and it's part of a long line of Corvettes that many car enthusiasts love.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a classic American sports car known for its performance and distinctive design. The 1977 model featured a range of engines and was part of the C3 generation, which ran from 1968 to 1982.
Chevrolet Bel Air
"Can you make that change? 1957 Chevy Bel Air. Okay. That's what it is."
The Chevrolet Bel Air is a classic car that was made a long time ago, especially famous for its stylish look in the 1950s. The 1957 model is especially loved by collectors because it represents a fun and vibrant time in car history.
The Chevrolet Bel Air is an iconic American car produced from the 1950s to the early 1970s, with the 1957 model being particularly celebrated for its classic design and performance. It symbolizes the golden age of American automobiles and is a favorite among collectors and classic car enthusiasts.
Buick LeSabre
"The 1974 Burek. Yeah. Le Sabre. Oh, man. And I believe that it's a convertible."
The Buick LeSabre is a large car made by the Buick company. The 1974 version is known for its stylish look and was offered as a convertible, which means the roof can be folded down.
The Buick LeSabre is a full-size car that was produced by Buick from 1959 to 2005. The 1974 model is notable for its classic design and was available in various body styles, including a convertible.
Mclaren Sabre
"Yeah. Le Sabre. Oh, man."
The McLaren Sabre is a very special and fast sports car made by McLaren, known for its sleek looks and powerful performance. It's designed for people who love speed and luxury in their cars.
The McLaren Sabre is a limited-production supercar that showcases McLaren's engineering prowess and commitment to high-performance vehicles. With its sleek design and powerful engine, it represents the pinnacle of luxury and speed in the automotive world.
Tesla 63 Model
"Next up, the 1963 Chevrolet Custom 10. This is a 63 model, clearly a restomod of some sort. So what do you ..."
The Tesla Model 3 is a type of car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. It's known for being fast, having a long battery life, and being more affordable than other electric cars, making it a popular choice for many drivers.
The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric sedan that has gained popularity for its performance, range, and affordability compared to other electric vehicles. It represents Tesla's push to make electric cars more accessible to the general public, contributing to the shift towards sustainable transportation.
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