About this episode
Richard Porter and Johnny Smith dive into a heartfelt story about a listener's grandmother who passed her driving test at 71 and drove a Nissan Micra with a unique driving style. The duo reflects on her adventures and mischief behind the wheel, sparking a discussion on what they hope to drive at that age. They also tackle listener questions about car choices, including suggestions for a car consultant to Harry Metcalf, exploring options from the mid-90s to late 2000s. The episode balances humor, nostalgia, and thoughtful insights into automotive choices.
Jonny and Richard answer listener’s questions about what you’d drive in old age, songs that sound car-related, Crown Vic racing, and what 90s and 00s cars should Harry Metcalfe buy?
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Nissan K11 Micra
"As was only proper for a septogenarian in the 90s, she bought herself a lovely new K-11 micro from the local Glyn Hopkins dealership, something that raised some rye smiles among family members."
The Nissan K11 Micra is a small car that was made in the 1990s. It's known for being easy to drive and park in cities.
The Nissan K11 Micra is a small hatchback that was produced in the 1990s. It is known for its compact size and efficient use of space, making it a popular choice for urban driving.
CG-13 engine
"Yes, it was the full-fat 1.3-litre 16-valve with the CG-13 engine. They were unfairly powerful, I think."
The CG-13 engine is a small engine used in the Nissan Micra that helps the car be efficient and fun to drive.
The CG-13 engine is a 1.3-liter inline-four engine used in the Nissan Micra K11. It is known for its lightweight design and decent power output for a small car.
Nissan K11
"...this was an R-Edge 98 model, it was the earlier pre-Facelift K-11 rather than the fresh for 98 K-11 C, which had that peculiar Primera-style grille..."
The Nissan K11 is a small car model known as the Micra, which was made by Nissan. The 1998 version is part of a generation that was popular for being easy to drive and economical.
The Nissan K11 refers to the second generation of the Nissan Micra, which was produced from 1992 to 2002. The '98 model specifically denotes a version that was available in that year, and it is known for its compact size and efficient design.
automatic transmission
"...suggested that she might want to get an automatic, but she maintained that my late grandfather would never approve of such a thing."
An automatic transmission is a system in cars that changes gears for you, so you don't have to do it yourself. This makes driving easier, especially in traffic.
An automatic transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that automatically changes the gear ratios as the vehicle moves, allowing the driver to focus on driving without needing to manually shift gears.
clutch control
"...her clutch control was fine."
Clutch control is how well a driver uses the clutch pedal in a car with a manual transmission. It helps the driver start and stop smoothly without the car stalling.
Clutch control refers to the skill of managing the clutch pedal in a manual transmission vehicle to smoothly engage and disengage the engine from the wheels, which is essential for starting, stopping, and shifting gears without stalling.
synchro
"Presumably, the synchro in first has had had enough."
A synchro is a part of a car's manual transmission that helps gears shift smoothly. If it's damaged, it can make it hard to change gears, especially when starting from a stop.
A synchro, or synchronizer, is a component in a manual transmission that helps match the speed of the gears during shifting, allowing for smoother transitions between gears. If a synchro is worn out, it can lead to difficulty in shifting, particularly into first gear.
traction control
"...I want a car that has no traction control is just going to give me punch me if I'm not careful. So I'd like to think, well, it's time I'm 71."
Traction control helps your car maintain grip on the road by stopping the wheels from spinning too fast when you accelerate. It makes driving safer, especially on wet or slippery surfaces.
Traction control is a safety feature in vehicles that helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration by reducing engine power or applying brakes to specific wheels. It enhances stability and control, especially in slippery conditions.
Dodge Viper
"Am I going to be in a Dodge Viper?"
The Dodge Viper is a fast sports car made by Dodge. It has a big engine and is known for being very exciting to drive.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and distinctive styling. It has a reputation for being a raw and exhilarating driving experience, often favored by enthusiasts.
Peugeot 504
"He broke down in the Sahara in a Peugeot 504 estate. Nearly died."
The Peugeot 504 is a car made by the French company Peugeot. It was built to be strong and comfortable, making it a good choice for long journeys.
The Peugeot 504 is a mid-size car produced by the French automaker Peugeot from 1968 to 1983. Known for its durability and comfort, it was popular in various markets around the world.
Paris-Dakar Rally
"But Mark Thatcher took part in the Pari Dakar, having agreed to do it like two years previously..."
The Paris-Dakar Rally is a famous race that takes place in tough conditions, usually through deserts and rough terrain. It's known for being very challenging for drivers and their vehicles.
The Paris-Dakar Rally is an annual off-road race that originally ran from Paris, France, to Dakar, Senegal. It is known for its challenging terrain and has become one of the most prestigious and difficult motorsport events in the world.
Bugatti Veyron
"Buy a Veyron on a credit card and then go, oh, shit, I've died. I think I might do this."
The Bugatti Veyron is a very fast and expensive car that many people dream of owning. It's famous for being one of the quickest cars you can buy.
The Bugatti Veyron is a high-performance luxury sports car known for its incredible speed and engineering. It was produced from 2005 to 2015 and is often considered one of the fastest production cars in the world.
Mangusta
"Well, actually, for some reason, he's got to do some awesome mangusta. But actually, I might just slip into it."
The Mangusta is a cool sports car from Italy that was made a long time ago. It's famous for its looks and how it drives, but it's not very common to see one today.
The De Tomaso Mangusta is a classic Italian sports car produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for its striking design and performance. It features a mid-engine layout and is often celebrated for its unique styling and rarity.
Tesla
"...trying to floor pan swap Teslas with classic piston cars. Because I'm looking at the emails and they're all going,..."
Tesla is a car company that makes electric cars, which means they run on batteries instead of gasoline. They are known for their high-tech features and fast acceleration.
Tesla is a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles known for their innovative technology and performance. They have several models, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y, all of which have distinct features and capabilities.
floor pan swap
"...when we must have gone down that huge wheel base hole of trying to floor pan swap Teslas with classic piston cars. Because I'm looking at the emails and they're all going,..."
A floor pan swap is when you change the bottom part of a car where people sit and where the car's parts are attached. This is done to fit new technology into older cars, like putting electric parts into classic cars.
A floor pan swap involves replacing the floor structure of a vehicle, often to accommodate different drivetrain components or to modernize a classic car. This process can be particularly relevant when integrating electric vehicle technology into older models.
Volvo
"...did you know that the Volvo blah blah blah is only a few millimeters different?"
Volvo is a car brand from Sweden that is famous for making safe cars. They produce different types of vehicles, including cars and SUVs, and are known for their strong focus on safety.
Volvo is a Swedish automotive manufacturer known for its focus on safety and reliability. The brand has a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and wagons, and is recognized for its innovative safety features and commitment to sustainability.
Renault Trafic
"He says, I'm writing to tell you about my 2019 Renault Trafic, which has an ongoing issue with the DPF."
The Renault Trafic is a type of van made by Renault, popular for businesses because it has a lot of space for carrying goods. It's designed to be practical and efficient for everyday use.
The Renault Trafic is a versatile van known for its practicality and efficiency, often used for commercial purposes. It features a spacious interior and is available in various configurations to suit different business needs.
DPF
"which has an ongoing issue with the DPF. The van has been to the local Renault dealership for repair."
DPF means Diesel Particulate Filter, which is a part in diesel vehicles that helps clean the exhaust gases to make them less harmful. If there's a problem with it, the vehicle might not run as well and could need repairs.
DPF stands for Diesel Particulate Filter, a component in diesel vehicles that captures and stores exhaust soot to reduce emissions. Issues with the DPF can lead to decreased performance and increased emissions, often requiring maintenance or replacement.
limp mode
"...which turns out is what has happened to my van. Hang on, Jimmy Cliff, did he predict limp home mode?"
Limp mode is what happens when your car's computer detects a problem and makes the engine run slowly to avoid damage. It helps you get to a mechanic without causing more issues.
Limp mode is a safety feature in vehicles that limits engine power and speed to prevent further damage when a serious issue is detected. It allows the driver to safely get the vehicle to a repair shop rather than risking breakdown or damage.
Ford Crown
"As big fan of the Vic, is Johnny aware that the Ford Crown Victoria race is hosted by YouTuber Cleetus McFarland in Florida?"
The Ford Crown Victoria is a large car often used by police and taxis. It's known for being tough and reliable, which is why some people like to race them.
The Ford Crown Victoria is a full-size sedan that was widely used as a police car and taxi in the United States. It is known for its durability and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it popular for various applications, including racing.
Cleetus McFarland
"As big fan of the Vic, is Johnny aware that the Ford Crown Victoria race is hosted by YouTuber Cleetus McFarland in Florida?"
Cleetus McFarland is a well-known YouTube personality who makes videos about cars and racing. He hosts events where people can race their cars, making it fun for car enthusiasts.
Cleetus McFarland is a popular YouTuber known for his automotive content, including racing events and car builds. He often engages with his audience through entertaining videos that showcase his passion for cars and motorsports.
Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow
"...Zegato, Lotus Elan and disgraced entertainer spec Silver Shadow. He has the late 80s Holy Trinity of 9-Eleven Tu..."
Lotus Elan
"...trio of lovely early 70s cars. Full-year Zegato, Lotus Elan and disgraced entertainer spec Silver Shadow. He..."
The Lotus Elan Roadster is a small, lightweight sports car that’s fun to drive. It’s known for being quick and nimble, making it a favorite among people who love driving.
The Lotus Elan Roadster is a lightweight sports car produced by Lotus from 1962 to 1975. It is celebrated for its agile handling and innovative design, which influenced many future sports cars. The Elan is often discussed for its classic appeal and the driving experience it offers.
Ferrari Testarossa
"He has the late 80s Holy Trinity of 9-Eleven Turbo, Testarossa and Kuntas."
The Ferrari Testarossa is a famous sports car known for its unique design and powerful engine, making it a symbol of luxury and performance.
The Ferrari Testarossa is a classic sports car from the 1980s, recognized for its distinctive side strakes and powerful flat-12 engine.
Lamborghini Countach
"He has the late 80s Holy Trinity of 9-Eleven Turbo, Testarossa and Kuntas."
The Lamborghini Countach is a very famous and flashy sports car with unique doors that open upwards, known for being extremely fast and stylish.
The Lamborghini Countach is a legendary supercar known for its sharp angles, scissor doors, and powerful V12 engine, representing the pinnacle of 1980s automotive design.
Porsche 911 Turbo
"He has the late 80s Holy Trinity of 9-Eleven Turbo, Testarossa and Kuntas."
The Porsche 911 Turbo is a fast sports car that has a turbocharger, which helps it go faster and perform better than regular models.
The Porsche 911 Turbo is a high-performance variant of the iconic 911 sports car, known for its turbocharged engine and exceptional handling.
Jaguar Project 8
"He has a triumphant of peak car in his Jagd Project 7 and Project 8 and McLaren 650s."
The Jaguar Project 8 is a very fast version of a Jaguar sedan, made for racing and high performance on the track.
The Jaguar Project 8 is a high-performance version of the Jaguar XE, designed for track use with enhanced power and handling capabilities.
Jaguar Project 7
"He has a triumphant of peak car in his Jagd Project 7 and Project 8 and McLaren 650s."
The Jaguar Project 7 is a special sports car made by Jaguar, known for its racing style and strong performance.
The Jaguar Project 7 is a limited-edition sports car inspired by Jaguar's racing heritage, featuring a powerful engine and distinctive design elements.
Mclaren 650S
"He has a triumphant of peak car in his Jagd Project 7 and Project 8 and McLaren 650s."
The McLaren 650S is a high-performance sports car known for being very fast and having a sleek design, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The McLaren 650S is a supercar that combines advanced aerodynamics with a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine, offering exceptional performance and handling.
Lamborghini Espada
"...h from selling his Jagd XJ Coupe and Lamborghini Espada, I think you couple of flutes could act as his ca..."
The Lamborghini Espada is a fancy sports car that can fit four people inside. It’s known for being really fast and stylish, making it a special car that many car lovers admire.
The Lamborghini Espada is a four-seater grand tourer produced by Lamborghini from 1968 to 1978. It is significant for its combination of luxury and performance, featuring a powerful V12 engine and distinctive styling. The Espada represents a unique chapter in Lamborghini's history, showcasing their ability to create practical yet thrilling vehicles.
Subaru Impreza
"a Scooby Impressor of some sort, popular with farming types,"
The Subaru Impreza is a smaller car that is great for driving in tough weather because it has all-wheel drive. It's also known for being sporty and fun to drive.
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car that has gained popularity for its all-wheel-drive capability and performance, especially in rally racing. It is often associated with a sporty image and versatility.
Audi R8
"Well, what would you go for? A saucy Audi R8, a Scooby Impressor of some sort, popular with fa..."
The Audi R8 is a fast and stylish sports car that’s fun to drive. It’s known for looking great and performing really well, making it a favorite among car fans.
The Audi R8 is a high-performance sports car that debuted in 2006, known for its striking design and advanced technology. It features a mid-engine layout and offers impressive speed and handling, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The R8 is often discussed for its blend of everyday usability and supercar performance.
TVR Cerbera
"Maybe something properly lairy like a TVR Cerbera."
The TVR Cerbera is a unique British sports car that is very fast and exciting to drive. It has a cool design and is made to be lightweight for better performance.
The TVR Cerbera is a British sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engine options. It is celebrated for its raw driving experience and lightweight construction, making it a thrilling choice for enthusiasts.
Bentley Brooklands
"Well, I would go for, and we have talked about them not that long ago, and I was tooling around in a behently over Christmas. I would go, I'd go for a Bentley Brooklands from about 2008."
The Bentley Brooklands is a fancy car made by Bentley, known for being very luxurious and powerful. It has a big V8 engine and is designed for a comfortable ride.
The Bentley Brooklands is a luxury grand tourer that combines performance with opulent comfort. It features a powerful V8 engine and is known for its elegant design and high-quality materials.
Buick Grand Sport
"Yes. The Grand Sport ones. Yes."
The Buick Gran Sport is a sporty version of a Buick car that was popular in the past. It’s known for being powerful and fun to drive, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Buick Gran Sport is a performance variant of the Buick lineup, particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s. It is known for its powerful engines and sporty features, appealing to muscle car enthusiasts. The Gran Sport is often discussed for its blend of performance and classic American styling.
Subaru 22B
"...which is the stupid one, the BB-22B. 22B. He wouldn't go that. Yeah, because that's 300 grand."
The Subaru 22B is a special version of a Subaru car made for rally racing fans. It's famous for being fast and is very valuable because only a few were made.
The Subaru 22B is a limited edition version of the Subaru Impreza WRX, produced to celebrate Subaru's success in the World Rally Championship. It is known for its performance and rally heritage, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
McLaren P1
"But a P1 is actually much, much better value. I've seen lots of P1s recently through iconic auctioneers going for around the 20 to 25 mark and they're good."
The McLaren P1 is a very fast and expensive sports car that uses both gas and electric power to go really fast. It's one of the top supercars in the world.
The McLaren P1 is a hybrid supercar that was produced between 2013 and 2015, known for its incredible performance and advanced technology. It features a twin-turbo V8 engine combined with an electric motor, delivering exceptional power and efficiency.
Audi Quattro
"...ely confidence inspiring. It's like what an Audi Quattro should drive like, is I always think."
The Audi Quattro is a sporty car that can drive well in all kinds of weather because it has all-wheel drive. It’s famous for being very capable and fun to drive, especially on twisty roads.
The Audi Quattro is a revolutionary all-wheel-drive sports car that debuted in the early 1980s, known for its rally success and innovative technology. It played a significant role in shaping modern performance cars with its combination of power and traction. The Quattro is often discussed for its impact on the automotive industry and its iconic status.
Nissan R35 Gtr
"...the R35 GT-R was a benchmark for so many other supercars. It was like, but can it outdo the, you know, 50 grand still?"
The Nissan GT-R (R35) is a fast sports car that many other high-end cars are compared to because of its great performance and technology.
The Nissan GT-R (R35) is a high-performance sports car known for its advanced technology and impressive performance, often regarded as a benchmark in the supercar segment.
Rolls-Royce Silver Seraphs
"...mpanion to Harry's Shad, what about one of those silver seraphs, the BMW V12 in it? Because they're quite obscur..."
The Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph is a very fancy car that offers a lot of comfort and luxury. It’s known for its beautiful design and smooth ride, making it a special choice for those who want something elegant.
The Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph is a luxury sedan produced from 1998 to 2002, notable for being one of the last models produced before BMW took over the brand. It features a V12 engine and is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and comfort. The Silver Seraph is often discussed for its unique blend of traditional Rolls-Royce luxury with modern engineering.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
"...e're talking about, he's got to buy the cheapest Phantom that he can find. Yeah, they're down, aren't the..."
The Rolls-Royce Phantom is one of the most luxurious cars you can buy, known for its comfort and high-quality materials. People often talk about it because it’s a symbol of wealth and luxury.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom is a luxury sedan known for its opulence and craftsmanship, first introduced in 1925 and revived in the 21st century. It represents the pinnacle of luxury automotive engineering and is often discussed for its status symbol and bespoke options. The Phantom is a favorite among those seeking the ultimate in comfort and prestige.
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