Tailpipes, Tacos, And Horsepower
About this episode
Tailpipes, Tacos, and Horsepower brings listeners to a lively car show event at Loopy Tortilla in Katy, Texas. The hosts discuss how to start a car collection with insights from guest Chase Murray, who shares valuable tips on budgeting, networking, and choosing a collection theme. Mars reviews the 2025 Subaru Forester, highlighting its features and performance. The episode is filled with entertaining anecdotes, engaging discussions about drag racing, and the camaraderie of car enthusiasts, making it a unique blend of automotive culture and community spirit.
Sizzling fajitas, a packed lot, and a sea of chrome set the stage at Tailpipes and Tacos in Katy, Texas, where we dive into the heartbeat of car culture. We welcome Chase Murray to swap NHRA road stories and shine a light on sportsman drag racing—the data-driven, family-powered backbone that rarely gets the headlines but delivers the grit. From pit strategy and shared setups to the Emmons team’s relentless note-taking, we get into how grassroots racers turn budgets and weather notes into round wins.
We switch gears into a practical guide for building a car collection that’s thoughtful and attainable. Theme before impulse, storage before car number two, and a real budget that includes maintenance, insurance, and tires you’ll replace by age rather than wear. You’ll hear why originality and paperwork matter for value, when reversible mods make sense, and how networking at shows unearths the best leads. Whether you’re eyeing underloved driver-quality cars under ten grand or saving up for a single halo piece, a clear wish list beats adrenaline every time.
Rounding it out, we put miles on the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid. Think all-wheel-drive confidence, a calmer ride, wide door openings, and a tablet-style interface that keeps the tech tidy. The hybrid’s extra power, real-world low-30s mpg, and generous range make it a pragmatic daily that plays well with weekend car life. From kids in remote-controlled Power Wheels to a custom Bronco and a row of originals, the lot proves a simple truth: great car culture includes everyone, and the stories are as important as the specs.
If you enjoy this kind of car talk—honest, hands-on, and community-driven—follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more enthusiasts find us and keeps the engines warm for next time.
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Subaru Forester
"...Mars has a review of the 2025 Subaru Forester."
The Subaru Forester is a popular SUV that is great for families and outdoor activities. The 2025 version has new features and improvements that make it even better.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its practicality, all-wheel drive, and safety features. The 2025 model continues to build on these strengths with updated technology and performance enhancements.
Ford Bronco
"OK, Ford Bronco to do it. I did see it. And then you brought it."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that can handle rough terrains and is popular for outdoor adventures. It was first made in the 1960s and has come back with new designs and technology.
The Ford Bronco is a classic SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a rich history, originally launched in the 1960s and reintroduced in recent years with modern features.
car customizer
"He's a car customizer. Yes, sir."
A car customizer is someone who changes cars to make them look or work better. They can add special features or designs that aren't found in regular cars.
A car customizer is a professional who modifies vehicles to enhance their appearance, performance, or functionality, often creating unique or personalized versions of standard models.
suspension travel
"...it's got a lot of suspension travel."
Suspension travel is how much the car's suspension can move up and down. More travel means the car can handle rough roads better without losing control.
Suspension travel refers to the distance that the suspension system can compress and extend. It's an important factor in off-road vehicles as it affects how well the vehicle can absorb bumps and maintain traction on uneven terrain.
Ford Motor Company
"And thank you, Ford Motor Company, for supplying us with that."
Ford is a well-known car company in America that makes many types of vehicles, like cars and trucks.
Ford Motor Company is a major American automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Chevrolet Corvette
"A guy that I've known for very short period of time has a beautiful Corvette."
The Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car made by Chevrolet, popular for its speed and design.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engines, making it a symbol of American automotive performance.
restomod
"If you want to call it a Resto Mod for C7, it is that. He's done some little custom touches to it."
A restomod is when someone takes an old car, fixes it up to look nice, and adds modern parts to make it drive better. It's like giving a classic car a new life with updated technology.
A 'restomod' is a blend of restoration and modification, where classic cars are restored to their original condition but also updated with modern technology and performance enhancements. This approach allows enthusiasts to enjoy the aesthetics of vintage vehicles while benefiting from contemporary reliability and features.
Volkswagen Bus
"...Who's Volkswagen Bus is this?"
The Volkswagen Bus is a famous van known for its boxy shape and spacious interior. It was used for everything from family trips to being a mobile home for travelers.
The Volkswagen Bus, also known as the VW Type 2, is a classic vehicle that became iconic for its unique design and versatility. It was popular in the 1960s and 1970s, often associated with counterculture and road trips.
Hyundai i10
"at loopy tortilla, all developed in the Little House near Highway 6 and I-10 in West Houston. Visit any of the loopy tortillas"
The Hyundai i10 is a tiny car that's great for driving around the city because it's easy to park and use in tight spaces. It's also affordable, making it a good option for people who want a reliable vehicle without spending too much money.
The Hyundai i10 is a small city car known for its compact size, affordability, and practicality. It is designed for urban driving, offering excellent maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for city dwellers.
muffler
"Start with a muffler. Start with a muffler. Prior to purchasing cars, it's important to ask yourself like, what am I more interested in?"
A muffler is a part of the car that makes it quieter. It helps reduce the noise from the engine so that the car doesn't sound too loud when driving.
A muffler is a component of a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces noise produced by the engine. It helps to control the sound of the exhaust gases as they exit the vehicle, contributing to a more pleasant driving experience.
sports cars
"...what am I more interested in? Vintage, sports cars, hot rods,"
Sports cars are fast cars built for performance. They usually have powerful engines and are designed to be fun to drive, often with a sleek look.
Sports cars are designed for high performance, speed, and agility. They typically feature powerful engines, lightweight construction, and enhanced handling capabilities, making them popular among driving enthusiasts.
vintage cars
"...what am I more interested in? Vintage, sports cars, hot rods,"
Vintage cars are older cars that people love because they have a unique style and history. They are usually at least 20 years old and are often collected by car lovers.
Vintage cars refer to automobiles that are typically at least 20 to 30 years old and are valued for their historical significance, design, and craftsmanship. They often appeal to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their classic style and engineering.
hot rods
"...what am I more interested in? Vintage, sports cars, hot rods,"
Hot rods are cars that have been changed or improved to go faster. They are usually older cars that people customize to make them unique and powerful.
Hot rods are modified vehicles, typically older American cars, that have been enhanced for speed and performance. They often feature powerful engines and custom designs, reflecting a culture of automotive creativity and individuality.
collector car
"Before buying a collector car, build out your collection wish list. Account for maintenance costs."
A collector car is a special type of vehicle that people buy because it is rare or has a lot of history. Many people enjoy collecting these cars, and they can sometimes become more valuable as time goes on.
A collector car is typically a vehicle that is sought after by enthusiasts and collectors due to its rarity, historical significance, or unique characteristics. These cars often appreciate in value over time, making them a popular investment choice.
numbers matching
"Gotta have the paperwork. Yep. Numbers matching the whole line. It's all originals."
'Numbers matching' means that the important parts of a car, like the engine, have the same identification numbers as they did when the car was first made. This is a big deal for collectors because it shows the car is original and can make it worth more.
'Numbers matching' refers to a vehicle's components, such as the engine and transmission, having the same serial numbers as those originally assigned to the car when it was manufactured. This is important for collectors as it indicates authenticity and can significantly affect the car's value.
Ford Torino
"If you're, I like the Novas, the Cougars, the Torinos, things like that, that would be something that you would collect."
The Ford Torino is a car made by Ford that people like to collect. It was popular in the late 1960s and 1970s and is known for being powerful and stylish.
The Ford Torino is a mid-size car that was produced by Ford from 1968 to 1976. It is known for its performance variants and has become a classic car sought after by collectors.
Chevrolet Novas
"And that's the point of it. If you're, I like the Novas, the Cougars, the Torinos, things like that, that..."
Mercury Cougars
"...the point of it. If you're, I like the Novas, the Cougars, the Torinos, things like that, that would be som..."
Ferrari
"Other guys do the Ferraris. You've got Corvettes."
Ferrari is a famous brand that makes very fast and expensive sports cars. People love to collect them because they are known for being high-quality and powerful.
Ferrari is an Italian luxury sports car manufacturer known for its high-performance vehicles and racing heritage. Collectors often seek out classic and limited-edition models.
hybrid
"And it's the Forester Premium Hybrid all-wheel drive."
A hybrid car uses both gas and electricity to run. This helps it use less fuel and be better for the environment.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows for better mileage and lower environmental impact.
Subaru Crosstrek
"...fits in between the cross-trek and the outback, fits in between those two different sizes..."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a smaller SUV that is good for people who like to go hiking or camping. It can drive on rough roads and is very practical for everyday use.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers a blend of practicality, off-road capability, and fuel efficiency. It's popular among those who enjoy outdoor activities and need a vehicle that can handle various terrains.
Subaru Outback
"...fits in between the cross-trek and the outback, fits in between those two different sizes..."
The Subaru Outback is a larger SUV that is great for families and people who love outdoor activities. It has a lot of space inside and can handle rough roads well.
The Subaru Outback is a midsize crossover SUV that combines the features of a wagon and an SUV. It is known for its spacious interior, off-road capability, and all-wheel-drive system, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
LED headlights
"It comes with LED headlights with the automatic height adjustments, which I thought was rather different."
LED headlights are a type of car light that lasts longer and uses less energy than regular lights. They help you see better at night and in bad weather.
LED headlights use light-emitting diodes to provide illumination, offering better energy efficiency and longevity compared to traditional halogen bulbs.
automatic on-off headlights
"And it also has the automatic on-off for the headlights if the windshield wipers come on."
This feature turns the headlights on automatically when it starts to rain and the wipers are used, so you don't have to remember to do it yourself.
Automatic on-off headlights activate the lights when certain conditions are met, such as when the windshield wipers are in use, enhancing safety and convenience.
heated exterior mirrors
"Yep, it's a lot. Heated exterior mirrors with a de-icer."
These are side mirrors on the car that can warm up to get rid of ice or fog, making it easier to see when it's cold outside.
Heated exterior mirrors are designed to melt away ice and snow, improving visibility in cold weather conditions.
panoramic moonroof
"Had a panoramic moonroof to get you more of that outside feeling. Power rear lift gate with a hands-free foot-activated clothes on it."
A panoramic moonroof is a big glass roof that lets in light and lets you see the sky better. It makes the inside of the car feel more spacious.
A panoramic moonroof is a large glass panel that extends over the front and rear seats, allowing more natural light into the vehicle and providing a better view of the sky. It enhances the feeling of openness inside the car.
power rear lift gate
"Power rear lift gate with a hands-free foot-activated clothes on it. And we were rolling on the 18-inch alloy wheels..."
A power rear lift gate is a tailgate that opens and closes automatically, usually with a button or a foot motion. It's helpful when you have your hands full.
A power rear lift gate is an automatic tailgate that can be opened and closed with the push of a button or by using a foot gesture. This feature adds convenience, especially when your hands are full.
18-inch alloy wheels
"...we were rolling on the 18-inch alloy wheels that come with that premium package. Now the interior..."
18-inch alloy wheels are lighter wheels made from different metals. They help the car perform better and look nicer, but the size can change how the car feels when you drive it.
18-inch alloy wheels are lightweight wheels made from a mixture of metals, which improve performance and handling compared to standard steel wheels. The size can also affect the ride quality and aesthetics of the vehicle.
premium cloth seats
"...we had the premium cloth seats."
Premium cloth seats are nicer fabric seats in a car that feel more comfortable and last longer than regular cloth seats. They usually look better too.
Premium cloth seats refer to high-quality fabric upholstery used in vehicles, offering better comfort and durability compared to standard cloth seats. They often have enhanced features like better cushioning and design.
four-cylinder
"whenever you've got cargo back there. And up under the hood is a four-cylinder 2.5 liter flat four-boxer type motor..."
A four-cylinder engine is a type of engine with four parts called cylinders that help make the car go. It's a popular choice because it can be powerful while also saving fuel.
A four-cylinder engine has four cylinders that house the pistons, which are essential for the combustion process. This configuration is common in many vehicles, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
flat four-boxer
"And up under the hood is a four-cylinder 2.5 liter flat four-boxer type motor with two electric motor generators."
A flat four-boxer engine is a special kind of engine where the parts that help it run are laid out flat instead of standing up. This helps the car stay balanced and stable.
A flat four-boxer engine is a type of engine where the cylinders are arranged horizontally, allowing for a lower center of gravity and better stability. This design is often used by brands like Subaru.
Mazda Cx50
"you're gonna find you can go look at the Mazda CX50 Hybrid, 35,499 to start. Mazda CRV's got a hybrid..."
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV that combines the comfort of a car with the space of a larger vehicle. It's designed to be fun to drive and has a nice interior, making it a good option for people who want something stylish and enjoyable.
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV that emphasizes sporty handling and a premium interior, setting it apart from other vehicles in its class. With a focus on driving enjoyment and advanced technology, the CX-50 appeals to those who appreciate a more engaging driving experience.
Honda Crvs
"at the Mazda CX50 Hybrid, 35,499 to start. Mazda CRV's got a hybrid that starts at 36,045. The key is Sportage as a hybrid."
The Honda CR-V is a type of vehicle called a compact SUV, which means it's a bit bigger than a regular car but still easy to drive. It's popular because it has a lot of space inside for people and their stuff, and it's known to be very dependable.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV known for its spacious interior, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice among families and commuters alike, often praised for its practicality and advanced safety features.
Kia Sportage
"...'s got a hybrid that starts at 36,045. The key is Sportage as a hybrid. That's $30,185."
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV, which is a type of vehicle that's bigger than a regular car but not as big as a truck. It's a good choice for people who want something that looks nice and has plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that stands out for its stylish design and value for money. With a range of features and a hybrid option, it has become a strong competitor in the SUV market, appealing to those looking for a practical yet modern vehicle.
Toyota Rav4
"...est it out a little bit more. Toyota's even got a RAV4 Hybrid. So there's lots of things to look at,"
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV, which means it's a mix between a car and a larger vehicle, making it good for families or anyone needing extra space. It's very popular because it's safe, reliable, and has a version that uses less gas.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that has gained a reputation for its versatility, safety, and fuel efficiency. As one of the best-selling SUVs in the world, the RAV4 offers a comfortable ride and a range of features, including a hybrid variant that appeals to eco-conscious consumers.
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