The 80bhp Ami, cut us some slack!
About this episode
A fascinating discussion unfolds around the Citroen Ami, a quirky vehicle that typically boasts just 8bhp. The hosts delve into an ambitious project where an engineer, Julian Fack, has swapped the Ami's engine for an 80bhp electric motor, resulting in a staggering tenfold power increase. They explore the engineering challenges, the car's potential performance, and the implications for its legal status. The episode also touches on the joys of driving in wet conditions and the importance of skill development in motorsport.
In the latest episode of the Autocar podcast My Week In Cars, Steve Cropley and Matt Prior talk an 80bhp Citroen Ami, driving fast in the wet, Prodrive’s Dakar success, driving EVs economically and a lack of forgiveness mild driving indiscretions.
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V8
"...I was reading your thoughts on the great sound of the V8..."
A V8 is a type of engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's known for being powerful and making a loud, exciting noise when it runs.
A V8 is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a V shape. This design is known for producing a lot of power and a distinctive engine sound, making it popular in performance and luxury vehicles.
AMG C63
"...I heard my wife setting off in her AMG C63. An OAP, now she probably doesn't need 500 horsepower..."
The AMG C63 is a fast and powerful car made by Mercedes-Benz. It has a strong V8 engine that makes it exciting to drive, and people enjoy its sporty sound and performance.
The AMG C63 is a high-performance version of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, known for its powerful V8 engine and sporty characteristics. It's popular for its blend of luxury and performance, making it suitable for both daily driving and spirited driving experiences.
Land Rover Range Rover
"... supplies the brief foreboring of an approaching Range Rover and prompts an immediate leap for sanctuary."
The Range Rover is a fancy, big car that can drive on tough roads and looks really nice inside. People often talk about it because it's a symbol of luxury and adventure.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and premium features. It has a significant presence in the automotive market, often associated with wealth and adventure, making it a popular topic of discussion.
Audi A2
"...I've always admired the A2, so Audi A2, says Jeff. Me too, because I like small cars."
The Audi A2 is a small car made by Audi that was popular for being lightweight and fuel-efficient. It has a unique design and was produced in the early 2000s.
The Audi A2 is a compact MPV known for its lightweight aluminum construction and efficient design. It was produced from 1999 to 2005 and is appreciated for its practicality and unique styling.
Citroën AMI
"...Talked me about a small car, Steve, a Citroen AMI with a horsepower increase."
The Citroën AMI is a small electric car made by Citroën, designed for city driving. It's known for its unique look and is great for short trips around town.
The Citroën AMI is a compact electric vehicle known for its quirky design and urban mobility focus. It is designed for short trips and is part of Citroën's effort to provide affordable electric transportation.
Citroen Ami
"...mall cars. Talked me about a small car, Steve, a Citroen AMI with a horsepower increase. Well, a Citroen AMI ..."
The AMI is a tiny electric car made for driving around the city, and it's easy to park. It's special because it's simple and doesn't cost a lot to run.
The Citroen AMI is a compact electric vehicle designed for urban mobility, emphasizing simplicity and affordability. Its unique design and small size make it suitable for city driving.
horsepower
"...he's decided to kick out the 8-horsepower engine and replace it with an 80-horsepower EV engine, which we had a bit of an argument in the office about the percentage increase."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go and the better it can perform.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to indicate the power output of engines. In the context of cars, it helps to understand how much work an engine can perform, affecting acceleration and overall performance.
subframe
"So creating a subframe that fits in the front of this AMI without changing any of the bodywork. But suddenly, with 80 horsepower instead of 8, it's something that he's just achieved."
A subframe is a part of a car that helps hold up important pieces like the engine and suspension. It's like a smaller frame that supports these parts without changing the car's main shape.
A subframe is a structural component of a vehicle that supports parts like the engine or suspension. It allows for better handling and weight distribution, and can be designed to fit specific vehicle models without altering the main body structure.
wheel spin
"...the problem they had on the rolling road was wheel spin. Oh, crikey. So it's still front wheel drive?"
Wheel spin is when a car's wheels spin too fast and lose grip on the road. This usually happens when the car is trying to go faster but can't get enough traction.
Wheel spin occurs when the wheels of a vehicle lose traction and spin faster than the vehicle is moving, often due to excessive power being applied. This can happen during acceleration, especially in high-powered front-wheel-drive cars.
front wheel drive
"...So it's still front wheel drive? Yeah, yeah, it's just, he's configured it so that if anybody happened to want to..."
Front wheel drive means that the front wheels of the car are the ones that get the power from the engine. This helps the car move forward, especially in bad weather.
Front wheel drive (FWD) is a vehicle configuration where the engine's power is directed to the front wheels. This setup can improve traction while driving in slippery conditions but may lead to understeer during aggressive cornering.
Stark
"But the engine is motor, sorry, is out of a Barcelona built motocrosser called a Stark Vag. Designed in Scanduigia, Sweden, I think."
Stark is a brand that makes electric dirt bikes. The Stark Varg is one of their models, and it's designed to be very light and fast.
Stark is a company that produces electric motocross bikes, known for their lightweight design and high performance. The Stark Varg is one of their models, aimed at providing an exhilarating riding experience.
chain drive
"So it's still chain driven, isn't it? So the motor is not on the wheel as it is on some electric bikes?"
A chain drive is like a bicycle chain that helps move parts of a machine. It connects different parts so they can work together, similar to how a bike chain helps turn the wheels when you pedal.
A chain drive is a mechanism that transmits power from one part of a machine to another using a chain. It's commonly used in bicycles and motorcycles to connect the pedals to the rear wheel, but can also be found in various automotive applications.
Citroën C3
"I gather it uses a Citroen C3 diff or something like that. Oh, really?"
The Citroën C3 is a small car made by a French company called Citroën. It's known for being stylish and comfortable to drive, and it's a popular choice for city driving.
The Citroën C3 is a subcompact car produced by the French automaker Citroën. Known for its distinctive design and comfortable ride, it is popular in Europe and offers a range of engines and features.
differential
"I gather it uses a Citroen C3 diff or something like that. Oh, really? It's quite clever."
A differential is a part of a car that helps the wheels turn at different speeds, especially when going around corners. It makes driving smoother and helps prevent tire wear.
A differential is a mechanical component that allows wheels to rotate at different speeds, particularly important when turning. It helps distribute power from the engine to the wheels while enabling smooth cornering.
AMG GT
"...a couple of AMG GT is there? And a Bentley of sorts."
The AMG GT is a fast and stylish sports car made by Mercedes-Benz. It's designed for people who love driving and want a car that looks great and performs well.
The AMG GT is a high-performance sports car produced by Mercedes-Benz. It features a powerful engine and is known for its sleek design and agile handling, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
BMW Series Bmw
"What were you in? No, a three, an old three series BMW. Oh, the one."
The 7 Series is a super fancy car from BMW that has all the latest tech and is really comfortable to ride in. It's often seen as one of the best luxury cars you can buy.
The BMW 7 Series is a flagship luxury sedan known for its advanced technology, comfort, and performance. It represents the pinnacle of BMW's engineering and design, often discussed in the context of luxury vehicles.
Ford Raptor
"Yeah, I've been driving around in the Raptor, yours. Yeah, that was the, the former prior long term."
The Ford Raptor is a tough truck made for off-roading. It's built to drive over rough ground and handle challenging conditions better than regular trucks.
The Ford Raptor is a high-performance off-road variant of the Ford F-150, designed for rugged terrain and capable of handling tough conditions with its powerful engine and advanced suspension system.
Hyundai Ioniq
"I guess they're into the Hyundai Ioniq 5Ns they use quite a lot."
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a sportier version of the Ioniq 5, which is an electric car. It has better performance and looks more aggressive, appealing to those who want a fun driving experience.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a high-performance variant of the Ioniq 5 electric crossover. It features enhanced performance and sporty design elements, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for an electric vehicle with a dynamic driving experience.
McLaren Artura
"Also, you've got seven McLaren Arturus, don't forget."
The McLaren Artura is a high-performance sports car that uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This combination helps it go fast while also being more efficient with fuel.
The McLaren Artura is a hybrid supercar that combines a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor. This innovative setup allows for impressive performance and efficiency, making it a standout in the McLaren lineup.
Le Mans cars
"...those things that look like Le Mans cars that are called JP1 with a, with a, with an three liter V6 in the back. And then there's, but, you know, the, the star of the show is..."
Le Mans cars are special racing cars made for a famous race called the 24 Hours of Le Mans. They are built to go really fast and last a long time during the race.
Le Mans cars refer to high-performance racing vehicles designed for endurance racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. These cars are built for speed, aerodynamics, and durability, often featuring advanced technology and engineering.
Ariel Atom
"Well, I can remember in the days when I had an aerial atom going up there and being lent and an instructor with my son, actually my number one son."
The Ariel Atom is a very light sports car that is designed for speed and handling. It doesn't have a lot of extra features, which makes it really fun to drive on a racetrack.
The Ariel Atom is a lightweight, high-performance sports car known for its minimalist design and exceptional handling. It features a powerful engine and a chassis designed for agility on the track.
Jeep Wrangler
"Tell me about the Jeep Wrangler 4XE, Steve. Well, you and I both have got a bit of a weakness for the Wrangler."
The Jeep Wrangler 4XE is a special version of the Jeep Wrangler that uses both gas and electric power. This means it can drive longer distances while being more environmentally friendly than regular gas-only vehicles.
The Jeep Wrangler 4XE is a plug-in hybrid version of the iconic Wrangler, combining traditional off-road capabilities with electric power. It offers a balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for both rugged terrain and everyday driving.
Jeep 4xe
"And they built a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and called the 4XE or 4 by E or whatever you want to call it. Oh, yeah. And it got killed."
The Jeep 4xe is a hybrid vehicle that uses both gasoline and electricity to power the car. This helps it be more environmentally friendly while still being able to go off-road.
The Jeep 4xe is a plug-in hybrid version of the popular Jeep Wrangler, combining traditional off-road capabilities with electric power for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
Stellantis
"Read the other day by Stellantis. They've decided not to proceed with quite a lot of their electrified cars, and this is one."
Stellantis is a big car company that owns many different car brands. They make decisions about which cars to produce and sell.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It oversees several brands, including Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler.
Hemi
"They were going to kill the Hemi. Oh, were they? That's one of the, this guy, the boss of Stellantis, as well as killing, you know, a lot of the electrified cars has brought back the Hemi, 5.7 Hemi."
Hemi is a type of engine that has a special shape inside it, which helps it run better and produce more power. The 5.7 Hemi is one of the versions used in some Chrysler and Dodge cars.
The Hemi refers to a type of engine design characterized by a hemispherical combustion chamber, which allows for more efficient airflow and combustion. The 5.7 Hemi is a specific engine variant used in various Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models, known for its power and performance.
Chrysler
"So I think it'll go through the Chrysler Jeep and Dodge range, which I can't bring myself to say is all bad."
Chrysler is a car brand that makes different types of vehicles like cars and SUVs. They are part of a larger company called Stellantis.
Chrysler is an American automobile brand known for producing a range of vehicles, including sedans, minivans, and SUVs. It is part of the Stellantis group and has a long history in the automotive industry.
Mercedes-Benz
"...Mercedes-Benz decided that they would go back to building cars that were somewhat more expensive and desirable..."
Mercedes-Benz is a famous car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars. They are known for their quality and advanced technology.
Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for luxury vehicles, buses, and trucks. It has a long history of innovation and is recognized for its high-quality engineering and performance.
S-Class
"...And the S class."
The S-Class is a luxury car made by Mercedes-Benz. It's known for being very comfortable and having the latest technology.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a flagship luxury sedan known for its advanced technology, comfort, and performance. It often features the latest innovations from Mercedes-Benz and sets the standard for luxury vehicles.
BMW M3
"... out of town. You go past, you head off down the M3. Yeah."
The M3 is a fast and sporty car made by BMW, which is known for making fun cars to drive. It's popular because it combines good looks with a lot of power.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its sporty design and powerful engine. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts for its driving dynamics and motorsport heritage.
Genesis GV60
"...I was trying to dig out our original test review of the Genesis GV60, which is a car I like. Yeah. I like the GV60."
The Genesis GV60 is a luxury electric SUV made by Genesis, which is a brand known for its high-end cars. It's designed to offer a comfortable and stylish ride while being environmentally friendly.
The Genesis GV60 is an electric SUV that represents Genesis's entry into the luxury electric vehicle market. It features a modern design and advanced technology, catering to consumers looking for a premium electric driving experience.
SUV
"...it's a sort of high-ish, it's an SUV, isn't it? But it's not a full, full-fat 4x4."
An SUV is a type of vehicle that is larger than a regular car and can handle rougher roads. They often have more space for passengers and luggage.
SUV stands for Sport Utility Vehicle, which is a type of vehicle designed for both on-road and off-road driving. They typically offer higher ground clearance and more cargo space than sedans.
Hyundai Genesis
"...ng thing for a big, wide car and they're around. Genesis seem to be content to grow slowly Hyundai's prest..."
The Genesis is a fancy car made by Hyundai that has a lot of nice features and is comfortable to drive. It's a good choice if you want a luxury car without spending too much money.
The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sedan that offers a high level of comfort and technology at a competitive price. It has been praised for its value and features, making it a strong contender in the luxury market.
Alpine A110
"...f and Richard were saying that there is an Alpine A110 for sale under 30 grand."
The A110 is a small, sporty car that is fun to drive and very light, which helps it go fast. People like it because it has a cool design and is great for driving on winding roads.
The Alpine A110 is a lightweight sports car that emphasizes agility and driving pleasure. It has a rich motorsport heritage and is celebrated for its design and performance.
Toyota MR2
"...photographer, has done. Have you seen his Toyota MR2? No."
The MR2 is a small sports car that has the engine in the middle, which makes it handle really well. It's loved by many for being fun to drive and looking different from other cars.
The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine sports car known for its compact size and agile handling. It has a loyal fan base due to its fun driving experience and unique design.
Ford Capri
"...thing I find, it's happening to me with this Ford Capri that I have, is that the WLTP range imprints its..."
The Capri is an older, sporty car that many people loved back in the day because it looked cool and was not too expensive. It's often talked about by fans of classic cars.
The Ford Capri is a classic coupe that was popular in the 1970s and 1980s, known for its sporty styling and affordability. It has become a nostalgic favorite among car enthusiasts.
Toyota Prius
"Yeah. Do you remember when the Prius first came out and we were driving those a bit mo..."
The Prius is a car that uses both gas and electricity to drive, which helps save fuel and is better for the environment. It's well-known for being very efficient and is often talked about when discussing green cars.
The Toyota Prius is a hybrid car that became famous for its fuel efficiency and eco-friendly design. It played a significant role in popularizing hybrid technology and is often discussed in the context of environmental awareness.
Tesla Semi
"..., you know, sporty sedan kind of thing, you know, semi sporty sedan."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that helps transport goods without using gas. It's important because it shows how electric vehicles can be used in big businesses.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, aiming to revolutionize the trucking industry with its sustainability and performance. It represents Tesla's expansion into commercial vehicles.
Porsche 987 Spyder
"...he's recently sold his Porsche 987 Spyder and his wife drove an Audi A3 Saloon with one toddler."
The Porsche 987 Spyder is a sporty car that is known for being lightweight and fun to drive. It's a version of the Boxster, which is a two-seater convertible made by Porsche.
The Porsche 987 Spyder is a lightweight, high-performance variant of the Boxster, known for its agile handling and sporty design. It features a mid-engine layout and is part of the 987 generation of Porsche's Boxster series, which was produced from 2005 to 2012.
Porsche 987
"...don't even remember this, he's recently sold his Porsche 987 Spyder and his wife drove an Audi A3 Saloon with ..."
The 928 is a classic sports car from Porsche that has a cool design and a strong engine. It's different from other Porsches and is loved by collectors.
The Porsche 928 is a luxury sports car produced from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, known for its unique design and powerful V8 engine. It was a departure from Porsche's traditional sports cars and has become a classic.
Audi A3
"...his wife drove an Audi A3 Saloon with one toddler."
The Audi A3 Saloon is a small luxury car that is comfortable and has a nice interior. It's a good option for families or individuals who want a stylish car that is also practical.
The Audi A3 Saloon is a compact executive car that combines luxury features with practicality. It offers a range of efficient engines and advanced technology, making it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish yet functional vehicle.
Range Rover Vogue
"I just want to let you both know that I've taken the plunge, says Matthew, and as of this week, put down a deposit on a 2012 4.4-litre TD V8 Range Rover Vogue from respected L322 dealer in the North Cotswolds."
The Range Rover Vogue is a high-end SUV made by Land Rover. The L322 is a specific version of this model that was made between 2002 and 2012, known for being both luxurious and capable off-road.
The Range Rover Vogue is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and premium features. The L322 generation was produced from 2002 to 2012 and is recognized for its blend of luxury and performance.
Peugeot 205
"...ually, I've just, I'm cock-a-hoop because the, my Peugeot 205, the X-Rally car, which is being done up, is, an..."
The 205 CTI is a small, fun car that can be driven with the top down, making it great for sunny days. People like it because it's stylish and enjoyable to drive.
The Peugeot 205 CTI is a convertible version of the popular 205 hatchback, known for its fun driving experience and stylish design. It has a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciate its classic charm.
Hyundai i20
"We've got some stuff on weight. Would you be happier in a high end I-20 or a BMW I-5? I've run both in the past."
The i20 is a small car that's easy to drive around town and doesn't cost too much. It's a good option for people looking for a reliable and budget-friendly vehicle.
The Hyundai i20 is a subcompact hatchback that offers practicality and efficiency, making it a popular choice for city driving. It is known for its affordability and good warranty coverage.
Bmw I5
"We've got some stuff on weight. Would you be happier in a high end I-20 or a BMW I-5? I've run both in the past."
The i5 is an electric car from BMW that is designed to be both fast and eco-friendly. It's part of BMW's effort to make more cars that are good for the environment.
The BMW i5 is an electric sedan that combines BMW's performance heritage with sustainable technology. It represents the brand's commitment to electrification and modern luxury.
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