What Tariffs Mean For Old Cars — The Carmudgeon Show w Jason Cammisa & Derek Tam-Scott — Ep. 187
About this episode
A deep dive into the implications of recent import tariffs on the automotive market, particularly for classic and collector cars. Jason Cammisa and Derek Tam-Scott discuss the volatility in car values, the potential impact on the market, and the challenges faced by enthusiasts looking to import vehicles. They also touch on the legal issues surrounding Volkswagen's removal of features from their cars, stirring a debate on consumer rights and corporate responsibility. The episode is filled with insights on the economic landscape affecting car enthusiasts today.
turbocharged
"I drove something recently that was turbocharged that I had expectations of shitness for and was actually surprisingly good. And surprisingly, so it's a 1980s turbocharged carbureted car."
A turbocharged engine has a special device that helps it produce more power by pushing in extra air. This makes the engine stronger and more efficient.
Turbocharged refers to an engine that uses a turbocharger to increase its power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This allows for better performance without significantly increasing the engine size.
1980s
"surprisingly good. And surprisingly, so it's a 1980s turbocharged carbureted car."
The 1980s is a time period that includes all the years from 1980 to 1989. Cars from this time often had different styles and technologies compared to today.
The 1980s refers to the decade from 1980 to 1989, a period known for significant changes in automotive design, technology, and performance, including the rise of turbocharged engines and increased focus on fuel efficiency.
carbureted
"surprisingly good. And surprisingly, so it's a 1980s turbocharged carbureted car."
A carbureted engine mixes air and fuel using a device called a carburetor. This was how cars used to get fuel before newer systems were invented.
Carbureted refers to an engine that uses a carburetor to mix air and fuel for combustion. This technology was common before fuel injection became the standard in modern vehicles.
British
"British. Yes. British carbureted turbocharged early 80s."
British cars are those made in the UK. They often have special designs and are known for their history and style.
British cars are vehicles manufactured in the United Kingdom, known for their unique designs and engineering. Brands like Aston Martin, Jaguar, and Mini are examples of British automotive heritage.
Lotus Esprit
"I'm an old man. The Esprit, when they were engineering and they wanted it to..."
The Lotus Esprit is a stylish sports car from Britain that was made for many years. It's known for being fun to drive and even appeared in a James Bond movie, which made it quite famous.
The Lotus Esprit is a British sports car that was produced from 1976 to 2004, known for its sleek design and agile handling. It gained fame for its appearances in films, particularly as James Bond's car, making it a significant part of automotive pop culture.
BMW 2002 Turbo
"benchmark other turbocharged cars, which were like the BMW 2002 turbo and the Porsche 930 and the SOB-99 turbo..."
The BMW 2002 Turbo is a small, sporty car that was one of the first to use a turbocharger, making it faster and more powerful. It's a classic model that many car enthusiasts admire.
The BMW 2002 Turbo was one of the first turbocharged production cars, known for its sporty performance and compact design. It played a significant role in establishing BMW's reputation for performance-oriented vehicles.
Porsche 930
"benchmark other turbocharged cars, which were like the BMW 2002 turbo and the Porsche 930 and the SOB-99 turbo..."
The Porsche 930 is a famous version of the 911 sports car that has a turbocharger, giving it extra power and speed. It's well-known among car fans for its performance.
The Porsche 930 is the turbo variant of the G-Series 911, produced from 1975 to 1989. It is known for its distinctive styling and powerful turbocharged engine, which contributed to its iconic status.
boost pressure
"And so they said, let's run pretty light boost pressure. I forget what it was like six or seven or eight pounds of boost, fairly high compression ratio."
Boost pressure is how much extra air is pushed into the engine to help it produce more power. It's usually done with a turbocharger, which helps the engine run better and faster.
Boost pressure refers to the increase in air pressure supplied to the engine's intake, typically achieved through a turbocharger or supercharger. Higher boost pressure can lead to more power but requires careful management to avoid engine damage.
Mercedes-Benz W124 300E
"So we talked about this on the podcast, but I drove that W124-300E with a Muslim on twin turbo setup."
The W124 300E is a model of Mercedes-Benz known for being reliable and well-built. It's part of a series that many car lovers appreciate for its performance and comfort.
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300E is a part of the W124 series, known for its durability and engineering. It features a straight-six engine and is highly regarded among enthusiasts for its balance of performance and comfort.
displacement
"I think remember it's three liters of displacement with two turbos on it."
Displacement is how big an engine is, measured in liters. A bigger displacement usually means more power.
Displacement refers to the total volume of all the cylinders in an engine. It's usually measured in liters and gives an idea of the engine's size and power potential.
fuel injection system
"It just felt like a fuel injection system that wasn't immediate and responsible. Or like a delayed thought."
A fuel injection system is a part of the engine that sends fuel to it in a very controlled way. This helps the engine run better and use less fuel compared to older systems.
A fuel injection system is responsible for delivering fuel to an engine in a precise manner. It replaces older carburetor systems and allows for better fuel efficiency and performance by controlling the amount of fuel injected based on engine needs.
volume of air
"look, it's all about the volume of air you have to accelerate."
The volume of air is how much air an engine can take in. More air means the engine can burn more fuel, which helps it produce more power.
The volume of air refers to the amount of air that an engine can intake, which is crucial for combustion. More air allows for more fuel to be burned, leading to greater power output and efficiency.
carburetors
"And so they were like, we put everything really close to the carburetors so that there's just a very small, minimized volume and like a small intake manifold."
Carburetors help engines get the right mix of air and fuel to run. They're mostly found in older cars since newer ones use a different system called fuel injection.
Carburetors are devices that mix air with a fine spray of liquid fuel for internal combustion engines. They were commonly used in older vehicles before fuel injection became the standard.
intake manifold
"...there's just a very small, minimized volume and like a small intake manifold. So there's not a lot of air in there that has to be accelerated."
The intake manifold is a part of the engine that helps send air and fuel to the engine's cylinders. It's important for how well the engine runs.
The intake manifold is a component that distributes the air/fuel mixture to the engine's cylinders. It plays a crucial role in engine performance and efficiency.
Volkswagen Egolf
"...in the case of the e-Golf. So internet connectivity for the car..."
The e-Golf is a version of the Volkswagen Golf that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. It's designed to be more eco-friendly and has features that help with driving and charging.
The Volkswagen e-Golf is an electric version of the popular Golf hatchback, designed for environmentally conscious drivers. It features electric motors and battery technology, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Carnet
"...it's Volkswagen's product called Carnet, which was incredibly poorly done, but still worked..."
Carnet is a service from Volkswagen that helps you connect your car to the internet and use features like tracking where your car is or accessing certain apps.
Carnet is Volkswagen's connected car service that provides features like remote vehicle access, location tracking, and internet connectivity for their vehicles. It aims to enhance the driving experience through technology.
charging management
"It also has break-in alerts. And for me, the most important thing with the eGolf was you can manage charging."
Charging management is about controlling how and when you charge your electric car. It lets you set times for charging and check how much battery you have left.
Charging management refers to the systems and features that allow drivers to control how and when their electric vehicle charges. This can include scheduling charging times, starting or stopping charging remotely, and monitoring battery status.
climate control system
"And specifically, doesn't have a climate control system that's different from the gas burning Mark Seven Golfs."
A climate control system helps keep the inside of the car warm or cool. It controls the air temperature and flow to make sure everyone inside is comfortable.
A climate control system in a vehicle regulates the temperature and airflow inside the cabin, allowing for a comfortable driving experience. It can include features like air conditioning and heating, which are essential for passenger comfort.
Volkswagen Golfs
"that's different from the gas burning Mark Seven Golfs. It just has a small coolant reservoir"
The Mark Seven Golf is a version of the Volkswagen Golf, a small car that many people use for everyday driving. It's known for being reliable and easy to handle.
The Mark Seven Golf is a generation of the Volkswagen Golf, a popular compact car known for its practicality and performance. The Mark Seven refers to the seventh iteration of this model, which was produced from 2012 to 2019.
coolant reservoir
"It just has a small coolant reservoir and a five kilowatt heater."
A coolant reservoir is a container in your car that holds a special liquid called coolant. This liquid helps keep the engine from getting too hot while it runs.
A coolant reservoir is a tank that holds the coolant fluid used in a vehicle's cooling system. This fluid helps regulate the engine temperature and prevents overheating by circulating through the engine and radiator.
five kilowatt heater
"and a five kilowatt heater. And it circulates this coolant through that system"
A five kilowatt heater is a device that makes heat using electricity. It's used in some cars to warm up the inside quickly, especially in electric vehicles.
A five kilowatt heater is an electric heating element that can produce a significant amount of heat, typically used in electric vehicles or as a supplemental heating source. It converts electrical energy into heat to warm the cabin or other components of the vehicle.
wasteful
"It's wasteful because of how it's done. It's not heating the air directly."
When something is called 'wasteful' in cars, it means it's using more energy or resources than it should. This can make the car less efficient and cost more to run.
In automotive terms, 'wasteful' refers to processes or systems that consume more energy or resources than necessary, often leading to inefficiency. This can apply to fuel consumption, energy use, or other operational aspects of a vehicle.
Porsche 911
"...ent away. As did the automatic, you know, calling 911, sort of on-star. He kind of the thing."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that many people admire for its speed and unique shape. It's been around for a long time and is known for being very well-made and fun to drive.
The Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 1964. Renowned for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout, it has become an icon in the automotive world, often discussed for its engineering excellence and racing pedigree.
OnStar
"...like on-star or whatever they call it, equivalent in terms of accident notification actually has like a meaningful safety implication."
OnStar is a service that helps drivers with safety and information. It can call for help if there's an accident and gives directions or checks the car's health.
OnStar is a subscription-based service that provides in-vehicle safety, security, and connectivity features. It includes services like automatic crash response, navigation assistance, and vehicle diagnostics, enhancing safety and convenience for drivers.
warranty
"...the service was included for X amount of time while my car was under warranty for charging purpose."
A warranty is like a promise from the car maker that they'll fix certain problems for free if they happen within a certain time or distance. Here, it lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
A warranty is a guarantee provided by the manufacturer or dealer that covers certain repairs or services for a specified period or mileage. In this case, the warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles, meaning the car owner is protected against certain defects or issues during that time.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
"...this would be now my niece's GTI, which is also a 17,..."
The Volkswagen GTI is a fun and fast car that many people enjoy driving. It's a hatchback, which means it has a lot of space inside, making it practical for everyday use.
The Volkswagen GTI is a sporty hatchback known for its performance and practicality. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts and is often praised for its engaging driving experience.
3G network
"...we informed you of AT&T's decision to sunset its 3G network, including in the loss of connectivity..."
A 3G network is a type of mobile internet that was commonly used for smartphones and connected cars. It's being replaced by faster networks like 4G and 5G, which offer better speeds and connectivity.
A 3G network is a third-generation mobile telecommunications technology that provides faster data transfer speeds compared to previous generations. It has been widely used for mobile internet access but is being phased out in favor of newer technologies like 4G and 5G.
BMW 850 CSI
"So last week, a Euro spec, 34,000 kilometer, 850 CSI, that looks very much like my same color combo. Sold on Brake Trailer for $211,000, plus fee."
The BMW 850 CSI is a special version of the 8 Series car that has a very powerful engine and is designed for both speed and comfort. It's a luxury sports car that many enthusiasts admire.
The BMW 850 CSI is a high-performance variant of the 8 Series, known for its powerful V12 engine and luxurious features. It represents a blend of sports car performance and grand touring comfort.
Mercedes-Benz So Mercedesbenz
"and so it would detox, you know, 2.5%, rather than 25%. And so Mercedes-Benz, and I think Ford also used to bring passenger cargo vans with seats over, and they would come in as passenger vans, they would then remove the seats,"
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible car that has been around for a long time. It's known for being stylish and fun to drive, making it a symbol of luxury.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster that has been a part of the Mercedes lineup since 1952, known for its performance and elegant design. It is often discussed for its status as a symbol of luxury and engineering excellence.
BMW E30
"...ving your car. You're like, so when I brought the E30 in, I rode it. But I pulled the fuel pump relay."
The BMW 3 Series is a popular car that combines luxury and sportiness. It's known for being fun to drive and is often chosen by people who want a nice car for both work and play.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been a staple of the BMW lineup since 1975. Known for its sporty handling and luxurious features, it is often discussed for its balance of performance and everyday usability.
Ferrari F40S
"...car, which would be, you know, your kuntoshes and F40s and Shorako's 2300 pounds and low."
The Ferrari F40 is a super-fast sports car that was made in the late 1980s and is famous for being very light and powerful. It's considered a classic and is loved by car fans around the world.
The Ferrari F40 is a legendary supercar produced between 1987 and 1992, celebrated for its extreme performance and lightweight design. It is often discussed for its status as one of the last cars personally approved by Enzo Ferrari and its iconic design.
Ferrari 599 GTO
"...paid for by Ferrari because I was going to drive 599 GTO. I will never forget that just to get my fat has over there and back was less expensive than..."
The Ferrari 599 GTO is a fast sports car made by Ferrari. It's designed for racing and has a really powerful engine, which makes it exciting to drive.
The Ferrari 599 GTO is a high-performance sports car that was produced by Ferrari. It is known for its powerful V12 engine and track-focused design, making it one of the most celebrated models in Ferrari's history.
Fiat 130
"...ars that I really would like to do this with is a Fiat 130 sedan. A great Fiat 130 sedan, 20,000 euros."
The Fiat 130 3200 Coupe is a vintage car from Italy that was made in the 1970s. It's known for looking nice and being comfortable to drive, making it special for collectors.
The Fiat 130 3200 Coupe is a classic Italian grand tourer produced in the 1970s, known for its elegant design and comfortable ride. It is often discussed among classic car enthusiasts for its rarity and unique styling.
BMW 550S
"... say this is true for Ari's two of this era, like 550s and stuff. A US car is probably more valuable, be..."
The BMW 5 Series is a nice car that offers a mix of luxury and sporty driving. It's popular among people who want a comfortable car that also performs well.
The BMW 5 Series is a mid-size luxury sedan that has been in production since 1972, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. It is often discussed for its role as a benchmark in the executive car segment.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...op? Derek, the gardener from registering his 1989 Silverado, work truck as with classic car insurance on it a..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that people use for work and everyday tasks. It's known for being strong and able to carry heavy loads, making it a favorite among truck lovers.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that has been a leading choice for both work and personal use since its introduction in 1998. Its durability and versatility make it a common topic of discussion among truck enthusiasts and those looking for a reliable work vehicle.
Land Range River
"...20 years or so of cars. Stuff like, I don't know, Range River L3-22s, and really extraordinary BMW 7 Series E38..."
BMW E38S
"...ver L3-22s, and really extraordinary BMW 7 Series E38s, or this stuff that transitioned from being $7,50..."
The BMW 7 Series is a large, fancy car that offers a lot of comfort and high-tech features. It's known for being very luxurious and is often chosen by people who want a top-of-the-line vehicle.
The BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan that has been a flagship model for BMW since 1977. It is often discussed for its advanced technology, luxurious features, and powerful performance, representing the pinnacle of BMW's engineering.
BMW E46M3S
"...as much of that. What was it recently that I, oh, E46M3s, E39M5, so worth half of what they were a year ag..."
The BMW M3 is a super sporty version of the regular BMW 3 Series. It's known for being really fast and fun to drive, which makes it popular with car fans.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, first introduced in the 1980s. It is celebrated for its powerful engines and sporty handling, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and racers.
Buick Rainier
"... generated our own storm clouds. It keeps getting rainier and stormier here on the Car Mudge Show. Join us ..."
The Buick Rainier is a comfortable SUV that was made in the early 2000s. It's known for being nice to drive and has a lot of space for families.
The Buick Rainier is a mid-size SUV that was produced from 2004 to 2007, known for its comfortable ride and upscale features. It is often discussed for its blend of practicality and luxury, appealing to families and those seeking a refined driving experience.
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