CarStuff
852 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 2 years ago - ★★★★ - 541 ratingsDid Bonnie and Clyde really write to Henry Ford to thank him for his fast, reliable getaway cars? Do you ever wonder what happens at the DirtFish Rally School? What's a tether car? The CarStuff show has explored these and literally hundreds of other fascinating topics to explain how some of the most amazing machines on land, sea and air actually work. So whether you want to know more about hearses or circus trains, salt flat racers or the popemobile, Scott Benjamin has you covered.
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Episodes
From the Ground to the Gas Pump
November 01, 2012 20:58 - 32 minutes - 29.4 MBGlobal industries depend on oil and petroleum products in numerous surprising ways. In fact, gasoline is only one of the products made during the refining process. So what happens when we refine crude oil? How does it get from the ground to the gas pump? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why is NASA studying car safety?
October 30, 2012 19:57 - 13 minutes - 12 MBIt's no surprise that NASA has some of the world's best engineers. In fact, private companies occasionally ask NASA for help with some of their most difficult engineering issues. In this podcast, Scott and Ben take a look at NASA's work with Toyota. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Story of the Nürburgring
October 25, 2012 18:51 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MBThe tracks of the Nürburgring are legendary, and it's one of the premier testing sites for numerous automakers around the globe. But where did the Nürburgring come from, and how did it become so iconic? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the Nürburgring. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can I live in my car?
October 23, 2012 17:19 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MBIt's true: Thousands of people live (or have lived) in their cars. In this episode, Scott and Ben take a closer look at the dos and don'ts of living in a car, from where to park to safety, planning and more. Tune in to learn more about living in a car. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Animal Cars
October 18, 2012 20:19 - 32 minutes - 29.6 MBScott and Ben have talked about the strange - and surprisingly tough - business of naming cars, but there's another category they didn't get to cover the first time around: cars named after animals. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Story of the Vintage Mobile Cinema
October 16, 2012 16:57 - 19 minutes - 17.6 MBWhen the British Ministry of Technology wanted to encourage productivity and promote national industry, they took an unorthodox approach: Mobile cinema. In this podcast, Scott and Ben recount the story of the British mobile cinema fleet. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What will race cars look like in 2025?
October 11, 2012 19:52 - 23 minutes - 21.9 MBThe engineers and drivers of race cars constantly push the limit, and sometimes their innovations become commonplace in mainstream vehicles. So what can we expect from race cars in the future? Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Super Terrain Vehicles
October 09, 2012 17:03 - 20 minutes - 18.8 MBYou may have heard of all-terrain vehicles, but what about super terrain vehicles? In this podcast, Ben and Scott check out the newest -- and strangest -- combination of luxury and security vehicles. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Life and Legacy of Harley Earl
October 04, 2012 20:09 - 40 minutes - 36.8 MBWhile you may not have heard of Harley Earl before now, you're certainly familiar with his work. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the innovations of this groundbreaking visionary, and how he fundamentally changed the world of automobiles. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is 16 too young too young to drive?
October 02, 2012 20:45 - 24 minutes - 22.1 MBIn the United States, teenagers typically start driving legally at the age of 16. But is that too young? Some people think so. In this episode, Scott and Ben weigh the arguments for and against raising the licensing age. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Car Names Work
September 25, 2012 17:50 - 30 minutes - 27.7 MBIt's tough to name a car: In one phrase, a manufacturer must evoke powerful feelings within minds of car buyers around the world. Some car names are very successful, and some are real stinkers. But what makes a car name good or bad? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Most Expensive Car Gear
September 20, 2012 18:56 - 48 minutes - 44.8 MBFrom week-long car washes to diamond-studded keychains, the world of luxury automobiles is rife with outrageous displays of wealth. Listen in as Scott and Ben check out the world's most expensive license plates, oil changes and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Autobahn: Fact or Fiction?
September 18, 2012 19:08 - 34 minutes - 31.9 MBThe German highway system, or Autobahn, is synonymous with speed. But are there really no limits? What about rules? In this episode, Scott and Ben sort the fact from the fiction as they take a look at the Autobahn. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jet-powered Vehicles (That Aren't Jets)
September 13, 2012 21:48 - 52 minutes - 48 MBJet engines aren't just for jets anymore. Thanks to the work of intrepid engineers across the planet, jet engines can be found in everything from conventional cars to ...well, we don't want to spoil the surprise. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you need an international driver's license?
September 11, 2012 19:14 - 19 minutes - 18.2 MBIf you're planning to drive in a foreign country, you might need an international driver's license -- but what exactly is it? How do you apply for it? Tune in and learn more about these licenses -- and whether or not you need one -- in this podcast. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Remote Keyless Entry Works
September 06, 2012 18:50 - 43 minutes - 39.6 MBNowadays more and more cars use remote keyless entry technology - but what happens when you push the unlock button on your car's keychain fob? How secure is the technology? How come your fob doesn't unlock every car in range? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Go-karts Work
September 04, 2012 17:00 - 15 minutes - 14.7 MBFor kids across America, a go-kart may be the first motorized vehicle they get a chance to drive. Listen in as Scott and Ben take a look at the science and construction of go-karts in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How to Find an Honest Mechanic
August 28, 2012 16:05 - 40 minutes - 37.1 MBWhen it comes to choosing a mechanic, most people want someone who's both skilled and trustworthy. But how can you tell if your mechanic is honest? Scott and Ben share some tips and suggestions in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hubcap Art
August 23, 2012 17:17 - 38 minutes - 34.9 MBWhether they're littering the roadside or piling up at your local junkyard, hubcaps are everywhere. For some, these are just glorified bits of scrap. For other people, however, they're much more than junk. In fact, they're a canvas. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Driverless Cars Will Work
August 21, 2012 18:21 - 21 minutes - 20 MBDriverless cars were once the stuff of science fiction. However, as technology improves, computer-driven vehicles might be coming to a street near you. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about the pros and cons of driverless cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Mars Curiosity Rover
August 16, 2012 19:31 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBThe Mars Curiosity Rover is one the most ambitious projects in human history -- and it's also taking one of humanity's strangest road trips. Listen in to learn more about the Curiosity. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How a Concours d'Elegance Works
August 14, 2012 18:18 - 23 minutes - 21.7 MBKnown as the world's most prestigious car exhibition, the Concours d'Elegance is an invitation-only competition for the best of the best. Get the details on this amazing car show -- and learn how to snag a ticket -- in this episode of CarStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Exhaust Systems Work
August 09, 2012 21:21 - 21 minutes - 19.8 MBEveryone knows that internal-combustion engines generate exhaust, but what takes it from your engine to the muffler safely? Tune in as Scott and Ben break down the nuts, bolts -- and possible future -- of your car's exhaust system. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Drifting and Car Control
August 07, 2012 19:33 - 20 minutes - 18.8 MBA drifting car literally slides around turns, moving from one to the next as the wheels continue spinning. This dangerous maneuver requires the right car, swift reflexes and steely nerves. Learn more about drifting in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What's a buckboard car?
August 02, 2012 18:56 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MBIn the early years of the 20th century, a very unusual car dominated the U.S. market. It didn't have the perks of a Model T (it didn't even have a roof or doors) but it was also the cheapest car in the world. Listen in to learn more about buckboard cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Garage Designs
July 31, 2012 17:21 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBGarages are intended for storing and protecting cars, but people utilize them in many different ways. Some garages are cluttered, some are well-organized and some don't even have cars in them! Scott and Ben swap ideas for garage designs in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Hennessey Venom GT
July 26, 2012 12:54 - 35 minutes - 33 MBDo you think Vipers are a little too slow? Are most supercars just not up to snuff? If so, you may want to consider the Hennessey Venom GT. Join Scott and Ben as they recount the stort, stats and astonishing speed of John Hennessey's amazing car. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Taking A Car Out of Storage
July 24, 2012 14:36 - 23 minutes - 21.4 MBDo you have a car in storage? Are you ready to take it out on the road? In the second installment of a two-part series, Scott and Ben break down the steps car owners use when taking their vehicles out of storage. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 Places to Look for Classic Car Parts
July 19, 2012 18:41 - 34 minutes - 31.2 MBWhen it comes to restoring cars, parts can be an issue -- and the older a car is, the tougher it can be to find pristine, original parts. Luckily, there are several great sources for classic car parts. Tune in as Scott and Ben break down the top ten. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unusual Races
July 17, 2012 15:50 - 40 minutes - 37.3 MBRacing isn't restricted to boats, bikes and autos. From motorized bar stools to sprinting dachshunds, the world of racing is full of unusual competitions. Check in with Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at some of the world's weirdest races. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Cars Come Back
July 12, 2012 19:07 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MBFrom the Fiat to the Challenger, automotive history is full of cars that were discontinued only to re-emerge as hallmarks of retro design. In this episode, Scott and Ben delve into the world of car comebacks (including a few cars that never really left). Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Popemobile
July 10, 2012 15:54 - 30 minutes - 28.4 MBInformally dubbed the "Popemobile," the Pope's personal conveyance is a rather unique vehicle. In this episode, Scott and Ben explore the history and features of the vehicles that have served as the Pope's personal means of transport over the years. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lazareth Wazuma: Your New Batcycle?
July 05, 2012 19:30 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MBIt's not a car. It's not a bike, either. In fact, the Lazareth Wazuma is a beast all its own. So how does it work? Who built it? And will it help you look like Batman? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the Lazareth Wazuma in this brand-new episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
July 03, 2012 17:02 - 26 minutes - 24.7 MBPike's Peak International Hill Climb is not your ordinary race. Tune in as Scott and Ben explore the dangers, thrills, and physical demands behind this high-altitude race. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rotary Engines
June 28, 2012 18:06 - 25 minutes - 23.9 MBIn this installment of a continuing series on engines, the guys take a closer look at the rotary engine. Tune in as Scott and Ben break down the details of the rotary engine -- including its advantages and disadvantages -- in this podcast. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Unlikely Flight of the Helicopter
June 26, 2012 18:20 - 26 minutes - 24.1 MBMost people know a little bit about the history of airplanes. However, the history of the helicopter is remarkably complex. In this episode, Scott and Ben unravel the evolution of vertical flight, from its origins in China to the present day. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Tanks Work
June 21, 2012 17:36 - 29 minutes - 27 MBMost people would recognize a tank if it rolled its way into their vicinity. But how do these massive, military vehicles work? Scott and Ben tackle the history, evolution and mechanics of tanks in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Idle-Stop Systems
June 19, 2012 17:11 - 17 minutes - 16.2 MBAn idling car is remarkably inefficient, and gets zero miles per gallon. Luckily, idle-stop systems might be the next step in car technology, saving drivers millions of dollars. Join Scott and Ben as they break down the science behind idle-stop systems. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The DIY Car Care Kit
June 14, 2012 21:40 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MBFather's Day is coming up, and once again Ben waited 'til the last minute to search for a gift. Luckily, Scott's got some advice about a gift that could be perfect for dads and drivers alike. Learn more about DIY car care kits in this brand-new episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How long does it take to build a Ferrari?
June 12, 2012 17:00 - 27 minutes - 24.9 MBFor decades, Ferrari has been building some of the most impressive and unique cars in the world -- but how do they actually craft these vehicles? Join Scott and Ben as they take a behind-the-scenes look at Ferrari manufacturing. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Gumball 3000 Road Rally
June 07, 2012 15:00 - 28 minutes - 26.2 MBFilled with celebrities and devoid of prizes, the Gumball 3000 is far from the average road rally. Tune in as Ben and Scott explore the Gumball 3000 in this listener-inspired episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why doesn't everybody drive on the right?
June 05, 2012 18:32 - 38 minutes - 35.7 MBIn some countries, you drive on the right side of the road; in others, the left. But why? And what's the deal with right-hand and left-hand drive cars? Scott and Ben examine the history of right- and left-side driving, controls and more in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Top Fuel Dragsters
May 31, 2012 15:19 - 29 minutes - 27.3 MBTop fuel dragsters are one of the world's most extreme racing classes, but how do they work? Learn the details of top fuel drag-racing -- from the quarter-mile track to the burnout and more -- in this episode of CarStuff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hand Controls for Drivers
May 29, 2012 16:32 - 21 minutes - 19.4 MBStandard motor vehicles have foot controls for braking and accelerating, but hand controls also exist for drivers who can't use their feet. Scott and Ben discuss different kinds of hand-controlled devices for drivers in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can I drive to the North Pole?
May 24, 2012 16:11 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MBContinuing their series on offroading, Scott and Ben take a look at the polar vehicles used to navigate the extreme ends of the Earth, from the south pole to the north. Tune in and learn more about polar vehicles in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Off Road Basics
May 22, 2012 17:37 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MBHave you ever been mudding? How about rock crawling or green laning? If so, you've been off-roading. Join Scott and Ben as they break down some basic off-roading techniques in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can I still drive Route 66?
May 17, 2012 18:36 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MBAs Route 66 traversed the continent from Chicago to Los Angeles, it passed through numerous small towns in eight states. In this episode, Scott and Ben take a closer look at Route 66: its purpose, its history, and, ultimately, its demise. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is MPG the best way to measure fuel efficiency?
May 15, 2012 19:24 - 16 minutes - 15.3 MBIn the United States, a vehicle's fuel efficiency is rated in terms of miles per gallon, or MPG. But is this the best way to calculate fuel economy? Listen in as Scott and Ben explore an alternative measure of fuel efficiency in this podcast. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Few Unusual Car Stories
May 10, 2012 17:51 - 39 minutes - 36.6 MBEvery car has story -- and some are stranger than others. In this episode, Scott and Ben take a look at some of the weirdest car stories in history, from Archduke Franz Ferdinand's ill-fated Phaeton to Cobra Roadsters. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Driving Laws No One Follows
May 08, 2012 17:11 - 33 minutes - 30.5 MBDoes anyone really stay under the speed limit, all of the time? How often do drivers neglect their turn signals? From tailgating to illegal turns and rolling stops, Ben and Scott take a look at the driving laws that no one follows in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.