CarStuff artwork

CarStuff

852 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 2 years ago - ★★★★ - 541 ratings

Did 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.

Automotive Leisure History
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Episodes

The CarStuff Pickup Truck Roundup

September 30, 2014 13:00 - 52 minutes - 48 MB

It's time for a truck episode, and the guys are pulling out all the stops with dozens of little-known facts, trivia and more. Tune in to hear more about everything truck-related. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Trainload of Bugattis

September 25, 2014 13:00 - 57 minutes - 52.3 MB

In 1964, collector Fritz Schlumpf (of France) bought 30 Bugattis -- the largest collection in the U.S. at the time -- from John W. Shakespeare (of Illinois) and had them shipped to Europe. Schlumpf reportedly carried a whip to keep curious onlookers away from the valuable cars as they arrived. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to Escape a Sinking Car

September 23, 2014 13:00 - 44 minutes - 41.2 MB

While it might sound like an extremely easy escape (for example, "just open the door and swim"), the real answer might not be as simple. Listen in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dodge Story (Part 2)

September 18, 2014 13:00 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MB

Join Scott and Ben as they continue their discussion of the Dodge Brothers and the fascinating history behind the Dodge brand. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dodge Story (Part 1)

September 16, 2014 18:00 - 28 minutes - 25.8 MB

Where did the Dodge company come from? How did it get started, and who exactly are the Dodge brothers? Join Scott and Ben as they celebrate Dodge's 100th anniversary in this special episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bullpen Cars

September 11, 2014 13:00 - 37 minutes - 34.5 MB

Sure, nowadays it sounds weird to think that professional athletes would hitch a ride across the playing field; but in their day, bullpen cars were local legends. Join Scott and Ben to learn more about the rise and fall of bullpen cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What the heck is Uber?

September 09, 2014 13:00 - 50 minutes - 46.4 MB

Uber is the new rival to traditional cabs - just summon an Uber car on your app and the fare automatically deducts from your account. No tipping, no crazy long wait and no hassle (in theory). So how does it work, and why do other cab companies hate it? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cars of the King

September 04, 2014 13:01 - 55 minutes - 50.8 MB

And by 'King' we mean Elvis, of course. Tune in to learn all about Elvis Presley's extensive car collection. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 of the World's Biggest Car Shows

September 02, 2014 18:03 - 35 minutes - 32.8 MB

Sure, there are plenty of big car shows around the world, but which ones are the biggest? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shriner Cars

August 28, 2014 22:07 - 44 minutes - 40.4 MB

It's tough to miss the Shriners in any parade -- their customized cars are natural attention-getters, and a great way to raise awareness of their hospital programs. But how do you get a Shriner car of your own? Listen in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 1947 Norman Timbs Special

August 26, 2014 20:04 - 40 minutes - 37 MB

With a 1948 Buick straight-eight engine, "Compound Carburetion" and dual exhausts hidden within a show-stopping, streamlined exterior, the 1947 Norman Timbs Special inspired thousands of designers across the world. Tune in to learn more about it. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connecting Your Car to the Cloud

August 21, 2014 21:26 - 49 minutes - 45.6 MB

Move over, Knight Rider: you've got nothing on the cars of the future. Join Scott and Ben as they talk about the good, the bad and the ugly of a future where every car is connected via the cloud. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donk Cars

August 19, 2014 18:34 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MB

You may not know the name, but trust us: You've seen them. What is it about the huge wheels and garish themes that make donk cars so controversial? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top 10 Dream Cars for Dads

August 14, 2014 13:37 - 34 minutes - 31.9 MB

Many fathers think that when the kids come along, the high-performance cars have to go. But that's not always true. Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at several dream cars for Dads. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Used Cars to Avoid

August 12, 2014 20:26 - 51 minutes - 47.3 MB

Buying used can save you money, but buying badly is never a good idea. So which types of used cars should you avoid -- and which red flags can let you know when a car's a lemon? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 1936 Stout Scarab

August 07, 2014 16:15 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MB

While it's hailed as a masterpiece today, the Stout Scarab was originally mocked for its appearance. So what makes this weird-looking car so unique? Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look under the hood of the world's first minivan. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 1941 Chrysler Thunderbolt

August 05, 2014 16:00 - 36 minutes - 33.3 MB

The Thunderbolt is a study in aerodynamics and minimalist art. With features that were decades ahead of its time, this concept car stands out as one of the most interesting vehicles in Chrysler's history. So what happened to it? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's The Most Underrated American Muscle Car?

July 31, 2014 20:25 - 28 minutes - 26.1 MB

From Road Runners to Torinos, muscle cars are all about performance and power. But, while you may have heard of the big names in muscle cars, there's a huge group of lesser-known contenders. Tune in as Scott and Ben search for the most underrated American muscle car. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Surprisingly Affordable (Used) Sports Cars

July 29, 2014 18:38 - 26 minutes - 23.9 MB

Have you ever wanted a sports car, but looked at the price tag and said "no way?" If so, then tune in, because Scott and Ben have some good news for you. Not only are there loads of surprisingly affordable sports cars on the market -- but there are also top-notch exotics, near-classics and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would you ride an electric Harley-Davidson?

July 24, 2014 14:18 - 26 minutes - 24.8 MB

As odd as it might sound to people outside the biking world, Harley-Davidson really is famous for the "potato-potato-potato" sound of its engines. So it's no surprise that analysts and purists alike are skeptical about Project LiveWire, Harley's new, all-electric motorcycle concept. But what is it, exactly? How does it work? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nuts and Bolts: The 11th Hour

July 22, 2014 18:08 - 51 minutes - 47.6 MB

Have you written an email, facebook message or tweet to Scott and Ben? If so, tune in, because you just might be a guest on their continuing Nuts and Bolts segment. Each episode of Nuts and Bolts is a grab bag of fascinating trivia, fan mail, Stuff Scott Sees and other stuff too interesting to not make it on the air. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you need a dash cam?

July 17, 2014 14:40 - 43 minutes - 40 MB

Law enforcement uses dash cams, and YouTube is full of shocking videos from privately-owned Russian dashcams. But what purpose do they serve? Which ones have the best ratings? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Driving a Parade Float

July 15, 2014 19:54 - 35 minutes - 32.5 MB

From small towns to big cities, it seems that somewhere across the world there's a parade happening almost every day of the year. And driving those parade floats is a little trickier than you might imagine. Tune in to learn more with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jeep Story (Part 2)

July 10, 2014 20:15 - 41 minutes - 38.5 MB

Join Scott and Ben as they continue their discussion of the Jeep brand and its fascinating history. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jeep Story (Part 1)

July 08, 2014 19:58 - 37 minutes - 34.1 MB

Nowadays it seems Jeeps are everywhere - but where did they come from? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the past, present, and future of all things Jeep. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Car Mileage Milestones

July 03, 2014 17:07 - 37 minutes - 34.1 MB

How closely should you follow a manufacturer's recommended check-up schedule? Do cars have an expiration mileage? What's the highest mileage a car's ever achieved? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handcar Regatta and Speeder Cars

July 01, 2014 18:29 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MB

It's true - people not only use handcars, but actually race them in the modern day. Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at one of the strangest races in California. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stance Cars: Love 'em or Hate 'em?

June 26, 2014 13:00 - 46 minutes - 42.3 MB

Do lower cars really look better? Is it worth the hassle to drop your ride and transform it into a stance car? Tune in as Scott and Ben take a closer look at the pros and cons of stance cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Smart Rearview Mirrors Work

June 24, 2014 20:12 - 32 minutes - 29.5 MB

What's the future of the rearview mirror? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the ins and outs of smart rearview mirrors. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One More Thing ...

June 19, 2014 18:42 - 1 hour - 63.9 MB

Scott and Ben always have a few more things to add in every episode, and one day they discovered that they'd piled up enough tidbits, tips, tricks and anecdotes for an entire episode. So tune into CarStuff's Short Attention Span Auto Show to learn more about everything from Packards to Porsches. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will solar highways power our future?

June 17, 2014 20:55 - 51 minutes - 47.5 MB

A recent IndieGoGo campaign raised more than 2 million dollars for one purpose: Installing solar panels in roads. But here's the weirdest part -- it's not quite as crazy as it sounds. Could it actually work? Listen in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gray-Market Cars

June 12, 2014 18:13 - 42 minutes - 38.7 MB

You may have to cut through some red tape, but if you live in North America (and if you're up for the challenge), some of the hottest European and Japanese cars of the late 1980s and early 1990s are now available as gray-market imports. Why is there a 15-year wait in Canada and a 25-year wait in the U.S.? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the 10 Cheapest New Cars?

June 10, 2014 19:38 - 43 minutes - 40.1 MB

Just because a buck doesn't go as far as it used to doesn't mean the days of cheap cars are over. In fact, there are new, low-priced cars coming out every single year (even in the U.S.). But what do you get for all that scratch? Is it worth it to buy a cheaper car? Tune in and learn more with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have automated car features gone too far?

June 05, 2014 13:00 - 55 minutes - 50.9 MB

From cruise control to assisted parallel parking, the modern auto is chock-full of automated processes, number-crunching software and other predictive tech. But how much do you use -- and how much is too much? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 10 Fastest Cars in the World

June 03, 2014 20:53 - 47 minutes - 44 MB

Every year the world's top carmakers vie for the coveted land speed record, and the past few years have been no different. But who's in the running now? How much will one of these cars cost you -- and, most importantly, who's number 1? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pic-Pic: The Mystery Car of the Geneva Motor Show

May 29, 2014 16:21 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MB

During the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, casual fans and experts alike were baffled by a mysterious car shuttling VIPs back and forth across the event. So what the heck is a Pic-Pic, and where did it come from? Join Ben and Scott as they break down the facts. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Superstitions From the World of Motor Racing

May 27, 2014 20:31 - 53 minutes - 48.7 MB

Some football players refuse to wear new socks before a big game, and some baseball stars refuse to wash their clothes after a win. Overall, athletes can be a pretty superstitious bunch -- and race car drivers are no different. Tune in to learn more about racing superstitions with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you live near a "secret" car collection?

May 22, 2014 17:04 - 41 minutes - 38.5 MB

It's true: The Smithsonian has a 'secret' stash of cars from across automotive history, including rarities like Tucker, Miller race cars and more. But that's not the only show in town. Join Scott and Ben as they explore some of the world's largest secret car collections. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last Ride of the Puffing Devil

May 20, 2014 14:38 - 40 minutes - 37.2 MB

In the days before horseless carriages, interstates and even locomotives, the Puffing Devil made history as the first passenger-carrying, horseless, steam-powered "road locomotive." But where did it come from, and where is it today? Listen in to learn more with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrity Race Car Drivers

May 15, 2014 13:00 - 50 minutes - 46.7 MB

Celebrities are just people, like anyone else. And quite a few of them, as it turns out, also love racing. Listen in to learn more about celebrity race drivers, from Walter Cronkite to Patrick Dempsey and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stealth Hybrid Motorcycles

May 13, 2014 19:47 - 30 minutes - 28.4 MB

Let's face it: You don't often hear the words "stealth" and "motorcycle" together. Bikes are meant to be loud ... at least, that is, until now. Tune in to learn how hybrid technology and motorcycles are merging into a never-before-seen vehicle. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can your car tell you when the light's about to change?

May 08, 2014 13:00 - 36 minutes - 33.4 MB

Will future cars be able to time your next drive perfectly, allowing you to sail through crowded traffic on a sea of green lights? It sounds like science fiction -- but soon it may become as common as turn signals. Listen in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Ways to Spot a Flood-damaged Car

May 06, 2014 17:53 - 42 minutes - 38.5 MB

For unfortunate car buyers, a flood-damaged car can be a catastrophe. So how can you avoid paying for one of these rolling disasters? Learn the tips and tricks of avoiding unscrupulous dealers -- and figuring out whether the car you're paying for is really worth the price. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bizarre Rise and Fall of the Dale Car (Part 2)

May 01, 2014 20:53 - 34 minutes - 31.9 MB

What happened to the miraculous promise of the Dale car, and why did its charismatic promoter compare herself to Henry Ford and Preston Tucker? Join Scott and Ben as they continue their discussion of this peculiar piece of automotive history. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bizarre Rise and Fall of the Dale Car (Part 1)

April 30, 2014 01:12 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MB

At first glance, it sounds too good to be true: a three-wheeled car with fantastic mileage, minimal wiring and almost unbelievable efficiency. So what happened to the miraculous promise of the Dale car, and why did its charismatic promoter compare herself to Preston Tucker? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can you buy a car from a vending machine?

April 24, 2014 19:04 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MB

In the U.S., most people only see vending machines that sell snacks and beverages -- but that's not the case everywhere. Join Scott and Ben as they give you the facts on China's auto vending machine. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carburetor vs. Fuel Injection

April 22, 2014 19:23 - 45 minutes - 41.6 MB

Carburetors and fuel injection systems both control the mixture of air and fuel that goes to an engine -- but how do they work? What's the difference? Listen in and learn more with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When should I replace my car?

April 17, 2014 14:15 - 43 minutes - 39.5 MB

How do you know when to stop pouring money into repairs on your tried-and-true daily driver? At what point is it better to chuck your old ride and buy something else? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Cars You (Probably) Haven't Heard Of (Part 2)

April 15, 2014 16:46 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MB

History is chock-full of strange and interesting cars that, for one reason or another, are nearly forgotten in the present day. Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at some of history's most obscure cars in the second part of this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Cars You (Probably) Haven't Heard Of (Part 1)

April 10, 2014 21:24 - 38 minutes - 35.3 MB

Ever heard of the Muntz Jet? How about the Powell Sport Wagon? History is chock-full of strange and interesting cars that, for one reason or another, are nearly forgotten in the present day. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.