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
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

The Honda Story

October 15, 2013 19:04 - 49 minutes

How did a small bicycle customizer grow to become one of the world's most well-known engine manufacturers? Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at the origin of Honda in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

BMW M-cars

October 11, 2013 15:39 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MB

What is a BMW M-car, exactly? Where do they come from, and what differentiates them from other BMW cars? Perhaps most importantly: Why do so many people argue over what makes something a 'true' M-car, as opposed to an 'M-badged' car? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is ABS?

October 08, 2013 14:52 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

An Anti-lock Brake System (or ABS) can make the difference between life and death in a car accident. But how does this system work? Where did it come from, and what do you need to know about operating it on the road? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mazda Miata

October 03, 2013 16:50 - 44 minutes - 41 MB

Where did the Mazda Miata come from? What inspired Mazda to build this roadster, and what makes it different from roadsters of the past? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Racing at Monza

October 01, 2013 15:23 - 42 minutes - 39.4 MB

Located outside of Milan, the Monza circuit is one of Europe's world-class racetracks. But who built it, and when? And how does it stack up against other European tracks? Tune in and learn the story of the Monza with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Modern Mini

September 26, 2013 17:00 - 49 minutes - 45.6 MB

Scott and Ben couldn't cover the history of the Mini without following this car into the present day. Tune in to learn more about the evolution, controversy, pros and cons of the modern Mini. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legends Cars

September 24, 2013 13:00 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MB

With bodyshells that are 5/8-scale replicas of American automobiles from the 1930s and 1940s and Yamaha motorcycle engines, these unique vehicles make an unforgettable impression on the racetrack. But where did they come from? How do they work? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How To Rent A Car

September 20, 2013 03:28 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MB

In some situations, a rental car can be a lifesaver. In others, however, it can be an enormous hassle. So what do you need to know before you head to the rental kiosk? Join Scott and Ben to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Speed Limiters

September 17, 2013 16:38 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MB

What are speed limiters, exactly? How do they work, and why are they so common? Join Scott and Ben to learn more about speed limiters, from the mechanical principles behind the devices to the ongoing debate about regulating drivers' speed. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Café Racers

September 12, 2013 20:00 - 30 minutes - 27.6 MB

The term was originally an insult toward riders seen as wannabe road racers that were often parked outside of cafés. However, this unique style of bike became incredibly popular over time. Tune in to learn more about the rise and fall of café racers with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Classic Mini

September 10, 2013 15:53 - 44 minutes - 41 MB

This iconic, diminutive British car has been called one the best vehicles of all time -- but where did it come from? What makes it so popular? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the origin of the classic Mini. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Humvees to Hummers

September 05, 2013 21:03 - 47 minutes - 43.1 MB

The Humvee - technically known as the High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle, or HMMWV - is a versatile, rugged vehicle that the U.S. military has used for decades. But where did it come from? What makes it so popular with the military and civilians alike? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2014 Corvette Stingray

September 03, 2013 15:48 - 39 minutes - 36 MB

The 2014 Corvette Stingray has been described as "a treat for loyalists, but aimed at a new breed." So, what does this mean, exactly? What can we expect from the all-new Stingray? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carbon Fiber Wheels

August 29, 2013 14:47 - 36 minutes - 33.2 MB

How expensive are carbon fiber wheels? Should you buy a set? Tune into learn more about the latest breakthrough in wheel technology - the world's first single-piece carbon fiber wheels. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Used Car Salesmen: Tips and Tricks

August 27, 2013 16:50 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MB

No question about it: Used car salespeople get a bad rap. In TV, film and fiction they're often portrayed as unsavory stereotypes out to swindle any foolhardy driver they can find. Of course, that's a far cry from the truth, and the majority of sales professionals are upstanding experts ... but not all. Tune in to learn more real-life tips and tricks for buying a car without getting ripped off. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/list...

The Man Who Became A Paint

August 22, 2013 13:04 - 47 minutes - 43.3 MB

Michael Fux is more than just a mattress tycoon and self-made multimillionaire - he's also a huge fan of custom cars. Tune in to learn how he and Rolls Royce, in an unprecedented collaboration, built a car so unique that you literally cannot buy the paint for yourself. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can people really hack cars?

August 20, 2013 15:23 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MB

From predictive braking to satellite radio and automated parallel parking, modern cars have some amazing technology onboard. But could this increasing sophistication also make cars increasingly vulnerable to hackers? 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.

V8 Supercar Series

August 15, 2013 14:38 - 47 minutes - 43.2 MB

Sure, the V8 Supercar Series is amazing, but where did it come from? What makes it unique? Tune in to learn more about V8 supercars with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tesla Motors

August 13, 2013 17:09 - 52 minutes - 48.1 MB

There's no denying it - Tesla Motors is an auto industry success story. But how did they get their start? Why did they choose electric vehicles, and where is the company headed in the future? Listen in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Woodie Station Wagons

August 08, 2013 15:09 - 32 minutes - 29.5 MB

We've all seen wood-paneled station wagons - but where did they come from? Join Scott and Ben to learn more about the story behind the iconic woodie station wagons. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Group B Rally Cars

August 06, 2013 14:33 - 42 minutes - 39 MB

They're the stuff of racing legend - speed and performance that pushed the limits of a driver's endurance as never before. But what happened to the Group B rally cars? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the rise and fall of Group B. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lincoln Motor Company, Part 2

August 01, 2013 17:25 - 37 minutes - 34.5 MB

Sure, Lincoln cars are luxury American automobiles, but where did they come from? Join Scott and Ben as they dive into the history - and future - of the Lincoln Motor Company in the second part of this series. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lincoln Motor Company, Part 1

July 30, 2013 14:49 - 32 minutes - 29.7 MB

Sure, Lincoln cars are luxury American automobiles, but where did they come from? Join Scott and Ben as they dive into the history of the Lincoln Motor Company in the first part of this series. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryno Motors

July 25, 2013 13:34 - 37 minutes - 34.3 MB

Would you ride a self-balancing, single-wheeled scooter? Ryno Motors hopes so. Join Scott and Ben as they roll through the history of Ryno Motors, the science behind the Ryno and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Karmann Ghia

July 23, 2013 15:37 - 48 minutes - 44.4 MB

If you're a fan of cars, then odds are you can recognize a Karmann Ghia from a block away. But where did they come from? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the curious story of the Karmann Ghia. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Road Trains

July 18, 2013 18:17 - 49 minutes - 45.2 MB

Road trains are massive truck and trailer combinations that can stretch to unbelievable lengths. But do you know where you're most likely to see a road train in action? And what makes a body-and-six so special? Join Scott and Ben as they investigate. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coal-powered Cars

July 16, 2013 16:00 - 50 minutes - 46.6 MB

When most drivers hear the term 'alternative fuel', we don't think of coal. However, coal-powered cars enjoyed a long stint of popularity, and were used from Europe to China. So how did they work? Why were they popular, and what happened to them? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should you fill your tires with nitrogen?

July 11, 2013 21:03 - 43 minutes - 39.4 MB

Many race car teams fill their tires with nitrogen, but is it right for your daily driver? Join Scott and Ben as they break down the facts - and fiction - surrounding nitrogen vs. 'regular air' in your car's tires. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cars of the Iron Curtain

July 09, 2013 20:12 - 48 minutes - 44.1 MB

While the era of the Cold War may have divided the world ideologically, the march of industry continued, and the car business was no exception. But what sort of cars were made? Why do so many have a bad reputation today? 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.

Bare Metal Cars, Part 2

July 04, 2013 14:34 - 22 minutes - 21.1 MB

At first it might sound crazy: Why would someone strip the paint off a car? Are people really taking bare metal cars out on the road? How could you protect the body from rust? Luckily, Scott and Ben have the answers. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bare Metal Cars, Part 1

July 02, 2013 13:54 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MB

At first it might sound crazy: Why would someone strip the paint off a car? Are people really taking bare metal cars out on the road? How could you protect the body from rust? Luckily, Scott and Ben have the answers. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to Buy Your First Motorcycle, Part 2

June 27, 2013 15:43 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

So the time has finally come: You're ready to buy your first motorcycle. But what do you need to know before you hop on your first bike and head for the horizon? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the nuts and bolts of buying your first bike. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to Buy Your First Motorcycle, Part 1

June 25, 2013 16:05 - 26 minutes - 24.8 MB

So the time has finally come: You're ready to buy your first motorcycle. But what do you need to know before you hop on your first bike and head for the horizon? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the nuts and bolts of buying your first bike. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Long-awaited Kit Car Episode

June 20, 2013 14:22 - 54 minutes - 49.8 MB

Since around 2009, Scott and Ben have planned to do a kit car episode. And, finally, they got around to it. Tune in to learn what a kit car is, why you do - or don't - want one, the history of kit cars and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charity Road Rallies

June 18, 2013 14:53 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MB

What is a charity road rally? Which causes do these events benefit, and what makes them so popular? What do you need to know about participating in or supporting a road rally? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What creates that unique Harley sound?

June 12, 2013 20:34 - 27 minutes - 25.2 MB

For decades fans of Harley Davidson have lauded the vehicle's unmistakeable engine sound -- but what makes it unique? In this episode, the guys explore the physical factors behind -- and legal controversy surrounding -- this unforgettable engine. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stainless Steel Cars

June 11, 2013 18:33 - 42 minutes - 39.2 MB

It's a story that, for many, is only a footnote in history. But the story of these unique vehicles may surprise you. Join Ben and Scott as they delve into the tale of Henry Ford, Allegheny Ludlum and their iconic, stainless steel cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nuts and Bolts Rides Again

June 05, 2013 14:41 - 1 hour - 56.4 MB

It's been months since Scott and Ben last did a nuts and bolts episode, and they've been storing up bits of CarStuff knowledge the entire time. Join the guys for a catch-all episode on everything that somehow didn't make it into an earlier show -- and to hear the guys respond to your listener mail. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Carroll Shelby Story

June 04, 2013 13:27 - 42 minutes - 39.2 MB

Carroll Shelby is a racing legend, but how did he get started? What made him such a larger-than-life figure, and what role did he play in the creation of the Shelby Cobra? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the life and work of Carroll Shelby. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are tank engines?

May 28, 2013 17:32 - 29 minutes - 27.1 MB

Don't let the name fool you -- these aren't engines for battle tanks. Instead, they're an ingenious, space-saving way of powering locomotives. Join Scott and Ben as they discuss the pros and cons of tank engines. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Circus Trains

May 28, 2013 12:53 - 50 minutes - 46.6 MB

While it might sound strange, moving a circus via rail actually made sense. Entire towns would gather to mark the passage of cars packed with tents, animals, clowns and more. Tune in to learn more about circus trains from the golden age to the modern day. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Pace Cars Work

May 23, 2013 14:34 - 37 minutes - 34.5 MB

Why do races use pace cars? Where did they come from, and who drives them? Get the scoop on all this and more as Scott and Ben delve into the past, present and future of pace cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Andretti Curse

May 21, 2013 18:04 - 32 minutes - 30.2 MB

With numerous wins in multiple competitions, the legendary Andretti family is one of racing's most prominent dynasties -- but, also, apparently, cursed. So what is the Andretti curse, exactly? Join Scott and Ben to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Swedish A-traktors Work

May 16, 2013 20:55 - 41 minutes - 37.7 MB

When is a tractor not a tractor? When it's an A-traktor, of course. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the history of these unique vehicles (and the legal loopholes that make them so popular). Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Formula One Works, Part 2

May 14, 2013 18:45 - 32 minutes - 30.2 MB

Formula One is one the world's most prestigious racing events -- but where did it come from? What is this 'formula,' exactly? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the past, present and future of Formula One. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Formula One Works, Part 1

May 09, 2013 19:57 - 37 minutes - 34.4 MB

Formula One is one the world's most prestigious racing events -- but where did it come from? What is this 'formula,' exactly? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the past, present and future of Formula One. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did bank robbers really write fan mail to Henry Ford?

May 07, 2013 21:20 - 37 minutes - 34.5 MB

Did notorious bank robbers Clyde Barrow and John Dillinger really write letters to Henry Ford, thanking him for building fast, reliable getaway cars? Join Scott and Ben as they delve into the facts behind the legend of Henry Ford's criminal fans. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Formula E Will Work

May 02, 2013 22:27 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

Imagine all the breakneck excitement of racing with one crucial difference -- the engines are all electric. That's the idea behind Formula E, and next year we'll see the race in action. But how will 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.

5 Future Car Technologies That Truly Have a Chance

April 30, 2013 17:28 - 41 minutes - 38.5 MB

We hear stories about the future of auto technology every day, but how many of these innovations will make it from the drawing board to the cars of the future? Join Scott and Ben to learn more about futuristic auto features that really have a chance. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can the U.S. Navy turn seawater into jet fuel?

April 25, 2013 17:13 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MB

The U.S. Navy has massive fuel costs, and top scientists are working around the clock to cook up innovative, cost-saving solutions. But could we really turn seawater into jet fuel -- and should we? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.