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
Are hybrid cars slower than regular cars?
April 23, 2013 19:46 - 32 minutes - 30.2 MBDespite their reputation for good fuel efficiency and eco-friendly driving, hybrid vehicles are still the subject of widespread criticism -- and much of this criticism concerns speed. But are hybrid cars actually slower? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
ACE Cycle Cars
April 18, 2013 21:06 - 35 minutes - 32.2 MBThe ACE Cycle Car isn't cheap, but this three-wheeled, two-seat vehicle (Registered as a motorcycle in most states) can top 120+ mph, and the Harley-Davidson engine puts many other three-wheelers to shame. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Elio Motors
April 16, 2013 18:15 - 43 minutes - 40 MBYou may not have heard of Elio Motors yet, but if this company has its way that will all change over the next few years. Listen in to learn more about Elio Motors' three-wheeled, two-seat car that will apparentely get 84 mpg and cost only 6,800 dollars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The XP-21 Firebird and Co.
April 11, 2013 21:04 - 39 minutes - 36 MBEven if you don't know the name, you've probably seen the original Firebird before. It looks like a jet on wheels. But what happened to the Firebird and its two later iterations? Join Scott and Ben to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Rotating Detonation Engine
April 09, 2013 17:25 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MBThe US Navy has huge gas expenses - sending some Earth's most sophisticated ships across the world's oceans can get pretty expensive. But could the rotating detonation engine really save millions? Learn more about this technology with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heart-stopping Last Laps of Racing, Part 2
April 04, 2013 20:32 - 37 minutes - 34.5 MBWhat are some of racing's most famous last laps? Who's won -- or lost -- the most dramatic final turns? Join Scott and Ben as they delve into some of racing's most memorable moments, from the Daytona 500 to the Spanish Grand Prix and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heart-stopping Last Laps of Racing, Part 1
April 02, 2013 17:17 - 32 minutes - 30 MBWhat are some of racing's most famous last laps? Who's won -- or lost -- the most dramatic final turns? Join Scott and Ben as they delve into some of racing's most memorable moments, from the Daytona 500 to the Spanish Grand Prix and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shaken, Stirred and Dumped in the Ocean
March 28, 2013 20:33 - 40 minutes - 37.6 MBHere's the legend: An Aston Martin DB5 sports cars built and modified for two James Bond films was stolen as part of an insurance fraud scheme and may have been dumped in the ocean. Is it true? What actually happened? 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.
Sandra West and the Ferrari Coffin
March 27, 2013 22:33 - 38 minutes - 34.9 MBSandra West was a well-known socialite who tragically passed away at a young age. Her will reportedly bore one particularly strange request: that she be interred in her Ferrari 330 America. But was it true, or just an urban legend? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Life and Work of Ed "Big Daddy" Roth
March 26, 2013 17:09 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBEd Roth was the custom car designer, builder, artist and cartoonist responsible for the legendary hot-rod icon Rat Fink -- but that's just the beginning of his story. Tune in to learn more about the life and work of Big Daddy Roth with Scott and Ben. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What happened to the Chevy Corvair?
March 21, 2013 20:55 - 53 minutes - 48.7 MBCorvair was the most controversial Chevy since the "Copper-Cooled" model of 1923. Of course, neither was supposed to stir up trouble. So what made the Corvair so controversial? Tune in to learn more about the decade-long run of the Chevy Corvair. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A CarStuff Guide to Junk Yards
March 19, 2013 21:44 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MBAs long as you know what you're looking for, you can save loads of cash finding used parts at junk yards. A salvage yard can be tough for first-timers, but with just a a few tips you can be well on your way to becoming a pull-a-part veteran. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Volkswagen XL1
March 14, 2013 20:43 - 40 minutes - 37.4 MBImagine a car that gets over 300 miles per gallon and only holds one liter of gas. While it sounds like a quirky concept, the Volkswagen XL1 is real, and premiering at the Geneva Motor Show. So what is it? How does it work? 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 Legendary Story of the Chrysler Norseman
March 12, 2013 19:19 - 44 minutesYou might not have heard of the Norseman, but in its time the car was lauded a turning point in the automotive world. So what happened to this promising new vehicle, and why do some treasure hunters think they can rescue it from the murky depths of time? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers
Jocko Flocko, the Race-winning Monkey
March 07, 2013 23:09 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MBWhen the Flock brothers were looking to change their racing team's luck, their friend Ted Chester stumbled on a monkey for sale at an Atlanta pet store ... and a legend was born. Tune in to learn more about NASCAR's only Rhesus racing legend, Jocko Flocko. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Isle of Man TT
March 05, 2013 17:40 - 37 minutes - 34 MBIt's one of the world's most prestigious motorcycle races, and it's on public roads. Each year, thousands gather to see legends of racing and amateur riders alike compete. Listen in as Scott and Ben explore the ins and outs of the Isle of Man TT. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Story of Donald Campbell at Coniston Water
February 28, 2013 19:53 - 47 minutes - 43.3 MBThe legendary Donald Campbell was a world speed record holder on land and water. He crashed (and died) while trying to break one of his own records in Lancashire, England in 1967. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the life and times of Donald Campbell. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Where did monster trucks come from?
February 26, 2013 17:41 - 37 minutes - 34.3 MBThey're huge! They're mean! They run over cars the way you'd crumble paper beneath your shoe. But where do monster trucks come from, exactly? Join Scott and Ben to learn more about the origins of monster trucks (and Robosaurus) in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should we build a highway that runs around the world?
February 21, 2013 18:23 - 45 minutes - 42 MBWhat if you could drive to every continent except for Antarctica? The Trans-global highway is a surprisingly old idea -- but is it worth the massive effort? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the pros and cons of a global interstate system. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should you dip you car?
February 19, 2013 17:47 - 40 minutes - 37.5 MBPlasti Dip is a rubberized protective coating for everything from hand tools to wiring, and some DIY car owners are dipping their entire cars in this protective dip. How does it work? Should you try it yourself? Tune in to learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you stop an out-of-control car?
February 14, 2013 21:42 - 40 minutes - 36.7 MBWhat do you do when the brake pedal won't budge? How do you survive hydroplaning? These are things that every driver should know before hopping behind the wheel. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the dos and don'ts of stopping an out-of-control vehicle. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CES 2013: An Update on Self-driving Cars
February 12, 2013 20:33 - 33 minutes - 30.5 MBMany drivers already know about Google's autonomous vehicle, but were you aware that Toyota and Audi are also entering the game? Well, partially. Join Scott and Ben as they break down the new technology that Toyota and Audi exhibited at CES 2013. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Plastic Model Cars
February 07, 2013 21:53 - 38 minutes - 35.2 MBHave you ever built a model car? In the 1960s, these wildly popular models took over the hobby scene, and they remain a source of fascination and fun for millions across the globe. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the story of plastic model cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sleeper Cars
February 05, 2013 16:27 - 45 minutes - 41.9 MBWhile a sleeper car might not look like much -- in fact, it might look like a pile of junk -- it's more than capable of smoking most rank-and-file cars. So how do sleeper cars work? What specific characteristics make a sleeper car? Tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Phantom Bike
January 31, 2013 15:46 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MBLet's say you want something that isn't quite a bicycle, but not quite a motorcycle, either. Enter the Phantom bike. In this episode, Scott and Ben take their fascination with all things Phantom to the two-wheeled world. Listen in to learn more about Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Infamous Cars
January 29, 2013 20:31 - 50 minutes - 46.6 MBFrom the famous cursed car of James Dean to the opulent coaches of dictators, history is filled with stories of infamous cars. Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at vehicles favored by ill-fated celebrities, iron-fisted dictators and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Phantom Corsair
January 24, 2013 21:03 - 38 minutes - 35.1 MBWhat do ketchup and concept cars have in common? The Phantom Corsair. With a futuristic design and opulent luxuries, the Corsair remains unique. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the story of Rust Heinz and his dream to build an unparalleled automobile. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Art Deco Cars: The Movement
January 22, 2013 19:15 - 32 minutes - 30.2 MBWith swooping fenders, elongated hoods and streamlined shapes, cars of the Art Deco era feature a bold, unique aesthetic statement. But where did they come from? What happened to them? Listen in as Scott and Ben explore the opulent story of Art Deco cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom: Part 2
January 17, 2013 17:17 - 21 minutes - 19.4 MBIn the second part of this series, Scott and Ben continue the story of the Phantom, from the 1950s to the modern day. Join the guys as they delve into Rolls-Royce trivia, from engine stats to famous owners and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom: Part 1
January 15, 2013 21:47 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MBSure, it's one of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history, but where did it come from? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the curious origin of the Phantom in the first episode of this two-part series. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Car Oddities
January 10, 2013 21:39 - 43 minutes - 39.9 MBFrom engine block cookers to dashboard calliopes, car manufacturers have tried hundreds of weird innovations that just didn't catch on with the public. In this episode, Scott and Ben explore of history's oddest car accessories, services and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can I travel from New York to LA in 12 minutes?
January 08, 2013 22:06 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MBIt's true: The US government and private industry are experimenting with hypersonic flight. But how does it work? Could it really become the wave of the future? Tune in to learn if people will ever really be able to survive a hypersonic flight. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Vespa Scooter
January 03, 2013 21:44 - 43 minutes - 40.2 MBNowadays Vespa scooters are world-famous, but where did they come from? Join Scott and Ben as they delve into the origin of Vespa, the engineering behind these iconic scooters and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How can a new car cost only $3,000?
January 01, 2013 20:05 - 36 minutes - 33.6 MBNo bones about it: cars can be expensive, and a new one can cost tens of thousands of dollars. But what if you could pick up a new car for just 3,000 dollars? Join Scott and Ben as they examine Nissan's controversial plan to build a bottom-dollar car. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The SRT Viper
December 27, 2012 16:42 - 33 minutes - 30.8 MBThe 2013 SRT Viper was unveiled at the 2012 New York Auto Show, and it's noticeably more luxurious than the previous generations. But does this mean the Viper has gone soft? Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at the newest Viper. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does a chop shop do?
December 21, 2012 17:46 - 31 minutes - 28.6 MBNot all car thieves steal cars for joyrides -- in fact, you might be surprised to learn how many stolen cars take a direct trip to a chop shop, where they're dismantled for parts. Tune in to learn more as Scott and Ben explore the world of chop shops. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Restomodding Works
December 20, 2012 21:09 - 27 minutes - 25.2 MBIf you've restored a classic car, then you're familiar with the debate about original parts or reproductions -- but there's another question: Should you improve your car while restoring it, adding modern amenities, engine improvements and safety features? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Smuggling: Tricks and Traps
December 18, 2012 22:19 - 36 minutes - 33.9 MBSmuggling involves the illegal transport of goods and people across borders, and vehicles often play a central role. In this episode, Scott and Ben discuss smugglers' crafty tricks and crazy vehicle modifications -- and some astonishing smuggling stories. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How the Jaws of Life Work
December 13, 2012 20:42 - 34 minutes - 31.7 MBThey're a household name in the United States, but what exactly are the Jaws of Life? Where do they come from? Can they really save you in an accident? Join Scott and Ben as they learn more about this life-saving, surprisingly simple invention. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Driver's Education
December 11, 2012 20:25 - 23 minutes - 21.6 MBIn the United States, Driver's Education courses prepare new drivers, typically teenagers, for the licensing process. Scott and Ben discuss some common elements of Driver's Ed programs, as well as some new developments, in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The History of Trucks
December 06, 2012 22:38 - 40 minutes - 37.5 MBIf you live in the United States, then odds are you can't spend a day outside without seeing a pickup truck. But where did they come from? Why are they so popular? Join Scott and Ben as they delve into the origin of pickup trucks. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Driving Laws (That No One Follows)
December 04, 2012 21:03 - 33 minutes - 30.6 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.
The Rise and Fall of the Hudson Motor Car Company
November 29, 2012 22:29 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MBNamed after J.L. Hudson, the Hudson Motor Car Company left an indelible mark on the automotive world. But how did the company get its start? Where did it go? Join Scott and Ben as they delve into the story of Hudson (with a few surprises along the way). Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Infamous Wall of Death
November 27, 2012 18:03 - 22 minutes - 20.8 MBThe Wall of Death is a motorcycle act in which daredevil drivers scale the walls of a wooden barrel while spectators watch from above. In this episode, Scott and Ben explore the history and practices of the Wall of Death. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What are belly tank racers?
November 22, 2012 14:46 - 30 minutes - 28.2 MBAfter World War II, race teams traveled to California to set new land speed records -- and they used surplus drop tanks to create a race cars knowns as lakesters or belly tank racers. Join Scott and Ben as they explore the origin of lakesters. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Gas Pumps Work
November 20, 2012 22:12 - 23 minutes - 21.5 MBUsing a gas pump is pretty simple: You just push a few buttons and fuel up. But how do they actually work? Join Scott and Ben as they take a closer look at the technology behind the ubiquitous gas pump in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Pedal Car Story
November 15, 2012 20:44 - 40 minutes - 37.3 MBWere you one of those kids lucky enough to grow up with a pedal car? Scott was - Ben wasn't - and in this episode they overcome their childhood differences to explain the past, present and future of pedal cars. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Learn to drive a stick!
November 13, 2012 21:01 - 26 minutes - 24.4 MBIn this episode, Scott and Ben examine manual and automatic transmissions. But this isn't just the normal nuts-and-bolts look at the mechanics of transmissions -- the guys also explore the benefits of driving stick. Tune in and learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can you really paint your car for 50 dollars?
November 08, 2012 16:52 - 39 minutes - 35.9 MBInternet forums have buzzed for years with attempts to paint a car for anywhere from ten to fifty dollars. But how does it work? Should you try it yourself? Join Scott and Ben as they explore the fact and fiction surrounding this DIY paint job. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Toll Road Story
November 06, 2012 21:03 - 28 minutes - 26.2 MBToll roads, turnpikes, toll routes -- whatever you call them, they serve the same purpose: They're roads you pay to drive on. In this episode, Scott and Ben discuss the surprisingly ancient origins of toll roads and their evolution in the United States. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.