Podcast Summary: The Smoking Tire – Episode "911 Reimagined Review; Auction Question; Q&A"
Release Date: May 8, 2025
Hosts: Zack Klapman & Matt Farah
Podcast: The Smoking Tire
1. Introduction and Episode Overview
Matt Farah [00:00]:
Matt opens the episode with enthusiasm, mentioning that today's show is a crew-driven format featuring discussions on the latest automotive topics. He highlights the primary subjects:
- Singer Turbo Classic Study: A deep dive into a recent automotive project they drove.
- Auction Listings Debate: Comparing direct owner listings versus third-party services like Westside Collector Car Storage (WCCS).
- Patreon Q&A: Addressing listener-submitted questions.
Notable Quote:
"This is a great episode. It's a cruise show." – Matt Farah [00:26]
2. Plumbing Advice Segment
Matt Farah [03:00]:
Matt humorously acknowledges receiving an overwhelming number of emails and DMs from plumbers offering unsolicited advice. He categorizes the advice into three main themes related to possible plumbing issues.
Notable Quote:
"We have a plumber coming with the results of the survey of 100 plumbers of what could the problem be." – Matt Farah [03:15]
Zach Klapman [05:37]:
Zach adds light-hearted commentary, appreciating plumbers' hard work and the challenges they face.
Notable Quote:
"They're elbow deep in poop and money. I mean, you can make really good living." – Zach Klapman [05:37]
Note:
While this segment provides comedic relief, it briefly touches on the hosts' personal experiences with plumbing issues.
3. Auction Listings Debate
Matt Farah & Zach Klapman [06:55]:
The hosts delve into a trending debate within the automotive community about the effectiveness and trustworthiness of auction platforms like Bring a Trailer (BAT) versus Cars and Bids. The central discussion revolves around whether listings managed by third-party services (e.g., WCCS) provide any advantages or conceal potential issues compared to direct owner listings.
Key Points Discussed:
-
Listing Management: Matt explains the comprehensive process involved in third-party listings, emphasizing the time and expertise required to present a vehicle effectively on auction platforms.
Notable Quote:
"To me, it's a no brainer that you might at least consider hiring a third party to do that for you if you're busy." – Matt Farah [12:19] -
Perception of Third-Party Listings: A Reddit comment sparked the debate, suggesting that third-party representations might imply the owner has something to hide. Matt and Zach argue that this perception is unfounded and that professional listing services ensure consistency and quality.
Notable Quote:
"It doesn't really make much of a difference as a buyer either." – Matt Farah [13:20] -
Engagement and Transparency: The hosts highlight that both the seller and the third-party service are actively engaged in addressing potential buyers' concerns, dispelling the notion that professional listings lack transparency.
Notable Quote:
"Both seller and the third party are engaged professionally." – Matt Farah [15:55] -
Operational Insights: They discuss the logistical aspects of running 50 auctions, detailing the extensive time commitment and the necessity of specialization in listing services.
Notable Quote:
"That's how long it takes. So like to me, it's a no brainer..." – Matt Farah [12:31]
Conclusion:
Matt and Zach conclude that third-party listing services like WCCS enhance the auction experience by ensuring high-quality, consistent presentations, and efficient handling of sales processes. They argue that skepticism towards third-party listings is often based on misconceptions rather than factual shortcomings.
4. Review of Singer Turbo Classic Study
Matt Farah & Zach Klapman [27:17]:
The core segment of the episode is an in-depth review of the Singer Turbo Classic Study, a customized Porsche 911 project. Both hosts share their experiences driving the car, comparing different specifications and configurations.
Discussion Highlights:
-
Design and Build Quality:
Matt praises the car's meticulous craftsmanship, noting the complete overhaul from donor parts to new interior elements, achieving an OEM-level finish.Notable Quote:
"I have absolutely zero sense that there was ever such a thing as a donor car when you're driving it." – Matt Farah [39:08] -
Performance and Handling:
Zach describes the car's balanced performance, highlighting perfect brake pedal pressure and exceptional steering feel. He compares it favorably to high-end race cars, emphasizing its blend of speed and comfort.Notable Quote:
"The steering feel is amazing. And it's light enough, but heavy enough." – Zach Klapman [34:00] -
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH):
The hosts discuss how different interior configurations impact the car's NVH. Matt mentions that added insulation and quality materials significantly enhance the driving experience by minimizing unwanted sounds.Notable Quote:
"It sounds like it makes the car's perceived build quality go like way up." – Matt Farah [43:55] -
Comparative Analysis:
They compare the Turbo Classic with other Porsche variants, noting the distinct differences in performance and interior comfort. Matt emphasizes that the Turbo Classic feels like a modern, fully integrated Porsche, unlike some older models that retain elements of their original donor cars.Notable Quote:
"It's an OEM level. I mean, this car... has a complete wiring harness that is developed just for this vehicle." – Matt Farah [40:13]
Conclusion:
Matt and Zach laud the Singer Turbo Classic Study for its exceptional build quality and performance. They appreciate how the project manages to preserve the essence of the classic Porsche 911 while infusing modern advancements, resulting in a vehicle that feels both timeless and contemporary.
5. Patreon Q&A Segment
The hosts engage with their Patreon community by addressing a series of listener-submitted questions. This interactive segment provides personalized insights and advice on various automotive topics.
Selected Q&A Highlights:
-
Car Bucket List Purchasing Strategy:
A listener asks how to prioritize buying cars on their bucket list. Matt advises starting with what is most affordable and enjoyable, suggesting a phased approach to building a collection without overextending financially.Notable Quote:
"Start with what you can afford today. Don't take on loans, don't do that shit." – Matt Farah [72:39] -
Chasing Dream Cars:
Matt shares his philosophy on acquiring dream cars without overcomplicating the process. He emphasizes finding value in unexpected places and making strategic purchases that offer personal satisfaction and potential future resale value.Notable Quote:
"I bought my Porsche for the Safari car off of like Craigslist... bought it for what was really probably underpriced by 15 to 20 grand." – Matt Farah [73:01] -
Learning to Drive Stick in Trucks:
A listener inquires whether the stick-shifting experience in an 80s import truck is beneficial for learning. The hosts discuss the differences in shifter feel between trucks and sports cars, agreeing that while trucks offer a robust shifting experience, they may not align with everyone's driving preferences.Notable Quote:
"It's a great exercise because you feel that each time it locks in." – Zach Klapman [90:13] -
Convincing a Non-Enthusiast to Enjoy Cars:
A creative question challenges the hosts to engage a non-car enthusiast in the automotive world within 24 hours. They propose an adventurous approach, involving scenic drives, small track experiences, and community interactions to showcase the multifaceted appeal of cars.Notable Quote:
"You could take some... like a safari car is comfortable enough to take someone on the highway and show them like, you know, a landscape they haven't seen." – Zach Klapman [91:49] -
Car Preferences for Sopranos Characters:
A fun question speculates on what cars iconic Sopranos characters would drive today. The hosts playfully discuss brand and model preferences that align with each character's personality, emphasizing the blend of style, status, and functionality.Notable Quote:
"Tony would drive an Escalade. He needs an off-grid car." – Matt Farah [100:07]
Conclusion:
The Q&A segment reinforces the hosts' commitment to their community, offering thoughtful and humorous responses that cater to both seasoned enthusiasts and casual listeners.
6. Closing Remarks
In the closing moments, Matt and Zach express gratitude towards their Patreon supporters, encouraging listeners to continue their support for future episodes. They wrap up with light-hearted banter, remaining engaged and personable until the end of the show.
Notable Quote:
"Thanks, everybody. What an excellent bit of podcasting we've done there." – Matt Farah [110:01]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- "This is a great episode. It's a cruise show." – Matt Farah [00:26]
- "We're elbow deep in poop and money..." – Zach Klapman [05:37]
- "To me, it's a no brainer that you might at least consider hiring a third party..." – Matt Farah [12:19]
- "It doesn't really make much of a difference as a buyer either." – Matt Farah [13:20]
- "The steering feel is amazing. And it's light enough, but heavy enough." – Zach Klapman [34:00]
- "I have absolutely zero sense that there was ever such a thing as a donor car..." – Matt Farah [39:08]
- "Start with what you can afford today. Don't take on loans, don't do that shit." – Matt Farah [72:39]
- "They are close to this... It looks crazy." – Matt Farah [44:03]
Final Thoughts
This episode of The Smoking Tire offers a rich blend of technical reviews, industry debates, and community engagement. Matt and Zack's discussions provide valuable insights for automotive enthusiasts, from understanding the nuances of auction listings to appreciating the craftsmanship behind custom projects like the Singer Turbo Classic Study. Their approachable and candid style ensures that both seasoned fans and newcomers find the content engaging and informative.
For more detailed reviews and discussions, visit The Smoking Tire YouTube Channel.
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