The Smoking Tire - Episode Summary: RS3 Review; Confusing Porsche; Batman Tumbler for Sale
Release Date: November 9, 2024
In this engaging episode of The Smoking Tire, hosts Zack Klapman and Matt Farah dive deep into the world of high-performance vehicles, examining both contemporary models and unique automotive curiosities. The episode is structured around detailed reviews, technical discussions, and listener interactions, offering a comprehensive look into the latest in the automotive industry.
1. Introduction and Overview
The episode opens with Zack introducing the main topics: a review of the Audi RS3, an exploration of the new Porsche Cayenne Turbo Hybrid, and a quirky segment on a Batman Tumbler replica available for sale.
Notable Quote:
Zack (00:00): "We love off the Record because they've been with us now for three whole years... Use code tstpod if you get pulled over."
2. Porsche Cayenne Turbo Hybrid Review
Zack and Matt delve into the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Hybrid, discussing its hefty price tag of $193,000 compared to the regular Cayenne Hybrid priced under $90,000. They explore the practicality of such an expensive hybrid, questioning who the ideal customer might be for a vehicle that offers over 700 horsepower but often operates predominantly in electric mode for daily errands.
Notable Quote:
Zack (05:20): "Who's the customer that needs the turbo with the plug-in hybrid? And for who does that..."
Key Points:
- Price vs. Performance: The Turbo Hybrid offers immense power but at a significant cost, raising questions about its everyday utility.
- Electric Efficiency: Emphasizes the vehicle's ability to run on electricity for most local drives, achieving impressive fuel efficiency.
- User Experience: Both hosts express skepticism about the necessity of such high horsepower for regular use, suggesting it caters to a niche market.
3. Ergonomics and Steering in Modern Vehicles
A substantial portion of the discussion centers on the ergonomics and steering design in modern Porsches and Mercedes vehicles. They highlight issues faced by taller drivers, such as obstructed gauges and awkward steering wheel placements, particularly in the Cayenne Turbo Hybrid and Panamera Turbo SE Hybrid.
Notable Quote:
Matt (19:40): "I think 6:2 is like the 90th percentile. It's not like the 97th."
Key Points:
- Steering Feel: Comparison between the sporty steering of the Panamera and the chunkier feel of the Cayenne.
- Digital Clusters: Critique of digital gauge clusters that obscure important information, making them less user-friendly for some drivers.
- Design Trade-offs: Balancing aerodynamics with driver comfort and visibility.
4. Aerodynamics and Wind Buffeting Issues
The hosts engage in a technical discussion about aerodynamics and the resulting wind buffeting in sleek, aerodynamic vehicles. They compare models like the Porsche 992, G Wagon, and Ferrari 328, debating how design choices impact the driving experience, especially with windows down.
Notable Quote:
Zack (23:44): "You cannot drive this fucking thing with the windows down. The buffeting is so bad above 30 miles an hour. It's brutal."
Key Points:
- Design vs. Comfort: Highly aerodynamic designs improve performance but can lead to uncomfortable wind effects when windows are open.
- Solutions: Mention of aftermarket wind deflectors as potential fixes for buffeting issues.
- Comparative Analysis: Contrasting aerodynamic sedans and SUVs with more boxy models that naturally avoid buffeting.
5. Audi RS3 Facelift and Performance
Zack shares his experience driving the facelifted Audi RS3 in Spain, highlighting improvements in the vehicle's design and performance. They discuss the RS3's practicality as a daily driver with impressive track capabilities, emphasizing its balance between comfort and high performance.
Notable Quote:
Zack (34:43): "They've reprogrammed the suspension as well, so comfort mode is more comfortable."
Key Points:
- Design Updates: New front and rear fascias enhance the RS3's aesthetic appeal.
- Performance Enhancements: Improved suspension and torque vectoring contribute to better cornering and stability.
- Driver Comfort: Spacious interior with ample leg and shoulder room makes it suitable for long drives.
6. Batman Tumbler Replica for Sale
Zack and Matt explore the niche market for movie car replicas, focusing on a Batman Tumbler available for $3 million. They discuss the challenges of making such a uniquely designed vehicle street-legal and the practicality (or lack thereof) of owning a cinematic replica.
Notable Quote:
Matt (50:40): "If you could buy a legit Batman tumbler now for the low price of $3 million."
Key Points:
- Legality Concerns: The replica may lack essential features like brake lights, raising questions about its street legality.
- Market Demand: Limited production (only 10 units) targets a very exclusive clientele.
- Functionality vs. Aesthetics: While visually striking, the practicality of driving such a vehicle is highly questionable.
7. Voice Controls vs. Physical Buttons in Cars
A lively debate ensues about the shift towards voice-controlled interfaces in modern cars, sparked by a Rivian executive's statement that "buttons are bad and voice controls are good." The hosts passionately argue for the reliability and speed of physical buttons over current voice command systems, which they find often clunky and less efficient.
Notable Quote:
Matt (66:07): "It's clunky. Yeah, it's clunky."
Key Points:
- Reliability Issues: Current voice command systems are often inaccurate and less responsive compared to tactile buttons.
- User Experience: Physical buttons allow for quicker and more intuitive control without disrupting conversations.
- Future Predictions: While voice control technology may improve, the hosts remain skeptical about its immediate viability as a complete replacement for buttons.
8. Listener Questions and Community Engagement
The episode transitions into a Q&A session, where listeners send in their automotive queries. Topics range from Fox Body Mustang projects to selecting the best do-it-all street-legal cars for specific courses like the Isle of Man TT.
Notable Quote:
Zack (118:28): "As a road car, the GTS is a better car than the GT3 for driving on the road. It's just as fast, it rides better."
Key Points:
- Project Advice: Insights on modifying classic cars for better performance and reliability.
- Iconic Movie Cars: Recommendations for incorporating cinematic vehicles into personal garages.
- Performance Choices: Guidance on choosing between models like the Porsche GT3 and GTS based on daily driving needs versus track use.
9. Event Highlights and Anecdotes
Matt promotes an upcoming FCP Euro car meet in Torrance, encouraging local listeners to attend and showcase their vehicles. Additionally, they share amusing and frustrating anecdotes about fellow car enthusiasts, including issues with Rivian vehicles leading to Lemon Law claims and quirky neighbor stories involving malfunctioning car technologies.
Notable Quote:
Zack (73:57): "I have blue ink all over my hands. I'm supposed to probably use you hooked up with..."
Key Points:
- Community Events: Importance of local car meets for networking and showcasing builds.
- Vehicle Reliability: Real-life examples of automotive issues and the challenges of resolving them.
- Humorous Stories: Light-hearted tales of car owners dealing with unexpected vehicle behaviors.
10. Conclusion and Future Content
As the episode wraps up, Zack and Matt thank their listeners and encourage them to support the show via Patreon for ad-free episodes and exclusive content. They tease upcoming reviews and discussions, including the Audi RS3 video and future deep dives into automotive trends.
Notable Quote:
Matt (119:34): "We appreciate it. Please join the Patreon."
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the rich and detailed discussions featured in the episode, providing both seasoned car enthusiasts and casual listeners with valuable insights into high-performance vehicles, automotive design dilemmas, and the vibrant community surrounding The Smoking Tire podcast.