Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast Hemmings

On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast, host Mike Musto and Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV are diving into the highly anticipated 2025 Toyota 4Runner, and more importantly, what sets it apart from the outgoing generation. They then delve into the world of limited and or special edition automobiles and uncover if they’re worth it to buy and own.
 
It's then onto Hemmings' latest automotive extravaganza: Musclepalooza! The inaugural event at Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton, PA this past weekend was an adrenaline-fueled blast, featuring high-octane drag races, a killer car show, heart-pounding dyno tests, and of course, a burnout contest. With three more shows in the pipeline, Musclepalooza 2024 is revving up to be a premier automotive series in the U.S. so make sure to visit hemmings.com/musclepalooza for the details on upcoming shows.
 
So, kick back, pour yourself a yummy beverage, and join us for a brand-new episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ!

Over the last two decades, the idea of what a pro-touring or resto-mod car is has been drastically redefined. In the beginning we were treated to mild suspension and drivetrain modifications, but now, with advancements in technology and manufacturing, these cars have been sent to heights that have redefined what’s possible. Wisconsin based Speedkore is one such coach builder that is taking the idea of what a custom car can be and flipping it on its head and their latest creation, a 1970 Dodge Charger simply known as “GHOST” is a prime example of that.

With a body that’s constructed entirely from carbon fiber, a bespoke chassis, and an interior that should be the topic of design studio discussions, Speedkore is reimagining what classic vehicles can be. On this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast host Mike Musto sits down with Senior Business Development Manager, Tom Porter and Lyle Brummer, Speedkore’s Director of Design to learn a little bit more about how Speedkore creates some of the most brilliant coach-built vehicles on the road today.

In the vast world of motorsports, enthusiasts have an abundance of disciplines to choose from. Whether it's the rush of circle track racing, the finesse of drifting, the precision of road course events, or the rugged excitement of off-roading, there's something for every speed enthusiast. Yet, among these options, drag racing stands out for its remarkable accessibility to both participants and fans.
 
On the latest episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto talks with Bill Bader, President of Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, to explore the significance of drag racing in the United States and they delve into why there's a need to reignite interest in what may be the most accessible form of motorsport.

There’s no question that today’s SUVs and crossovers are far more advanced than their predecessors from just a decade ago. From their complex suspension and off-road systems to their different drive modes and transmissions, to their now, hybrid, electric and turbocharged powertrains, these everyday family haulers are more intricate than ever. But is all this technology necessary and even wanted by the consumer, and ultimately, does it make these machines better? Oh, and don’t even get us started on the cost.
 
To help us answer these questions and more we’re joined today by Ryan Douthit of Driving Sports TV. Ryan’s specialty is reviewing the latest and greatest in the off-road and SUV segment, and he even has his own test facility to do it. So, if you’re in the market for a new crossover, off-roader, or SUV, this is an episode you’ll not want to miss!

Explore the world of high-end automotive auctions or car shows, and you're likely to encounter a selection of custom and coach-built vehicles. When executed with precision, these automobiles are mechanical masterpieces fetching staggering sums both at their initial purchase, and when sold on the used market. Yet, what distinguishes them from the finest garage-built customs? And more importantly, does the extensive craftsmanship and investment translate into a significantly enhanced driving experience?
 
In this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ Podcast, host Mike Musto sits down with Douglas Glad, Hemmings' Head of Content, to delve into precisely these questions. Together, they explore the nuances between American and European builds, dissect current market trends, and ponder the allure of certain build categories over others.

Last week Dodge took the wraps off the brand new and beautifully designed 2024 Dodge Charger and to say the automotive populous went nuts would be an understatement. First, there’s a lot to digest here as the new Charger will be offered in both two and four door variants and with a choice of either EV or ICE powerplants (ICE comes in 2025). But more so, the enthusiast crowd seems to be torn for one simple fact – it doesn’t come with a HEMI. Now if you’ve been following automotive news, you’ll know that the HEMI v8 is at the end of its lifecycle and can no longer be produced, thus the inclusion of the new twin-turbo Hurricane inline-6.

However, even though Dodge is giving us both an EV and ICE version, AND the choice of both two and four doors, people still seem tweaked. That’s why on this episode of the Hemmings Hot Rod BBQ podcast we’ve brought in Hemmings own Evan Perkins and Bryan McTaggart (both diehard muscle car guys) to give their take on the new 2024 Dodge Charger.