4/11/2018
Joe Rogan Podcast #1102 – Matt Farah Topics and Quotes
This podcast explores the world of cars with Matt Farah, a car enthusiast and host of “The Smoking Tire.” The conversation is a rollercoaster of passion, opinions, and hilarious anecdotes, revealing the deep-seated love for automotive engineering and the pursuit of thrilling driving experiences. Underlying themes center around the evolving nature of cars, the impact of technology on the driving experience, and the enduring appeal of classic vehicles.
1. The Rolls Royce Shooting Star Ceiling
- A Rolls Royce’s ability to make a hundred percent of that disappear.
- A 15 grand option that puts a starfield in your headliner.
- Rolls Royce can customize constellations or even the exact sky above your house.
- A perfect example of balling so hard.
2. Phil Hartman’s Love for Classic Cars
- The feeling of driving a classic Bentley.
- Phil Hartman’s love for cars and his “picture that rebuilt heart failure” smile.
- The connection between classic cars and a bygone era.
- The appreciation for automotive history and the joy of driving older cars.
3. Rolls Royce Engineering vs. Sports Car Performance
- Rolls Royce prioritizes comfort and a sense of floating over the road, contrasting with the raw feel of sports cars.
- Rolls Royce has thumb grips at 4 and 8, emphasizing a gangster-like driving style.
- The power reserve gauge, which shows how much power the car has available, emphasizes Rolls Royce’s focus on effortless performance.
- The contrasting driving philosophies of Rolls Royce and sports car enthusiasts.
4. The Miata and Its Potential
- The Miata is an underrated car, offering a fun and nimble driving experience.
- The potential for modification, with Flyin’ Miata offering LS3 swaps.
- The surprising weight balance even with a V8 engine swap.
- The Miata’s potential for a raw and thrilling driving experience.
5. The Exoskeleton Car
- A street legal, carb legal chassis for building a lightweight, high-performance car.
- The thrill of driving a car with no bodywork, but the potential safety risks.
- The comparison of the experience to a motorcycle.
- The exoskeleton car as an extreme example of automotive customization.
6. The Tesla-Powered Honda
- A testament to the power of nerds and the growing influence of electric vehicles.
- A 1981 Honda with a Tesla drivetrain, capable of an 8-second quarter mile.
- The humorous contrast between traditional hot rodding and modern electric technology.
- A symbol of the changing landscape of automotive performance.
7. The Horsepower Wars and the Hellcat
- The ever-increasing horsepower numbers in modern cars, driven by consumer demand and the internet’s obsession with performance.
- The affordability of high horsepower cars, with a used Hellcat available for around 45 grand.
- The Hellcat’s muscle car aesthetic and the wide body option.
- The ongoing battle for horsepower supremacy among car manufacturers.
8. The 1970-1971 Barracuda
- The Barracuda’s aggressive American muscle car styling.
- The value of the “heavy” Barracudas, which are rare and highly sought after.
- The debate between the 1970 and 1971 models, with the 1971 considered by some to be the most desirable.
- The nostalgia and fascination for classic muscle cars.
9. The Importance of Upgrading Old Cars
- The argument against keeping classic cars completely original, especially for daily driving.
- The necessity of upgrading brakes, cooling systems, and other components to ensure safety and reliability.
- The appreciation for those who daily drive classic cars in challenging environments.
- The balance between preserving originality and making a classic car more enjoyable to drive.
10. The Dangers of Driving Old Cars
- The dangers of old cars with poor brakes and suspension, which can lead to unpredictable handling.
- The story of a deer running in front of Joe Rogan’s car.
- The dangers of driving too close to other vehicles, especially in unpredictable situations.
- The importance of considering safety when driving older vehicles.
11. The Log-Dragging Incident
- A viral video of a man dragging a log on a chain behind a Ford Explorer.
- The absurdity and danger of this act.
- The potential consequences of such a reckless act.
- A cautionary tale about driving responsibly.
12. The Motorcycle Experience vs. Open-Wheel Cars
- The unique and unrepeatable experience of riding a motorcycle.
- The risks involved in motorcycle riding and the justification for the experience.
- The comparison of the open-wheel car experience to a motorcycle.
- The personal choice between seeking an intense adrenaline rush and prioritizing safety.
13. The Power of a Lightweight Car
- The immense potential of a lightweight car, even with a relatively mundane engine.
- The example of the 1200-pound exoskeleton car.
- The importance of weight reduction for performance and handling.
- The thrill of driving a light and nimble car.
14. The Mercedes Seat Game
- Mercedes’ commitment to creating advanced and luxurious seating experiences.
- The “simulated hot stone massage function” in the S-Class and AMG S-Class.
- The technological sophistication of Mercedes seats.
- The luxurious and comfort-focused driving experience offered by Mercedes.
15. The Rise of Autonomous Driving and the Human Driving Association
- The potential impact of autonomous driving on the future of the driving experience.
- The creation of the Human Driving Association, a lobbying group for the rights of human drivers.
- The fear of losing the freedom to drive and the potential for government control over autonomous vehicles.
- The debate between embracing automation and preserving the human element of driving.
16. The Porsche Safari Build
- A Porsche 911 converted for off-road driving.
- The ability to experience the joy of a 911 on a loose surface.
- The unique appeal of a 911 designed for adventure and off-road exploration.
- The customization of a classic sports car for a different type of driving experience.
17. The Singer 911
- A high-end, custom-built air-cooled Porsche 911.
- The incredible cost of a Singer 911, with engines exceeding $250,000.
- The collaboration with Williams Formula 1 team for advanced cylinder heads.
- The enduring appeal of air-cooled Porsches and the willingness to pay a premium for classic engineering.
18. The RWB Porsche
- The unique and controversial styling of RWB Porsches, particularly the exaggerated fender flares.
- The popularity of RWB in Japan.
- The appeal of a heavily modified Porsche, pushing the boundaries of design and performance.
- The subjective nature of automotive aesthetics and the power of personal preference.
19. The Ford GT Homologation Story and John Cena’s Dilemma
- The Ford GT’s limited production and the exclusive application process for purchasing one.
- The contract that prohibited owners from selling the car for two years.
- John Cena’s decision to sell his Ford GT before the two-year period, violating the contract.
- The legal battle between Ford and John Cena over the breach of contract.
20. The Ford GT’s Performance and Design
- The Ford GT’s race-inspired design and performance.
- The airbrake system that enhances braking performance and stability.
- The Ford GT’s unique and distinctive sound.
- The Ford GT as a symbol of American automotive engineering and performance.
21. The 2005 Ford GT
- The appreciation for the original Ford GT, designed as a road car with exceptional performance and style.
- The potential for further modification and performance upgrades.
- The enduring appeal of the 2005 Ford GT among car enthusiasts.
- The contrast between the 2005 Ford GT and the modern, more race-focused Ford GT.
22. The Porsche Metzger Engine
- The Porsche Metzger engine’s history and its connection to Le Mans racing.
- The engine’s strength and performance.
- The use of the Metzger engine in early 2000s Porsche models.
- The enduring legacy of the Metzger engine in Porsche’s performance heritage.
23. The Porsche 912
- The 912’s position as a decontented version of the 911, sharing the same body but with a smaller engine.
- The value of the 912, which has increased significantly in recent years.
- The debate about the performance of the 912 compared to the 911.
- The unique appeal of the 912 for those seeking a more affordable entry point into Porsche ownership.
24. The Volkswagen Microbus with a Porsche Engine
- The absurdity and ingenuity of swapping a Porsche engine into a Volkswagen Microbus.
- The potential for immense power and performance in a surprising package.
- The creativity and unconventional nature of automotive customization.
- A testament to the passion and dedication of car enthusiasts.
25. The Acura NSX
- The Acura NSX’s sophisticated all-wheel drive system and torque vectoring technology.
- The seamless integration of electric motors and a gas engine, creating a unique driving experience.
- The comparison of the NSX to the Nissan GTR.
- The NSX’s potential for a performance-focused and technologically advanced driving experience.
26. The Dodge Viper
- The Viper’s preposterous design and raw performance.
- The Viper’s reputation as a “douche bag car” but also a highly capable track weapon.
- The Viper’s unique American character and its focus on brute force.
- The disappointment over the Viper’s discontinuation.
27. The Cadillac CT6-V
- Cadillac’s ambitious plans for a high-performance CT6-V with a twin-turbo V8.
- The potential for Cadillac to regain its position as a leader in performance cars.
- The comparison of the CT6-V to the Bentley Flying Spur.
- The evolving design language of Cadillac and the move towards more aggressive styling.
28. The Cadillac’s History and Design Evolution
- The iconic status of classic Cadillacs, particularly the fins of the 1950s.
- The appeal of the big body Cadillac aesthetic.
- The challenge of balancing classic design with modern practicality.
- The evolution of Cadillac’s design language, from luxurious sedans to more performance-oriented models.
29. The Importance of Road Interaction in Driving
- The thrill of driving and the connection between the car and the road.
- The contrast between the feel of a classic Porsche and a large, heavy American car.
- The value of communication between the driver and the car through the steering wheel.
- The appreciation for cars that offer a direct and engaging driving experience.
30. The Influence of the Nurburgring on American Car Manufacturers
- The global influence of the Nurburgring race track on car development.
- The shift in American car manufacturing from a focus on straight-line performance to a more rounded approach that emphasizes handling.
- The growing competition among car manufacturers for dominance on the Nurburgring.
- The evolution of American car design and engineering in response to global influences.
31. The Watch Industry: Parallelism with Cars
- The connection between watches and cars, particularly in terms of timing and mechanical precision.
- The growth of both industries in parallel, driven by innovation and technological advancements.
- The use of watches as trophies and status symbols.
- The fascination with complex mechanical movements and the artistry involved in watchmaking.
32. The G-Shock Watch
- The G-Shock’s reputation as a durable and functional tool watch.
- The wide range of G-Shock models, from affordable to high-end.
- The appeal of the G-Shock to watch enthusiasts and those who value practicality.
- The G-Shock as a symbol of ruggedness and reliability.
33. Jonathan Ward’s Fascinating Life and Work
- Jonathan Ward’s passion for design and his diverse range of interests.
- Ward’s unique approach to customization and his ability to combine classic styling with modern technology.
- Ward’s commitment to creating both beautiful and functional objects.
- Ward’s dedication to his craft and his ability to inspire others.
34. The Importance of Hustle and the Risks of Burnout
- The “universe rewards hustle” mantra and its impact on Matt Farah’s life.
- The potential for burnout from excessive work and the importance of self-care.
- The need for balance in life, between passion and personal well-being.
- The importance of listening to one’s body and taking breaks when necessary.
35. The Role of Exercise and Diet in Achieving Fitness Goals
- Matt Farah’s commitment to exercise and his routine of daily cardio and weight training.
- The importance of finding a sustainable approach to fitness that fits into one’s lifestyle.
- The benefits of regular exercise for both physical and mental well-being.
- The importance of prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
36. The “Cheat Day” Philosophy
- The benefits of incorporating a cheat day into a healthy diet.
- The importance of enjoying food without guilt.
- The psychological impact of having a designated day for indulging.
- The role of cheat days in maintaining a sustainable approach to diet and fitness.
37. The Importance of Probiotics
- The role of probiotics in gut health.
- The connection between gut health and overall well-being.
- The importance of incorporating probiotics into one’s diet through fermented foods or supplements.
- The potential benefits of probiotics for weight management and other health concerns.
38. The Experience of Hunting
- Matt Farah’s experience with bird hunting and his initial conflicted feelings about the practice.
- The comparison of hunting to fishing and the different levels of guilt associated with each.
- The hierarchical nature of how humans perceive different animals and the ethical implications of hunting.
- The evolution of hunting from a necessity for survival to a sport.
39. The “Slam” Hunting Trend
- The practice of hunting for trophies, often targeting multiple animals within a specific species or category.
- The ethical considerations of trophy hunting and the impact on animal populations.
- The debate about the sustainability of trophy hunting.
- The potential for trophy hunting to contribute to the decline of certain species.
40. The Elephant Hunting Controversy
- The complex issue of elephant hunting and the arguments for and against the practice.
- The role of elephant hunting in regulating populations and funding anti-poaching efforts.
- The impact of poaching on elephant populations and the urgent need for conservation.
- The ethical dilemmas surrounding elephant hunting and the need for responsible management.
41. The Galapagos Islands and Their Unique Ecosystem
- The Galapagos Islands as a haven for unique and diverse wildlife.
- The impact of invasive species, particularly goats, on the Galapagos ecosystem.
- The use of Judas goats to control the goat population.
- The importance of conservation and responsible tourism in protecting the Galapagos Islands.
42. The Wild Pig Problem
- The invasive nature of wild pigs and their impact on ecosystems and agriculture.
- The use of helicopters and machine guns to control wild pig populations.
- The debate about the effectiveness and ethics of wild pig eradication programs.
- The need for a comprehensive approach to managing wild pig populations and preventing further spread.
43. The 2019 Corvette ZR1
- The 2019 Corvette ZR1’s impressive horsepower output of 750.
- The development of a larger supercharger to address heat-soaking issues in previous models.
- The aggressive styling of the ZR1, including the power bulge in the hood.
- The ZR1’s potential for exceptional performance and a thrilling driving experience.
44. The Callaway Arrow Wagon
- Callaway’s unique approach to customizing Corvettes, including the Arrow Wagon shooting brake.
- The unexpected appeal of a Corvette wagon.
- The high horsepower output of the Callaway Arrow Wagon.
- The potential for a practical and performance-oriented Corvette variant.
45. The Corvette ZR1 Convertible Debate
- The argument against purchasing a Corvette ZR1 convertible, citing a perceived lack of style and the potential for a “douchebag” image.
- The assertion that a coupe offers a more refined and performance-focused driving experience.
- The subjective nature of automotive aesthetics and the importance of personal preference.
- The social implications of driving a convertible and the potential for judgment.
46. The Tesla Model 3 and the End of Free Charging
- Tesla’s decision to end free charging for the Model 3 and newer models.
- The potential impact on Tesla ownership and the cost of driving an electric car.
- The need for a robust charging infrastructure to support the growing number of electric vehicles.
- The changing economics of electric vehicle ownership.
47. The Porsche Mission E
- Porsche’s entry into the electric car market with the Mission E.
- The Mission E’s fast charging capabilities, with an 80% charge achievable in 10 minutes.
- The potential for Porsche to compete with Tesla in the electric car market.
- The future of electric vehicle technology and the race for innovation.
48. The West Side Collector Car Storage Facility
- Matt Farah’s ambitious project to build a collector car storage facility in Playa Vista, California.
- The facility’s focus on security, climate control, and a dedicated podcast studio.
- The challenges of building in Los Angeles and the environmental regulations involved.
- The potential for the facility to become a hub for car enthusiasts and a resource for the automotive community.
49. The Future of Marijuana Legalization
- The ongoing debate about marijuana legalization and the potential benefits of a regulated market.
- The potential for tax revenue from marijuana sales to benefit communities and public services.
- The shift in public opinion regarding marijuana and the growing acceptance of its use.
- The potential for marijuana legalization to impact the opioid epidemic and other drug-related issues.
50. The Use of Ibegain for Opioid Addiction Treatment
- The potential for Ibegain to effectively treat opioid addiction.
- The limited availability of Ibegain in the United States due to legal restrictions.
- The role of drug companies in influencing drug legalization and access.
- The need for research and greater access to alternative treatments for opioid addiction.
5 Memorable Quotes:
- “Rolls Royce’s don’t have tachometers. They have a power reserve gauge.”
- “You can’t have light and cheap and fast. You gotta pick one.”
- “That’s what’s gonna get us to turn us into machines. Just give up a little bit here, a little bit there. Don’t wanna give up all of it.”
- “The only thing that funds the anti-poaching is hunting.”
- “It’s not there’s not a war on drugs. There’s drugs everywhere. They’re prescribed. You can get them at a drugstore. You can get them at a liquor store. You can get drugs. There’s a lot of drugs. It’s just certain drugs.”