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It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a closer look at the controversial legacy of the Chevrolet Corvair, one of the most debated cars in American automotive history. I’m joined once again by Joe Pep, who shares his insights into how the Corvair became both celebrated and criticised, particularly following Ralph Nader’s landmark book Unsafe at Any Speed. We discuss how these claims shaped public perception and had a lasting impact on the automotive industry. The conversation examines the cultural and industrial context surrounding the Corvair’s arrival, when American buyers favoured large, conventional cars. We examine how its rear-engine layout and increasingly European styling set it apart, and how those design choices contributed to its mixed reception in the United States. This episode reflects on the broader story of automotive innovation, risk-taking, and the challenges manufacturers face as consumer tastes shift. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I speak with Katarina Kyvalova, a remarkable talent whose rise in motorsport has been as rapid as it has been impressive. Katarina talks about where her passion for cars began, shaped by early influences and a deep appreciation for classic machinery, despite having no direct family background in motorsport. We focus on her love for the iconic Austin-Healey and the bold decision to race such a demanding car, a moment that defined her commitment and resilience as a driver. I explore with Katarina her move from classic competition into modern racing, where the contrasts in performance, driving style, and expectations have pushed her to adapt and grow at speed. She shares the challenges that come with that transition, along with the excitement of testing herself in new environments. This episode is a story of perseverance, passion, and ambition, capturing the mindset required to succeed in competitive motorsport and the determination to keep moving forward. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I catch up with Paul Woodford to talk about his remarkable return to rallying since the pandemic. After stepping away from the sport for fourteen years, Paul explains what drew him back behind the wheel and how quickly things have escalated since. Paul walks me through the wide range of machinery he has driven recently, from classic Mini Coopers to purpose-built Dakar-style rally cars, highlighting just how varied and demanding his rallying journey has become. We also reflect on the current state of the sport, discussing where rallying has lost some of its character and what might be needed to reignite wider engagement. The conversation turns to the growing appeal of historic rallying, a scene that is attracting both long-standing competitors and a new generation of drivers. It offers a hopeful glimpse into a side of the sport that still values spectacle, personality, and accessibility. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I dive into the ever-evolving world of automotive restoration and modification, with a particular focus on resto-modding, where classic cars retain their soul while gaining modern performance. I’m joined by Tony Shine, who talks me through his journey from a young enthusiast modifying Volkswagens to tackling an ambitious Ford Cortina Mk II build that perfectly balances period looks with contemporary engineering. We get into the nuts and bolts of what makes a successful resto-mod, from chassis design and suspension upgrades to integrating modern, high-performance engines without losing the character that made these cars special in the first place. Tony also shares his thoughts on how trends in car culture evolve, the role of craftsmanship, and why attention to detail still matters in an age of off-the-shelf solutions. This episode is a thoughtful exploration of passion, skill, and creativity, and a reminder that restoring and modifying cars is as much an art form as a technical discipline. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I turn the spotlight on the extraordinary yet often overlooked career of Lella Lombardi, one of motorsport’s true pioneers and the only woman to score points in Formula One. Joined by Jon Saltinstall, I explore Lombardi’s life and career, from her groundbreaking achievements on the world stage to the barriers she faced competing in a sport dominated by men. We discuss why her story has so often been underplayed and what made her determination, talent, and resilience so remarkable. John shares the motivation behind writing Lombardi’s biography, aiming to restore her place in motorsport history and ensure her achievements are appropriately recognised. This episode reflects on Lombardi’s lasting impact and why preserving her legacy matters, not just for motorsport fans but for future generations inspired by her trailblazing path. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I delve into the remarkable career of Joe Pep, one of America’s most celebrated car illustrators, whose artwork is inseparable from his lifelong passion for vintage automobiles. Joe Pepitone shares the early influences that sparked his love of classic cars, growing up in New Jersey and drawing inspiration from television shows like The Untouchables. We talk about how those formative moments shaped not just his automotive interests, but his artistic voice. I explore with Joe the powerful connection between automotive history and illustration, as he explains how each piece of his work tells a story. His instantly recognisable style, rich in colour and retro flair, captures both the elegance of the cars and the eras they represent. This episode is a deep dive into creativity, nostalgia, and the enduring appeal of classic cars through the eyes of an artist who has helped preserve their legacy on paper. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Sam Grange-Bailey, a highly respected classic car dealer who shares her distinctive path into the automotive world. Sam talks about growing up in a family deeply rooted in car trading and how she helped evolve her father’s traditional business by embracing new technology and the early use of the internet. We explore how that shift changed the way classic cars are bought and sold, and how adaptation has become essential in a modern marketplace. I dig into the realities of the classic car trade with Sam, from understanding market values and spotting genuine desirability to balancing emotion with commercial sense. We also reflect on why classic cars continue to hold such powerful sentimental appeal for enthusiasts and collectors alike. This episode offers a thoughtful look at how the classic car industry has evolved, blending heritage with innovation while staying driven by passion. Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Ashley Gregory, a formidable young talent competing in Mini Stocks and making serious strides as a female racing driver. Ashley talks me through her journey into motorsport, which began at just ten years old and has been driven by persistence, hard work, and a genuine passion for racing. We discuss the realities of competing in a sport that remains male-dominated, the challenges that come with it, and the resilience required to keep pushing forward. Looking ahead, Ashley shares her ambitions to progress through the ranks and her long-term goal of reaching the British Touring Car Championship by 2030. This episode not only highlights Ashley’s own story but also reflects the wider shift toward greater female representation in motorsport. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with Alex Jacques, a highly respected voice in sports commentary, to explore his journey into the world of Formula One broadcasting. Alex shares how his early passion for motorsport, combined with a few unexpected twists of fate, steered him toward some of the most high-profile commentary roles in the sport. We examine the craft of sports journalism, the pressure of stepping into the shoes of iconic commentators, and the importance of bringing genuine emotion, insight, and authenticity to every broadcast. We also discuss Alex’s new book, Grid to Glory, which charts 75 pivotal moments in Formula One history. Through his storytelling, he connects the sport’s defining eras, giving fresh context to the moments that shaped F1 into what it is today. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I explore a striking statistic in the Porsche world: there’s said to be a one-in-three chance of owning a Porsche, yet the ownership rate among women is far lower. To dig into that, I’m joined by Sarah Rhodes, a passionate Porsche owner who defies the odds. Sarah shares her journey from early fascination to the moment she found her perfect match in a stunning Ruby Star 992.1. We talk about the experiences and challenges faced by women in what is still a male-dominated sports car scene, and Sarah introduces Ruby and the Blonde, her growing community designed to support and celebrate female Porsche enthusiasts. This episode is both a tribute to the cars we love and a celebration of the rising representation of women shaping the future of Porsche ownership. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I speak with Helen 'Helly' Blake, a remarkable racing driver whose journey into the world of Autograss racing is anything but ordinary. Helen shares how her path to motorsport began far from the track, rooted in an equestrian background and fuelled by childhood memories of toy cars and time spent in her father’s garage. From those early sparks of fascination to competing at a national level, Helen takes me through the challenges, breakthroughs, and defining moments that have shaped her racing career. We discuss the technical demands of the sport, the camaraderie among female racers, and the unique community that keeps grassroots motorsport alive. Helen also reflects on the proud moment she was crowned Ladies Stock Hatch Champion, a milestone that stands as a testament to her determination and skill. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I travel to EpocAuto 2025, held just outside Lyon, France, one of Europe’s most celebrated showcases of classic and vintage motoring. I explore the event’s standout exhibits, including a stunning display of BBM racing cars and a lesser-known but remarkable French marque curated by Gérard Gamont, who shares the fascinating story behind BBM’s legacy and engineering brilliance. The episode also features an insightful conversation with Jacques Nicolet, CEO of Ligier, as he reflects on the company’s fifty-year journey, its continued innovation, and the enduring spirit that keeps Ligier at the forefront of motorsport. Along the way, I speak with a variety of exhibitors, who introduce unique automotive projects and delve into the history of vintage fire service vehicles on display. Through these conversations, I aim to highlight the craftsmanship, creativity, and cultural significance that make French motoring so captivating, celebrating both its heritage and its ever-evolving story. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with James Newbold, author of Formula 3000: Where Legends Earn Their Stripes, to explore his fascinating new book, an in-depth chronicle of one of motorsport’s most influential yet often overlooked championships. James shares how his passion for racing history inspired him to document the full story of Formula 3000, a series that ran from 1985 to 2004 and served as a vital proving ground for many drivers who would go on to reach Formula One. Together, we discuss the pivotal moments, personalities, and rivalries that defined the era, as well as the challenges of bringing such an ambitious project to life. I highlight how James’s meticulous research and storytelling breathe new life into a chapter of motorsport that deserves far greater recognition. This episode is both a celebration of his dedication and an invitation to rediscover the legacy of Formula 3000, a series where true legends earned their stripes. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Miles Hardy, a leading name in the world of classic and high-performance cars and the driving force behind HPC Classics, a respected dealership dedicated to exceptional sports and collector vehicles. Miles shares the story behind the founding of HPC Classics, explaining how a shared passion for cars among him and his partners evolved into a thriving business built on expertise, authenticity, and an eye for true automotive quality. I explore with him the unique challenges and rewards of sourcing and selling classic vehicles, as well as the attention to detail that sets HPC apart. As Miles looks ahead to his next chapter, stepping into the world of competitive racing, he reflects on the thrill, discipline, and dedication required to succeed behind the wheel. This episode is a celebration of the enduring appeal of classic cars, the community that surrounds them, and the drive that keeps the spirit of motoring alive. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Mike Smith, a respected authority in automotive consulting and cinematic history — particularly renowned for his expertise on the iconic vehicles of the James Bond franchise. Mike shares his deep-rooted passion for Aston Martin and his extensive experience as a senior consultant on acclaimed publications such as Spy Optane and The Self Preservation Society. Together, we explore the captivating stories behind some of cinema’s most recognisable cars, as Mike offers first-hand insights and anecdotes from his involvement in the production of several James Bond films. I also talk with Mike about the intricate process of establishing the provenance of classic cars — the research, documentation, and attention to detail that ensure their authenticity and preserve their legacy. This episode takes listeners into the fascinating space where automotive heritage meets film history, celebrating the stories that continue to bring these legendary machines to life. ___ https://pod.link/1656058575 Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Breaks SAS Autos Listen Now Mentioned in this episode: Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk