Car Talk & Classic Values

The century-long story of how we value cars has dramatically shifted from dog-eared pages to digital databases. Before the internet, car dealers, buyers, and even divorce courts relied on physical booklets like Kelly Blue Book and NADA guides to determine fair market prices. These guides weren't just reference materials—they were essential tools that brought transparency to a notoriously opaque market.

NADA began tracking vehicle values in 1922, creating a standardized system that expanded far beyond dealership lots. During World War II, as manufacturing materials were diverted to the war effort, these guides became crucial in preventing price gouging when used car demand skyrocketed. Even government assistance programs consulted these books when determining eligibility, considering vehicle value as part of an applicant's assets.

The digital revolution changed everything. What started with experimental floppy disks and CD-ROMs in the 1990s evolved into sophisticated online platforms delivering real-time valuations based on multiple factors. By 2017, the last physical guides rolled off the presses, marking the end of an era but the beginning of a more efficient system for everyone involved in buying and selling vehicles.

This week's episode also covers significant recalls, including a serious Ford steering column defect affecting over 115,000 vehicles. We play our popular "Guess the Sold Price" game with classics like a 1967 Mustang convertible and a stunning 1932 Ford Roadster with flames. Plus, we honor Tsutumo Tom Matano, the visionary designer of the Mazda MX-5 Miata who recently passed away at 78.

Whether you're a car enthusiast, industry professional, or simply curious about automotive history, this episode offers fascinating insights into how technology continues to transform the way we value, buy, and sell vehicles. Subscribe now and join our community of car lovers who appreciate both automotive heritage and innovation.

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Chapters

• 0:00 Welcome & Introductions
• 1:52 Story of the Week: Car Valuation History
• 6:52 Vehicle Recalls Roundup
• 10:04 Hemming Sold Car Price Game
• 19:00 Racing Calendar Update
• 21:50 This Week in Auto History
• 25:44 Automotive News Headlines
• 29:24 Show Wrap-Up