Hemmings

Between Two Pumps

About the show

Between Two Pumps is where real car conversations happen—hosted by Terry Shea, Mike Musto, and Terry McGean. The show combines decades of market knowledge with candid debate and real marketplace intelligence. From muscle cars and European classics to modern collectibles and emerging trends, nothing is off limits. In an environment where hype can distort perception overnight, Between Two Pumps cuts through the noise—positioning Hemmings as both a historian and a modern-day navigator of the collector-car landscape. Each episode blends firsthand experience, honest opinions, and deep industry insight to help enthusiasts understand what truly matters. What's worth buying? What's overrated? What will stand the test of time? Terry, Mike, and Terry break it down—no scripts, no fluff. Subscribe for new episodes and stay ahead of the collector-car market.

Newest episodes

Four Doors Are Cool as Hell

Nov 11, 2026 32 min

There was a time when four-door cars were considered little more than parts donors, while their two-door counterparts got all the attention. But times have changed. Are four-door classics finally getting the respect they deserve? On Episode 33 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry McGean, and Terry Shea make the case for four-door cars, from overlooked American sedans and vintage hardtops to some of the greatest performance sedans ever built. The crew dives into everything from the Chevrolet Impala SS and Dodge Charger to the Pontiac G8, Cadillac Blackwing, BMW M5, and legendary Mercedes-Benz sport sedans. They also share their dream four-door picks, debate whether an old family sedan can be just as cool as a muscle car, and explore how changing tastes and rising collector car values are giving once-overlooked classics a second life. Whether you're into big-body American cruisers, high-performance European sedans, or affordable classics with room for the whole crew, this episode proves that sometimes two extra doors are a good thing. Looking for your next classic? Explore thousands of collector vehicles on the Hemmings Marketplace at https://www.hemmings.com. Join the conversation: What's your ultimate four-door collector car? Let us know in the comments!

Built Not Bought: Does It Really Matter?

Nov 4, 2026 36 min

In Episode 32 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean tackle one of the automotive hobby's most divisive debates: Is it better to build your dream car from scratch or buy one that's already finished? From the pride of turning wrenches to the staggering costs of professional restorations, the guys explore what it really means to call a car your own. Mike shares his perspective on creating his custom Dodge Charger and Daytona, while the conversation touches on million-dollar restorations, unfinished projects, and whether commissioning a build deserves the same respect as doing the work yourself. Plus, Hemmings' own Master Mechanic, Junior joins the discussion to offer a hands-on builder's perspective, sharing why knowing your limitations can be just as important as knowing your way around a toolbox. Whether you're a DIY builder, a turnkey buyer, or somewhere in between, one thing's certain: there's more than one way to enjoy the automotive hobby. So where do you stand: Built Not Bought, Bought Not Built, or a little of both?

What Will the Next Generation of Car Collectors Want?

Oct 28, 2026 48 min

On Episode 31 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean explore how generational tastes are reshaping the collector car market. From classic muscle cars and Fox-body Mustangs to Japanese performance icons, vintage pickups, and modern analog sports cars, the guys discuss what's gaining value, what's being overlooked, and what the next generation of enthusiasts might be collecting. They also debate the appeal of analog driving in an increasingly digital world, why clean examples of once-common cars are commanding serious money, and whether the collector car hobby is doing enough to welcome younger enthusiasts. Because at the end of the day, you don't need a perfect collector car to enjoy the drive. Whether you're a Boomer, Gen X, Millennial, or Gen Z, this conversation is a reminder that the cars we love may change, but the passion behind them doesn't.

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All episodes

Four Doors Are Cool as Hell

Nov 11, 2026 32 min

Built Not Bought: Does It Really Matter?

Nov 4, 2026 36 min

What Will the Next Generation of Car Collectors Want?

Oct 28, 2026 48 min

From Station Wagons to Supercars: Cars That Caught Our Eye

Oct 21, 2026 44 min

In Episode 30 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean take a closer look at some of their favorite recent sales on Hemmings Marketplace. From affordable classics and unusual muscle cars to iconic European sports cars, the guys discuss what makes each vehicle special, what they sold for, and whether they'd want one in their own garages. Along the way, they explore the engineering behind GM's clamshell station wagons, the history of Dodge's original muscle trucks, the enduring appeal of Honda's S2000, and why certain collector cars are becoming increasingly desirable. Featured vehicles include: 1971 Pontiac Grand Safari Station Wagon 1979 Dodge Little Red Express 2007 Honda S2000 1972 Volvo 1800E 1986 Ford Bronco 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL600 1969 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible 1992 Ferrari 512 TR 1962 Jaguar E-Type Roadster Whether you're hunting for your next collector car, following the market, or just enjoy a good automotive debate, this episode celebrates the incredible variety of vehicles and stories found on Hemmings Marketplace. Explore collector cars at Hemmings.com and discover more episodes of Between Two Pumps on the Hemmings YouTube channel.

What Car Would You Drive to Your High School Reunion?

Oct 14, 2026 27 min

On Episode 29 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean debate the perfect vehicle for showing up to a high school reunion. From a chauffeur-driven Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman and a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro to a Ford Bronco Sasquatch and a 1987 Aston Martin V8 Vantage, the guys explore what your choice of car says about your personality, success, and automotive taste. Along the way, they revisit the cars they drove in high school, share reunion stories, and debate which vehicles they'd never want to be caught arriving in. Whether you're looking to make a statement, relive your glory days, or simply prove you've still got great taste in cars, this episode is packed with nostalgia, laughs, and plenty of automotive opinions. What would you drive to your high school reunion? Let us know in the comments!

Cars We Didn't Think We Needed Until We Drove Them

Oct 7, 2026 39 min

On Episode 28 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry McGean, and Terry Shea talk about the cars that completely changed their minds once they got behind the wheel. From a 1979 Pontiac Trans Am with the Pontiac 400 and a four-speed to a first-gen Toyota Tacoma that unexpectedly became a family favorite, the guys dig into the cars that proved their assumptions wrong. The conversation covers an unlikely love affair with a high-mileage Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ, eye-opening experiences with Japanese performance cars, the BMW E36 that made a believer out of a muscle-car guy, and a Ferrari 308 that was far better than its reputation suggested. Mike also recalls driving the outrageous Dodge Viper ACR Extreme at VIR—and discovering just how capable the most intimidating version of the Viper really is. Plus, the guys get into the Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ, classic Alfa Romeos, and why sometimes the best automotive experiences come from cars you never expected to love. What car completely changed your opinion after you finally drove one?

Monterey Car Week Has Changed. Is That a Bad Thing?

Sep 30, 2026 38 min

On Episode 27 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean take on Monterey Car Week—from the crowds and social-media-fueled car spotting to the changing culture surrounding one of the biggest weeks in the collector-car world. The guys debate whether a new generation of enthusiasts is disrupting the experience or simply experiencing the hobby in a different way. They also dig into a massive year for the Monterey auctions, the changing mix of cars commanding serious money, and how Pebble Beach continues to evolve beyond the traditional classics. From historic hot rods and Japanese race cars to what could eventually earn a place on the concours lawn, the conversation turns to what Monterey—and the collector-car hobby itself—might look like for the next generation. Is Car Week losing what made it special, or is this simply the next chapter?

The Cars That Got Us Hooked — with Mike McNessor

Sep 23, 2026 36 min

On Episode 26 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea and Terry McGean are joined by Hemmings Motor News Managing Editor, Mike McNessor to talk about their first cool cars, the questionable decisions they made to get them on the road, and the lessons they had to learn the hard way. From a rusty 1969 Camaro and a $300 junkyard Dodge Dart GT to a battered Chevelle SS and a Datsun/Nissan 300ZX, the guys look back at the cars that helped turn them into lifelong enthusiasts. There are rusty quarter panels, borrowed license plates, questionable teenage driving decisions, missed proms, blown budgets and plenty of stories about learning to wrench with whatever tools and money were available. They also tackle the question every enthusiast eventually asks: If you could have your first cool car back, would you want it? Plus, the conversation turns to the cars they've managed to hold onto for decades, why certain vehicles become permanent members of the family, and the projects that somehow never quite get finished. What was your first cool car and would you buy it back today?

The $5K, $10K & $20K Collector Car Challenge

Sep 16, 2026 41 min

In Episode 25 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean set out to prove that getting into the collector-car hobby doesn't have to require a six-figure budget. Each of the guys goes shopping through the Hemmings Marketplace with three price caps: $5,000, $10,000, and $20,000. The results are all over the automotive map. A customized 1969 Dodge A100, a project 1940 Ford, a V8 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a Volkswagen Beetle convertible, a V12 Jaguar, a funky 1962 Dodge Dart wagon, and plenty more make the list before the $20K category opens the door to everything from vintage off-roaders to '90s Japanese performance cars. Along the way, the guys make the case for buying cars you can actually use, finding value in overlooked models, and remembering that you don't have to marry every car you buy. With plenty of genuinely interesting cars still available at attainable prices, the hardest part might be talking yourself out of bringing one home. If you had $5K, $10K, or $20K to spend on a fun car today, what are you buying?

Have New Cars Gotten Too Complicated?

Sep 9, 2026 46 min

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:8216d286-5daf-4abe-8226-318bd6110071-42" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:8216d286-5daf-4abe-8226-318bd6110071-42" data-testid= "conversation-turn-86" data-turn="assistant"> In Episode 24 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean take on the technology and features reshaping modern cars. Touchscreens controlling basic functions, questionable electronic shifters, gesture controls, turbocharged everything—some innovations have the guys wondering whether automakers have forgotten that cars still need to be intuitive to drive. But they're not against progress. Backup and 360-degree cameras, better climate control, heated and ventilated seats, Bluetooth, modern sports seats, and integrated towing technology all earn their praise. Then comes the wish list: full-size spare tires, analog gauges, traditional PRNDL shifters, mechanical parking brakes, simple fresh-air vents, and other features that disappeared somewhere along the way. What modern car feature could you live without—and what old-school feature deserves a comeback?

The Motorcycle Rabbit Hole

Sep 2, 2026 33 min

In Episode 23 of Between Two Pumps, the guys leave four wheels behind and dive into the world of motorcycles. With decades of riding experience between them, Mike Musto and Terry Shea talk about everything from the Honda CB750 and the rise of the Universal Japanese Motorcycle to the analog sport bikes of the '80s and '90s—and why motorcycles can deliver a level of immediacy and visceral excitement that even great cars can't match. Terry also finds himself in the market for his first street motorcycle, sparking a conversation about what makes a good first bike, whether to go vintage or modern, and why an inexpensive '90s or early-2000s motorcycle might be the perfect way into two wheels. Along the way, the guys revisit some of their own first bikes, favorite motorcycles, the appeal of adventure bikes, and the seemingly endless rabbit hole of motorcycles available on the Hemmings Marketplace. Plus: Why riding a motorcycle can make you a better car driver, the enduring appeal of analog machines, and one very important piece of advice for anyone thinking about getting into riding: spend more on the gear.

Japanese Cars Changed Everything

Aug 26, 2026 41 min

In Episode 22 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean look back at the rise of Japanese cars in America, from the days when Toyota, Honda, and Datsun were dismissed as cheap economy cars to the moment they became benchmarks for quality, reliability, technology, and performance. The guys revisit the cars that changed their perceptions, from early Corollas, Civics, and Accords to the 300ZX, Celica, Supra, Prelude, and more, and explore why so many once-overlooked Japanese cars are becoming increasingly desirable collector vehicles. They also clear up what "JDM" actually means, talk about the engineering that helped Japanese manufacturers earn enthusiasts' respect, and reveal which Japanese classics they'd put in their own garages today. Plus: Is it time for a JDM project car in the Hemmings Garage? It's a nostalgic look at the cars many enthusiasts once ignored and now can't stop searching for.

4x4s: Capability vs. Reality

Aug 19, 2026 51 min

In Episode 21 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry McGean, and Terry Shea dig into the evolution of the 4x4, from old-school, truck-based rigs to modern SUVs and crossovers. The conversation starts with a simple question: What are you actually going to use it for? Because there's a big difference between needing legitimate off-road capability and needing all-wheel drive to get through the snow. The guys revisit everything from early Ford Explorers, Chevy Blazers, Broncos, and Jeep Cherokees to Grand Wagoneers, Wranglers, 4Runners, Land Cruisers, Range Rovers, and today's Bronco. Along the way, they debate the tradeoffs between off-road ability, highway comfort, towing capacity, reliability, size, power, and practicality—and why the best 4x4 might be the one that can do almost everything well. Plus: overlanding excess, questionable used Range Rovers, bulletproof Toyotas, and the Land Cruiser 70 Series—the "Erector Set of the 4x4 world." If you could have one 4x4 that had to handle the trail, the highway, the family, and the occasional tow, what would you choose?

Buy the Spec, Not the Badge

Aug 12, 2026 39 min

In Episode 20 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean go hunting for the sweet spots hiding within enthusiast-car lineups; the models, trims, and option combinations that deliver most (and sometimes all) of the experience without the flagship price tag. From the Porsche 996 and early Cayman to the C6 Corvette Grand Sport, Mustang GT Track Pack, Mini Cooper, and Camaro SS 1LE, the guys dig into cars where choosing the right spec may matter more than choosing the most expensive badge. Sometimes less power, fewer options, or the supposedly "lesser" model actually makes for the better car to own and drive. The takeaway? Figure out the driving experience you actually want, learn the option sheet, and buy the car that fits you—not the one everyone tells you you're supposed to want. Because sometimes the best version of a great car is hiding in plain sight.

What Makes the Perfect Getaway Car?

Aug 5, 2026 36 min

In Episode 19 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean tackle one of the most entertaining hypothetical debates yet: What is the ultimate getaway car? Starting with a tongue-in-cheek movie scenario involving corrupt zombie cops, the guys put a wide range of vehicles to the test, weighing everything from agility and durability to all-wheel drive, ground clearance, top speed, fuel range, and real-world survivability. Along the way, they debate the merits of the Porsche 911 Dakar, Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, BMW M5, Ford Lightning, and several other unexpected contenders, ultimately narrowing the field to two finalists. It's a hilarious conversation filled with movie references, spirited arguments, and surprisingly thoughtful automotive analysis that proves choosing the perfect escape vehicle isn't nearly as simple as picking the fastest car. Which would you choose—the Porsche 911 Dakar, the Jeep Trackhawk, or something else entirely? Let us know in the comments.

The Weird Side of Car Collecting

Jul 29, 2026 1 hr 4 min

In Episode 18 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean dive deep into the wonderfully weird side of the collector car hobby, each bringing five of the most unusual, obscure, and unexpected vehicles they could find on Hemmings. From Nissan Figaros, Tatra Type 77s, and Euro-spec BMWs to military Jeep trucks, French grand tourers, Model T snowmobile conversions, and even Italian vineyard utility vehicles, the guys celebrate the incredible variety that makes the collector car hobby so fascinating. Along the way, they debate forgotten automotive engineering, gray-market gems, military oddities, French styling, rare imports, and why discovering cars you've never even heard of is one of the greatest joys of being a car enthusiast. If you could own one truly unusual collector car, what would it be? Let us know in the comments.

The Cars We'll NEVER Sell

Jul 22, 2026 46 min

In Episode 17 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry McGean, and Terry Shea swap stories about the forever cars in their garages and why, despite decades of new models, more horsepower, and better technology, nothing has been able to replace them. From Terry's long-loved Focus RS and BMW M Coupe to Terry's Fox-body Mustang and Mike's beloved '68 Charger, the guys explore what transforms a car from a possession into part of your identity. Along the way, they debate modern performance cars versus analog icons, the thrill of configuring your dream car, whether today's vehicles still create lifelong emotional connections, and why sometimes the smartest automotive decision is simply keeping the keys to the one that still makes you look back every time you park it.

Cars We'd Bring Back From the Dead

Jul 15, 2026 46 min

In Episode 16 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean resurrect the cars and nameplates they think deserve another shot. Terry Shea makes the case for a modern Ford Crown Victoria: big, rear-wheel drive, V8-powered, and finally given the enthusiast treatment Ford never quite delivered. Mike dreams up a reborn second-generation Trans Am with the elegance of an Aston Martin, the attitude of American muscle, and, yes, a screaming chicken. And Terry McGean argues for the return of the great American rear-wheel-drive performance sedan, looking back at cars like the Chevrolet SS, Pontiac G8, and the Impala SS. Along the way, the guys debate what makes retro design work, why some modern interpretations completely miss the mark, whether four-door muscle cars have finally earned their place, and the bigger question: If automakers actually built the cars enthusiasts say they want, would anyone buy them? It's part dream garage, part automotive product-planning meeting, and probably a good reminder of why none of these guys work for an OEM.

The Cars We Never Should Have Sold

Jul 8, 2026 1 hr 8 min

In Episode 15 of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean get personal as they confess the cars they never should have sold, the purchases they probably should regret (but don't), and the smartest automotive decisions they've ever made. From a fuselage-era Chrysler Newport and a rare GMC Sprint SP to an E30 M3, Porsche 968, Volkswagen GTIs, and a 928 that exceeded every expectation, the guys revisit the cars that shaped their lives—along with the stories, missed opportunities, and hard-earned lessons that came with them. Whether you've sold your dream car, bought a questionable project, or still think about the one that got away, this episode is a reminder that the best car stories are often about the decisions we wish we could undo.

We Built Our Dream Cars for $50,000

Jul 1, 2026 34 min

In Episode 14 of Between Two Pumps, the guys put a budget on their imagination and build their ultimate dream-spec project cars using one simple rule: the car has to be available right now on the Hemmings Marketplace. Mike dreams up the ultimate Fox-platform sleeper—a Coyote-swapped 1988 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe with modern suspension, big brakes, and just enough subtle modifications to surprise everyone at a stoplight. Terry McGean goes lightweight and high-revving with a rally-inspired second-generation Toyota Celica powered by a Toyota 2ZZ engine, blending vintage style with modern performance. And Terry Shea leans into classic American practicality with a 1957 Chevrolet wagon body-swapped onto a 9C1 Caprice chassis for the ultimate road-trip machine. Along the way, the conversation dives into engine swaps, junkyard builds, body swaps, factory parts-bin engineering, Fox-body Fords, Toyota performance engines, and the eternal question every car enthusiast asks: If you had $50,000 and one dream build, what would you create? Because sometimes the best project car isn't the one in your garage—it's the one you've been building in your head for years.

Manufactured Rarity: Are Collectors Being Played?

Jun 24, 2026 50 min

In Episode 13 of Between Two Pumps, the guys tackle a question that has shaped the collector car market for decades: What actually makes a car rare? From BMW M5s and M3 Lightweights to Buick GNXs, Bullitt Mustangs, Dodge Demons, Porsche special editions, and the infamous 1978 Corvette Pace Car, the conversation explores how manufacturers create exclusivity—and whether collectors should believe the hype. Along the way, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean debate limited-production runs, homologation specials, canceled promotions, performance badges, and the difference between genuinely rare cars and vehicles that were simply marketed as such. They also dive into modern performance brands like BMW M, AMG, Audi RS, and Porsche GT models, asking whether today's endless stream of special editions has diluted what once made these cars truly special. Because when every car is a special edition, it's fair to ask if any of them still are.

Have Performance Badges Lost Their Meaning?

Jun 17, 2026 41 min

In Episode 12 of Between Two Pumps, the guys tackle a question that's becoming harder to answer every year: Do performance badges still mean what they used to? From BMW M and M Sport to Mercedes-AMG, Audi S and RS models, Volvo R-Designs, and Volkswagen R-Lines, the conversation explores how automakers have expanded their performance brands beyond the hardcore enthusiast cars that built their reputations. Along the way, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean debate whether these modern "sport" packages offer genuine performance improvements or simply deliver the look and image of the real thing. The episode also dives into the evolution of BMW's M division, the rise of AMG sub-models, classic muscle car parallels, halo-car marketing, and whether enthusiasts should embrace these watered-down performance variants or reject them altogether. Because sometimes the biggest question isn't how fast a car is—it's whether the badge on the trunk still means what you think it does.

The Last Analog Cars

Jun 10, 2026 44 min

In Episode 11 of Between Two Pumps, the guys tackle a question every enthusiast seems to be asking: Can you still buy a truly analog driver's car in the modern era? From BMW M Coupes and Porsche 996s to Subaru BRZs, Volkswagen GTIs, Mitsubishi Evos, Mustangs, Lotuses, and Civic Type Rs, the conversation explores the cars that continue to deliver genuine driver engagement in an increasingly digital world. Along the way, they debate where the line exists between "analog" and simply "engaging," and whether modern performance cars have become too heavy, too complicated, and too disconnected from the driving experience enthusiasts crave. The episode also dives into affordable modern classics, overlooked performance bargains, manual transmissions, and the cars they'd buy today before values climb even higher. Because sometimes the best driver's car isn't the fastest one—it's the one that makes you look for the long way home.

Are Cars Worth More Because You Drive Them?

Jun 3, 2026 26 min

In Episode 10 of Between Two Pumps, the guys explore a different way of looking at collector cars: not by horsepower, rarity, or auction results—but by the adventures they unlock. From the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and the snowy mountain roads of the Planai Classic to Radwood, TROG, vintage racing, and the Great Race, the conversation dives into the events that inspire enthusiasts to buy cars they might never have considered otherwise. Along the way, they discuss everything from Curved Dash Oldsmobiles and Austin Sevens to Fox-body Mustangs, BMW 2002s, and even the world's nicest Pontiac Aztek. The episode examines how experiences can influence collector car values, why certain events create demand for overlooked vehicles, and how the right adventure can completely change the way you view a car. Because sometimes the best reason to buy a collector car isn't what it is—it's where it can take you.

Future of Pre-War Cars

May 27, 2026 43 min

In Episode 9 of Between Two Pumps, the guys tackle one of the collector car world's most debated questions: does anybody still want pre-war cars? What starts as a conversation about Model As, Packards, and Full Classics quickly turns into a deeper discussion about why younger enthusiasts are becoming fascinated with analog experiences, tactile machines, and cars that demand skill, patience, and intentionality to drive. Along the way, the crew explores everything from Pebble Beach-era classics and vintage road rallies through the Alps to manual chokes, non-synchronized transmissions, and the surprising appeal of technology from another century. From million-dollar Duesenbergs and coachbuilt Packards to humble Model Ts and Austin Sevens, the episode breaks down why these cars still matter—and why the experience of driving them may be more relevant now than ever in an increasingly digital world. Because sometimes the slowest cars create the most memorable experiences.

Stock vs Restomod: Where's the Line?

May 20, 2026 48 min

In Episode 8 of Between Two Pumps, the guys dive into one of the biggest debates in car culture: stock restorations versus day-two builds, restomods, and full-blown pro touring machines. What started as simple bolt-on upgrades and period-correct modifications has evolved into a world of giant-killer Camaros, track-ready muscle cars, and classics rebuilt to outperform modern performance cars. Along the way, the conversation explores the origins of pro touring, the emotional connection enthusiasts have with modifying cars, and why some builds feel timeless while others become little more than expensive parts catalogs. From first-gen Camaros and big-block Chargers to one-lap legends and modernized muscle, the episode breaks down what actually makes a modified car work—and why the best builds are about more than horsepower numbers or oversized wheels. Because sometimes the most interesting classics aren't the ones left untouched—they're the ones reimagined with purpose.

The Truth About Blue Chip Cars

May 13, 2026 54 min

In Episode 7 of Between Two Pumps, the guys dig into one of the most misunderstood concepts in the collector car world: the idea of the "blue chip" car. Is it about rarity? Performance? Cultural impact? Or simply a safe place to park your money? From mid-year Corvettes and modern ZR1s to Dodge Chargers shaped by Hollywood and pop culture, the conversation breaks down why some cars become untouchable icons while others—despite performance or pedigree—never quite get there. Along the way, they explore rising stars, overlooked opportunities, and the subtle forces that drive long-term value. Because in this market, it's not just about what a car is—it's about what it means.

The Garage Queen Problem

May 6, 2026 44 min

In Episode 6 of Between Two Pumps, the crew tackles one of the most polarizing debates in car culture: are classic cars meant to be preserved… or driven? From concours-level restorations to bug-splattered cross-country road trips, the conversation dives deep into the psychology behind "garage queens" and the people who own them. Is it about perfection, competition, and preservation—or are some owners missing the entire point? The guys unpack everything from muscle car collecting trends to Pebble Beach-level judging, accidental garage queens, and the emotional weight of cars that sit too long. Along the way, they share personal stories, including long-owned Camaros, forgotten Barracudas, and the regret that comes from not making memories behind the wheel. Because at the end of the day, the question isn't just what is your car worth—it's what has it given you?

Best Cars of the 80s and 90s

Apr 29, 2026 44 min

In this episode of Between Two Pumps, the guys take a trip back to two of the most defining decades in automotive history—the 1980s and 1990s—and try to answer a deceptively simple question: what are the best cars from each era? What starts as a friendly exercise quickly turns into a mix of personal nostalgia, real-world experience, and some unapologetic dream picks. From Fox-body Mustangs and Buick Turbo Regals to icons like the Ferrari F40 and McLaren F1, the conversation moves fluidly between cars you could actually own and the ones that lived on your bedroom wall. There's no clean ranking here—just the cars that left an impression. The ones you remember seeing, hearing, or chasing. And maybe, if you're lucky, the ones you still want today

The "Fat Elvis" Problem In Modern Cars

Apr 22, 2026 44 min

In this episode of Between Two Pumps, Mike Musto, Terry Shea, and Terry McGean dig into the idea of "Fat Elvis vs. Skinny Elvis" and apply it to cars—comparing lightweight, analog originals to their heavier, more powerful modern counterparts. From the BMW M5 and Jaguar E-Type to the Nissan Z, Porsche 911, and even the Ford F-150, the guys break down how cars evolve over time—gaining weight, tech, and performance, but sometimes losing the magic that made them great in the first place. Are modern cars better… or just bigger? Can "Fat Elvis" still perform? It's a mix of sharp opinions, real experience, and the kind of debate every enthusiast has had at some point.

Restored vs Original: What Wins in Today's Collector Car Market?

Apr 15, 2026 42 min

In this episode of Between Two Pumps, the crew dives into one of the most debated topics in the collector car world: restored vs original. Are perfectly restored cars still king—or are buyers shifting toward survivor cars, barn finds, and driver-quality builds? From million-dollar unrestored discoveries to the rise of restomods and pro-touring builds, this episode explores how values are changing—and why the best car might not be the most perfect one. The conversation also touches on usability vs investment, why high-mileage cars can outperform low-mile examples in real-world enjoyment, and what today's market is actually rewarding. Whether you're buying, selling, or building, this episode will challenge how you think about value in the collector car world.

Never Meet Your Heroes

Apr 8, 2026 52 min

What cars actually live up to the hype—and which ones don't? In this episode of Between Two Pumps, we get into the cars that surprised us, the ones that completely let us down, and why some vehicles prove you should never meet your heroes. From unexpected standouts like classic Alfa Romeos to iconic disappointments like the Turbo Trans Am, this episode is all about real-world driving experiences and honest enthusiast takes. We also talk about which cars have aged well, which haven't, and how expectations can shape the way we experience a car behind the wheel. If you've ever chased a dream car—or been surprised by something you didn't expect—this one's for you.

$1M Dream Garage: One Car or the Ultimate Collection?

Apr 1, 2026 40 min

What would you buy with $1 million to spend on cars? In the debut episode of Between Two Pumps, hosts Terry Shea, Mike Musto, and Terry McGean tackle the ultimate enthusiast question: go all-in on one dream car or build a diverse garage. From attainable performance picks to collector-grade icons, the conversation dives into what actually makes a car worth owning—and why the "best" choice isn't always the most expensive. This episode sets the tone for the show: candid debate, deep automotive knowledge, and real-world perspective from decades of experience in the collector car market. IN THIS EPISODE One car vs. collection debate Building a $1M dream garage Best value enthusiast cars What makes a car truly enjoyable Real insights from the collector car market ABOUT THE SHOW Between Two Pumps is a Hemmings podcast hosted by Terry Shea, Mike Musto, and Terry McGean—bringing together decades of automotive experience, honest opinions, and real marketplace insight to help enthusiasts better understand the cars they love. LEARN MORE Explore cars for sale: Hemmings.com Join Hemmings Motor Club: HMN.com/HMC

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Podcast details

Created by: Hemmings
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 11, 2026
Episodes: 33
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 43 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

Links

Official website ↗ Apple Podcasts ↗ RSS feed ↗

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