Podcast · Leisure & Travel

Between Two Pumps

by Hemmings · English · Leisure & Travel

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

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 43 min
Latest: 14 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026 · 27 minNew

What Car Would You Drive to Your High School Reunion?

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…

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Earlier episodes 28 most recent

S1 · E28 · 7 Oct 2026 · 39 min
Cars We Didn't Think We Needed Until We Drove Them
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…
S1 · E27 · 30 Sep 2026 · 39 min
Monterey Car Week Has Changed. Is That a Bad Thing?
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…
S1 · E26 · 23 Sep 2026 · 36 min
The Cars That Got Us Hooked — with Mike McNessor
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…
S1 · E25 · 16 Sep 2026 · 42 min
The $5K, $10K & $20K Collector Car Challenge
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…
S1 · E24 · 9 Sep 2026 · 46 min
Have New Cars Gotten Too Complicated?
*]: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…
S1 · E23 · 2 Sep 2026 · 33 min
The Motorcycle Rabbit Hole
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…
S1 · E22 · 26 Aug 2026 · 41 min
Japanese Cars Changed Everything
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…
S1 · E21 · 19 Aug 2026 · 51 min
4x4s: Capability vs. Reality
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…
S1 · E20 · 12 Aug 2026 · 40 min
Buy the Spec, Not the Badge
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…
S1 · E19 · 5 Aug 2026 · 36 min
What Makes the Perfect Getaway Car?
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…
S1 · E18 · 29 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 5 min
The Weird Side of Car Collecting
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…
S1 · E17 · 22 Jul 2026 · 46 min
The Cars We'll NEVER Sell
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…
S1 · E16 · 15 Jul 2026 · 46 min
Cars We'd Bring Back From the Dead
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…
S1 · E15 · 8 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
The Cars We Never Should Have Sold
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…
S1 · E14 · 1 Jul 2026 · 35 min
We Built Our Dream Cars for $50,000
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…
S1 · E13 · 24 Jun 2026 · 50 min
Manufactured Rarity: Are Collectors Being Played?
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…
S1 · E12 · 17 Jun 2026 · 42 min
Have Performance Badges Lost Their Meaning?
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…
S1 · E11 · 10 Jun 2026 · 44 min
The Last Analog Cars
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…
S1 · E10 · 3 Jun 2026 · 27 min
Are Cars Worth More Because You Drive Them?
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…
S1 · E9 · 27 May 2026 · 43 min
Future of Pre-War Cars
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…
S1 · E8 · 20 May 2026 · 49 min
Stock vs Restomod: Where's the Line?
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…
S1 · E7 · 13 May 2026 · 54 min
The Truth About Blue Chip Cars
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.…
S1 · E6 · 6 May 2026 · 45 min
The Garage Queen Problem
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…
S1 · E5 · 29 Apr 2026 · 45 min
Best Cars of the 80s and 90s
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…
S1 · E4 · 22 Apr 2026 · 44 min
The "Fat Elvis" Problem In Modern Cars
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…
S1 · E3 · 15 Apr 2026 · 42 min
Restored vs Original: What Wins in Today's Collector Car Market?
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…
S1 · E2 · 8 Apr 2026 · 52 min
Never Meet Your Heroes
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…
S1 · E1 · 1 Apr 2026 · 41 min
$1M Dream Garage: One Car or the Ultimate Collection?
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…

About Between Two Pumps

Between Two Pumps is a English leisure & travel podcast from Hemmings. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Hemmings
Language: English
Category: Leisure & Travel
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 43 min
Latest episode: 14 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1896304710
Rights: 2026

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