Ep 5. Where the Rubber Meets the Road

In American Muscle Car's season 1, episode 5 titled "Where the Rubber Meets the Road," viewers are taken on a ride through the history of tires and how they have played a crucial role in the performance and development of muscle cars.

The episode kicks off with a visit to the Goodyear Proving Grounds in Ohio, where host Mike Musto speaks with Michael Marti, a tire expert who takes him through the process of testing tires for durability and performance. They examine various aspects of tire construction, including sidewall stiffness, tread wear, and grip, and how these factors can affect a car's performance on the road.

From there, the show delves into the early days of muscle cars and the tires that were used at the time. Some of the earliest muscle cars were equipped with bias-ply tires, which were known for their low cost and durability but lacked the grip and handling of modern radial tires. Viewers learn about the challenges of racing on these tires, which required careful tuning and handling to avoid swerving or spinning out of control.

As the segment progresses, the show highlights some of the key advances in tire technology that have shaped the muscle car world. One of the most influential was the development of the radial tire, which first came on the scene in the late 1960s. These tires featured a stiffer sidewall and a wider contact patch, which allowed for better handling and increased grip on both dry and wet roads. The segment also covers the rise of performance tires designed specifically for muscle cars, such as the iconic BF Goodrich Radial T/A.

Throughout the episode, Musto meets with various experts and enthusiasts who share their insights and experiences with tires and muscle cars. One memorable segment includes a visit to a tire shop where a group of mechanics are installing fresh tires on a classic Mustang. The team discusses the importance of selecting the right tires for your car based on factors such as driving style, climate, and road conditions.

Another informative segment focuses on the process of choosing the right tire size for your muscle car. Musto speaks with tire expert Tim Dietz, who explains how factors such as rim width and overall diameter can impact a tire's performance and fitment. They examine various sizing options and discuss the pros and cons of each approach.

The episode wraps up with a look toward the future of tire technology and how it will continue to shape the muscle car world. Musto speaks with tire engineer Joerg Burrichter, who explains how innovations such as smart tires and 3D printing could revolutionize the way we design, test, and manufacture tires.

Overall, American Muscle Car's "Where the Rubber Meets the Road" is a fascinating and informative exploration of an often-overlooked aspect of muscle car performance. Whether you're a longtime muscle car enthusiast or simply curious about the technology behind these powerful vehicles, this episode is sure to provide plenty of insight and entertainment.