Ferrari Returns to Manual? The New Hummer, Ram Rumble Bee! THIS CAR POD! EP114
Doug DeMuro · 2026-06-05
💡 Quick Take
1. Ferrari might be releasing a limited edition manual version of the 12Cilindri.
2. Ferrari is reportedly developing a "digital manual gearbox" for potential EV applications.
3. The design of the new Ferrari 12Cilindri is widely considered controversial and disappointing by enthusiasts.
4. There's a strong sentiment that modern Ferrari products, especially EVs, are alienating their traditional enthusiast base.
5. The Toyota GRMN Corolla is getting a Nürburgring-tuned update with minor performance enhancements.
6. Ram is bringing back the Rumblebee, a street-focused performance truck, including a 777-horsepower Hellcat version.
7. The return of street trucks like the Ram Rumblebee signifies a push for enthusiast gasoline-powered vehicles amidst the EV transition.
8. GM is concepting an H3-sized electric Hummer, aiming for a smaller, potentially more affordable off-roader.
9. The Dodge Viper will not be returning as a nameplate, but a new "Copperhead" ultra-muscle car concept is rumored.
10. The mid-2000s (e.g., E39 M5, E55 AMG) are considered a golden era for super sedans, blending analog and modern characteristics.
11. Cars and Bids had a highly successful Velocity event, selling significant cars like a $375k R34 GT-R and a $653k Ferrari 430 Scuderia.
12. The market for enthusiast cars, particularly classic and special edition models, is experiencing significant value appreciation, making them less accessible.
13. Many enthusiasts are struggling to afford their dream cars as values skyrocket, leading to a re-evaluation of expectations.
14. "Rich guy go-fast" cars are identified as vehicles purchased for status and speed rather than genuine enthusiast appeal, with McLarens and certain Ferraris being prime examples.
15. The use of AI in car design and announcements is viewed with increasing cynicism by some.
16. Doug is moving on from his G-Wagen due to ongoing reliability issues and a desire for a less problematic vehicle.
17. The conversation highlights a shift from traditional car ownership challenges to the desire for reliable, enjoyable vehicles, especially for families.
18. Facebook Marketplace is described as a "dumpster fire" for car transactions due to unreliability and scams.
19. Cars and Bids is praised for its ability to attract special cars and achieve strong market values, proving its concept.
20. The value of certain enthusiast cars, like the Honda Civic Type R, has held exceptionally well, indicating strong market demand.
📊 Detailed Explanation
1. Ferrari might be releasing a limited edition manual version of the 12Cilindri. This is based on trademark filings suggesting a manual could be coming for the car. While Ferrari hasn't officially confirmed it, the rumor is circulating, and many enthusiasts hope it's true, especially after the controversial 12Cilindri launch.
2. Ferrari is reportedly developing a "digital manual gearbox" for potential EV applications. This is a fascinating concept where a manual-feeling gearbox would exist in an EV but wouldn't be mechanically linked to anything. The idea is to provide a more engaging driving experience for EV owners, mimicking the feel of shifting gears, which could be applied to future electric models.
3. The design of the new Ferrari 12Cilindri is widely considered controversial and disappointing by enthusiasts. Both Kenan and Nick expressed strong negative opinions about the car's aesthetics, with Kenan even calling it a "travesty." The general consensus among enthusiasts seems to be that the design is a step backward and doesn't live up to Ferrari's usual standards.
4. There's a strong sentiment that modern Ferrari products, especially EVs, are alienating their traditional enthusiast base. Kenan, a self-proclaimed die-hard enthusiast, admits he "just doesn't care" about modern Ferraris, preferring older models. He feels that modern offerings, particularly the electric ones, don't evoke the same passion. This sentiment suggests Ferrari might be losing touch with its core audience.
5. The Toyota GRMN Corolla is getting a Nürburgring-tuned update with minor performance enhancements. This is a "Masters of Nürburgring" edition, meaning it has tweaks to suspension and other components to improve track performance. While the gains are incremental (like 7 lb-ft of torque and 66 lbs lighter), it's presented as a special, enthusiast-focused version of the GR Corolla.
6. Ram is bringing back the Rumblebee, a street-focused performance truck, including a 777-horsepower Hellcat version. This is a big deal for truck enthusiasts! The Rumblebee was a beloved street truck, and its return, especially with a supercharged Hellcat engine option, is exciting. They're also offering less powerful versions for those who want the look without the extreme power.
7. The return of street trucks like the Ram Rumblebee signifies a push for enthusiast gasoline-powered vehicles amidst the EV transition. In an era where EVs are dominating headlines, the fact that Ram is doubling down on powerful, gasoline V8 street trucks is seen as a significant and admirable move. It's a nod to traditional American muscle and enthusiast desires.
8. GM is concepting an H3-sized electric Hummer, aiming for a smaller, potentially more affordable off-roader. This concept aims to address the massive size and cost of the current Hummer EV. A smaller, more manageable electric Hummer could appeal to a broader audience looking for an electric off-road capable vehicle.
9. The Dodge Viper will not be returning as a nameplate, but a new "Copperhead" ultra-muscle car concept is rumored. While the iconic Viper won't be resurrected, there's talk of a new "Copperhead" model that could compete with cars like the Mustang GTD. This suggests Dodge is still committed to creating high-performance, enthusiast-focused vehicles, even if it's not a direct Viper successor.
10. The mid-2000s (e.g., E39 M5, E55 AMG) are considered a golden era for super sedans, blending analog and modern characteristics. This era is praised for producing cars that offered a perfect mix of driver engagement, modern amenities, and daily usability. The discussion highlights how these cars are now highly sought after for their unique blend of old-school feel and contemporary performance.
11. Cars and Bids had a highly successful Velocity event, selling significant cars like a $375k R34 GT-R and a $653k Ferrari 430 Scuderia. This event was a major success for the platform, showcasing its ability to attract and sell highly desirable and valuable cars. The strong results for niche vehicles like the 430 Scuderia demonstrate the platform's market-setting capabilities.
12. The market for enthusiast cars, particularly classic and special edition models, is experiencing significant value appreciation, making them less accessible. Cars like the Ferrari 550 Maranello have seen dramatic price increases, moving from aspirational purchases to unattainable for many enthusiasts. This trend is seen across various segments, impacting the dreams of many car lovers.
13. Many enthusiasts are struggling to afford their dream cars as values skyrocket, leading to a re-evaluation of expectations. The conversation reveals a shared sentiment of disappointment as cars that were once considered attainable are now priced out of reach. This forces enthusiasts to adjust their goals and acknowledge that some dream cars may remain just that – dreams.
14. "Rich guy go-fast" cars are identified as vehicles purchased for status and speed rather than genuine enthusiast appeal, with McLarens and certain Ferraris being prime examples. These are cars bought by individuals who want to project an image of wealth and performance without necessarily having a deep understanding or appreciation for the engineering or driving dynamics. The discussion points out that while these cars are fast, they often lack the soul or heritage that true enthusiasts seek.
15. The use of AI in car design and announcements is viewed with increasing cynicism by some. The mention of AI in the Hummer announcement and the skepticism about its role in design suggests a growing distrust or weariness with the technology being integrated into the automotive world, especially when it feels like a gimmick.
16. Doug is moving on from his G-Wagen due to ongoing reliability issues and a desire for a less problematic vehicle. After multiple instances of being stranded and dealing with complex, expensive repairs, Doug has decided it's time to part ways with his G-Wagen, prioritizing reliability and peace of mind over its "flex" factor.
17. The conversation highlights a shift from traditional car ownership challenges to the desire for reliable, enjoyable vehicles, especially for families. Doug's experience, coupled with the discussion about family needs and the hassle of constant repairs, points to a broader trend of prioritizing practicality and dependability, especially as people get older or have families.
18. Facebook Marketplace is described as a "dumpster fire" for car transactions due to unreliability and scams. Doug's frustrating experience trying to buy an E55 wagon highlights the pitfalls of using platforms like Facebook Marketplace for car purchases. The lack of transparency, seller unreliability, and potential for hidden issues make it a challenging and often negative experience.
19. Cars and Bids is praised for its ability to attract special cars and achieve strong market values, proving its concept. The success of the Velocity event is seen as a testament to Cars and Bids' effectiveness in the enthusiast car market. It demonstrates that there's a dedicated audience and a platform that can deliver strong results for unique and desirable vehicles.
20. The value of certain enthusiast cars, like the Honda Civic Type R, has held exceptionally well, indicating strong market demand. Despite being a mass-produced car, the Type R's ability to retain its value so well speaks to its desirability and the enthusiast market's appreciation for its performance and driving dynamics.
🎯 Expert Opinion
This episode dives deep into the evolving landscape of the automotive world, and as an expert, I see some critical trends and implications emerging. The contrast between Ferrari's controversial EV direction and Ram's robust embrace of gasoline V8 performance trucks is stark and tells a significant story about brand identity and market segmentation.
Ferrari's Identity Crisis: Ferrari is walking a tightrope, and frankly, they seem to be stumbling. The rumored manual 12Cilindri is a clear nod to their heritage and a desperate attempt to appease the vocal enthusiast base. However, the "digital manual gearbox" for EVs feels like a band-aid on a philosophical wound. It's an acknowledgment that EV driving dynamics are different, but it doesn't solve the core issue: the emotional disconnect many feel with electric propulsion, especially from a brand built on visceral, combustion-fueled passion. The 12Cilindri's design is a major misstep, suggesting a disconnect between the design studio and the brand's soul. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about whether Ferrari is still building cars for enthusiasts or for a new breed of wealthy consumer who values status over substance. The brand's future hinges on whether they can navigate this transition without alienating the very people who built its legend. My prediction is that if they continue down this path without a genuine, emotionally resonant EV strategy, they risk becoming a luxury goods company that *makes* cars, rather than a car company that *is* luxury.
The Resurgence of Gasoline Enthusiast Cars: Ram's Rumblebee and the general celebration of V8 performance trucks are a powerful counter-narrative to the EV dominance. This isn't just nostalgia; it's a demand for visceral, engaging driving experiences that EVs, in their current form, often struggle to replicate. The success of these models, alongside the continued strong value of cars like the GR Corolla, highlights that there's a significant, underserved market for gasoline-powered enthusiast vehicles. Automakers that can still deliver on performance, sound, and driving feel will find a loyal and willing customer base. This trend suggests that the "end of gasoline" narrative might be premature, at least for the enthusiast segment. We're likely to see more manufacturers, especially American ones, lean into this, perhaps as a last hurrah for internal combustion engines.
The Shifting Value of Enthusiast Cars: The discussion around the soaring values of cars like the Ferrari 550 Maranello and the 430 Scuderia is critical. Cars are increasingly viewed as alternative investments, not just for the ultra-wealthy but for a broader segment of the affluent. This is fundamentally changing the enthusiast market. While it's great for sellers and investors, it prices out many who simply want to enjoy driving and owning these machines. The "goalposts have moved" sentiment is palpable. As an expert, I see this as a double-edged sword: it validates the passion and foresight of early adopters but creates a barrier for the next generation of enthusiasts. This trend also fuels the "rich guy go-fast" phenomenon, as these cars become less about driving passion and more about financial appreciation and status signaling.
The "Rich Guy Go-Fast" Phenomenon: This is a fascinating social and automotive trend. The identification of McLarens and certain Ferraris as prime examples speaks volumes. These are often cars purchased by individuals who can afford the best performance but may not possess the deep enthusiast knowledge to appreciate the nuances. They buy them for the badge, the speed, and the social cachet. This phenomenon highlights a divergence in the market: one driven by genuine passion and engineering appreciation, and another by wealth and status. It also puts pressure on brands to cater to both, which can dilute their core identity, as we see with Ferrari.
The Value of Platforms like Cars and Bids: The success of the Cars and Bids Velocity event underscores the power of specialized online platforms. They create curated environments that attract both unique vehicles and knowledgeable buyers, leading to strong, market-defining results. This is a crucial development, as it bypasses the often chaotic and unreliable nature of traditional marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace. For sellers, it offers a more professional and efficient route to achieving optimal value, and for buyers, it provides access to a more vetted selection of enthusiast cars. The platform's ability to set market values, as seen with the 430 Scuderia, is invaluable.
The Enduring Appeal of Analog Experiences: Despite the EV push, the strong opinions on manual transmissions, the appreciation for mid-2000s super sedans, and the desire for engaging driving dynamics all point to a persistent human need for analog experiences. Whether it's the feel of a clutch, the sound of a V8, or the direct connection to the road, these elements are deeply ingrained in the automotive enthusiast's psyche. Brands that can successfully blend modern technology with these timeless elements will likely capture the hearts and wallets of a significant market segment.
The Future of Doug's Car Collection: Doug's decision to move on from the G-Wagen is a relatable narrative about the practicalities of car ownership. The constant pursuit of the "perfect" car, especially in challenging ownership environments like an island, is a testament to the evolving priorities of car enthusiasts. The shift towards more reliable, family-friendly vehicles, even if leased, reflects a maturing perspective where the joy of driving is balanced with the need for dependability. The listener-voted next car will be a fascinating indicator of current trends and desires in the enthusiast market.
Kanal: Doug DeMuro