The Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, Toyota Land Cruiser + 4Runner, Porsche 911, Ford F-150, and Range Rover, all have several things in common. Slow depreciation compared to other vehicles in their class, nameplates that have lasted for decades, loyal owners that keep coming back for more and bucket listed for others. But what’s the ONE thing they all unanimously share? Automotive authenticity. That’s right - these vehicles have never strayed too far from their original design and intended purpose since inception. The Ford F-150 has always been a rugged, body-on-frame truck. The G-Wagen, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser have always been boxy SUVs that have stayed true to their design and off-road capability without compromise. The Porsche 911 has always had the engine behind its driver and will continue to do so until the end of time. Today’s episode explores more into what authenticity - and deception - mean in an automotive context. Blob-shaped SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, and Ferrari Purosangue are one thing - they claim to do everything well, but end up not fully delivering on this promise and often depreciate like rocks. On the subject of deception - Jason and Derek discuss the new Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale - the most recent car of its kind which claims to be a manual and automatic at the same time, by automating a dual clutch transmission to operate like a manual on demand - third pedal, gated shifter and all. But is it really good for the brand in the long run vs. spending the development cost on a real manual? The Carmudgeons….carmudgeonate on our behalf. Tune in to find out.

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