3 Hot Rod Events to Attend in Socially Distanced Summer 2021

by Gabrielle DeSantis

2020 was a long year. We’re looking forward to better days in 2021 as more Americans get vaccinated and see COVID-19 infection rates decrease. If things keep going the way they are, we’ll be back to attending our favorite events. And for fans of hot rods, that means visiting favorite annual events nationwide.

We’ve compiled this list of three hot rod events for your socially distanced summer 2021. Disclaimer: Events are subject to change, so check before heading out.

Why might coronavirus precautions still be necessary at hot rod events?

There’s been much debate online and in the media over whether vaccinated people must wear masks or social distance. “Vaccination, face coverings, and physical distancing are essential parts of a team effort against the coronavirus.” Dr. Preeti Malani, chief health officer at the University of Michigan, told the vaccine alliance Gavi. “Masks and social distancing will need to continue into the foreseeable future — until we have some level of herd immunity.”

Another thing to keep in mind is that no vaccine is 100 percent effective in 100 percent of the population. Dr. Tom Frieden, a former CDC director, said that one in 20 vaccinated people is left unprotected. Plus, how vaccines are transported, stored, and handled drastically affects their effectiveness. This is because the mRNA used to produce vaccines is fragile.

Last, it’s important to understand that vaccines take time to work. It could take two weeks for your immune system to produce the necessary antibodies. And because the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses with two or three weeks between shots, this could mean up to two months before viral protection. And because not everyone has been vaccinated, it’s common decency to wear a mask and/or remain socially distanced.

1st Meguiar’s All-Star Get-Together, June 4–6

Hosted by Goodguys, the 1st Meguiar’s All-Star Get-Together will happen just in time for Memorial Day at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. According to Texas Motor Speedway, Goodguys is partnering with NASCAR All-Star Race Weekend to host this hot rod event. Only American-made cars and trucks are allowed to participate. However, import models with “domestic powerplants” are welcome, too.

“The environment is family-friendly, and Goodguys kindly requests that all attendees, staff, and vendors wear face coverings and maintain 6 feet of physical distancing whenever possible,” Texas Motor Speedway says.

Goodguys 23rd Summit Racing Nationals, July 9–11

Taking place at the Ohio Expo Center and fairgrounds in Columbus the weekend after Independence Day, the Summit Racing Nationals is the “big one,” Goodguys exclaims. At this mostly outdoor hot rod spectacular, you can peruse more than 6,500 hod rods, classic and custom rides, muscle cars, and trucks made through 1987. Then step inside the expo center to check out the Mustang display.

Other diversions include a burnout contest, a 16-car “summer shootout,” a nitro dragster exhibition, and a car swap meet. Also, expect live bands and a kids’ zone with free games, prizes, and arts and crafts.

Goodguys doesn’t specify on its website if the event will require facemasks or social distancing, so come prepared if you have to mask up inside the expo center.

Hot August Nights, August 3–8

“More than just a car show,” Hot August Nights is set to happen in Reno and nearby Sparks, Nevada. Some claim few events come close to rivaling this hot rod and muscle car experience. Plus, if you’re heading in from out of town, you can also visit Las Vegas before or after the weeklong festival. But if you’re not interested in the extra stop, don’t worry — the Reno/Sparks area is a well-known resort and gambling center as well.

The fest offers a dizzying number of events, including swap meets at the Reno/Sparks Livestock Events Center and daily Show-n-Shine competitions for $10,000 grand prizes at Grand Sierra Resort. Plus, concerts will feature different music acts every day, including the Commodores and Chubby Checker in concert on Saturday, August 7.

Note that the event-holders lost two team members to COVID-19, so it would be a good idea to follow the event’s health and safety guidelines to respect others. Hot August Nights’ website doesn’t show updated pandemic guidelines as of this writing, so it’s probably best to Nevada‘s state rules.

RELATED: Are Hot Rods a Good Investment?

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Tesla Model 3 Loses Consumer Reports, IIHS Top Pick Status

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Tesla has been busy at work behind the scenes, but it might not have been a good move this time. Tesla will deliver the newest versions of the Tesla Model 3 without certain safety features. Some potential buyers might find these features necessary, which could lead to an uptick in crashes.

Why did the Tesla Model 3 lose the Consumer Reports Top Pick status?

The Tesla Model 3 is no longer recommended by Consumer Reports | Ding Ting via Getty Images)

While Tesla has been busy changing things behind the scenes, companies have been quick to take notice. Tesla has decided to remove the camera-based system titled Tesla Vision. Tesla noted that starting in May 2021, the Model 3 and Model Y vehicles destined for the U.S. market will no longer be equipped with radar. Instead, Tesla says the vehicles will rely on “camera vision and neural net processing to deliver Autopilot, Full-Self Driving, and certain active safety features.”

Tesla went on to say that Autosteer will be limited to 75 miles per hour on the new electric vehicles. It will also require a longer minimum following distance. For Smart Summon and Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance, both of these might be disabled upon delivery.

Additionally, Tesla may no longer include forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB). These features are standard in most cars these days. Consumer Reports notes that almost 75% of cars on the road are equipped with AEB and FCW. This includes most entry-level models.

Will these systems improve the overall safety and driving experience? It does cause safety concerns at this stage but has yet to be determined.

The IIHS agrees with Consumer Reports

RELATED: James May Is Annoyed at His Tesla Model S Battery

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) might re-evaluate the Tesla Model 3 due to these changes. Currently, it is still a Top Safety Pick due to all of the upgraded features. David Friedman, VP of advocacy for Consumer Reports, commented on the issue. “If a driver thinks their vehicle has a safety feature and it doesn’t, that fundamentally changes the safety profile of the vehicle.” If a driver is confused about what features are or are not included, it could result in a crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the 2021 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles built after April 27, 2021, will no longer receive a checkmark for the removed features. Similarly, Consumer Reports will no longer list Tesla’s Model 3 as a Top Pick, and the IIHS plans to remove the Top Safety Pick+ award.

It is very odd for an automaker, even Tesla, to remove safety features instead of adding safety features. As noted before, it can confuse drivers who might rely on such features in a moment of need.

For CR, the Model 3’s overall score dropped from a 78 to a 75 overall. The Model 3 is still within range to be recommended by the company. The Model Y was not a recommended pick as it stood originally, but the score has now dropped from 50 to 47.

CR found the 2020 Model S unreliable

RELATED: How Much Does It Cost to Use a Tesla Supercharger?

Consumer Reports gave the 2020 Tesla Model S a reliability score of 26 out of 100. In certain areas, the Tesla electric vehicle did fine. For driving experience, the Model S scored 94. It scored a similar 91 for styling and a 74 for comfort. The value score was only 31.

CR found the range short compared to similar gas-powered cars. The charging times were long, and the process a bit arduous. For potential buyers, it was suggested to check the Supercharging network in your area. Some areas do not have the infrastructure needed to make driving a Tesla a viable option. Additionally, if you live in an area with extreme weather, this can impact the range.

In addition to all of these changes, Tesla has been slowly increasing the prices behind the scenes. What does the future hold for this innovative brand? Elon Musk will likely tweet something vague later today.

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The 2021 Subaru Forester Only Has 1 Potential Drawback

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The 2021 Subaru Forester is an all-around great ride, but it might not be 100 percent perfect. There is one potential issue to consider with the Subaru Forester. However, the good news is that it’s not a big deal, and it’s not a dealbreaker. 

The 2021 Subaru Forester only has one potential issue 

2021 Subaru Forester | Subaru

According to the 2021 Subaru Forester review by Cars.com, it’s one great SUV. It impressed their team with its blend of comfort, utility, and practicality. However, they did find one thing that seems a little outdated and takes some getting used to. 

The multimedia tech seems to be a step behind. Cars.com mentioned that the screens look dated compared to the tech found in rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Rogue. Also, the Subaru Forester doesn’t offer a digital instrument panel. 

What tech comes with the Subaru Forester?

RELATED: The Subaru Forester EV Could Be Lightyears Away

All Forester models come with a standard touchscreen infotainment system with the latest Starlink interface. Lower trim models come with a 6.5-inch display, but you can upgrade to a larger 8.0-inch unit. 

Two USB ports are in the front, but you can add two more USB ports for your backseat passengers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot comes standard on each model but the base trim. 

According to Edmunds, the dual-screen center layout looks great, and it’s easy to use. The navigation system is clear and understands voice commands well. That’s unlike some people we know….cough…cough, SIRI. 

All 2021 Subaru Forester models come with the Subaru EyeSight suite of camera-based driver-assistance features. Automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and standard lane departure warning with lane-keeping assistance are included. 

Edmunds noted that the adaptive cruise control system works well and enjoyed the lane-keeping assistance. The lane centering prevents the forester from drifting, and the forward collision mitigation was never activated during their test. 

What do critics like about the Subaru Forester? 

The interior of the 2021 Subaru Forester Touring interior that shows the steering wheel
2021 Subaru Forester Touring interior | Subaru

The 2021 Subaru Forester starts at about $24,795 and includes standard all-wheel drive. That’s an excellent perk. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides 182 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. It takes 9.6 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, which is a little slow but adequate. 

It has responsive steering and handling and feels planted for a confident driving experience. It’s great for off-roading, thanks to its 8.7-inch ground clearance. The X-Mode drive settings include trail capability and hill descent control. 

The interior has an impressive design with a simple layout. All of the controls are easy to reach. The seats are well-padded and provide lumbar support. Plus, the suspension offers a smooth ride, and road noise is kept at a minimum. 

There is plenty of space for five adults to fit comfortably. The Subaru Forester doesn’t have as much space as the Honda CR-V, but it does have a high roof and practical storage layout for organizing your items. The Subaru Forester gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway, putting it near the top of its class. 

If you can get past the slightly outdated tech, then the Subaru Forester is an excellent option to consider. The tech still works well and gets the job done. It still provides navigation and advanced safety features.

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What Are the Most Overrated Supercars?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

What makes a car overrated? All of the hype? Some cars on this list might be called overrated, while others might deem the vehicles popular. The Ferrari F40, Jaguar XJ220, and even the Porsche 911 have been deemed overrated, but perhaps these vehicles are just rated enough.

An overrated supercar? What makes the Ferrari F40 special?

Some call the Ferrari F40, seen at Goodwood Festival of Speed, an overrated supercar | Martyn Lucy/Getty Images

This Ferrari was the last car to be personally approved by Enzo Ferrari, according to The Things. This fact alone makes it a bit notorious. Beyond that, the F40 was built from 1987 to 1992, according to the Wikipedia page. From 1994 through 1996, Ferrari built LM and GTE race versions. Only 400 units were originally made, and the price started at $400,000, which is around $910,000 today.

Overrated sports car or just rare? The Jaguar XJ220

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The Jaguar XJ220 was only made for about two years, from 1992 through 1994. Jaguar made it in conjunction with Tom Walkinshaw Racing, and it had a top speed of 212.3 miles per hour. That made it the fastest production car from 1992 to 1993. The production version was a 3.5L twin-turbo Jaguar JRV-6 V6 engine, while the concept had a 6.2L V12. At the time, only 275 of the XJ220 were made. It retailed for about $668,000 (£470,000) back in 1992.

How many BMW M1 cars are left?

This might anger some BMW fans, but you can find the BMW M1 (E26) floating around on overrated supercar lists from time to time. BMW produced the M1 from 1978 through 1981, according to Wikipedia. Initially, the plan was to create a car with Lamborghini, but it didn’t pan out for the two manufacturers. This was the first mid-engine automobile produced by the brand, while the second is only the 2014 i8 plug-in hybrid.

453 of these were made, with 53 sent straight out for racing. BMW destined the other 399 for the roads. There are still quite a few left and for sale through various dealers online.

Does the Porsche 911 count?

RELATED: Is the Porsche 911 Worthy of the Supercar Distinction?

The Porsche 911 isn’t overrated because it is a rare car. On the contrary. The 911 is overrated because the owners have made it such. In any conversation with a Porsche owner, you can anticipate a discussion about why it is the best car out there. Exhausting. However, there are so many versions, variations, and varieties of 911s on the road that it isn’t even fun anymore. Your local Toyota dealership might even have one sitting on the Certified Pre-Owned lot.

Is the Mclaren P1 an overrated supercar?

Last but not least, the McLaren P1 is a fairly epic car. Does it deserve the title of “overrated”? Some would argue the opposite. Part of the disillusion with the P1 is likely from the price. It will cost you around $1.35 million for 903 horsepower. The McLaren 720S has 710 horsepower but only costs around $300,000. Is it worth the extra $1 million? That depends on how much money you have.

As you can see from this list, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. One man’s overrated car is another man’s dream car. Overrated cars seem to be cars that get a lot of attention. Are the words “overrated” and “popular” synonymous? It appears so.

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