Konig - Behind The Wheel Podcast

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By: Konig - Behind The Wheel Podcast

The Konig Wheels team host a weekly podcast that includes industry guests, automotive-related talk and stories, industry information, wheel information, car trends, racing, drifting, grassroots motorsport happening and so much more! All guests have some connection to the Konig brand, however, the focus is on cars, racing, and what being a car enthusiast is all about! From car sponsorships to, wheel tech, to car tech, to all forms of professional racing and grassroots motorsports, the Behind The Wheel podcast will take you behind the scenes with drivers, teams, and important people involved with some of your favorite race and event...

Will the new Honda Prelude FLOP?
#316
Today at 6:49 PM

The Honda Prelude is back — but is it the comeback car enthusiasts wanted, or just a nostalgia play?

Are we paying for performance… or prestige?

In this episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast by KONIG, Matt & Scott break down the return of the 2025 Honda Prelude. With 2,000 units selling out immediately in Japan, all eyes are now on how it will perform in the U.S. market.

Will it appeal to real car enthusiasts?

Is Honda playing it too safe?

How does it stack up in today’s market?


The "R34 Tax"... Are these JDM Legends worth the $$$?
#315
09/03/2025

In this episode of KONIG’s “Behind the Wheel” Podcast, we get real about JDM legends and ask the question no one wants to answer out loud:

Are we paying for performance… or prestige?

We’re breaking down the hype vs reality of owning iconic cars like the Nissan R34 Skyline—the poster child of Gran Turismo dreams and Fast & Furious fame—versus the often-overlooked but crazy capable Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4, a twin-turbo, AWD beast that never quite got the love it deserved.

We talk:

Build potential – Which platform gives you more bang for your bu...


Build your car for YOU, not for anyone else
#314
08/20/2025

In this episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast from Konig Wheels, we’ve got Scott, Nick, and Matt – three car guys hanging out and talking about their current builds, what parts they’re throwing on, and where their projects are headed.

The main vibe? Build a car that makes you happy. Forget the internet judges and the critics — this is all about doing what you love with your car, whether it’s track-focused, street-built, or just something fun to drive.

We get into:

Our latest builds and what’s new Cool parts we’re running (an...


Does California have it the WORST for enthusiasts?
#313
08/06/2025

In this episode of the KONIG Behind the Wheel Podcast, we dive into the unique experiences of buying someone else’s project car.

From navigating unfinished builds to assessing the quality of modifications, we discuss the challenges and rewards that come with taking on a project that wasn’t originally yours. Whether you’re considering buying a project car or already in the process, this episode offers valuable insights and tips to help you make informed decisions.

Tune in with Scott and Matt as they explore the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes...


Does California have it the WORST for enthusiasts?
#312
07/23/2025

Thinking about tuning your ride or doing an engine swap? Not all states are created equal when it comes to car mods. In this episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast, we dive into the best—and worst—states in the U.S. for modifying your car.

From California’s strict CARB regulations and smog checks to New York’s laws on tinted windows, and even those wild states that don’t require any vehicle inspections, we cover it all. Whether you’re into performance upgrades, custom exhausts, or just want darker tints, this episode will help you figure o...


Universal Clutch Kits make things a lot easier Ft. Uniclutch
#311
07/09/2025

We caught up with the Justin and Julian over at Uniclutch recently for an episode of the Behind the Wheel podcast. In the episode, we discussed all things clutches, both for street and racing applications?

Maybe you have a few different cars, but want to stay to utilize a similar clutch across the board? Saving the headache of knowing which spare parts to carry, how many spares you have, and how you’re gonna install a clutch quickly if you’re in a bind. Well, the team over at Uniclutch seems to have you covered.

Unic...


Before the Algorithm: the Golden Age of Car Forums
#310
06/25/2025

Remember when car enthusiasts lived on message boards, not Instagram? In this episode, we take a nostalgic ride back to the era of Internet forums — the OG hub for gearheads to share knowledge, source parts, document builds, and argue over engine swaps.

We talk about the charm and chaos of those early digital garages — from deciphering thread hierarchies and sketchy photobucket links to the legendary DIY write-ups and community drama that made forums more than just websites.

Now replaced by fast-scrolling feeds and short-form content, we ask: what did we lose when we traded forum cult...


Why do Americans love SUVs so much?
#309
06/11/2025

I think all of us can agree that when you pull into pretty much any grocery store parking lot, you’re bound to be met with a sea of SUVs, usually all either white, silver, or black in color…. what is going on? Are the soccer moms taking over officially now, or do Americans just feel safer driving bigger cars? Do we really need all that space?

Sure… maybe you’ve got kids whom you take to soccer practice! But when you drop them off, you still want a bit of spirited driving. That’s where the HEMI comes...


From Formula 1 & Military Tech to making the BEST SHIFTER EVER... w/ Russell  ACUiTY Instruments
#308
05/28/2025

Ever wonder how some of these aftermarket companies in motorsports get their start? You’d think most of them start with an idea… maybe a potential opportunity to fill a niche gap in the market…

Here we are with Russell Garehan from  @ACUiTYinstruments  . In the case of Acuity, you could make the argument that the company is the culmination of an interesting and twisting journey that the founder, Russell, has endured to get here. Whether it’s his background working in Formula 1 for the likes of Ferrari or Williams, to his time working in Military Defense Technology. Russell ha...


Would you buy a MODDED car?
#307
05/14/2025

On today’s podcast episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast, we dive into the age-old question: Would you buy a someone else’s project car? Additionally, does modding your car decrease the value of your vehicle when it comes time to sell? Are there some mods that could be installed that can potentially increase the car’s value or is that just an ambitious pipe dream?

Scott & Nick talk about engine swaps, body kits, tuning kits, turbochargers and more, on this week’s episode. If you have ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS, drop em in the comments below an...


​Car Trends.... love em' or hate em'
#306
04/30/2025

Altezza taillights, lambo doors, SPINNING RIMS…. There’s a long list of trends of the 1990s and 2000s that we all witnessed within the car community over the years. Whether you loved them, or hated them – let’s talk about them!

Nick and Matt on the podcast today talking about why things like Underglow are making a comeback? Are trends in general mostly cyclical? Which car trends do you wish would make a comeback? Let us know in the COMMENTS. Let’s get into it today, on the Behind the Wheel Podcast.

Follow us on Social Med...


Caleb Quanbeck talks E46 Drifting, Walther Arms partnership​...
#305
04/16/2025

In this episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast, we’re joined by none other than Caleb Quanbeck! Caleb and Scott dive into his E46 drift build, what it’s like running a two-man team this season with Jackson Meade, and how his exciting partnership with Walther Arms came to be.

From the garage to the track, Caleb shares the behind-the-scenes grind that goes into competing at a high level in the drift world. Whether you’re into builds, drifting strategy, or just love hearing from passionate drivers, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and real talk.<...


Will your wheels get more expensive?
#304
04/02/2025

In honor of “Liberation Day” today, we bring you a special episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast where Konig President Scott Weiss talks specifically about the current administration’s trade war, and how tariffs can affect the wheel industry going forward. Please keep in mind, with news like this, positions, percentages, and results could always change – and if/when they do, we’ll be back here with an update for you. Thank you for your support and thanks for joining us on this episode of the Behind the Wheel podcast. #podcast#tariffs#wheels


2025 Behind the Wheel Podc...


Jimmy Broadbent (SIM Racer / YouTuber) LOVES CARS + RACING
#303
03/26/2025

Discontinued Wheels…. meant to stay in the past?

There aren’t many people like Jimmy Broadbent out there. If you’re a fan of his channel, you’d know that Jimmy is one of those YouTubers who has successfully made the jump from Virtual Motorsport to Real Motorsport.

In this episode of our podcast, we’re joined by Jimmy Broadbent, one of the most recognized names in Sim racing, and now making a name for himself at real tracks around the world. We discuss his journey from virtual racing to competing in real-life events, the challenges he’s overcome...


Discontinued Wheels.... meant to stay in the past?
#302
03/19/2025

Discontinued Wheels…. meant to stay in the past?

Ever wonder why we discontinue wheel designs? We’ve gotten the question a lot, so let’s dive into some of the reasons why we discontinue wheel designs in general, the challenges of making a new wheel, and why a “re-introduced” design never really works.

Thanks for joining Daut x Nick on the podcast today! COMMENT below with a discontinued wheel we should bring back and MAYBE… just MAYBE, we will! (But, probably not).

For more info on Konig Wheels visit: https://konigwheels.com

2025 Behind the Wheel Po...


ZF 8HP is the BEST auto transmission ever made... w/  Turbo Lamik
#301
03/12/2025

ZF 8HP is the BEST auto transmission ever made… w/ Turbo Lamik

the 8HP is ZF Friedrichshafen’s 8-speed automatic transmission, and it’s been making waves lately in the car community thanks to TurboLamik’s Transmission Control Unit (TCU) – an advanced transmission controller that allows you to control the ZF transmission in 8 modes, varying from basic automatic to race-style sequential.

We’ve got Greg Drozd from TurboLamik US on the show today to talk about the 8HP ZF Transmission, and how exactly the TurboLamik TCU works, and how it has the potential to fully unlock to potential of...


VINYL WRAPPING your car worth it?
#300
03/05/2025

Is VINYL WRAPPING your car worth it?

Konig’s Behind The Wheel Podcast – Episode #300!

In this episode, Daut and Nick join us to break down the pros and cons of vinyl wrap vs. paint—helping you decide which option is best for your car. They discuss cost differences, durability, customization potential, maintenance, and even how each option affects resale value.

If you’re thinking about giving your ride a fresh look, this episode is a must-watch!

Thank you for being here for our 300th episode! Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, AND SUBSCRIBE for more a...


OEMs Bringing Back Iconic Names (RSX, PRELUDE, MR2)
#299
02/26/2025

OEMs Bringing Back Iconic Names (RSX, PRELUDE, MR2)

Names like “Honda Prelude” and “Acura RSX” are starting to re-enter the market as OEMs continue their push of re-introducing old legendary names back to enthusiasts looking for a new car.

At first sight, you may see “2026 Acura RSX” and get excited at the thought of Acura re-introducing a classic name as a new, fun, sports car. But, remember what Mitsubishi did with the Eclipse when they re-introduced it as the Eclipse Cross? Get ready for heaps of disappointment, because the 2026 Acura RSX is NOT what you’re expecting. (Neither is the...


But... Is it a RESTO-MOD?
#298
02/19/2025

But… is it a RESTO-MOD?

In this episode of Konig’s Behind The Wheel, hosts Scott Weiss and Nick Reginato break down the ever-popular term Restomod—what it means, how it differs from classic restorations and custom builds, and why it’s become a favorite among car enthusiasts. Whether you’re new to the concept or deep into the world of modified classics, this episode is packed with insights straight from the team at Konig Wheels!

2024 Behind the Wheel Podcast | All Rights Reserved

The post But… is it a RESTO-MOD? | Behind the Wheel Podcast appeared first on Kon...


Nobody talks about the R31 Skyline...
#297
02/12/2025

Nobody talks about the R31 Skyline..

Sure, you’ve heard of the R32…. and the R33….. and as long as you haven’t been living under a rock since birth – you’ve heard of the R34. The Nissan Skyline has earned it’s reputation over the years as a “JDM Legend”, and while everyone talks about the 32, 33, and 34, the R31 has seemingly been swept under the rug… a forgotten ancestor of the heroes we love and cherish today.

The R31 was a beast though…. so, it’s time we talk about it. The 1980s produced a lot of GREAT cars, including...


Turbos, Manifolds & Wastegates w/  Full Race Motorsports
#296
02/05/2025

Turbos, Manifolds & Wastegates w/  Full Race Motorsports, Geoff R

Geoff Raicer of Full Race Motorsports joins us on the podcast today to talk about Turbochargers, Wastegating, Engine Tuning, the EV Electrification shift, and a lot more!

Founded in 2002 by Geoff Raicer, his vision for the company was to engineer and manufacture top of the line turbo systems and supporting hardware for 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines. Full-Race’s new-school approach to engineering, fabrication and grassroots marketing has set the “gold standard” for turbocharger exhaust manifolds and their state-of-the-art turbo kits.

For more info on Full Race Motorsp...


New Wheels (Forged & Flow-Formed), let's talk about it!
#295
01/29/2025

New Wheels (Forged & Flow-Formed), let’s talk about it!

Today’s episode of the Behind the Wheel podcast is a special one because we’re going to be talking about our NEW WHEEL releases for the year!

We unveiled these wheels at SEMA, but let’s check them out in detail together.

Today, we’ll be looking at 2 new forged wheels, the F5R and the F6SX. As well as a new Flow-Formed wheel called the Hyperspec, and additionally, we’ll be looking at a new variation of the MRK1 called the MRK1 XR!

AND...


Building Cars BEFORE THE INTERNET
#294
01/22/2025

Building Cars BEFORE THE INTERNET… | Behind the Wheel Podcast

These days, it’s easy for pretty much any type of car enthusiast to find exactly the part they’re looking for in just a matter of a few minutes on the internet. Whether it’s Amazon, Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, or a million other online marketplaces, car guys and gals have it easy these days! In the 90s and 2000s however, it wasn’t as easy as CLICK & SHIP.

So, what would we do?! We’d go to shops more, we’d go to more shows, get more involved with...


Budget Builds: Can you build a car for $25K?
#293
01/15/2025

Budget Builds: Can you build a car for $25K? | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Times have changed and prices on suitable project cars have skyrocketed. Whether you’re browsing Facebook Marketplace, Bring a Trailer, or even CoPart – used vehicles can be tough to find at a decent price these days.

Is it even possible to buy and modify a decent car to a respectable level for $25k? If so, what are you looking for and where are you finding it? The crew talks about potential builds, including some that you probably never thought about.

COMMENT BELOW and...


Nissan x Honda Merger
#292
01/08/2025

Honda and Nissan merger…it’s really not what you think…. | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Big news in the automotive world recently with the announcement of the merger between Honda and Nissan (… and Mitsubishi) to create the world’s third largest automotive company, behind Toyota and Volkswagen.

“On Dec. 23, the automakers announced that discussions were underway to create a new holding company that would operate both Honda and Nissan — and potentially include Mitsubishi Motors Corp. However, executives acknowledged several months of talks remain before they can finalize a merger agreement. The potential merger of Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Mot...


Wanna get sponsored? Here's how to make it happen...
#291
01/01/2025

Wanna get sponsored? Here’s how to make it happen… | Behind the Wheel Podcast

You’ve made some serious progress on your build and now you’re interested in finding a sponsor to help support your future goals. Reaching out to a brand you like seems like a natural step, but HOW you approach them is crucial to establishing a relationship. What should you include in your pitch? How can you make your proposal stand out from the countless others these companies receive every day?

In this episode of the Behind The Wheel podcast, Scott and Luis dive dee...


from B-BOY to B-PROFILE.... life before KONIG
#290
12/25/2024

From B-BOY to B-PROFILE…. life before KONIG | Behind the Wheel Podcast

Celebrate the holiday season with us as we bring you a special episode featuring two car enthusiasts sharing their journeys to becoming part of the KONIG family. Dive into their unique paths, filled with passion for cars, and hear their stories about navigating the vibrant Long Island and NYC car scenes. From late-night meets to the roar of engines, it’s all about the culture that brings us together.

But that’s not all—our very own Luis T takes us down memory lane with a surprisi...


Formula Drift's Most Vocal ROOKIE - Jacob Gettins!
#289
12/18/2024

Formula Drift’s Most Vocal ROOKIE – Jacob Gettins! | Behind the Wheel Podcast

We’re thrilled to have Jacob Gettins on the podcast today as we dive into his incredible journey to becoming Formula Drift’s newest Technical Announcer! Jacob has quickly become a familiar voice in the world of drifting, captivating fans during this season’s FD Live streams with his expert commentary and passion for the sport. But that’s not all—he’s also the host of Formula Drift’s official podcast, The Outerzone, where he brings fans closer to the action and delivers behind-the-scenes insights like never before.
<...


SUSPENSION TUNING done right! | Behind the Wheel Podcast
#288
12/11/2024

SUSPENSION TUNING done right! | Behind The Wheel Podcast

We’re diving into suspension systems on the podcast today, and you’re in for a treat! Joining us is Zachary Peterson, the Research & Development Lead at Fortune Auto. With years of hands-on experience and a passion for automotive engineering, Zach brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Whether you’re a weekend warrior hitting the track or someone looking to improve your daily driver’s handling, this episode is packed with insights tailored just for you.

Our conversation with Zach covers everything from the basics of suspension tuning t...


WTF! Happened to the EAGLE TALON? | Behind the Wheel Podcast
#287
12/04/2024

WTF Happened to the EAGLE TALON? | Behind The Wheel Podcast

Luis & Nick dive deep into the fascinating history of certain car brands that have since disappeared, like Eagle, Scion, and Datsun. On today’s podcast, they take a nostalgic journey back to the 90s to reminisce about the legendary Eagle Talon, a car that became an icon for enthusiasts during its short but memorable run.

In the early 1990s, Chrysler introduced the Eagle brand as part of its ambitious effort to offer a diverse lineup of cars that could cater to different markets. Eagle was meant to be...


The Autonomous Journey || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#286
11/28/2024

Embarking on the Autonomous Journey: Behind The Wheel with Luis and Nick

Embarking on the Autonomous Journey: Behind The Wheel with Luis and Nick

Imagine stepping into a car without a driver, gliding through city streets while you sit back and enjoy the ride. Sounds like science fiction, right? Not anymore. In this week’s episode of the Behind The Wheel podcast, our hosts Luis and Nick dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of self-driving cars, sharing firsthand experiences and tackling the big questions surrounding this game-changing technology.

A Leap of Faith in San Francisco


Konig Wheel Deals Sale || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#285
11/22/2024

Konig Behind the Wheel Podcast: Black Friday Wheel Deals Event

It’s that time of year again, and the Behind the Wheel Podcast is here to break down everything you need to know about the Konig Wheel Deals Black Friday Sale. But this year? It’s more than just a sale—it’s an event.

12 Days of Deals and Surprises

Konig is rolling out flash sales, exclusive drops, and giveaways every single day of the sale. Want to grab a set of wheels for an unbelievable price? Stay glued to your inbox. Subscribers to Konig’s email li...


Konig Wheel Deals || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#285
11/21/2024

Konig Behind the Wheel Podcast: Black Friday Wheel Deals Event

It’s that time of year again, and the Behind the Wheel Podcast is here to break down everything you need to know about the Konig Wheel Deals Black Friday Sale. But this year? It’s more than just a sale—it’s an event.

12 Days of Deals and Surprises

Konig is rolling out flash sales, exclusive drops, and giveaways every single day of the sale. Want to grab a set of wheels for an unbelievable price? Stay glued to your inbox. Subscribers to Konig’s email li...


Spec Racing - Ali Arsham || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#284
11/14/2024

Behind The Wheel Podcast: Affordable Spec Racing with Ali Arsham

Introduction:

Get ready to be inspired by this week’s episode of the Behind The Wheel Podcast from SEMA. Host Scott sits down with accomplished driver and driving coach, Ali Arsham, to discuss the world of spec racing—specifically focusing on making it accessible and affordable for everyone. From the roots of spec racing to the new E90 series and tips for beginners, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to hit the track without breaking the bank.

The Roots of Spec Raci...


Automotive YouTube Dead? || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#282
11/08/2024

Behind The Wheel Podcast with Alex Martini

Dive into the Future of Automotive Wheels with Alex Martini on the Behind The Wheel Podcast

This week, we had the extraordinary opportunity to sit down with Alex Martini, founder of MartiniWorks, at SEMA 2024 in Las Vegas. If you’re passionate about cars, wheels, and the ever-evolving automotive industry, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.

Unveiling Industry Secrets at SEMA 2024

SEMA is the heartbeat of automotive innovation, and this year was no exception. Amidst the dazzling displays and groundbreaking releases—including our own Ko...


Alibaba AE86 - Real OR Fake || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#281
10/30/2024

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AE86 Replica Bodies from Alibaba: A New Era of Restoration or Sacrilege?

The AE86 holds a revered place in automotive enthusiasts’ hearts, particularly those drawn to classic JDM icons. Known for its nimble handling, drift-friendly characteristics, and status as a pop culture symbol, it’s no wond...


Affordable Unsung JDM Heroes || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#280
10/23/2024

The Unsung Affordable JDM Legends on Behind The Wheel Podcast

The Unsung Affordable JDM Legends on Behind The Wheel Podcast

Have you ever dreamt of owning a piece of JDM history without emptying your wallet? In this week’s episode of the Behind The Wheel Podcast, hosts Scott and Nick embark on an exciting journey to uncover the unsung heroes of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars that are still within reach.

Meet Nick, the newest addition to the team, making his podcast debut. With a rich background as a lead tech and car builder, Nick br...


Wheels OR Tires - Where Does It Start Debate || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#279
10/16/2024

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Where Does it Start Wheel and Tire Fitment Debate

Are you ready to transform your driving experience...


New SEMA Wheels || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#278
10/09/2024

Embracing the Art of Wide-Body Transformations: Mastering Craftsmanship and Innovation

Embracing the Art of Wide-Body Transformations: Mastering Craftsmanship and Innovation

In the latest episode of the Behind the Wheel Podcast, we delve into the dynamic world of wide-body car conversions—a fusion of art, engineering, and passion that pushes the boundaries of automotive design.

Reviving the Lost Art of Metalwork

Our hosts begin by highlighting a bygone era where skilled craftsmen expanded car bodies using traditional metalworking techniques. In a time before readily available wide-body kits, these artisans extended panels with precision, creating be...


New SEMA Wheels || Behind The Wheel Podcast
#276
10/03/2024

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Aluminum Wheels Don’t Rust: Unveiling the Truth Behind the Myth

At Konig Wheels, we value clarity and truth. In this week’s episode of the “Behind The Wheel Podcast”, hosts Scott and Daut dive deep into a topic that often confuses car enthusiasts: the misconception that aluminum wheels can rust.

The...