How Indy Went From 150 To Nearly 200 MPH!

Indy didn’t just get faster in the 1960s, it transformed. We’re joined by racing author and veteran journalist Rick Saffer to unpack the Indianapolis 500 era from 1962 to 1972, when track records fell at a shocking pace and the Speedway became a live laboratory for IndyCar engineering. We talk about the people who shaped it, the cars that redefined it, and why that decade still explains so much about modern American open-wheel racing. Rick takes us through the biggest technology shifts at Indianapolis Motor Speedway: the move from front-engine roadsters to rear-engine machines, the turbocharged horsepower surge, the growing influence of aerodynamics, and the arrival of slick tires. We also dig into the human side of racing history, from unforgettable team identities like STP to what it’s really like interviewing icons such as A J Foyt, and why a well-timed approach matters when drivers are under pressure. Then we pivot to today’s road cars with a clear, practical breakdown of four-wheel steering (all-wheel steering): how rear wheels can steer opposite the fronts for tight maneuvers, then steer in parallel for high-speed stability, plus the real-world downsides like complexity and repair cost. To round it out, we share go-karting driving destinations around Houston, from old-school outdoor tracks to more advanced facilities with league racing, coaching, and serious lap-time focus. If you love Indy 500 history, IndyCar technology, car culture, and hands-on driving fun, hit subscribe, share this with a racing friend, and leave us a review so more people can find the show. Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk! (https://www.buzzsprout.com/246908/fan...) The Lupe' Tortilla Restaurants (https://tex-mex.com/grand-parkway/) Lupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto Shield (https://www.GCAutoShield.com) Paint protection, tint, and more! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. ----  -----  Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?       In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!   Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are. -----   ----- Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com. In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as: Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device. Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates! Twitter:   / inwheeltime   Instagram:   / inwheeltime      / inwheeltime     / inwheeltime   For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at  [email protected]