Spike Feresten was one of the writers behind legendary TV shows like Seinfeld (Remember The Soup Nazi?)and Saturday Night Live to name a few, working closely with Jerry Seinfeld and David Letterman. Now his passion for car leads him to host some of the most iconic car shows including Car Matchmaker and Spike’s Car Radio.
“Characters on screen remind you of yourself or someone you know and something you might do yourself or perhaps fantasised about doing.”
Seinfeld first aired almost 30 years ago, it’s still one of the most loved TV shows of all time, What makes timeless writing and story?
(Spike Feresten) I wish I knew the answer that. I don’t think I ever approached writing thinking a script will be timeless. However, not tethering a story to current events would be one approach. And if I had to guess, I would say it’s relatable characters and relatable story beats. That the characters on screen remind you of yourself or someone you know and something you might do yourself or perhaps fantasized about doing. On Seinfeld we were taught to write from our personal experience. Perhaps that is a big part of it. But again I’m not sure why the show is as popular now as it was 30 years ago. Frankly I’m dumbfounded.
“My true passion is for driving and the cars are just an instrument to deliver that experience.”
Passion for car, how did you get there?
(SF) Like most people I loved cars from a very early age. But it was after working for David Letterman and then Jerry Seinfeld that the addiction really kicked in and I took a deeper dive into the world of automobiles. My true passion is for driving and the cars are just an instrument to deliver that experience.
How did you start the show Car Matchmaker?
(SF) I was already helping family and friends find the perfect car to fit their lifestyle. After I helped a producer friend of mine she suggested we make a new car buying show and the rest is history. Albeit, minor minor history. Car Matchmaker never felt like work for me. Probably the most fun gig I’ve ever had.
What was the recent car recommendation? to whom?
(SF) Just yesterday a television executive ask me what to buy. I know her pretty well and I suggested the Volvo XC90 T8 E-AWD Plug-in Hybrid. The best safety tech in the business. 21 miles all electric and a 400hp motor to do the rest. A fantastic SUV.
“I want everyone to experience what Porsche does best.”
What would be the car that would go along with anyone?
(SF) If you’re talking about best-selling cars. Corollas, Civics, Camry’s and Accords. However I don’t think there’s a car in the world that everyone likes. But if you’re asking what car I would want everyone to drive, I would say the Porsche 911. I want everyone to experience what Porsche does best. And if were up to me I would let them keep the car for free!
What would be the car that not made for everyone?
(SF) Lotus Evora GT. A 400 hp, 6-speed manual shift go kart that really rips in all the right ways. But it’s for the hard-core purist. Buy the way I’m one of those guys.
Current favorite car?
(SF) I’m in love with my Porsche GT2RS. It’s an explosively fast 911 you can drive everyday and I can’t imagine life without it.
Favorite road to drive in California?
(SF) I like the Pacific Coast Highway. Malibu’s Encinal Canyon which has long fast sweeping turns. And I enjoy Highway 1 up in Big Sur. I look for exciting but also relaxing drives and these roads fit the bill.
To listen more of Spike Feresten’s car talk, visit podcastone.com/spikes-car-radio