After Rob Cohen read the article, “Racer X,” about an underground New York world of street racing he couldn’t stop thinking about its potential. He had to see it for himself. So his friend and auto journalist R.J. de Vera brought him to a race. The experience left him hooked. He knew he had a story. The only question was, could he sell it? Who started modern urban street racing and why did they love imported cars? Are cars cool enough to be the stars of a movie franchise? Why didn’t the original script for The Fast and The Furious make the cut? And how much Vin Diesel is enough Vin Diesel? Today on Past Gas – the first chapter in our two-part series on the wild and true story behind the Fast and Furious franchise. More about Show: Follow Nolan on IG and Twitter @nolanjsykes.   Follow Joe on IG and Twitter @joegweber. Follow Donut @donutmedia, and subscribe to our Youtube and Facebook channels!   Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for free wherever you're listening or using this link: http://bit.ly/PastGas. If you like the show, telling a friend about it would be helpful! You can text, email, Tweet, or send this link to a friend: http://bit.ly/PastGas. Thanks to our sponsors: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Save 10% off your first month at https://BetterHelp.com/pastgas. Go to https://PIAVPN.com/gas to get 82% off your VPN service + 4 free months with a 2-year plan! Sign up today at https://philo.tv and use promo code GAS to get 50% off your first month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices