Quick visit to Brumos Porsche in Jacksonville, FL

Had an opportunity to swing by Brumos Porsche in Jacksonville while on business in North Florida. Always a fun visit to see if any interesting car is either displayed or visiting the dealership. This time they had their 997 B59 GTS on display and a newly traded-in Boxster Spyder. You can also peruse their impressive racing memorabilia collection and accessories store. Worthwhile visit if you're in their area for business or pleasure.

Driving a Porsche 911 in Winter

One of the negatives of living in a four season area is winter for a classic car owner. What do you drive year round? There are some that throw caution to the wind and drive their 25+ year old cars come rain or shine (or snow). For me, I couldn't do it. I've struggled for years with what car to have for a daily driver. Each December 1st my 1989 Carrera gets parked for the following few months. I'm left wishing I could drive it.

Enter my 2011 Porsche 997 C4. I finally decided to spring for another 911 and daily it year round. I put a fresh set of winter tires on it and it handles spectacularly. One of the best buying decisions I've made. I'm stilled bummed that I can't drive my '89 but at least I can quench my 911 urges with the 997. These cars are truly well built machines. Handling is superb.

Beverly Hills Porsche

During my trip to the LA Toy & Lit Show I took a few minutes to visit Beverly Hills Porsche. My 1989 Carrera 3.2 started its life there when the dealership was Otto Zipper Porsche. It was great to see in person and to think about how things were back 25 years ago. The dealership is a historic landmark building (they're planning to relocate a few blocks away yet still keep the building). I met Jay, their internet marketing guru. Great guy. I learned that he was there 25 years ago when my car was bought by the original owner. I think this is one of many enjoyments of owning a classic car. Learning as much as you can about its life prior to your ownership. Hopefully passing it on to the next owner.

LA Toy & Lit Show

I had been reading about the LA Toy & Lit Show for some years. I'm not really a collector, I have a small grill badge and book collection, but I thought it'd be fun do once. Afterward, I can't wait to go back next year. First, there were the "open houses" to visit. Thursday-Saturday. Ranging from smaller shops (mechanics) to full blown restoration houses.

Next, there was the Toy & Lit Show at the Hilton LAX (I stayed at the Westin a couple blocks away) on Saturday. Wow, what a collection of items ... parts, books, badges, toys, etc. It was packed.

Lastly, there was the swap meet and car show on Sunday at the Phoenix Club in Anaheim. More informal than the lit show and more focused on parts (you could have probably built a car with everything available). A great collection of Porsche on hand. It was sponsored by the 356 club.

There was really much, much more to share. My main takeaway is once you get bitten by the Porsche bug it's hard to not enjoy yourself. Being frozen in Chicago and all I keep thinking about is how soon will I be able to drive my '89 Carrera. It was great to getaway and meet likeminded people. I've been told by others to get out, talk, view, and take-in all Porsche. I'm trying my best.