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FROM THE EDITOR B Y D U S T I N T R OYA N
So after all these years, many people have no idea what it is that I do for a living. Many people will refer to me as ‘that car guy’, ‘the guy in the orange hat’, ‘the Supercar Sunday Guy’, etc. I suppose I have a lot of nicknames. So ‘What do I do?’ Is the question... I actually do many different things. There is no specific order to what I do, it is sometimes hard to explain to people but let’s just say, I do a lot of “automotive stuff...” Car shows. I put on Supercar Sunday. I do it because I love it. I love cars, and more so, I love the people and the community. I think most of you who attend regularly or read DrivenWorld Magazine know how passionately I feel about that. Supercar Sunday was just a little idea all those years ago which turned into something much bigger. Back then, the car scene was totally different. Social media did not exist and mobilizing people or motivating them to come to an event was much harder than today. It was a lot of ‘pounding the pavement’, passing out fliers and persistence. So, indeed I put on a car show. Somewhere over the years, I started recording cars for movies and video games. It all started when a customer at Village Coffee Roaster asked me if I could get some cars to record for a movie. Fast-forward, I have sourced cars for just about every major studio and video game company. We record the cars a few different ways and I would love to share with you how, but I am bound by confidentiality. Needless to say, when you hear a car in a video game or a movie, understand that great efforts were taken to record this audio. From the world’s best sound engineers and recordists to major investments in capturing the sound, it would blow you away to know how much energy goes into capturing these sounds. Then one day my phone rang from a research company, a short time later, another research company. Over the years, I have become a resource for research companies with a specific focus in the automotive segment. I assist in the placement of qualified car owners and enthusiasts generally into two segments; high-net individuals who own specific models (Ferrari, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Lamborghini, etc.) or for men and women who are actually drive their cars like they are meant to be driven and/or are opinion leaders in their segments. I have worked with many different research companies all over North America. It is a lot of fun. Over a decade ago, I started Connected Media Group LLC, which was the umbrella for all of this. “Connected” in terms meaning that I am connected in the car world. That was one of my “time to grow up moments”. Warner Bros., reached out and wanted to do some things and I had to become a business. I think that must be close to fourteen years ago now that I think of it. How time has flown by. Then of course, there are my great clients. I represent a number of different businesses in a number of different capacities. From PR and Marketing, Social Media, Advertising/Design and Events, to actual daily operation. I suppose I could use the word “consultant,” but sometimes it is a bit more than a simple consultation. The client list includes great business like: Lavaggio- The art of auto detailing, Keyes, Rusnak Vista Ford Lincoln, Coastline Motorsport, Superchargers Online, Mustangs ETC and the list goes on. Great clients who are very passionate about their clients and the work that they do. Lavaggio: I spend a lot of time at a truly magical place called Lavaggio. It starts with the owner who is one of the most amazing men I have ever met. Lavaggio, if you are a car person, is a must. I have been a part of the Lavaggio team for over five years. Lavaggio was a concept that previously didn’t exist. It is a state-of-the-art detail center that includes concierge services, a meal with each visit, car service, offices, board rooms, events, and then of course is the world class auto detailing. You can find me there about four days a week. With a great team, I help to operate the business, I keep an office there and the place is simply awesome. Think of it as Disneyland for the car lover. Over the years, Lavaggio has become the hub for many automotive events and groups. Many different car clubs call Lavaggio “home” for their club meetings and events and most of the local car dealerships also participate in many of Lavaggio’s offerings. We have a lot of fun there, it is truly a special place. If you are ever around, stop in and say ‘hello’. Consulting: When it comes to cars and people, I have a decent idea of what I am talking about. Who knew? I have been very blessed to play a role at several automotive businesses when it comes to the marketing and PR. I’ll never forget the time I was headed down the 101 freeway and I saw a slogan the Auto Gallery used for years on a billboard, “it’s the lifestyle...” That slogan was seen by millions of people over the years. It was on every single marketing piece they used. Was kind of cool seeing on a billboard. A slogan I came up with… So, I do a bit of consulting. The challenge I have is that I am great at promoting other people, other businesses, events and charities, but horrible at promoting myself or my own business. Crazy isn’t it?! How could that be? I guess, I just didn’t want to be that
self-promoting guy. I was once told by an associate, “pay someone else to promote you,” oddly, that is what I do for others! Then there are other things I do. Many of you have seen cars for sale in my email blasts or in the magazine. I consult with different people in finding the right car or selling cars. Not a broker, but assist in getting word to the right people, who might be interested. Over all these years, it ends up I have a pretty decent network of people. From the big car collectors to the guys that have a couple cars, to those dreaming of owning a cool car. I have a lot of people in reach, hence the “Connected Media Group...” We are connected to the car community and the community at large. You need a car, I can find it. Old, new, project, whatever. I get the job done. Then there are the odd things. Well not really odd in the car world. For some clients, I work as a car concierge. Over the years I have created many lasting relationships with many great people in service and in automobile sales. One thing led to another and I facilitate many different things for them. From car builds, to customizing of cars, project management, maintenance management, logistics and automobile storage. A little bit of everything really. Design, Copy, Photography, Social Media and Website design. Yes, we handle that as well. The fun part of all of this is that since my life revolves around automotive, so does everyone at Connected Media Group. We are all “car people.” I like to keep everything that I can within our own community if possible. Passions run high in the car community and the reality is, if you make a living in the car world, you are in the passion business. We all work so hard to have cool cars, cool projects, long hours in the garage turning wrenches, it is truly about passion. Of course, there are events. I put on a lot of car events. Supercar Sunday is just one. There have been days where I have done a private car event on a Saturday night, Supercar Sunday the next morning and another private car event for a Sunday brunch. Technically, three car shows in under twenty-four hours. It is easy when you love what you do and the people that attend. What a better business to be in, cars and people. Staffing: I help businesses in the hiring of qualified personnel. I know all this sounds crazy but after all these years in the “car world,” I have come across so many qualified people who would add value to organizations in which I facilitate the hiring. As many of you know I am the Founder and President of the Motor4Toys Charitable Foundation. Those of us at Motor4Toys have started another Foundation called Motor4America, which is geared to help troops, veterans and service personnel. We are still in the infancy stage with Motor4America, but we look to grow it and help as many people as possible. We believe in giving back and trying to make our country and world better…we want to leave it better than we found it. Connected Media Group has publishes Driven World Magazine. The magazine, which we are proud of, is a specific area within the business we wish to grow. It is so fun highlighting people and events around Southern California and having the opportunity to put out a good message. For 2020, we are looking to add content, as well as increase advertisers, the number of copies printed and increase our digital reach. It is nice to have an opportunity to be creative in our day to day lives. Time to get really creative! I am also proud to share that for the I am the President of the LAPD Topanga Area Police Foundation. The Foundation helps support the needs of the officers at the station. I also proudly serve on the board of the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff ’s Foundation. Truly an honor to be a part of two great organizations. I hope that none of you take this as a “look at me” letter, it was just that I was “sat down” by somebody I respect and he told me that I do a great job at promoting everybody else and a horrible job at promoting my own business. That I have provided so much to so many other businesses and that I need to focus on growing my business as well and to tell people everything that I do. Now that I have two kids I really need to spread my “business wings” and grow. He suggested that I had better get to it as I have college to think about and so many other things. If my daughters ask for a pony, let’s hope it is a ’68 Fastback right! So, as I deeply respect the man who made this suggestion (almost an order), I am sharing with all of you that when it comes to Marketing and PR, Events and any of your automotive needs, we at Connected Media Group LLC is are pretty darn good. If you need any type of business support we have the ability to do it, from back end IT, to web, to social media, to design, etc. We are always willing to take on new clients and help them grow. You want the car community, Connected Media Group is connected. If you need something, let me know…we get it done.
drivenworld ISSUE 121 DEC 2019 EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dustin Troyan ART DIRECTOR Staff COPY EDITOR Heather Troyan DESIGN Connected Media Group CONTRIBUTORS Dustin Troyan Gwen Banta Hot Rod Jay Santos Mark Llewellyn Steve Geldman Tory Herald
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ON THE COVER: Porsche Corral at Supercar Sunday Steve Geldman Image Photo Motorsports
The Lamborghini SVJ
The Fastest and most powerful Lamborghini ever produced, The Aventador SVJ.
By Dustin Troyan Photography by Lamborghini
The ‘J’ stands for “Jota,” the most extreme version of any Lamborghini model. Lamborhgini pushed the limits in every way taking the flagship Aventador to the highest level. With 770 horsepower, all wheel steering, the naturally aspirated V12 Hypercar has redefined Lamborghini once again as a leader in hypercar category. With boutique hypercar makers like Pagani and Koenigegg leading a charge to redefine what exotic, super exotic or hyper cars are, the ”big boys” in this segment (Ferrari, Lamborhgini, Porsche, McLaren) are pushing the envelope further and further to answer the demand of rare works of art that only the wealthy can own and drive. It has become an all out race to produce the fastest, rarest, most comfortable hypercar that you can actually drive daily if you wanted to. Crazy as it may seem, daily drivability of your hypercar has become a badge of honor. I have driven every variation of the Lamborghini Avantador with the exception of the SVJ. I remember the first time behind the wheel of the Avatandor, the Lamborghini representative warned me that the shifting was “violent” in Corsa mode. I shrugged it off, until we used the “Launch Control” setting and not only did I have whiplash, but I did see stars for a few seconds. And yes, every shift is violent. You can search back a few years and find the review, back then the car blew me away, and now after years of refinement, the Aventador has been perfected in the SVJ. Fully loaded the car is estimated to be in the $600,000.00 range, a drop in the bucket compared the contenders from the other Hypercar brands. With only 900 examples to be produced, it is an instant collector piece and is believed to be sold out. If you can get your hands on one, well, you have become part of a truly exclusive club. For More Info: dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
The Porsche Experience Center, PECLA ARTICLE BY Dustin Troyan
When Keith Goldberg, the General Manager of Rusnak Porsche in Westlake invited me to a VIP Experience at the Porsche Experience Center, I was stoked. First to be considered and secondly to go. A huge thank you to Keith. Keith also mentioned that I could invite a friend who loved Porsche, I knew just who to invite....
Photos by Porsche
When PECLA was announced years ago, that Porsche was going to build an “Experience Center” with a track in the Los Angeles area, the California car community went crazy. A local track for Porsche owners, now that would be something. When ground broke and they started to build, people waited breathlessly to see what Porsche had in mind. And when they finally opened, if you got in early, you were a
rockstar. As time has gone by, word on the street has been that a visit to PECLA is a rare treat. Something truly special. Having never been and being a bit late to the party, I was so excited that I would be going. I knew it would be awesome. The Porsche Experience Center is perfectly located in Carson, California. A great location as it is centrally located and right off the
freeway. You have probably driven past it and thought, “man, I gotta go there.” Yes, you do have to go there. I can tell you that my experience was very special. It was very special because every Porsche Experience Center Team Member made me feel special. When you walk in, you are greeted with a friendly smile and a warm welcome. You have stepped into a different world for the
time you are there and you are treated well, you are treated like you really matter. Not in the sense of selling you anything, but, that you sincerely matter. You are not a customer, you are not really a guest, you are almost a celebrity in that everyone there is happy to see you and their primary focus is sharing the Porsche passion with you and driving passion. I don’t own a Porsche (I would love to, just not in the cards right now), it doesn’t matter. Sure I know a bit about cars, but they have no idea if I am a neophyte or an expert, no matter. They really make you feel, wanted. It is not
about who you are or what you may or may not own, or about dollars and cents, it is almost like, everybody deserves the Porsche experience. They really make you feel special. Meeting up with Keith and the other guests, we were given a tour and then were off to the simulators. As you might imagine, everything is exactly where it should be, everything is spotless, every detail has been well planned and executed. From the show cars on display to the full functioning race car workshop to the cafe, the restaurant and the track. They
put their A-team to work and the Ateam hit a grand slam. The simulators are incredible. Out of about twelve people, I was the worst driver there. Not much of a video game guy, I was horrible. But we all had so much fun. You can select different cars to drive and my friend Bryan and I chose to drive the old 917 race car with the big turbo. Just like real life, when that turbo would kick in, my car would spin in circles... it was so much fun. Not the best driver, but, you want to do doughnuts, you know who to call.
From the simulators we relaxed and the cafe, powered up on espresso and fresh gourmet pastries and then it was off to the track for some dynamic driving. The track is a short track that gives you just enough speed that you could really feel what a Porsche can do. In the straights and in the turns, it is just about the perfect size to have you grinding your teeth while your instructor casually shows you the lines. As is usual the case for most non-professional drivers like myself, the cars are more capable and the track has more to offer
than I could use. In other words, I need more track time in a Porsche. The instructors are incredible. Like the rest of the team members at PECLA, they are so positive, understanding and inspiring, they take all of the stress out of what could be a stressful situation. And they do actually hope you learn from them and they want you to come back. Again, there is absolutely no sales pitch anywhere. There is no emphasis on Porsche being a better car than some
other brands, they just want you to enjoy yourself and see what a Porsche can do, what real driving is, and the camaraderie of being a Porsche owner could be. I could go on and on about the track time, but my suggestion which I will elaborate on is to simply go there and experience the track. Yes you can go fast. Yes the track is big enough that you can get scared, yes you can go faster than in the canyons, yes it is safe and yes you do feel on the edge. Or, if you don’t want
to push hard, that is ok too. The instructors are there for you and they will do exactly what you want. Your first time on the track and you are a bit nervous, no problem, take it slow. They sincerely care about your experience, on every level. I took a long time friend with me who is a huge Porsche fan. He has a couple Porsches, has been around cars his whole life and works with cars in the TV/Film business. I have to tell you that he was like a kid in a candy store. He had so much
fun I was blown away. He was like a teenage boy with his first girlfriend and his parents were out of town. He was going crazy! From the simulator to track, talking Porsche heritage, Porsche racing, sharing about his past experiences in Porsches and his current 930 Slantnose, seeing how happy he was made the experience so much better. Suffice to say, it was the same experience we all had. It was as if for a day we had no responsibility and the day was all about us, our love for cars, friendship and some really great food. I mean it was a damn fine day.
After the track we headed to lunch. We had no idea what to expect, but we were taken to the private dining room and again the experience was 5-star. From the food to the servers, the dessert. Sitting looking over the track watching the new GT2 RS going out to play, it was some far off track, in some far off place, for very special people, in Cason...right off the 405. I could go on and on if you couldn’t tell. I have been purposely vague for a couple reasons, those
reasons are to simply motivate you to visit the Porsche Experience Center in Carson. I can guarantee you a good time. I can guarantee you that you should take your father, your son, your wife, your daughter, your best friend, your work team, an old friend. Ironically, it doesn’t matter if they are into Porsche, it is the experience of a lifetime to any all comers. I don’t know if they have a tagline or a motto, but it could be, “Everybody deserves a Porsche Experience...” It is first class, it is not expensive, you need to do the whole day includ-
ing lunch or dinner. Make a day of it, save up if you have to but, just go. Porsche nailed in on every level. To the team at PECLA, I would like to wish you Kudos, a better experience cannot be had. You made the entire visit a day dream of enjoyment. The location was in perfect order, the staff was kind, intelligent and they care. Top to bottom, every team member cared about us. And it showed and it was authentic. To Porsche North America, please recognize the PECLA Team, they
deserve it. Keith Goldberg and the Rusnak Porsche Team, thank you for including me in such a wonderful day. Bryan and I had a blast. We truly appreciate being included. To the readers, make an appointment and go. www.porschedriving.com/ porsche-experience-center-los-angeles
by Mark Llewellyn
Put A Little Evel Under Your Tree Twelve years after his passing, and 42 years after his last jump. Evel Knievel is still finding his way under the Christmas trees of youngsters. It all began in the early 1970’s, when the fledging “Ideal Toy Company” signed a deal to manufacture the “Evel Knievel Stunt cycle”. The 6-inch Evel figure lived up to the reputation of the real man! The Evel stunt cycle had an innovative “Gyro” motor that required no batteries (parents would love that!). With the success of the “Stunt Cycle,” Ideal developed and created a whole “Evel” toy line. By 1977 Ideal had grossed over $350,000,000 on the E.K. line! Unfortunately, Evel’s ego got the best of him, and his contract was terminated as a result of Evel attacking a former manager with a baseball bat, resulting in a conviction and jail time served. After a 20-year hiatus from the public eye, Knievel re-emerged as a cult leader of the X-Game movement. This resulted in the re-release of a new line of “Evel toys” that can still be purchased today. It may be that more “Dads” enjoy these “Stunt Cycles” than children today, but I defy any child in the world to not find entertainment value with an Evel Stunt Cycle. Perhaps Santa will leave one under your tree this year??
Merry Christmas from the mechanics and toy makers at Leon’s Transmission.
www.LeonsTransmission.com
By Dustin Troyan Photography by Steve Geldman
Porsche Corral Day at Supercar Sunday Just another day in California. If you know anything about the car culture, you know that California is the mecca. What happens in California resonates around the world. We have been and always will be at the leading edge of what is cool in automotive. On any given Sunday, you can see an example of just about every make and model cruising Pacific Coast Highway or Mulholland. Roads made famous by movies and the stars they featured, the passion for everything on wheels only grows. Supercar Sunday is a great example of the passion for all things automotive. For almost twenty years, Supercar Sunday has been a staple in the car world that is hard to ignore. What has made the show truly incredible over the years is not only the consistency of the weekly event, the support from the community, but most importantly the variety. The variety of cars and people. This past Porsche Marque Day, not only did two of the finest examples of the revered Porsche 959s arrive in tandem, but, General Motors also brought the brand new Chevy Corvette to share. Which would be rarer to see, two 959s or the unattainable and unreleased 2020 convertible Corvette? Needless to say, the crowd of car enthusiasts when wild and once again, the show maintained its reputation of being one of the best in the world. Just another day in California. Supercar Sunday is a weekly event presented by www.Keyescars.com and Porsche Woodland Hills. The event is every Sunday at Pierce College in Woodland Hills.
“She was long and curvy, had a foreign sounding name, and she was all mine!” Some might say it was fate how we met, and others might say it was a penance. A typical love/hate relationship that began long before I even realized it. Even though it was over three decades ago, I still have an occasional dream about her. I remember how she sounded, how she smelled, and how she acted. There are a few things within one’s life that you never forget. This is one of them. As a young boy, I often wonder what my first car would be. Would it be my sister’s friend’s truck, my Dad’s Buick, or maybe that cool looking RX7 that just came out? I was fortunate that my Dad taught me how to drive at a young age. He would take me to the huge parking lot at Litton Aerospace that was located right down the street from our home. I was about 12 years old and looked forward to those Sunday afternoons. Little did I know that my driving skills would soon be put to the test. My Mom didn’t drive often, so my Dad was the primary driver. My family would travel over the hill from Woodland Hills to Santa Monica to visit my Grandma, Aunts and Uncles. We would always end up at my Aunts house for a barbeque and fun. All my cousins would be there and we’d all play and just run around and be crazy. All the adults would be playing cards, as well as drinking and smoking. This particular time my Dad drank a little too much and didn’t think he could drive home. He came over to me and asked me if I thought I could drive our family home. I was quite shocked but told him, “Yes, I can”. Now, this was back in 1975 and things were a slight bit different back then. In my Dad’s eyes, he believed that I was a good enough driver to make it over Sepulveda pass. I felt pretty confident, but I was still scared out of my pants! Needless to say, we made it home safely, thank God! The first car that I really thought I’d get was a Baja Bug. It was one of
two that anyone had seen in the West Valley. It belonged to my brother’s friend Roger who was staying at our house. He was going through some rough times, so my Mom and Dad were helping him out. Roger decided that he wanted to sell it and offered it to my dad for $500.00. I begged and begged my Dad to buy it for me so I would have a car to drive when I got my license. My Dad thought about it for a few days but to my disappointment he didn’t buy it. I was crushed! Roger sold it to someone else. If you’ve read my past articles, then you would know my next door neighbor Steve was my mentor. He had a couple 1955 and 1956 Chevy 2 doors that he had been street racing. He was selling one of them and for a very short moment I thought that this might be my first car. Unfortunately, Steve had explained to my Dad and Roger that the cars motor was ok for driving under 40 on the street, but that was about it. My Dad once again passed on it, but to my surprise, Rodger bought it for a few hundred bucks instead! The weekend was coming up and Roger invited my two sisters, a few friends’ and me to go to Magic Mountain. He told us that he would drive us in the car that he had just bought from Steve. Now don’t forget, I was listening in on the conversation Steve had with my Dad and Roger. I knew that the motor wasn’t in the greatest shape, but I was too excited to care. Sure enough, as we hit the small grade at the 14 and 5 freeway interchange, from the back seat I noticed some smoke coming out of the dash. I told Roger and he pulled over to the side of the road. The Chevy’s engine took its last gasp, and died right there. Our Magic Mountain trip ended as soon as it started. Ironically, Roger worked at Litton where my Dad had been taking me to practice driving. On one particular weekday, Roger didn’t feel like going to work. While at a friends house, he allegedly called into work and told them there was a bomb planted somewhere on the premises. All around, I guess Roger ended up not being the brightest fellow. The FBI traced the call back to his friend’s house, and putting two and two together they knew exactly who called. A day later, Roger left our house and we never saw or heard from him again. We didn’t know why he left, until the police came knocking on our door and explained what had happened. While all these things were happening, my brother Ray was preparing to go overseas to the South Pacific in the Navy. He was stationed in San Diego and was saving some money to buy a car so he could travel back and forth from his military base to home. About four months before he left on deployment, he bought a 1975 Opel Sportwagon. I remember when he drove it
home and I first saw it. It was orange and looked like a little station wagon. It was longer than a normal car and a little bit wider. It had a funny name that I’d never heard before. “Opel - what’s an Opel?” About a month after my brother left to go overseas, my Dad informed me that I was chosen to start up my brother’s car that was now parked on our driveway. My job was simple, start it up once a week to keep the battery charged and the engine lubed. Easy! I followed the instructions for a few weeks but my curiosity got the best of me. The Opel was a four speed manual which was foreign to me. Up to that point, my short driving experience was with an automatic. So one day I got the great idea to see if I could move the car a little forward on the driveway. I had no idea how to drive a stick and unfortunately I ended up popping the clutch and ramming the front bumper into and through the wooden garage door! Like I said, “I had a great idea”…. Fast forwarding a few months of being grounded later, I was back to just starting up my brothers car again. As I looked back and think about it now, my Dad sure had a lot of trust in me! After school once a week, I would start the car up. I would pretend I was driving as I sat there and let it idle and warm up in the driveway. As the saying goes - “curiosity killed the cat”, well in my case it certainly did. I had another great idea that I wanted to try to drive my brother’s car, or at least learn/try to drive my brother’s car around the block. I figured once a week or maybe even twice a week would be adequate for me to learn. My Mom didn’t get home until 4:00 and my Dad worked the 2nd shift so right after school I had a 45 minute window to drive. Well needless to say it didn’t quite work out the way I planned. It lasted for about a week and a half and on one fateful rainy day I decided to take the Opel out again. This time I invited my friend to join me for my around the block stint. I was getting fairly good at driving the stick shift, so I thought. As we made our way around my neighborhood we came to an infamous steep hill and curve that throughout the years had injured many would be daredevils on motorcycles, skateboards and bikes. The gas gauge didn’t work in the car so I thought I’d just put it in neutral while going down the hill to save gas. As we sped down the steep grade and curve the rear end pitched to the right and then to the left and right again before crashing into a Cadillac that was parked at the bottom of the hill. Luckily, neither one of us got hurt but I did do substantial damage to the Opel and Cadillac that ended up being owned by Heisman trophy nominee and pro football player Clint Jones!! What are the chances?! So let me just say, I wasn’t allowed
to leave the house for about a year after that. My Dad made me write my brother who was still overseas and explain to him what I did as well as send him pictures of the damaged cars. My brother wasn’t to happy and still talks about it! Fast forwarding four years later, and out of some weird twist of fate, yes you guessed it, I was given the Opel as my first car! Could this be some sick joke my brother was playing on me? Was my Dad in on it? Did my Mom know??? Regardless of the reasons, I was ecstatic to get it. I had just finished drivers training at summer school and had just gotten my license. I drove that Opel everywhere and started to learn how to work on import cars. But once again on one fateful night I was driving with friends on a dirt fire road up near Stunt road. For some unknown reason I thought I could drive over an 8 inch round boulder and I ended up smashing the steering rack and pinion. From that point on the car could only turn right and make left turns very slowly! I drove it like that for almost a year and had mapped out my driving route to school or wherever else I needed to go. I was finally able to get it fixed once I started working but luck would have it, while coming home one day the rear end locked up and she skidded to a stop. The Opel died in front of my house that day. Fortunately, my best friend Dave just got a car. And as we all know, when your best friend gets a car, it’s kind of like your car too! And once again, with a very, very wicked twist of ironic fate, it was a Baja Bug! Big tires, one piece fiberglass front end and a stinger exhaust. It was cool! We drove that bug everywhere and it gave me chance to learn how to work on VW’s. He had it for a couple years. But one day when we went to the beach, while we were in the water surfing, we heard the Bugs motor fire up. We ran up to PCH and watched as the Baja Bug was stolen and driven away by a guy probably around the same age as us. As it rounded the corner and headed towards Topanga Canyon, Dave and I looked at each other and we both just stood there staring. We both new she was gone and we’d never see her again. It was Dave’s first love. Although she was only a part of my life for a short time, every moment we were together I would learn something new about her. What she liked, what she hated, and how she liked to be handled. As I look back now, I wish I would have been a little bit more respectful because maybe, just maybe she’d still be around…
ARTICLE BY Dustin Troyan & Lamborhini Photos by Lamborghini
Lamborghini North Los Angeles, located in Calabasas was the first Lamborghini Dealership in the state to unveil the new Lamborghini Hurcan Evo. It was an incredible
event filled with the who’s who of the Lamborghini and Exotic Car world. Catered by The Sixx in Calabasas, all of the guests were pampered in Lamborghini Luxury, it was an wonderful
event. The Hurcan Evo sat covered for about an hour until the General Manager Ron Giger gathered everyone together to speak about the car.
The EVO is an absolutely incredible vehicle and it is the future of Lamborghini. When Ron unveiled it, the crowd went crazy. The Evo has a tremendous pres-
ence. Just sitting there it looks like it is moving. The Carbon, the stance, the color combination, Lamborghini did an outstanding job. Guests lined up to sit in the car and experience the
cockpit. More like a fighter jet than a car, the Evo is meant to perform. Both in raw horsepower and technology, the Evo is setting the mark high for other contenders in the seg-
ment. It will be a hard car to beat on any level and guests were placing orders on the spot. With a Spyder variation coming soon, the Evo will be the exotic car to own. Stop by
Lamborghini North Los Angeles today and experience it for yourself, it is a tremendous accomplishment.
Sant’Agata Bolognese, 26 February 2019 – Automobili Lamborghini presents the new Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder at Geneva Motor Show: the open-top car joins its coupé counterpart launched earlier this year, as the second model in the V10 Huracán EVO line-up. The Spyder adopts the next-generation vehicle dynamic control and aerodynamics developed for the coupé, with the 5.2 liter naturally-aspirated Lamborghini V10 engine uprated for a higher power output and incorporating Titanium intake valves. The Huracán EVO Spyder outputs 640 hp (470 kW) at 8,000 rpm with 600 Nm of torque delivered at 6,500 rpm. With a dry weight of 1,542 kg the car reaches a weight-to-power ratio of 2.41 kg/hp, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and from 0-200 km/h in 9.3 seconds. Braking from 100 km/h to 0 is achieved in just 32.2 m, with a top speed of 325 km/h. “The Huracán EVO Spyder incorporates all the performance, next-generation vehicle control and aerodynamic features of the EVO coupé, with its own unique personality and a driving excitement that only an open-top car can offer,” says Stefano Domenicali, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini. “The Spyder continues the Huracán EVO’s evolutionary charge: extremely easy to drive while
excelling as a highly responsive, fun super sports car. Particularly with the roof open, the emotive sound of the naturally aspirated engine and the refined, lightweight exhaust system take the sensory experience to a new level. The Huracán EVO Spyder’s design, performance and exhilarating open-air drive experience is literally breath-taking.” Next generation vehicle dynamics The Huracán EVO Spyder combines the option of openair driving with the prowess of the Huracán EVO’s evolutionary technologies. Rear-wheel steering and a four-wheel torque vectoring system are controlled centrally by Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata (LDVI): the Central Processing Unit integrating and controlling every aspect of the car’s set-up and dynamic behavior, anticipating the next move and needs of the driver and interpreting this through a ‘feed forward logic’. Processing data in real time, the LDVI system monitors and analyses external conditions through its active suspension and all-wheel drive. It also recognizes the driver’s intentions through steering wheel, braking, acceleration, the gear and driving mode selected. Precise inputs are given to the vehicle dynamic system, creating a super-agile and responsive car with unparalleled level
of control: the car doesn’t just react, but predicts the best driving set-up for the next moment. Lamborghini Piattaforma Inerziale (LPI) version 2.0, launched on the EVO coupé, is a comprehensive set of accelerators and gyroscope sensors located in the car’s center of gravity, monitoring real-time lateral, longitudinal and vertical accelerations, as well as roll, pitch and yaw rate. The magneto rheological suspension, also upgraded to version 2.0, instantaneously adapts the damping following inputs from the LPI. The new advanced traction control system together with enhanced allwheel drive and torque vectoring, allows traction to be directed to a single wheel as required. Modified Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS), provides higher responsiveness in corners while requiring the lowest steering angles. Coupled with rear-wheel steering, agility is ensured at low speed with maximum stability in high-speed cornering and under severe braking. Driving the Huracán EVO Spyder is as refined or exciting as the occupants desire. The preferred driving mode is selected via the ANIMA system, with STRADA especially calibrated via the LDVI system for road-driving comfort. In SPORT it adopts a fun and exciting persona, with the ability to drift. In CORSA the Huracán EVO Spyder demonstrates its Performante heritage:
race-track ready and exhilarating, for the most extreme driving environments. Open-air aerodynamics and design – inside and out The aerodynamic superiority of the Huracán EVO is continued with the Spyder. With roof either up or down, the aerodynamic competency of the EVO Spyder, with more than five times the downforce and efficiency of the original Huracán Spyder, sustains not only the most dynamic handling and performance but the comfort of the occupants. Cabin airflow is minimised and the occupants assured a quiet cockpit environment. Like the EVO coupé, a new front bumper gives the car a low, assertive personality with aerodynamic efficiency improved via the front splitter and enlarged air intakes. At the rear the Huracán EVO Spyder adopts the new rear design evocative of naked race bikes and inspired by Lamborghini Huracán race cars, with the twin outlets of the new sports exhaust system positioned high in the rear bumper. At the upper end of the tail an integrated, slotted spoiler provides enhanced air flow, clearly emphasizing the car’s aerodynamic abilities. The underbody has been shaped to maximize aerodynamic efficiency. The side profile of the Huracán EVO Spyder differs significantly from the coupé, but is equally dynamic with roof up or down. The
FROM LAMBORGHINI • New Lamborghini Huracán EVO design translated into open-air exhilaration • Electrohydraulic, lightweight soft top for pure Spyder feeling • Aerodynamic superiority maintained roof up or down • Engine derived from Huracán Performante, producing 640 hp and 600 Nm of torque • Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, top speed 325 km/h • New infotainment system with advanced connectivity features lightweight soft top carves the top line of the Spyder’s silhouette while up, and is hidden away when down in the most efficient space possible, revealing the athletic and equally powerful lines of the open car. Automatic pop-up safety bars are hidden away. Whether the roof is up or down, the driver can electronically open the rear window, which functions as a windshield when closed and when open, amplifies the song of the EVO Spyder’s unique aspirated engine sound. The electrohydraulic, lightweight soft top opens via a button positioned on the central tunnel in just 17 seconds up to a driving speed of 50 km/h (31 mph). As the roof silently lowers, two fins in the same color as the body rise upwards out of the folding roof casing towards the seatbacks and once in place continue the line to the rear, enhancing the car’s low, dynamic appearance. An integrated duct between the fins reduces turbulence in the headroom during open top driving. The Huracán EVO Spyder is presented in Verde Selvans: an iconic new Lamborghini four-layer green, and one of an enhanced range of colors and trims available for the Huracán EVO coupé and Spyder. Interior options include new EVO trim in Alcantara and leather mix, with stitching and trim details to match the body tone. A number of style packages are offered as well as lightweight materials such as Carbon
Forged Composite and Lamborghini’s patented Carbon Skin. Lamborghini’s comprehensive customization program, Ad Personam, allows virtually limitless personalization of the new car. The EVO Spyder sports the new 20” Aesir rims, with Pirelli P Zero tires. The new 8.4” HMI touchscreen, located in the center console just above the start button, puts connectivity at the driver’s fingertips, with multi-finger gesture control. Governing car functions including seats, climate and the status of the LDVI system in real-time it also puts all infotainment, such as Apple CarPlay with smartphone integration, at the cabin occupants’ disposal. A multimedia system incorporates connected navigation and entertainment including web radio and video player, with the intuitive interface enabling voice commands. Price of the Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder and market delivery the first customers will take delivery of the new Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder in spring 2019.
The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
The first production mid-engine Corvette
To many, it was a surprise when Chevrolet announced that the next generation of the Corvette was going to be mid-engine. People howled, and yelled, that this would ruin the legacy that is arguably America’s greatest sports car. Among the die-hard Corvette enthusiast, a mid-engine Corvette isn’t unfamiliar. Dating back to the 60’s, the first endeavor into a Chevrolet with the engine mounted behind the driver, came in the form of the CERV I, which was designed by Zora Arkus-Duntov. The CERV I was a prototype to test a higher level of performance, and used a fuel injected V8 producing 350 horsepower, numbers that fall short to the recently revealed C8 Corvette. Oh, how times have changed, and in my honest opinion, for the better! Chevrolet has stated that with the current generation of Corvette with the engine in a FR layout (Front-engine and rear-wheel drive), the platform had reached its limit, and in order to move forward in the future with the car, a complete redesign would be necessary. With the booming sound of a futuristic cargo plane, faint glimpses of an intoxicating red draped over a sharp, and dynamic silhouette, the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ran to the stage during the world-wide unveiling and made fans out of the nonbelievers. In its 67th year of production, the eighth generation in the Chevrolet Corvette lineage can only be described as a milestone for the American manufacture. After a handful of one-off prototypes, the C8 will be a full production car for the company with its engine mounted very low, behind the driver. Though this model introduces a lot of new features, such as a two-inch nose lift, heated steering wheel, memory seats, and wireless device charging, there are several that are carried over from the previous generations. The body is still a plastic and composite material, there is ample storage in now the front, and in the rear for luggage and golf clubs, and the roof is removable and can be stored in the trunk. The 6.2-liter LT2 V8 is
essentially an LT1, as the bore and stroke remain the same. The subtle changes are required from the engine being mounted in the middle of the chassis. The engine now breaths from the rear, and the exhaust manifolds are stainless, instead of cast iron. The LT2 uses a dry sump oil lubrication system, with the reservoir mounted
Written by Steve Ellis of Behind the Wheel | Photos by GM
on the front side of the engine. This allows the engine to sit very low, so low that the valve covers sit lower than the 20-inch rear wheels. When paired with the factory sport exhaust, the power plant puts out 495 horsepower, and 470 lb-ft of torque. The power is put through a Tremec eight speed dual clutch
transaxle that is a shift by wire. Another first for the sports car icon, as a manual transmission won’t be available for the infamous sports car. Since this transmission can shift faster than any human, a 2.8 0-60 time is said to be capable. Using the configuration, and losing the need of a transmission tunnel, the center is
completely enclosed, which increases the structural strength adding to the 50 percent gain in chassis rigidity of the C8 over the C7. Chevrolet has provided an ample amount of options to build the C8 of your dreams, providing twelve exterior color options, six interior color schemes, and three
different seats to hug you in the corners. The specific trim levels are 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT. The top of the line package comes in the FE4 that adds on to the Z51 Performance package with magnetorheological dampers. The 2020 C8 Corvette Stingray is scheduled to begin production later this year, and pricing
starts below $60,000 MSRP. The Chevrolet Corvette has always been the sports car for the everyday working man, and now that the Corvette has evolved into a mid-engine sports car, with exotic like styling, and performance, it just very well be the exotic car for the everyday person.
Life as Art Living well is indeed an art. This is just one example of many luxury properties available in the Los Angeles area. Named an LA Times "Hot Property,� this residence offers the charm and history of an English manor house.
Nestled on over an acre of tree-studded grounds in prime Encino Hills,
this stately four bedroom home with optional bonus bedroom exudes architectural drama. Original features include outstanding craftsmanship with rich wood accents, intricate carving, vast fireplaces, towering ceilings, and stunning leaded glass windows. The home also boasts an exquisite mural-accented dining room, two studies, a spacious master with
huge dressing room and dual baths, tennis court, pool with spa, and serene views of the lush surroundings. Grand homes call to mind lavish parties and holiday celebrations. The home highlighted today is asking $3,299,000; but luxury comes in all sizes and all price ranges. Luxury is an approach to life - a sense of de-
sign that satisfies one's soul, whether living in an apartment, a small condo or on a rambling estate. If you would like to preview any of the large and varied selection of Los Angeles homes of distinction, we invite you to treat yourself by joining us on one of our fabulous home tours. Experience the art of living well!
(323) 252 1700 (310) 985 2719 Connecting the Worlds of Real Estate www.LosAngelesLuxuryHomesForSale.com
Gwen Banta
Tory Herald
818 701 6500 INDOOR RV STORAGE
200,000 Square Feet Secure Vehicle Storage Concierge Service Exotic Cars and Luxury Coaches Boats, Trailers and RVs Exclusive/Private Areas Available Car Collectors
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20701 Plummer Street Chatsworth, CA 91311
 
38th Annual Classic Car Show Presented by Classic Chevys of Southern California
Sunday, May 3rd 2020 Rancho San Antonio Boys town: 21000 Plummer St. Chatsworth, Ca 91311 Show Hours 7:00am-3:00pm Car show entry 7:00am-10:00am Awards ceremony 2:30pm
Best of the best awards- Presented to the top 50 cars
CLASSIC
CHEVYS of SoCal Article by Dustin Troyan | Photos by Greg Grudt The 39th Annual Classic Chevy Show is an event not to miss! This show, which is open to all makes and models, not only brings a variety classic and hot rods, but late model street cars as well. If you are unfamiliar with the Classic Chevy Club of SoCal, there might not be a more energetic and passionate group of car owners out there. The Club has chosen Rancho San Antonio Boys Town not only as their location, but the beneficiary of the show. Proceeds from the show will be donated to Rancho, which helps to provide underprivileged youth a safe home and learning environment to help secure their futures. Over the last dozen years, the Club has donated over $160,000.00 to Rancho. The boys at Rancho will also be present to assist with the show and provide an amazing bar-b-que. This show is one of the largest car shows in the valley and also one of the longest running. According to Crazy Al aka Big Al, this is in fact the largest show around! What many people do know is that this show is open to all makes and models. Everyone is welcome to the show and the more the merrier. Beyond having a great show, it is a huge goal of the Chevy Club to generate as much revenue as possible for Rancho. The club has a strong connection with Rancho and Brother John who operates Rancho and they do their best to raise the bar each year and put on the best show possible. If you do not have a car to enter into the show that is also ok, the club welcomes you to come by and enjoy the show, bid on auction items and have a wonderful meal. The show is on Sunday, May 3rd, 2020. See you there! For More Info: www.classicchevysofsocal.com
FOR SALE
1997 FORD F-250 4x4, 460 Big Block, custom stereo, Alarm, sun roof, Line-X bed, Cam, Hedders, Borla Exhuast. Registered and ready to go! For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup. com
FOR SALE
1996 FORD MUSTANG COBRA #1205 1996 Ford Mustang Cobra #1205 with Mystic Paint. This Cobra is a single owner car owned by a Ford Collector. With 20,829 Original Miles, this is the rare opportunity to own an “unmolested” Cobra. The vehicle is fully documented, clean Carfax and all original. All servicing has been done at the dealer. This rare cobra is ready to go into your collection. Contact: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com for more info. FOR SALE
1989 PONTIAC TRANS AM If you're a fan of Pontiac, then you know how special this car is. Besides it being a limited production Trans Am GTA, it's fully loaded and completly stock. It has never been registered, and rarely driven with only 740 original miles on it. This 80's icon will only increase in value, and it a piece of Pontiac history. For more information please contact dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
FOR SALE
1930 FORD COUPE Out of the Harrah’s Collection. This is a stunning 1930 Coupe. Owned for 40 years after purchased from Harrah’s. Ruble Seat, All steel, All original. Needs the interior to be finished. For more info: dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
FOR SALE
1970 FORD MUSTANG MACH 1 1970 Ford Mustang Mach1 This car is a 351 Cleveland, with an Automatic transmission. All options including air conditioning. This car is a show car quality, has been featured in magazines and is ready to drive cross country. The car has had the same owner for over over 20 years and is collector owned. Asking $65,000.00 For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
FOR SALE
1954 Chevy Sedan Delivery 6 cyl. Registered, Running and ready to go. Restoration is 85% done, needs interior work to finish. A very nice example. For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
Price: $23,500 Contact Information:
Dustin@Connectedmediagroup.com
SOLD Price: Contact for Pricing Contact Information:
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Price: $55,000 Contact Information:
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Price: Constact Dustin Contact Information:
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Price: $65,000 Contact Information:
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Price: $25,000 Contact Information:
Dustin@Connectedmediagroup.com
Price: Contact for Pricing 1988 Porsche 928 S4 Barn Find Original Owner! What a find! Local to Southern California, this is an original owner 1988 Porsche 928 S4. This Porsche is extremely well kept with just over 52,000 original miles. Only having had one owner in its lifetime the record keeping of this car is mostly complete and the sale comes with years of maintenance records and documentation of the car. Collector owned, this Porsche was always kept in pristine condition. Only driven on the weekend, this is Porsche is owned by the type of person you want to buy a Porsche from. This 928 is accident free and has never had any body or paint repair in its lifetime. The exterior of the Porsche is in wonderful condition. All light assemblies are complete and intact. The front spoiler, vinyl hatch trim, and rear bumper guards are excellent. All glass is clear without any scratches. This Porsche is all original. Yes, All original. The interior is in excellent condition. Ready for your PCA run or out do dinner, this Porsche is as new as an unrestored car can get. The leather seats show no wear and the carpets look showroom. The 928 has the distinction of being Porsche’s first production V8 powered model and the only coupé powered by a front-mounted V8 engine. The automatic transmission shifts beautifully and is very smooth. The engine sounds great and the car drives as it was designed to. Everything on this Porsche works and the car is ready to drive. If you are looking for a one owner Porsche 928 s4, look no further, this is your unicorn. For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
FOR SALE
2012 PORSCHE GTS CABRIOLET One owner, 6,700 miles. All options other than ceramic brakes. In perfect condition. Garage kept, only driven on the weekend. NOT a daily driver. This Porsche is in showroom condition For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
FOR SALE
1932 FORD | V8 3 Speed Manual. All Steel. Running, driving, registered. Not the original motor. Added hydraulic brakes for safety. Rumble seat car. Same owner for 30 years. A great example. For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com
SOLD
FOR SALE
1964 1/2 FORD K-CODE MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE
1964 1/2 K-Code Mustang Convertible K-code convertible with a 289 that is Paxton Supercharger installed by Paxton for a Magazine Story. No power-steering, power brakes or power windows. This car is running, registered and is a show car. The car is all original other than the supercharger and is a true K-code. A very rare example indeed. The car has had the same owner for over over 20 years and is collector owned. Asking $65,000.00 For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com FOR SALE
1957 CHEVROLET BEL AIR 283 cu. in, four barrel, power brakes, power steering, power windows, padded dash. Same owner for over 25 years. A very clean example, running, registered and ready to drive For more info: Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com FOR SALE
2001 DODGE VIPER GTS Purchased 4 years ago with 3600 original miles. Now has 8600 original miles. All original except tinted windows and muffler delete Original owner’s manual and dealer brochure. Sounds amazing! Stunning and rare collector car in EXCELLENT condition.
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SOLD Price: $75,000 Contact Information:
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SOLD Price: $75,000 Contact Information:
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SOLD Price: $65,000 Contact Information:
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SOLD Price: $65,000 Contact Information:
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Price: $50,000 Contact Information:
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Contact Information:
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Cars & Cigars at Lavaggio
Story by Dustin Troyan Photos by Tommy Huth It was another great event at Lavaggio! Cars and Cigars which is presented and sponsored by both Lavaggio and Lamborghini North Los Angeles was packed. Exotic car owners were pampered in the luxury that both Lavaggio and Lamborghini represent. From the latest Lamborghinis to incredible to McLarens and Ferraris, the line-up was truly world class. All of the attendees had an incredible time... Cars and Cigars which started almost fifteen years ago by Dustin Troyan, continues to grow with the great partnerships and the passionate community. For more info, please email Dustin. Dustin@connectedmediagroup.com