Die Porsche Kassette

Gold Coast Region

April 2023

Die Porsche Kassette

Features

Upcoming Events

Departments

DIE PORSCHE KASSETTE is the official publication of the Porsche Club of America, Gold Coast Region, Inc. and is published monthly. Any statement appearing in the Kassette is that of the author and does not constitute an opinion of the Porsche Club of America, the Gold Coast Region, Inc., its Board of Directors, the KASSETTE editors or its staff. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit all material submitted for publication. Permission is given to chartered regions of PCA to reprint articles in their newsletter if credit is given to the author and the KASSETTE. Publication office: 648 NW 100 Lane, Coral Springs, FL 33071

FIRST TURN

Peter Olliviere , President

All of you folks who have been asking for the return of Concours events, hold onto your hats, because the wheels are turning to reintroduce this type of event. The first thing that needs to be done is for all of us to get on the same page as to what a Concours is. “Concours d’Elegance” is a French term meaning “competition of elegance,” denoting a gathering of automobiles in competitive judging of their respective merits in terms of coach work design, finish and appointments, and adherence to the manufacturer’s standard. Doing well in a concours event requires that you understand what

the judges are looking for. Every car starts off with 100 points, or a perfect score. As the car is judged points are removed for any defects found in any of the judged areas such as body, paint interior, etc. Depending on the Concours the judging level can go from wash and shine to a detailed engine and suspension review. So, the first thing you need to know is how the judging is going to be conducted; that way you don’t waste time on items that are not going to contribute to the overall score. For example, since you cannot easily gain access to the engine in a Boxster, most of the time this item is not judged.

You also need to understand that your having a special paint color is not going to catapult your car to a winning position. Remember that the judge is looking for defects in that paint and doesn’t care about the color.

As you can see, there is a lot of information that will be gone over in “Concours University”! We are now working to get the location to hold this informational event. As soon as that is finalized, we will be sending an email with all the information needed to sign up.

Mike Joffee PCA National Judge presents the Restoration class

Jess Yarger PCA National Judge teaching the Preservation class

Peter Bartelli PCA National Judge teaching the Concours 101 class

Fred Kohly PCA National Judge and co-developer addresses the class

SHIFT INTO SOCIAL

With the spring weather in full swing, April is a month of new beginnings, growth and celebration. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable, it is always a great time to go for a drive when the sun is shining bright and you can feel the wind blow past if you have the windows and or the top down.

In the rearview mirror:

In February we celebrated our passion with the Love your Porsche event in Miami. Read more about it in this issue. We also enjoyed the Valentine’s Day dinner.

March started up with the WERKS Reunion, a PCA National event at Amelia Island. Also that weekend was the Stone Crab Run, part 2. At the time of this writing, I am looking forward to the first Cars & Cigars event on March 31st.

By the time this issue arrives, we will have gathered for the NOBO Brewery Social in Boynton Beach on April 1.

On the horizon:

Friday, April 28th is our private tour of the Revs Institute in Naples, followed by lunch. Mark your calendars for April 30th: the Spring Fling is back at CB Smith Park! This is a popular event with a picnic, car show and games.

May 20th is the Evolution of Porsches, an event that is tied into our 60th Anniversary year of celebration.We are working on events for the upcoming months, so stay tuned for upcoming updates and announcements about these events via the “enews” emails. You can also check the calendar on the GCR website at goldcoastregion. org/calendar, or the Gold Coast Region Facebook page events section or on

clubregistration.net for events and updates.

PCA and GCR are fueled by volunteers: we could not do all the things we do without our volunteers. If you have the urge to volunteer or have an idea for something fun, please contact the social committee at socials@goldcoastregion.org.

Christy Spangler, Social Chair Christy

March 4th Porsches & Pancakes at Arepa Bar and Restaurant in Wynwood.

KEY STROKES

Roger Fabel, Editor

To help with the celebration of our 60 years, I decided to take a few snapshots from earlier Kassette publications. The following is a quote from the editor, Stephanie Slavin in the February 1983 issue. “Thanks for all your calls, comments, and compliments on the Kassette. Thanks for not noticing/ commenting on some of the glaring errors of my first issue! I would like to say that this is just the beginning......please bear with me as this effort evolves. My goal is to produce the best-looking, most easily readable, FUN, and informative publication possible---which also reflects the active Gold Coast Region”. Looks like our objectives are still on target.

Another short quote from that issue by then-president George Houser talks about upcoming activities. “There will be a lot of exceptional road racing in Florida in the next two months, so don’t get carried away! Remember--wheels down, roof up! See you Feb 10th at the 94th Aero Squadron”. We used to hold our board meetings at restaurants and members’ homes before the isolation of COVID. Then we went to Zoom.

is finally getting some relief. Some relief, I say because he has agreed to help out in our track events in Safety and Communications. During his tenure, if you recall, Mike also wore the hat of Kassette editor until team Munnich & Gonzalez agreed to once again exercise their talents.

I have seen that story before. In 2006 when I was president, we decided to remove the non PCA editor and at the beginning of 2007 I served as president and also started learning quickly how to become an editor.

Tarter

Another remark from president Jim Hayes in the January 1991 issue of the Kassette shows how involved and important the roll of a volunteer can be. “Here we go!!! After 2 1/2 years. GCR has a new president. Mike

I hope you enjoyed the look back in our history and how important volunteers are to our club. Get involved and enjoy the ride!

Roger

START YOUR ENGINES

From Track Days to Charity Drives: Why am I a member of PCA?

Ian Gerada , Membership Chair

Being a member of the Porsche Club of America (PCA) means joining a community of passionate Porsche enthusiasts who share a love for the brand and its history. Membership offers access to exclusive events, resources, and opportunities to connect with other Porsche owners and fans. PCA members can attend driving events, social gatherings, and other activities designed to celebrate the Porsche lifestyle. In addition, the club provides members with access to technical resources, discounts on Porsche-related products and services, and a subscription to Porsche Panorama, the club’s monthly magazine. Whether you are a longtime Porsche owner or a new enthusiast, being part of the PCA can deepen your connection to the brand and provide unforgettable experiences with like-minded individuals.In addition to the social and technical benefits, being a member of the Porsche Club of America also means giving back

to the community. The Gold Coast Region supports various charitable organizations and causes. Members can also participate in charity events and volunteer efforts, such as fundraising drives and community service projects, during Covid for example we handed out around 400 Christmas baskets to Plantation Methodist Church and also donated five toy drivable Porsche cars to the kids at Joe DiMaggio Childrens Hospital.

By joining the PCA, members not only gain access to a vibrant community of Porsche enthusiasts, but also have the opportunity to make a positive impact in their local and global communities.

New Member Numbers

I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that our Porsche Club of America membership in the Gold Coast Region has officially reached a grand total of 3,253 as of March 15th, 2023! This includes 2,153 primary members, 1,100 comembers, and 324 PCA Juniors. To all of our new members, a big warm welcome to our exciting community! We’re so happy to have you on board and look forward to all the fun and exciting experiences we’ll share together as a club. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey! Thanks for being a part of the Porsche Club of America family! Drive safe

LOVING YOUR PORSCHE

Article by Steve and Dottie Kidd

February 2023 was celebrated with three distinctive social events for Gold Coast Region members

Event 1 The first was appropriately titled “Love Your Porsche” and consisted of two parts. The event started at the new Hagerty Garage and Social event space in Miami where members were greeted by a group of GCR volunteers (thanks Hans, Christy, John, Cecilia, Tom, Larry, Tamar, and Lori), who made sure check-in, parking and vehicle numbering were completed efficiently.

Every participant was given a heartshaped ballot to select their favorite Porsche. About 65 participants were then treated to a wide assortment of breakfast treats while socializing, and of course the Hagerty showroom had a RED 911 Carrera and a RED 968 CS (as in Club Sport).

The participants were divided into two groups with each group getting equal time to tour the Hagerty facility and

go outside to Love the Porsches by selecting their favorite and recording the car’s number on their heart-shaped ballot.

After an appropriate amount of time, everyone was reassembled, the ballot box was opened, and the ballots counted. Surprise!!! The winner was a RED 1963 356, belonging to Jeffrey Sardis, who was awarded a set of GCR 60th anniversary wine glasses and a First-Place ribbon.

Other recognition awards and a few really cool door prizes were offered up and participants were allowed to take as many RED roses provided by the breakfast caterer as they wanted.

As participants departed each was given a GCR commemorative coffee mug that had the address of part 2 of the adventure. Special thanks to

Team Hagerty, particularly Jossen and Carlos, for their hospitality and assistance in making this a great event. Photo credits to Ian G. and Mark J. for providing photos for both activities.

Event 2 Luckily the address provided in the coffee cup was only about five miles away and participants could proceed at their own pace to the IKONICK COLLECTION and art museum. Members were welcomed by Barry S., the collection owner, and Brandon R, owner of The Auto Project, who designed and oversaw construction of both the Hagerty and Ikonick buildings.

It is difficult to put into words the beauty and exclusiveness of the cars and artwork. There were groupings of every significant sports car marque, including but not limited to Ferraris, McLarens, Lamborghinis, antique vehicles and of course Porsches. Barry was the perfect host who answered as many questions as possible about each car and its history. The Porsche section contained about twenty cars, including three exotics in Gulf livery.

After feasting our eyes on cars and artwork, the group was treated to a gourmet pizza lunch on the patio and more socializing. As things wound down and good-byes were said, parting comments included “you guys hit it out of the park” and “best event ever.” No worries; a follow up event is already in the works!

Photos by Mark Johnson and Ian Gerarda

Event 3 This activity was held on February 14th (Valentine’s Day) at Galupi’s in Pompano Beach (home of one of GCR’s Thursday night socials). About 20 members partook in an excellent meal, wine, socializing and celebration of Cupid and Porsche. This was the fourth time GCR members met to enjoy this day in a great

outdoor setting overlooking a golf course. One of the highlights was a couple who has attended all four of these events presenting Dottie with a white chocolate Porsche for her tireless work putting this all together. Each lady was presented with an individual rose to take home. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Formula 1 Viewing Party & GCR Car Show

Date:Sunday May 7th

Time:From 12:30 to about 4:00

Host/Place: Hagerty Garage & Social, Delray Beach, Florida

Cost  :$25.00 per person: includes beverages (adult and otherwise) finger foods & munchies

Details Door Prizes, Facility tours, 10+ big screen TV’s, Awards for the favorite men’s and ladies choices (yes we’ll have blue and pink ballot boxes) and an early mother’s day treat for all the ladies. And of course all the fun and socializing like we had last year.

Limit of 75 race fans , and must be pre paid and pre registered to attend

Direct Link: https://clubregistration.net/events/signUp.cfm/event/13193

For questions contact Steve Kidd 954-292-3915 or Dottie Kidd 954-562-5919

Open now on club Registration, Host address provided with paid registration confirmation

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

You are invited to a private tour of REV’S INSTITUTE in Naples on Friday April 28, 2023

The museum will be closed to the public so our group can enjoy a private two-hour docent guided tour of 80,000 square feet of galleries with more than 100 cars on display from 10:30 to 12:30.

Join our caravan for a leisurely drive over Alligator Alley to view this amazing museum, followed by optional lunch. Location TBA

This Rev’s Institute tour is open on ClubRegistration.net at a cost of $40.00 for anyone over the age of 8. (Children under 8 years old are free)

If you have any questions, contact Dottie Kidd at 954-562-5919 or dottiekidd@bellsouth.net

Direct Link: https://clubregistration.net/events/signUp.cfm/event/13306

Event Title: “Evolution of Porsche” One of several special GCR events in celebration of our 60th anniversary as a PCA region

Time: Saturday May 20, 2023 from 8:00 to 1:00

Place: Hagerty Garage and Social, Delray Beach

Attendance: Number of PCA members expected 100+plus Hagerty staff and some special guests

Event description: We plan to have 12 Porsches on display (3 groups of 4), the oldest being a 356 and the newest a 991 or 992, and examples of many significant models in between. The models displayed will include but not limited to early 911, 914, 944, later 911’s (air and water cooled), boxster, cayman etc. After announcements, coffee etc., participants will visit 3 stations and hear from owners/experts how Porsche evolved from it’s VW based roots to the super car it is today.

Registration opening in March on Clubregistration.net

Do you have a special car you would like to be in the display? Want to be a sponsor?

Contact Steve Kidd, GCR Historian 954 292-3915, or steve_kidd@bellsouth.net

AROUND THE

Article by Steve Kidd

My apologies to all our Autocross competitors. Every year we run a series and honor a class winner for all classes where we have competitors that have run over half the events. This year the results didn't get published as quickly as usual, but they are shown below. Congratulations to our 2022 class winners! All will receive a really cool trophy with the insert shown below (thanks, Melissa). As discussed in a previous update, the 2022 AX season was cut short due to hurricanes and weather; however, we are hoping to have our usual seven (7) events in 2023 with some special 60th anniversary awards for class winners in December. On a special note, a huge thanks to Steve and Lynn B. who have been storing our AX trailer at no charge to the club for at least the past 15 years. Business expansion /construction made it necessary for us to temporarily move the trailer. Our President, Peter O, found a temporary spot on his large lot, and for that we are grateful. “Fueled by volunteers” is alive and well. Thanks again!

2022 Autocross Points FINAL-competitors attending 3 or more events only

1st = 9 points, 2nd = 6 points, 3rd = 4 points, 4th = 3 points, 5th = 2 points, 6th and greater = 1 point. (Blank = did not attend) Must compete in at least 3 of the 5 series events in the same class to be eligible for 2022 series trophy. Best 3 times counted.

Tentative AX schedule for the remainder of 2023

Event #4: 3/11//2023 @ St Lucie Fairgrounds, St Lucie, Florida. A NEW SITE FOR US, closer than Sebring (already completed).

Event #5: 4/15/2023 @ Sebring in conjunction with the Suncoast Region DE. Thanks again to our friends at Suncoast for the site. Registration open now – don't miss out!

Event #6: 9/9/2023 @ Sebring in conjunction with the Suncoast Region DE. Thanks again to our friends at Suncoast for the site. Registration opens about 6 weeks before event.

Event #7: 10/21/2023 @ St Lucie Fairgrounds, St Lucie, Florida. Registration opens about 6 weeks before the event

Most of the above dates & sites are subject to change due to weather, availability, and factors beyond our control.

2023 updates and reminders

• Everyone is required to pre-register & pre-pay for any AutoX on Clubregistration.net Please consult the GCR website and Kassette for all Autocross photos & results.

• A new helmet rental program has been instituted. We will be utilizing new/newer Snell-approved helmets, available for a $20.00 per person charge per event. Helmet reservation/ payment will be available as an event option on Club Registration. Please bring a helmet sock, and be prepared to leave your driver ’s license as a deposit.

• No passengers allowed except for an approved AX instructor either driving or in the car instructing.

• For 2023 please remember to be Covid-19 conscious. This means appropriate safety protocols will be enforced.

• If track tours are offered, rules will be strictly enforced.

• General questions? call Steve or Dottie Kidd at 954-562-5919. For AX rule questions, call Steve at 954-292-3915

Stay tuned for results from AX # 4 in the next issue of Die Porsche Kassette

Don’t Just Attend Porsche Parade...

...Be a Part of It!

The objective of a PCA Rally is to follow a course from point to point, usually on public roads, to the precise detail specified in the rulesit can be competitive or for fun. Competitive Time Speed Distance (TSD) Rallies dictate a certain time schedule for the checkpoints along the way. Points are deducted by arriving at the checkpoint either early or late. Gimmick Rallies, also competitive rallies, may include a Gimmick (Poker Rally, regional interest). Part of the challenge with a Gimmick Rally is to discover the intended route, which may require other skills such as solving a puzzle. PCA Parade TSD Rallies use the Richta app for scoring and no expensive rally equipment is necessary ... all you need is a mobile phone. New to Rallying? Parade is a great time to give it a try!

FINDING GOLD

JENNIFER TORRES

Great Opportunities for a Gal and Her Porsches

The roads to Porsche ownership are not paved for the unmotivated. Jennifer Torres and her family migrated to the United States from Spain. They crossed the Atlantic to overcome an economic crisis that ravaged their home country in the early 2000s. As a young woman in Spain, she grew up in a middle-class family as her father was a civil engineer. However, the family wanted to move to the United States for the opportunities our country provides. The plan was to gain some stability as well as to investigate the promise of a better life offered in the USA. She was ten years old when the family arrived.

Initially, a language barrier created challenges. Next, Mr. Torres needed to be recertified to work in his professional field of endeavor. His civil

engineering title was not valid in the US, and that obstacle meant finding a job, any job. The family went from a successful and perhaps reasonably comfortable life in Spain to a difficult life as financially poor immigrants. It was testing time for the family, without a doubt.

At eighteen years of age Jennifer began working. She held three different jobs: working at a beauty supply store, tutoring for middle school aged kids, and employed by a company, Arteza, making “how-to” videos for the company’s YouTube page. Income from these three jobs allowed Ms. Torres to assist the family and to purchase and then make the payments on her first Porsche, a Boxster. To say that Ms. Torres is motivated would be a serious understatement.

Over the last several years from her start as a teenager in the workforce, she has made multiple career changes. She’s moved to retail car sales, and then to a corporate position with Stellantis. (Stellantis is the automobile manufacturing corporation formed in 2021 between the FiatChrysler Automobiles and the French PSA Group.) Following the corporate position, Jennifer joined a local south Florida BMW dealership working as a finance manager. The position in the “F&I” office, finance and insurance, allows her to afford what might be considered an expensive Porsche hobby.

That first Porsche Boxster, and initial source of financial motivation, was a 2006 Guards Red base model that she bought at 18 years of age. The fact

Member Feature by Mark Johnson

Ms. Torres

in a “TOP

that this Porsche was purchased with absolutely no prior car knowledge, according to Jennifer, should be an indication of her willingness to both take chances and to work hard to achieve. She wanted a convertible. The mid-engine vehicle was a cool “quirk” that was reputed to offer improved handling. Plus, the Boxster was cheaper at the time than a used Honda Civic. Most importantly, the Boxster was immensely cooler than the Civic.

The Boxster provided a vehicle for both personal transportation and for opening endless possibilities. With the red Boxster Jennifer attended DRT, Das Renn Treffen, held in Miami each spring. At DRT she met many like-minded and motivated Porsche owners. By joining the Porsche community Jennifer gained awareness of many individual accomplishments. With new friends and knowledge Jennifer began to feel that success was attainable for

herself as well. Soon after her first DRT she joined Gold Coast Region of Porsche Club of America. Today, she considers attendance at DRT as a mandatory event for herself and any south Florida Porsche owner.

Along the way Jennifer found relaxation in creating Porsche art. She was originally introduced to art through her work at Arteza. It was also the first time that she produced income from selling her work. Most amazingly, it became the best paying job among the three she held at the time. We all understand that life as an artist can be a tough road to follow, as building a reputation and earning sales commissions are very difficult to achieve.

Her preferred medium is acrylic on canvas or acrylic on wood. Her approximate volume of automotive art, primarily featuring Porsche-themed creations, reaches over thirty pieces. She has sold to clients in the US and Europe. It is the “timeless lines of our cars” that have captivated and

TORRES ART - Porsche Police

enticed Jennifer to place acrylic on canvas. Today, Jennifer still paints and creates artwork; however it is more for relaxation and fun, as her full time duties in a business office of a BMW dealership are highly stressful, requiring many hours of effort.

Following the first Porsche Boxster, Ms. Torres has owned four other Porsches, including a Cayman track car, a Cayenne S, and a Techart Cayenne Turbo S among them. Her current Porsche is a 987 model Boxster Spyder. The Spyder was her dream car at 18 years of age. There was a wonderful sense of accomplishment when she bought the car in the exact dream spec at 22 years old.

She still owns this first Porsche. However, the Guards Red Boxster was involved in a collision in 2021 when it suffered frame damage. The car is under repair and being restored to a

better than new condition. She sees this vehicle as her forever car. It will be brought back to driving capability as a dedicated track car, complete with a better engine and a few new special touches.

Here’s Jennifer’s Porsche philosophy: “I don’t believe in keeping cars stock; I think it is best when you reimagine what could have been from the factory with period-correct and OEM+ style modifications.” This style has been consistent across all the Porsche vehicles she has owned. Jennifer continues, “I think Porsches are for driving, so suspension tuning is usually the first thing.”

With her various Porsche vehicles, she has participated in a several “supercar” rallies and taken her cars to the track. The Red Boxster was driven from Florida to the Tail of the Dragon in NC/TN. It is the “search for curves” where both Jennifer and her Porsches

are happiest. If she can’t drive her personal Porsche at an event her first priority is always securing a fun sports car to enjoy the twisting roads.

Sadly, south Florida is devoid of those fun, meandering roads to traverse. Hence, her desire is for the California coast and the Pacific Coast Highway, Angeles Crest Highway, the California canyons, and virtually all of the twolane roads in the Blue Ridge mountains from Georgia up through Virginia. With no mountains and certainly no canyons in Florida, we all must go somewhere else to enjoy the Zen of curving, winding and serpentine roads.

If not driving, Jennifer will gladly watch automobile races and attend the big Porsche car shows. She enjoys Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) that includes vintage air-cooled Porsches mixing it up on the track. The 24 Hours at Daytona is always on the annual list of events. She was recently in Los Angeles for Luftgekühlt and also Monterey for Car Week. Closer to home, WERKS Reunion is on her list for this year.

“I think it is amazing,” muses Jennifer, “how there are people that love Porsche everywhere in the world. People from all kinds of different backgrounds can congregate under the same brand with the same philosophy about cars!” She continues: “It’s always easy to find a cars and coffee or a night meet to gather with fellow Porsche nerds and see some cool cars.” Considering these reflections, it is simple to understand how easy Ms. Torres fits into the south Florida Porsche community, where Porsche nerds abound.

Of course, Jennifer has a favorite Porsche—the 550 Spyder! She considers herself quite lucky to have seen two 550s in person, the first at Pebble Beach and the second at REVS

Institute in Naples. We totally agree with Jennifer that the 550 set an amazing precedent in the history of Porsche racing.

Keeping up with Ms. Torres can be challenging. Even as she responding to questions for this feature, she was off to Atlanta for a visit to the Porsche Experience Center, driving and learning, we suspect. As a young woman in her early twenties, there is much to learn. At the same time, there has been an incredible amount of accomplishment and satisfaction during her short thirteen years in the USA, and even shorter five years in the workforce, with only five years of Porsche ownership to boot. One can only imagine what the next five will be like, or even the next twenty!

There is an old saying, often heard in the car sales business: “The harder I work, the luckier I get!” Ms. Torres has worked hard to arrive at her level of accomplishment. The opportunities for this Porsche Gal will most assuredly find her as she continues create her PCar art and a successful life in the south Florida Porsche community.

TORRES ART: Painted not a photo!

Jennifer - Tracking at Sebring

A WORLD CLASS WINNER

But do you know him?

Part One

You might have seen his work over nearly four decades on the track, but do you know this Gold Coast Region member? He is among the most interesting men in racing!

Between 1993 and 2022 1,825 cars have raced in the Rolex Daytona 24. This mystery man has had a total of seven (7) wins, and 202 cars entered in that period! His Sebring 12 Hour record includes 23 wins, with 158 cars entered of the 1372 total cars raced during the same period. LeMans, you might ask. Three wins. And a bit closer to home at the Petite LeMans Road Atlanta, between 1998 and 2022 he has enjoyed 19 wins with 121 cars entered of 942 total raced. That is 52 First Place podium wins among these four major racing events. It does not include additional podium finishes (2nd or 3rd place), nor does it include any of the other races such as Watkins Glen, Laguna Seca, Road America, etc.

Who is he? He’s not a manufacturer, nor a car builder, engine builder, or car owner.

He’s not a driver either. Thirtyseven years of effort have made his creations the most visible of anyone in racing who has had their work driven in anger. Yet the vast majority of folks who follow sports car racing have no clue who this person is. He is a supreme talent and racing innovator who has flown under the radar—way under. As Jimmy Buffett sings, he’s a “treetop flyer.” Perhaps “off the grid” would be a most appropriate descriptive, given the industry.

The “Who’s Who” of road racing know him by first name. The likes of Derek Bell, Jacky Ickx, Hurley Haywood, and Roger Penske are among his friends, as was the late Paul Newman. Porsche Motorsports, Champion Motorsports, Alex Job Racing, Wright Motorsports and Gunnar Racing are among many competitors that have been beneficiaries of his unique talent. Porsche Motorsports? Yes, THE PORSCHE MOTORSPORTS of both North America and Stuttgart know him and have relied on his unique talent!

Article by Mark Johnson

Interested? . . . Confused?

Meet David Schnorr of Schnorr Art, a world-class motorsports graphic designer, manufacturer, and installer who has been working on road racing autos for over 37 years. He is a Gold Coast Region member. He joined GCR PCA in 2016 but has been working with Porsche vehicles since the mid-1980s. Supremely talented, professional, soft spoken and exceptionally humble, David has produced some of the most visually stunning car graphics and race livery for Porsche, Audi, Ferrari, Indy car, and even the Doc Hudson Hornet for the Disney movie, Cars

Livery for a race car or race team comprises the use of specific color and sticker design that allows for quick identification of the car, driver, or team. Different liveries originally used specific car paint colors such as the Ferrari Corsa Red or Lotus British Racing Green as determined by the manufacturer. Then additional contrasting-color stripes and numbers were painted on the vehicle for further identification. Eventually, the painted striping evolved into vinyl decaled striping (a Schnorr Art innovation), and eventually to full vehicle vinyl wrap, also a Schnorr Art innovation. Vehicle race livery allows the spectator to quickly identify their favorite car or driver based on the vehicle graphics.

David’s first design effort for a race vehicle was featured on the 1985 Porsche 935 “Coca-Cola” #5. He was approached by the owner of the Porsche 935 Coca-Cola sponsored vehicle. This red 935 needed a visually appealing and fresh graphic design. David was intrigued so he offered his talent to the owner. Although he had years of design work already achieved in other areas, race car graphic design and vehicle livery presented a different opportunity.

The very first David Schnorr car graphic design; The iconic #5 Coca Cola 935 Porsche!

The Coca-Cola car owner gave the go ahead. Armed with vinyl “shelf paper,” an exacto knife, masking tape, and a few other simple tools, white vinyl was artistically affixed to the red 935, and the rest, as they say, is history. This Coca-Cola 935 is a true road racing icon, and its livery holds a unique spot in car identification. The basic 935 design has been used on multiple vehicles ever since, most of which David has personally affixed - right up to the latest 2019 Porsche Factory race car.

What followed this initial foray into race livery were two additional vehicles, each eye-catching and unique in its own way. Together, these three cars were the beginnings of a 37-year career that spanned the globe in providing stunning design in racecar livery. David Schnorr’s work has captured the eye of the owners, drivers, fans, sponsors, and the appreciation of all who have seen their vehicle(s) race. Yet it was only those who contracted with Schnorr Art, or who watched David work his magic, who knew the artist’s name. Few others were ever aware of the person who provided talent and ability. Even within the large organizations for which he worked his magic, this was the case, as one story will show.

While working for one manufacturer prior to a major race event, the president of the motorsports operations noted a blemish on a vehicle that was to run the next day. He saw David dutifully working on the car, pointed to the blemish, and grunted: “You’ll fix this!” David said yes, certainly. He has a very casual and humble way about him. His ego doesn’t get in the way of the exceptional work he produces.

Hours later, David was introduced to the same man by the manager of the team. Apparently, the president was somewhat astonished by the genteel and professional manner exhibited by David. Later that afternoon Mr. Motorsports President and David had a long conversation, a talk that led to a twenty-year relationship with the motorsports operations. David Schnorr understood the need for dynamic

graphics on race vehicle and he could relate to the team requirements. Then he simply allowed his design and installation efforts do all the talking.

In October 2021, Steve Kidd received a call David Schnorr himself, suggesting that the Gold Coast Region PCA may want to visit the graphics shop and learn some of what had transpired across the years of his involvement with sports car racing. At the time, David was in the process of shutting down his operations, attempting to retire at the end of 2021. Time itself, the many long and crazy hours, the international travel, and the

chemical concoctions (fumes, carbon fiber, etc.) had all taken their toll. It was time to end the race.

On December 23, 2021, Steve and a couple Gold Coast Region members drove up to Lake Worth to visit David. Arriving in Lake Park, FL. there were several similar warehouses in the area, each with multiple bays and rollup doors. The Schnorr Art space bore no signage; we had only a street number and a lettered bay.

Towards the far south end of the building a fourteen-foot roll-up door was raised roughly five feet. Sitting

David Schnorr examines the Sean Creech LMP3 car while son, Jesse, wraps the side mirror in the class manditated orange color.

in the opening was the attentiongrabber. In the opening sat a carbon fiber rear clip, an engine cover for a modern racecar. One simply does not see carbon fiber racecar body parts at a garage-warehouse space every day. Entering the Schnorr Art shop, a tall, relaxed, masked, and gloved proprietor offered a warm welcome and immediately, the amazement began.

David Schnorr and his son, Jesse, were working on a vehicle wrap for a LMP3 (LeMans Prototype, Class 3) vehicle that would race in the 2022 IMSA series, Rolex Daytona 24, Sebring 12 Hours, etc. The car’s owner was Sean Creech Motorsports. They wanted a design to celebrate the USA, so David crafted the car’s livery around an incredible American flag motif in red, white, and blue.

The stunning, flowing design accentuated the natural motion of air over and around the body shell. Graphics were initially designed on computer to be laid on the bare carbon fiber body. The vinyl had been printed on a 54” solvent jet printer in the requisite pattern. Once cut, large and small pieces of vinyl were then laid onto the carbon fiber Ligier shell to produce a highly recognizable and

One wall in the Schnorr Art “office”, substantial memorabilia everywhere

Cases of scale model cars present Schnorr Art magic and graphic design

David Schnorr in his happy place! The Creech LMP3 almost finished will be picked-up the next day.

exceptional look. Both David and Jesse were applying the material onto the car a section at a time.

Watching the process is mesmerizing. A substantial section of printed vinyl is carefully affixed and pressed to the black carbon fiber body. Seemingly in a moment, black fiber is covered with a stunning fluid image of red and

white waves. The colored vinyl wrap material effortlessly streams up from the valence and over the fender of the aerodynamic Ligier.

The car and ongoing wrapping effort were the current focal point in the space. Jesse learned the necessary skills from dad, and he is quite talented in his own right, massaging

the vinyl to the carbon fiber racecar shell. If a visitor simply watched Jesse perform the transformation on this racecar it would be more than amazing and entertaining. Yet all around is a most incredible shop, crammed full of racecar vehicle history.

END OF PART ONE - The story will continue in the May issue of Die Porsche Kassette

An attention getter, the carbon fiber rear clip of a LMP3 racecar

David working on the right front, applying printed vinyl to carbon fiber

Hybrid S Head & Neck

Only FIA Certified Restraint compatible with 3pt harness. Great for passengers/coaches.

Designed for DriverPassenger Communication

Full duplex, driver and passenger can hear themselves and each other all the time.

CALL FOR YOUR SPECIAL PCA CLUB DISCOUNT

A grateful team owner sent a note, and a full bottle of the sponors’ product, no doubt consumed in the winner’s circle! Milk? Nah!

TECHNICAL WIZZARDRY Speed Doesn’t Kill

Pedro P. Bonilla, Tech Editor

... it’s the sudden deceleration that does

And that’s precisely why, first the seatbelts and then the airbags were introduced as safety features in automobiles.

In general, most humans can just barely survive a sudden deceleration of 40G.

In a typical frontal crash at a speed of 60 mph, the driver and passengers can probably survive if they are using restraint systems such as safety belts and their car is equipped with airbags.

Part of the reason that the passengers can survive is also due to the car’s safety design. All modern cars, Porsches included, take into consideration when designing the vehicle, safety crush zones to further reduce the “sudden stop” of the passengers in a frontal crash.

Reprint from January 2011

In 1980, Mercedes-Benz introduced the airbag (witch they had patented in 1971) on their high-end S class.

In 1987 Porsche introduced the first automobile in the world to have as standard equipment driver and passenger airbags. That car was the 944 Turbo. The 944 and 944 S offered them as optional equipment that same year.

By 1998 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandated as standard equipment dual frontal airbags.

Today, the technology has evolved to also include side impact airbags to further protect the vehicle’s occupants.

By the act of the car’s crushing, the passengers are slowed down by 4 feet (that’s how much the car shrinks by the impact) and the airbags will slow down the passengers another 18 inches. Federal Frontal-Impact Standards now call for a maximum of 60 Gs on the chest of the crash dummy, for 35 milliseconds.

To give you an idea of what 60 Gs is, it’s the equivalent of stopping from 30 mph in less than 1 foot. If the person involved in this sudden deceleration normally weighs 200 lb, during this sudden stop his body will weigh 12,000 lbs (6 tons) and his head, which normally weighs around 10 lbs will briefly weigh 600 lbs.

The first safety restraint system was the seat belt which was patented by Edward Claghorn in 1885. They were offered as optional equipment by Nash in 1949 and Ford in 1955, but it was Saab that first introduced them as standard equipment in 1958.

Because of the low usage of the by then standard seatbelts in the 70s, auto manufacturers decided to develop the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) also known as the Airbag.

Because of the still low utilization of the safety belts by drivers and passengers in the US, airbags fitted in cars registered in the US have to trigger much more forcefully than airbags for the rest of the world. This created uneasiness by some and today many of our modern cars now use electronic controllers that can recognize if the safety belts are being used or not by the passengers and alter the airbag’s deployment parameters in accordance to further increase the passenger’s survivability in a crash.

According to the NHTSA, in 2009, in the US alone, 15,403 lives were saved by the use of Child Restraints, Seat Belts and Airbags. Make sure your car’s SRS (Airbag) is working properly. Check that the Airbag light first comes on when you turn the ignition, but then shuts off after the engine is running. If it stays on there is an issue with the system which should be checked. It it doesn’t light up at all, the bulb may be burnt. Have it checked as well.

So buckle up and Happy Porsche-ing, Pedro

Images courtesy of Porsche. Safety Data courtesy of NHTSA

Table 2: Lives Saved in 2009 by Child Restraints, Seat Belts, Frontal Air Bags, and Motorcycle Helmets

1/4 Page ( 4.75” h x 3.5” w) $75

1/2 Page ( 4.75” h x 7.5” w) $130

Full Page (11” h x 8.5” w) $225

Full Page (Inside Cover) $250

Ads are prepaid and may be paid quarterly, semi annually or yearly. Artwork should be submitted to the editor prior to the 1st of the month preceding publication. Contact information should be included with payment and artwork. Full page ads should include bleed.

Thank you for your support.

Classified Ads

2016 981 Cayman GTS

2018 and 2019 1st place winner concours d’elegance PCA Goldcoast region best in class award! 28k miles. $72,900. For details, search PCA mart Classified Ads: 51049.

CPO 2015 Cayman 2.7/6 speed

There is one year and unlimited milage available on the CPO. Paint protection and a Becker exhaust was installed. I have the original exhaust. 45,600 miles. This is garage kept and a weekend car. $50,999 Paul Orofino 407-496-0019 Cell paul@mdsinc.me

Fuchs 16” x 6” 1981 Wheels

No tires

Original unused spare tire and wheel, inflatable

Front valence 1981 SC red, dented

Contact Eric at Eric@heritage51.com / 305 322-8617

Wheelchair for Porsche

Steel Transport Chair with Permanent Full-Length Arms, Swing-Away Footrest, Large 12” wheels, seat belt. Fits in the trunk of a Porsche. Like new only used a few times. Colors are burgundy and grey, lightweight 23.5 lbs. 300 lbs weight capacity. $175 Contact Roger Fabel at rfabel@aol.com.or text 954 752-2501. Text 954 752-2501.

Garage Sale

(2) Bridgestone RE71R 245/40-18 NEW..200 treadwear Ultra high performance stickers still on. Never mounted and garage stored last 3 years $275 for both. FIRM

(2) BFG Rival 245/40-18 200 treadwear AutoX performance tires. Used for 1 AutoX 6/32 tread remaining, date code 3916 $90.OBO

(1) Federal RSR 265/40-18, 200 treadwear AutoX performance tire 4/32 remaining date code 0120 $50.00

OEM Cat back stock muffler for 2009-2012 Boxster or Cayman S, great cond..If you don›t like that load, droning so called performance system that the prior owner installed, try this $275

Front Nose for 944 Turbo or S2, Broken Louvers repaired (they all break...trust me). pretty good condition, but will need final sanding and paint. $250. Wont fit regular 944 unless you get turbo/s2 fenders Call Steve 954 292-3915

Die Porsche Kassette Classified Ads – Submission Rules

• Classified Ads are free for GCR PCA members

• Maximum count: 60 words – NO PHOTOS ALLOWED

• Submit by 1st of month for following month issue

• Runs for one month only, must re-submit if necessary

• Must include: first name, email address and phone number

• Submit to rfabel@aol.com for inclusion in Kassette

PHOTO FINISH

David’s love for Porsche began when he was a youngster. When his father received a bonus from work, he took young David along sports car shopping. When they test drove a Guards Red 964 C2, it made an impression. “The noise I heard while he was rowing through the gears was nothing short of intoxicating.” Says David.

His father ended up purchasing a Volkswagen Corrado VR6 5-speed in red, but for David, the Porsche seed had been planted. When the 997 first came out, David knew he had to have one. Fast forward to almost 20 years later, he now has this one in his very own garage.

The Arctic Silver on David’s 997 really stands out in the lighting and color of the sky in the dusk time of day. It almost has a dreamlike quality - perhaps like a childhood dream that comes true.

David took this photo with a Leica Q2 // Summilux f1.7/28mm.

Have a cool picture of your Porsche? Then submit it with a description to gcr.photofinish@gmail.com

Christy Spangler, Photo Editor

David Castrillo submitted this photo of his 2007 Carrera C2 Cabriolet 6 speed finished in Arctic Silver.

Dusk at Vista View