About

In my early twenties, I aspired to own a Porsche 996. Back in 2003, it was the pinnacle of automotive design and one of my dream vehicles. Unfortunately, I lacked the means of cash or ability to finance such a purchase.

During a business trip, I was fortunate enough to ride with my friend Jeff, who drove a sleek Slate Grey 996 Turbo with manual transmission and black interior. We made the ten-hour roundtrip journey to Phoenix, Arizona, from Southern California. It was my second experience in a 996; the first had been in my ex-brother-in-law’s Black 996 Turbo. Eager to get behind the wheel, I thought Jeff might welcome a break from the driving. I even suggested, “Let me know if you need a rest; I’d be happy to take over.”

Nope! Jeff drove the entire trip—five hours there and five hours back—without a worry.

Fast forward 20 years: I eventually owned and sold a black Tiptronic PDK 991 (dual-clutch transmission), test-drove a red 997 Targa, and a silver 991. Ultimately, I special ordered a brand-new red 2021 Porsche 992 Carrera imported from Stuttgart, from Gaudin Porsche of Las Vegas, yet I ended up forfeiting that delivery. Instead, a year later, I purchased a black 2003 manual Targa 996 from Miami Classics in Florida.

Before finalizing my decision, I meticulously reviewed the service records and contacted certified Porsche shops that had serviced the vehicle. I engaged with the mechanics who cared for the car over the years, conducting thorough due diligence. I familiarized myself with crucial details, such as the IMS bearing and the appropriate oil types to use, along with other pertinent information.

What I have come to realize is that I now possess my dream car from years gone by. Each time I enter my Porsche, I can’t help but smile. When I made my purchase, the 996 was near its lowest market value. Designed by Pinky Lai, this model was pivotal in rescuing Porsche from financial ruin. The future for these vehicles looks promising, as they are bound to appreciate in value, unlike the thousands of dollars I lost in depreciation on my previous 29 cars. I’ve connected with the legacy of the first water-cooled Porsche, explored the artistry of Singer and the journey of Rob Dickinson, as well as the innovative work by Gunther Werks. Furthermore, I have gained clarity on what I genuinely want to pursue in my life moving forward.

I began my quest for replacement parts, experimenting with different hoods, wheels, and bumpers while setting my sights on crafting custom parts to elevate my car’s aesthetic to match the latest models or replicate the brilliance of Rob Dickinson’s 964s.

After consulting numerous experts in fields about imported Italian leather, CNC machine crafting aerospace aluminum, I leveraged my extensive background in product development and manufacturing. This led me to design and unveil top-quality parts that we now offer, or parts currently being developed, transforming an old aspiration into a vibrant reality, leaving no detail overlooked.

Now, perhaps a piece of my dream can intertwine with your aspirations as well. Good luck and happy driving.”

Your friend,

Lee Vaughn, Owner