If you're a dyed-in-the-wool car enthusiast, one who would rather detail their own car than let another touch it, and have a fondness for tools, gadgets and automotive accouterments then you've probably heard of Griot's Garage if already not shopped it.
Perhaps you've received Griot's Garage catalog in the mail, opening it with the same type of anticipation kids in the sixties had opening the toy catalog from FAO Schwartz. It's packed full of specialized products that at times have you shaking your head in amazement - that someone actually saw the need and thought to create it and others are buying it.

Griot's products can be found in use at almost any Concours d'Elegance, in fact best of show at Pebble Beach this year, the 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta must have shone well using Griot's famous Carnauba wax.

I've used their products on numerous occasions, and found the quality to be exceptional and their service excellent. A recent visit to the Griot's Garage website has me eyeballing the Low Down Detail Creeper, obviously a great gift (accompanied by the Micro Fiber Detailing Socks) for any BMW CS Coupe owners that sport those BBS basket weave mags that take 2 hours to detail with all those nooks and crannies (makes you really appreciate a simple five spoke wheel design - although I could never get behind those three spoke Saab Turbo mags).

What gearhead hasn't worked out his (or her) ultimate garage in their head, sleepless nights or not, down to the immaculate floor surface you could dine off, the impeccable organization where every tool has its rightful (and logical ) place. Girot's is a great place to extend and enhance your fantasy, and should you decide that it's actually the time to pull the trigger on that daydream, just be sure your credit card has a credit line. I was a bit disappointed not to see the super-cool full factory Ferrari race tool set offered anymore that I've lusted after for so long, but it always was a bit pricey, making some of my Snap-On stuff look cheap by comparison, probably done in by the strong Euro. However there are some very cool Piloti driving shoes in Girot's red/black schema that look pretty sweet...you, know I just got paid, maybe I'll treat myself. So check it out, the website's good but the catalog is better, just something about lying around thumbing through it and working on the mental construct of the new workshop.

Labels: detailing tools, Griot's Garage, ultimate grage

And the nominees are...
Drop Top - The Driver Profile: Sunshine junkie.
Easy - any car with a removable roof when a fixed roof car just misses the mark, every time.

Torque Galore - The Driver Profile: Torque-monger. Any car that has gobs of torque at any rpm range, doesn't require much shifting as a result and pins you to the seat in the straights.

Slice and Dice - The Driver Profile: Performance fanatic. Light, agile, high revving, more fun for the driver than the second class passenger with very sporty styling, often a coupe is preferred for a stiffer chassis.

GT Cruiser - The Driver Profile: Boulevard king. Treats the passenger(s) with the same luxury and respect as the driver, smooth ride, easy to get in and out, often has a token back seat, heavy but comfortable.

While some cars fall into more than one category, I think many drivers tend towards a particular style of car. You don't have many people say their favorite type of car is a big comfortable grand touring sports car that their significant other enjoys for a casual weekend cruise and then they own a Lotus Elise, which is exactly the opposite of that. No, they want a Mercedes-Benz SL or a Ferrari 550 Maranello. Or the person who wants a convertible to enjoy the wind in the hair and then they own a Cayman S. No, they choose a Boxster or a Corvette convertible.

I am impartial to the Slice and Dice category. Give me a coupe, light weight, edgy styling and I am thrilled. The Cayman S, BMW's new or old M coupe or M3, Lotus Elise (hard top on, please), Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Porsche 911 C4S, Ferrari 360 Modena (Challenge Stradale, Mmmm), F430 (Scuderia is better yet) or Lamborghini Gallardo (Superleggera...) or Audi R8 to name but a few. I like the torsional rigidity of a coupe and generally, with few exceptions, the roof line looks far better on a coupe. Chopping the top loses a lot of the cool design appeal incorporated into the roof line.

Weigh in with your opinions. What category do you prefer? Did I leave out a category? Feedback wanted!

Labels: Club Sportiva, convertible, exotic car share club, GT, sports coupe, torque monster

Surprisingly and somewhat amazingly, Lamborghini unveiled a new car today for the Paris Auto show - the Estoque. And shockingly, it has four doors. This news is as big as the post when Ferrari unveiled an all-new model earlier this year - the California.

There are few examples of four door Lamborghinis over the decades. A brief prep lesson for the Trivial Pursuit hounds. The Lamborghini LM002 SUV was produced in limited numbers from 1986 - 1993. It was rare and generally unloved but mean and functional. The 1987 Lamborghini Portofino prototype, which never made it to production and then was reportedly destroyed in a wreck while on a transporter. It was slinky but no more than a wishful dream. Too bad. These are the two precedents for today's unveiling.

The Estoque will reportedly carry the V10 from the Gallardo LP 560-4, along with a number of design elements. Lamborghini is aiming for a 2010 launch. While this is aggressive timing, they are certainly trying to play catch up to other four doors from Porsche's Panamera and Aston Martin's Rapide. It is certainly a good time to be a car enthusiast!

The price is also shocking. At an estimated 150,000 Euros, or roughly $230,000 which is likely to increase by 2010, they are positioning this at the same level as the Gallardo. Among the growing family of Lamborghini models, however, this is logical.

The question in my mind is, do I like the look? My first reaction is neutrality, which isn't a traditional Lamborghini design element. Most other Lamborghinis have a shock value that allows you to see it and then immediately close your eye and envision it in your mind, seared in, that is. Not so much with this. Maybe they are going for a more mainstream design that is less polarizing? Eitherway, this redefines the term, four door sports car.

Labels: Aston Martin Rapide, Club Sportiva, exotic car share club, four door sports car, Lamborghini Estoque, Porsche Panamera

Taking a cue from my 24/7 blog mate Torbin, I've decided to lead with a more provocative post title prompted by my first live sighting of the new Jaguar XF on Hwy. 101 the other evening. At first blush (I came upon it from the right rear), before I had a positive ID as to the make, I took it to be just another amalgam of Japanese corporate committee styling, or perhaps another upmarket Hyundai, albeit with a little more flair.

My memory started to register a radio spot I had half caught earlier in the week for the XF that included some drivel about the electronic key fob that pulses visually to the engine's heartbeat, the incredible novelty of the disappearing shift and some other aspect of the luxurious interior that captivate. A synapse or two made the connection and now I was interested in the beast.

Backing off the throttle, I began circling around it, taking it in. No, it wasn't quite as it first seemed, because there was a bit more verve to the lines, an assertiveness that is generally lacking in vehicles from the Far East (or in Nissan's case, a bit of false assertiveness). It was definitely a Jaguar, but one that has finally shed the visual references to the post-classic period in Jag styling - it is (at last) not a thrice reborn XJ6 (XJ8 > X-Type). I'm beginning to think this is progress, and some aspects, if not the whole package, are indeed pleasing.

Unfortunately for Jaguar's marketing positioning, this Cat's driver more closely matched a past, now almost fossilized Jaguar demographic rather than the one they're ostensibly (or do I mean ostentatiously, or even desperately?) attempting to attract now.Automotive gestation being what it is, I knew this wasn't in anyway Tata influenced - other than knowing that the new Indian masters have given Jag the AOK to proceed with their renaissance when Ford could not. (One can't help but savor the irony of the formerly colonized owning such a hallowed brand.)

I would think that the XF is the fruition of the make or break remake that seems to have taken hold of Jaguar prior to the Tata sale. Overall, the my first take says that the XF is not all that bad, but I couldn't shake the feeling that a lot of what I was seeing had been done before,and recently. What influences were at work here? Whose styling cues are tweaking and probing my visual receptors? And my visceral reaction?

As I came up on the beast from behind, we might as well start the styling originations there, and as I mentioned before, one of my first thoughts was of Hyundai. The Korean company has a history of rather shamelessly "borrowing" many design cues from both across the Eastern Sea and Europe. Most recently from BMW and the Bangle school of auto butt design. For all the disparagement BMW has taken this development has been influential (add Camry alongside Hyundai). Notwithstanding BMW's almost tacit admission that it perhaps might not be what the masses want (the 3-series continues to lack a bangle butt even in the mid-cycle redesign for 2009) is not reflected in the new 7 series, and I must say Jaguar has let it influence their rear end treatment of the XF in a softer, gentler way as you can see.
The BMW influence continues in the Jag's C pillar, showing a soft, but striking, a Hofmeister Kink (although BMW's Wilhelm Hofmeister gets the credit, it turns out the real credit for this enduring styling trick goes back a decade further to the Dodge Dart of 1964 or even beyond that to a 1951 Kaiser).
Moving to the front, the Jag sports a look that shows a profound Maserati similarity along with latter day Volvo influences a well (the grille pucker - perhaps from having Ford as the uber owner of the two?). The Maserati cues are particularly noticeable in the grille's ovoid shape and the raised, tapering hood bulge.
And in between? Well the roofline doesn't buck any trends, emulating the Mercedes CLS with the pseudo coupe look and the wheel arches scream Audi. But it's getting more difficult to be truly original these days, and Jaguar can't afford (can Tata?) another miscue in a marketplace that has little patience for a marque that milks nostalgia like the Cat has in the past. From an aesthetic standpoint, I think Jaguar has actually come up with a visually pleasing package, and as a package, it falls closer to stunning looker than a derivative poser. I wish them success - let's hope it drives as well as it looks.

Labels: Dodge, Hofmeister Kink, Jaguar XF, Kaiser, Mercedes CLS, Tata

With each new generation of BMW M3, it continues gravitating towards the appeal and approval of the mass market and further away from the original, raw E30 M3. This isn't to say the M3 is not an awesome performer and all around winner, but when anyone can use the car as a daily driver, it has then become too luxurious and ubiquitous in my books.

I know some hardcore BMW M3 nuts will say I'm crazy as they try to defend the M3 as perfect as it is now. Yes, the M3 is great performance car and yet can still be used with versatility. I am fine with that, don't get me wrong, but...the M3's position is as BMW's scorching racer and a racer shouldn't be out to satisfy everyone. The M3 has really just become the top of the line 3-Series, like Audi's S4. BMW needs to introduce the M3R (or something like CSL). Unlike the ultra rare CSL, which you never see, BMW should sell this lighter, racier, slightly more powerful car through all dealers, not just a limited run for the lucky few. I am suggesting that just like they sell the convertible and four door sedan along side the M3 coupe, there should also be a light version that is more raw.

There are certainly benefits with each new generation of M3 that has increasingly more electronic gadgetry and over rides (read rubbery-computerized road manners), a plush interior, a full bevy of amenities and thus the ever-present added weight and an increasing price tag. In general, this trend is across all categories of cars, so I am not saying that only BMW's M3 suffers from the bloating effect of more luxury nannies being added. The M3 has evolved too far from its roots as a raw, seat of the pants version of the 3-Series. Now it is as common and as smooth as its little brother, the 335i.

For anyone wondering, here is the evolution of the various BMW M3 generations: E30 (1986 - 1992); E36 (1994 - 1999); E46 (2001 - 2006); E92 (2008+ ). Sales volume has progressively crept upward as each model is designed to better accommodate the mass market.

Am I crazy to desire a harder core M3 than what is parked in every lot around town? I want an M3 that isn't designed to be a run-of-the-mill daily driver for the every-man. The M3 I want makes no sacrifices to accommodate comfort and luxury. That is what the original E30 was - simple, raw, pure sports car.

BMW, I dare you to build an M3 that isn't designed to sell 40,000 units. Come on, reinvent the M3. Please?

Labels: BMW M3, Club Sportiva, E36, E46, E92, exotic car share club, sports car, sports coupe

This fascinating story appears in the August, 2008 issue of Hemming's Sports and Exotic Car, The mere fact that more than 100,000 MGAs were sold is a testament both to MG (and MGAs) and the growing popularity of sports cars and driving as a sport. This particular car, produced on May 16, 1962, was specially appointed, getting an unique all gold paint scheme, chrome wire wheels, special badging and a deluxe white leather interior with 100% Australian lambswool carpeting - that the carpet was white indicates that MG intended this vehicle to be a strictly a show car.

So it was, arriving stateside aboard the Queen Mary in time for the 1962 New York Auto show. After that it was sent on a tour of US dealerships, except that it didn't get very far, one of the first stops (and ultimately the last stop) being a MG dealership in Nashville. It seems the purchaser came in on a Sunday, eyeballed this beguiling British beauty and it was love at first sight. The rookie salesman wrote up a full price sales contract, and stuck it in front of the sales manager, who was only to willing to sign off on a full ticket sale with only a glance. Next day, a frantic phone call from the dealer came, begging out of the sale, but the new owner, after a call to his attorney, stuck by his signed contract and the show car hit the streets.


Fast forward 40 years later and the car is parked behind the barn, 9000 miles on the odometer, weeds growing through the floorboards and the original buyer/owner deceased. The widow calls the younger brother, who had lusted after this special A since the day it was bought, and says it's yours, take it away. This is a car most MG aficionados had given up for lost.

Many dollars later ($12K just for the paint) this baby is back to looking like the gussied up Princess that rolled off the Queen Mary in 1962 - check it out and smile at www.100000thmga.com.

Labels: 100000th MGA, 1962 New York Auto Show

Are you a coupe or convertible person? Most people have a strong preference one way or the other. For those who like convertibles, having a top on the car botches the experience. Our Club Members are often pretty vocal one way or the other.

Personally, I am a coupe fan. Though oddly, for the past six years I have driven three different convertibles as my daily drivers with another two previous targa top cars before that. I think it is sheer coincidence I've been driving so many convertibles, but it was probably about five years ago I became more a fan of coupes than convertibles. Hopefully here soon I can finally get back to enjoying a coupe for my next car. ;) I have/had a 2006 BMW Z4 3.0Si, 2005 Honda S2000, 2002 Honda S2000, 1982 Ferrari 308 GTSi, 1995 Honda Del Sol Si (in order of ownership). It's a motley crew, but all were fun cars when I had them.

I like coupes for several reasons. One, I am not a big fan of getting tons of sun and wind while driving, plus all the noise top up or down. Besides, in San Francisco, it is often too cold to drop the top. Keep in mind, I am using my car as a daily driver, not a weekend car, so that has an impact on livability. I'm on my phone a lot while in the car commuting and coupes are quieter. Also, as the hard core sports car fan I am, I like a bare bones sports car, and that is typically not a convertible. Though the S2000, one of the cars I drive, is one of those pure sports cars and happens to only come in convertible form.

These days, more car manufacturers are introducing folding hard tops that solve this issue. The key is when the top is up, the design has to look fully integrated and not make-shift when the top is up such that you are compelled to put it down. The folding hard tops are improving, for sure and even Ferrari is getting into it now with the new Ferrari California.

So, in which camp are you? Do you prefer the sun and wind of a convertible? Or do you prefer the sleek roof line and chassis rigidity of a coupe?

Labels: Club Sportiva, convertible, Driving experience, exotic car share club, sports coupe

You know those words have come out of the mouth of an owner when he got home...a massive understatement, certainly. Here are a few photos of those lousy drivers who didn't have the skills or brains to keep their cars on the road.

This topic is a monthly series, so keep an eye out for regular updates. ** This blog post series isn't an encouragement for reckless driving, but instead a good hearted mockery of those dumb enough to get in such a predicament. Thanks to WreckedExotics.com for the photos.

Labels: Ferrari F430, wrecked exotics

Many aficionados of boutique British sports cars may have noticed the NY Times obituary on June 13 for the legendary Trevor Wilkinson, founder of carmaker TVR.

The true extent of Wilkinson's influence on modern sports car design may not ever be completely acknowledged, being a contemporary of Colin Chapman, whose on track success far exceeded any of those of TVR. However history ultimately views his accomplishments, he had a legion of fans both in the UK and US and many of the sometimes outlandish (both in name and styling) vehicles he created are sought after classics - Griffin, Tuscan, Sagaris, Cerbera.

Many of the early TVRs were available as kits, with parts being sourced from the entire spectrum of British auto manufacturers. Driver/passenger comfort and street practicality were not hallmarks of TVR design - most proved woefully inadequate in those respects. It was on the track prowess that made them capable weekend club racers.

I am very proud to announce a new program that has just been launched. Club Sportiva clientele may now pick a single monthly payment that includes both their leased luxury daily driver as well as a Club membership. Simple, convenient and easy! We've had such rave reviews about access to the exotics with many questions about why we also don't offer access to high-end daily driver vehicles along with our Club membership that we decided, let's add an additional service.

Now you can lease your regular car with Club Sportiva? Yes! Club Sportiva can provide you a luxury car for everyday use. Using our custom LeasePlus program, you get the best of both worlds. Our popular LeasePlus program allows you to lease a luxury car, as you already do, for daily transportation plus the enjoyment and excitement of a couple days per month of use with the exotic and luxury cars of the Club Sportiva collection.

You benefit from our buying power as we negotiate the best traditional lease rate through our brokerage service and pass on the savings to you while allowing you to pick an easy, single monthly membership payment plan that also gives you easy access to the entire Collection for those fun opportunities when a Ferrari or Bentley is uniquely suited.

LeasePlus is straight forward, simple with a single monthly payment. Leaving you nothing to do but enjoy full access to a luxury daily driver plus the variety of exotic cars a few days per month. Check out the dedicated page on our website as well.

Club Sportiva has consistently been the most innovative company in our industry and LeasePlus again sets the bar high for others to follow. Call to inquire when your next lease approaches.

Labels: Buying Experience, Club Sportiva, daily driver, Driving experience, exotic car share club, LeasePlus, simple and single monthly payment

Next door to Club Sportiva's back Paddock is On The Fly. Most Members are surely familiar with the high-end purveyor of all things luxury for the modern gentleman. The company's founder, Ami Arad and I met through Club Sportiva nearly five years ago and On The Fly has been subletting from us now for over two years.

Among thousands of unique items, On The Fly offers bespoke stationary with your name on it along with your choice of about 20 different images or your custom graphic. There are also leather coats perfect for touring top down in an Aston Martin or a Maserati on a cool day of coastal cruising. Even cuff links can be a tell tale indicator that you are into cars, though for $250, they are indeed top shelf, as is everything at On The Fly.

Here is a cool link to some great top notch places Ami has personally selected as a guide to New York City, Las Vegas and San Francisco. From the man who many consider to be James Bond's younger brother, you're likely to enjoy what Ami selected!

Next time you are visiting Club Sportiva, be sure to enter On The Fly through our back Paddock and see for yourself. Ask one of the Member Liaisons for the password to get a substantial discount for being in the know as a Member of Club Sportiva. Enjoy the good life!

Labels: Ami Arad, Club Sportiva, driving apparel, driving gear, everything for the modern gentleman, On The Fly

This question is both the bane of many car debates (Ferrari vs Lamborghini) but also addresses the more elemental question, does any car compete with Ferrari? Well, driving both brands extensively and back to back is the only way to honestly answer this great debate. Driving them for a short jaunt (like a media ride & drive) isn't adequate to really get to the heart of the issue as is not driving them back to back - a year apart isn't going to work.

I've driven or ridden in a number of Ferraris and Lamborghinis ranging from 308s to an F40 and from a Uracco to Murcielagos. But, in May 2005, when I visited Club Sportiva's partner operations in Germany to test drive the then-new V8 Ferrari F430 F1 coupe for a high speed autobahn fling against the V10 Lamborghini Gallardo e.gear, I was certainly anxious (massive under statement) to experience some new exotics. It also opened pandora's box for what Club Sportiva's future would hold because until that point, the company specialized predominately in classic cars since being founded in 2003.

Being, at that time, a lifelong Ferrari nut who defiantly bought my first Ferrari 308 while working at Ford Motor Company's headquarters in Dearborn, MI at the brash young age of 28 in 2001, I plainly assumed the Ferrari F430 experience would easily trump the Lamborghini Gallardo. It's a Ferrari, right? Duh... Whoa, not quite so fast or easy there boy. Is there an underdog theme appearing here? Maybe.

My first back-to-back comparo was in Germany on the autobahn. One day spent zealously tearing about in a yellow Gallardo followed by a glorious day in a red F430. Both paddle shifted. Both phenomenal. I drove the Gallardo from southern Germany past Lake Constance to Zurich, Switzerland for the night, so it was a blend of Autobahn blasting mixed with some country environs. I then immediately piloted the F430 to Strasbourg, France via the amazing Black Forest. Miles and miles of twisties, need I say more? Point being, both jaunts were more than adequate opportunities to familiarize oneself with the brands in question and to issue a judgment.

After the initial two days, it was actually a tough call. The Ferrari was everything it is cracked up to be and probably worth the three year wait if you don't have the $30,000 premium to pay to cut the wait list and get a car in a month. Screaming good looks, wailing engine and exhaust causing adrenaline highs, easy to operate. Actually, maybe too easy - almost to a fault, quite honestly.

It practically didn't feel like a Ferrari having driven many others that set a low bar; the F430 is very easy to get in and out, excellent visibility, great ergonomics, generally tight fit and finish, the front valance has great ground clearance without scraping, the passenger is completely at home and comfortable, unlike most exotics. Hmmm, maybe Ferrari hired some Toyota engineers - hope not. It was a very satisfying experience, but not wholly exotic in nature due to the well-rounded engineering execution of the car. Not what I first expected, but impressive nonetheless.

Another simple yet ingeniously well engineered feature is the rear view mirror that is shaped such that the lower inch allows you to see the engine every time you check your mirror reminding you of the V8-wonder pounding away just behind your shoulders. No other car maker has designed the engine to be at one with the driver as with the F430 and I suggest being sure to adjust the rear view mirror as such to allow you the honor and pleasure when you are out in an F430, be it Club Sportiva's or your own!

The handling is very twitchy with the rear wheel drive and the light weight nature of the car. It feels less well planted and raw, keeping the driver constantly aware of throttle input and keeping an eye out for wet pavement in the corners, Altogether, an existential driving experience approaching that of being in car heaven. Now, how is that Lambo?

Well, Lamborghini is managed by corporate parent Audi, so might I expect some German influence? Let's see. Yes. The interior is buttoned down unlike any previous Lamborghini that had fragile, finicky, fit and finish. The interior is robust, but who the hell cares about that. Let's hear the good stuff.

First, the exhaust note was entirely different from Ferrari. If you can't beat their race bred tenor, simply do it differently. And differently the Gallardo's V10 engine and exhaust note is. At first I was disappointed, expecting it to be much like the resonate scream so distinctly and patently Ferrari. But instead, it was a deep rip-roar of a V10. More an angry growl than a scream. When about to down shift the e.gear transmission, the driver must nearly excuse the car to passengers for the abrupt and loud flatulent sound that the car emanates when matching revs. This is actually a good thing, but much different from the daintier scream of the Ferrari. The deep growl of the Lamborghini that first disappoints for not being more extroverted quickly settles in as the more livable day to day as you don't have to pause a conversation until after the shift, as with the Ferrari. In 2007, the Gallardo exhaust was re-tuned to combine the angry growl at low rpms with a shriek starting at 4,500 rpms and it is glorious.

The Gallardo is AWD and feels tremendously well-planted as a result but also 200 pounds heavier. This is a real trade off. Surprisingly, I preferred the security of the feeling of planted traction with 500 horsepower as opposed to the hang-on-by-the-seat-of-the-pants feel of the F430's rear wheel drive. As such, I felt more confident to carve the corners even if the Gallardo is at slight a weight disadvantage.

The Gallardo's seats are not comfortable over long distances, which I've further confirmed with Club Sportiva's Gallardos in the U.S. Annoying, but something I am willing to put up with. The car is also viciously low in the front and loves to grind on many drive ways, though they now raise the front end to resolve that issue. The front of the car quickly dips out of view leaving the driver to wonder just where is the front bumper. These traits give the car an exotic feel which I prefer in an exotic car which I felt the Ferrari was too polished and trying too hard to be a daily driver for anyone wealthy enough to get in line for one. The Gallardo can certainly be a daily driver for a lucky few, but you never forget you are piloting a $200,000+ sports car, where the Ferrari lets you over look that fact.

The result: the Lamborghini Gallardo wins by a hair in my books. The best facet of the two cars is that they are truly designed to be different. Someone lucky enough, like Club Sportiva Members, can really enjoy these two cars and not feel that they are clones of one another. If you had a different car to drive for each day based on your mood, these two would suit different needs, much as the Bentley Continental GT and the Aston Martin DB9 have also carved out their independent niches. This is fortunate that the manufacturers have recognized that they can't each try to be a Ferrari knock off, so each has its unique claim to fame.

For those tiffosi who can't imagine liking the Lamborghini, I'd suggest not scoffing at the brand any longer and get educated with some first hand experiences, if you haven't already. You will likely remain a Ferrari fan, but I think many people will have a newfound respect for the raging bull from Sant'Agata.

Club Sportiva can put you behind the driver's seat and let you be the judge. Ultimately, that is what it is all about, not reading my comments on the blog but having the opportunity to drive the cars you want to experience. Then you can post your own first-hand comments. Now it is your turn! Comments encouraged.

This blog post was first published as an article in Ferrari Life Quarterly's March Issue. Check out some of FLQ's other great topics.

Labels: Autobahn, Club Sportiva, drive and decide, Driving experience, exotic car share club, Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo

Club Sportiva has been fortunate to have so much media attention over the past several years. And it continues - we are mentioned in the feature story of "San Francisco" magazine's June issue on page 102 as part of an article called "The Seven-Year Rich." A fascinating article on the continued expansion of Bay Area wealth even during tough economic times. Club Sportiva was selected along with PlumpJack's Carneros Inn and XOJet as three exciting options to enjoy life without the commitments of ownership. Our phones have been busy as a result of yet another important recognition by the media that shared access is the wave of the future. Grab a copy quickly!

Club Sportiva is also featured this month in the What's Hot section on page 20 of "Front Desk," a recent publication by Modern Luxury, who publishes "San Francisco" magazine and others. We are credited as the innovative pioneer and leader of the car share segment in our sixth year of operation. Get your hands on it.

We were just featured in the "San Francisco Business Times" last month for a third time in two years. As the spokesperson for the luxury car share segment, the "SF Business Times" article profiled me, personally, which is pretty cool! While I prefer the spotlight be on Club Sportiva, it is fun every now and then, as the company's founder, to get featured. Take a look...

Club Sportiva was also recently featured on MyRide.com with a really entertaining video by Autobytel's celebrity host, Fireball Tim. It really is a great video. For your viewing pleasure...

Keep an eye out on television, in the magazines, online and in the newspapers for more press coverage on Club Sportiva!

Labels: Autobytel, Club Sportiva, exotic car share club, Front Desk, MyRide.com, San Francisco Business Times, San Francisco magazine

What is the crookedest street you've driven? Some favorite mountain road? Lombard? How about Vermont Street at 20th in San Francisco? I first learned about the street from my friend, Fireball Tim, when he was in town to film a couple segments for MyRide.com. His video segment is hilarious: view the link here. Everyone knows Lombard, but did you know it has an evil, lessor known twin in Potrero Hill? Vermont Street is the wild, untamed, little known version. It is not as scenic, not manicured, not cobble stoned, not tarted up for tourists and the homes along it aren't palaces. But, it is quiet, with no waiting lines as you approach and you can generally drive it without a single car in sight. Not bad...

Vermont Street is also the new favorite site for the annual Bring Your Own Big Wheels race and contest. It is a wacky competition that will make you laugh and it happens to use this very same crooked street in San Francisco. Here is a pretty funny link to a video that captures some of the zaniness that occurs. The madness of BYOBW itself mirrors the oddity of Vermont Street. A match made in heaven.

So last weekend I had the diamond black Bentley Continental GT while friends were in town from Los Angeles and on a whim I sought out this mysterious and little known street. We had brunch in Potrero Hill at Slow Club and were on our way to a Giants vs Padres game with time to kill. What to do for 30 minutes? Then it hit me, let's look for Vermont Street and find the curvy block that Fireball Tim talked about. The Bentley was a funny choice for a crooked bohemian street with some seven wild turns, but it worked well.

Since it isn't busy there, I was easily able to get out and snap a few photos at several points on the hill. Imagine trying to do this on Lombard. You'd have 200 drivers having road rage! I found Vermont Street to be charismatic and full of character. Lombard is commercial and mainstream by comparison, making the new find refreshing. I recommend when you are in the area, drive down and see what you think.

Did you know about this street? Have you driven it before?

Labels: Bentley Continental GT, Club Sportiva, Crookedest street, Driving experience, exotic car share club, Lombard Street, San Francisco, Vermont Street