Park Place Motorcars Arlington Sales Greeter Leaving Her Mark On Arlington

When you first walk into the lobby of Park Place Motorcars Arlington, you’re sure to be captivated by Gabree Torres. The 23-year-old sales greeter is vivacious and charming. But there’s more than meets the eye to this energetic young lady.

Torres is finishing her Masters of Social Work degree at the University of Arlington. And she’ll leave her mark on the campus before she graduates in December.

Earlier this year, she was selected to paint a horse sculpture for the UTA Spirit Horse project.

“I saw a flyer on a bulletin board and only had two days until the deadline to submit my design,” said Torres, “but I knew this opportunity was mine.”

Torres had previously painted seven large murals in a San Angelo hospital while attending San Angelo State for her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

“Gabree submitted a design that showed three students in academic regalia at commencement,” said Jennifer Fox, UTA Assistant Director of Student Governance. “The UTA Ambassadors, a group of 25 elected student leaders that serve as the official hosts and hostesses of the campus, really liked her design. The proposed location for this year’s Spirit Horse was near the College Park Center, the on-campus arena where commencement ceremonies are held. We did not advertise this when soliciting proposals, so the fact that Gabree’s design also fit well with our proposed location was a nice surprise. We did ask her to add an ‘athletics’ component to the horse since our volleyball and basketball games are also held in the College Park Center. She quickly revised her sketches, and the end result was beautiful.”

Torres’ Spirit Horse was recently unveiled at the Maverick Stampede, a UTA Welcome Week event. The final installation will be later this semester.

In addition to working at Park Place Motorcars and attending school, Torres is completing an internship at a local mental health treatment facility. She also does photography for Calvary Arlington, a local church that meets at the Arlington Music Hall.

“I hope to work with the Domestic Violence population once I graduate,” said Torres. Not surprising for a determined young lady who seems to make an impression everywhere she goes.
Park Place Motorcars Arlington is a 91,000-square-foot Mercedes-Benz dealership located at I-20 and Collins that opened December 2015.

Watch the Rare & Relatively Unknown Porsche 910 Racecar Tear Up the Track

When it comes to racing, few automakers share Porsche’s rich heritage. The brand’s early involvement dates all the way back to the 1950’s, with notable wins in the Carrera Panamericana and Targa Florio, classic races which later influenced the naming of some of Porsche’s most famous models.

Despite Porsche’s racing pedigree, it’s often thought that the automaker has scoffed at the idea of a mid-engine racecar. But as Road & Track recently pointed out, that’s simply not true. Behold the Porsche 910 (or Carrera 10), a factory-built racer with a mid-mounted engine.

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The 910 served as the evolution of Porsche’s successful 906 racecars. Despite competing for a single year, Porsche entered the 910 into a number of competitions, including the European Hillclimb Championship, Targa Florio, 12 Hours of Sebring, and Le Mans.


While the six-cylinder 910 was a force to be reckoned with, strong competition from Ferrari and the legendary Ford GT40 made life difficult for the 910, But that didn’t stop it from putting in strong performances throughout the year, and eventually winning its home event at the 1000 km Nürburgring in 1967.

Because it competed for such a limited period, the 910 remains a rare and relatively unknown treasure in Porsche’s long list of fine racing specimens, which is why Park Place Dealerships encourages any and all Porsche fans to watch this video of the 910 looping around the Autodromo Riccardo Paletti in Italy – listen to that glorious engine!

When you’re done watching what this legend can do, be sure to live out your own racing fantasies by browsing our new and pre-owned models, or simply visit us at for a test drive.

From the World’s Most Demanding Racetrack–The New Mercedes-AMG® GT R

The Nürburgring race track is easily the most famous in Germany, if not the world. Nicknamed “the Green Hell” in the late ’60s due to its difficulty, Nürburgring features plenty of punishing twists and turns, and any vehicle that can master it can take on anything. That’s why the 2018 Mercedes-AMG® GT R impresses us so much here at Park Place Dealerships. Never before has Mercedes-AMG® put this much motorsport power into a production vehicle, and it shows.

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As Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, says:

Our sports-car and performance brand AMG has its roots in motorsport and, ever since its formation, has repeatedly faced up to the competition on the racetrack. These genes are particularly prevalent in the new AMG GT R. Boasting a wealth of technological innovations, the new top-of-the-range model is proof of the close collaboration between our constructors of racing cars and road-going vehicles.

The new AMG® GT R spent much of its development time at the Green Hell, and every aspect of the vehicle reflects its motorsport origins. The heart of the beast is, of course, its transaxle, biturbo V8 engine, one that’s rated at an impressive 577 horsepower. Paired with its aerodynamic and lightweight construction, the new AMG® GT R practically flies. Keeping you in perfect control throughout the ride are an active rear-wheel steering, a nine-way adjustable traction control system, as well as an adjustable coil-over suspension (with additional electronic control).
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The team at Park Place Dealerships is extremely excited about the AMG® GT R, and we’re not the only ones. Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, calls it “the next level of driving performance,” saying:

This road-going sports car with motor-racing genes and innovative technical solutions offers an ultimate driving experience that allows people to feel our motorsport origins in every fiber. It combines the driving dynamics of our AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT. Those with gasoline in their veins will be thrilled by the radical longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the precise turn-in and the sensational grip. We have modified all performance-relevant components and linked them together intelligently for maximum driving dynamics.

“Maximum driving dynamics” sounds pretty great to us. If that sounds good to you too, contact us at Park Place Motorcars in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine, or Arlington to learn more about the 2018 Mercedes-AMG® GT R, or any of our other new Mercedes-Benz models.

2016 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Convertible

Bentley engineers have taken inspiration from past Continental icons to create a reborn motorcar that features modern technology and contemporary lines. The classic, self-confident front of the Bentley Continental GT introduces more pronounced fenders, a smaller grill and a more open look to intensify its assertive attitude. The 520-hp V8 engine is a performance dream, moving this 5,000-lb vehicle from 0-60mph in an astonishing 4.3 seconds and reaching a top track speed of 198mph. It out-performs many smaller and lighter sports cars with its speed capabilities. Another striking feature for the 2016 model is the chrome strip that runs along the bottom edge of the vehicle whereas in previous models it stopped at the back end of the vehicle, it now continuously flows around the vehicle. Virtually no other car on the planet has more customization options than the Continental. There are 17 exterior color choices, 17 interior choices and 8 different selections for the top.

The rear of the Continental flows from top to bottom beginning with the LED tail light and the more pronounced trunk spoiler which travels down to the full-width chrome strip that spans the wide rear bumper. Beneath the bumper, long twin oval exhaust tailpipes meld with the elongated groove. The updated interior still maintains Bentley’s signature look and the ride is quiet, confident and refined. High quality and comfortably soft leather surrounds everyone inside and adds to the elegance portion. It’s underscored by a choice of wood or carbon fiber. The dark orange analog dials illuminate the dashboard at night it is crystal clear. From the refined exterior to the sumptuous interior, everything about the Bentley Continental says class.

No other car epitomizes the spirit of life in a grand tour more eloquently than the Bentley Continental does. Come experience this exquisite masterpiece at Park Place Bentley Dallas or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to see the Continental GT Convertible inventory.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Review

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC looks like a classy sedan when you view it straight on and it has the refinement and comfort of a sedan but with the room and flexibility of an SUV. A responsive and clean breathing 241-hp turbo 4 engine with direct injection, multi-spark ignition, and the fuel saving Eco start/stop system develops 273 pounds of torque at a wide range of RPM’s. Simply put, it’s quick to go yet it’s gentle on the planet and has superb overall dynamics. Also contributing to the steady ride is the crosswind assist. This stands on alert watching for a sudden gust of wind and it keeps your vehicle on its intended path.

In the GLC you have more storage possibilities and load capacity with the folding rear seats. The luggage compartment is 52 inches long and more than 43 inches wide, almost 6 inches wider than the previous model. The all-new interior reflects a modern purity as the hand-crafted luxurious material on the dash board and the center console present a clean natural flow. The Mercedes-Benz brand takes the key fob to new lengths as you can now remote start the car through your smartphone via M-brace. Everything about the interior is set up to be ergonomically correct so everything is right at your fingertips in the cockpit of the vehicle.

Come put the new GLC to the test at one of our Park Place Motorcars Dealerships. We have locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine and Arlington. Or visit us on the web at parkplace.com. Click here to view our GLC inventory.

2017 Lotus Evora 400 Review

So what happens when Lotus asks their engineers to build the fastest Lotus ever? The Evora 400 is what happens. It is a massive amount of fun guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get your adrenaline racing. This is one of the best cars one the road and from a performance standpoint it is absolutely flawless, and we haven’t even had it on the track yet. When behind the wheel of the Evora 400 one will notice that it is a track car that has been civilized for street use and perhaps as an everyday car. The Lotus feels like a very stable car which has been elegantly designed to balance from the front to the rear. The Lotus engineers designed the car for maximum down force to have a vehicle with zero lift. It’s quite amazing how confident the new Evora 400 feels on the road. The muscular stance, the angular lines and just the pure aggressiveness of this vehicle when you look at it, it all springs to life when you turn the key and push the start button.

If you’d like to experiences the Lotus Evora 400 in person, we invite you to visit us at Lotus of Plano or online at parkplace.com. The Evora 400 is worth the trip of any length.

2016 Lexus ES Review

How do you make something so popular better? Well, the 2016 Lexus ES 350 tackles that problem with a strikingly revised angular grill replete with chrome trim. Flanking it are new standard LED headlights which complete the sedan imposing steely glare. Finishing off the handsome look are unique triangular fog lamps in the corners below the headlamps. Four colors join the line to give you more choices and they contain a self-healing clear coat technology. This type of paint actually has the ability to repair itself after it has been scratched and it’s not as easily damaged as conventional paints.

When you pop the hood of the ES 350, you’re looking at the tried and true V6 power plant that generates 268-hp that has been a staple of the Lexus line for a number of years. Reliable, a great performer and paired with a 6-speed transmission that is just silky smooth on the road. Vehicle stability control limits wheel slip for sure footed handling even on slippery surfaces. The ES can also come with variety of safety features from lane-departure to PCS, or pre-collision system, which detects other vehicles when approaching them rapidly. The entire body of the ES has been designed to have a low coefficient of drag which contributes it’s quiet ride and fuel efficiency. The ES has a surprisingly cabin and it offers loads of standard amenities such as 10-way power seats, power-integrated mirrors and automatic climate control. The cargo also boasts tons of space for luggage, golf clubs or both.

We’d like to invite you to get up close and personal with the new ES at one of our Park Place Lexus Dealerships. We have locations in both Grapevine and Plano. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our ES inventory.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Review

In the new 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a few changes have been made to their best full-size SUV yet. Both the dashboard and the front end have been re-designed and there’s a few tweaks in the back, as well as an abundance of new standard features. If you’ve been looking for a full size SUV that has generous space and off-road skills, then the GLS fits the build and then some. The GLS sports more dynamic select modes, more standard features, more power, and more driver assistance systems. The completely reworked front end enhances the sporty nature of the GLS with new power domes on the hood and new halogen head lamp design with interval daytime running lights

The GLS 450 has a new 9-speed transmission that is very smooth leaving barely any feeling of the gears shifting. It’s as tight as a sports car when the turning radius is turned off. The sporty feel continues as this SUV goes from 20mph to 60mph before you know it. For a mid-5,000 pound vehicle this V8 absolutely gets up and goes. The systems in this car are also so intuitive as voice commands access a number of them. Equipped with features such as a reverse camera with gridlines to show you where your going and the Eco button that turns the car off when stationary, this SUV has it all.

If you want the benefits of the luxurious S-Class but need a bit more room or versatility, the GLS may be just your ticket. Come see the revitalized GLS at one of our Park Place Motorcars Dealerships. We have locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine and Arlington. Or visit us on the web at parkplace.com. Click here to view our GLS inventory.

 

 

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Review

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is a Mercedes-Benz that defies description. It’s a departure from anything that the German manufacturer has ever offered in its illustrious history. The new GLE Coupe combines the sportiness and handling of a coupe with the convenience and spaciousness of an SUV, all wrapped up in one head turning package. Although its based on the Mercedes-Benz M Class, the GLE Coupe is a much larger, brawnier vehicle. It’s 3 inches longer, almost 4 inches longer and its an inch lower to the ground. The sound, the power, and the overall vibe to this entry are pure sport coupe. Bu this GLE brings more to the table than just a coupe with its versatility and bravado. It wouldn’t be exaggerating to say that the GLE Coupe is an SUV with the heart and soul of a street racer. It combines a new 9-speed automatic transmission with 4-matic AWD to offer a variety of driving styles that range from lively and agile to cool and calm. Because of the greater range of ratios and quicker shift points, you’ll hardly notice the shift points in this 9-speed transmission.

Underneath the elite red engine cover is the 3.0L bi-turbo V6 that powerful turbo boost supported by a dynamic exhaust system. With 362-hp and 384-lb of torque standing by, this beefy coupe accelerates from standing still to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. The LED headlamps adjust depending on the various driving and weather conditions. The GLE 450 boasts the widest seat in its class. As you fold the 60/40 split rear seats flat to get 60 cubic feet of carpeted space, you get one of the largest cargo areas of any coupe in the world. The spacious and refined cabin pampers everyone inside with its hand-finished wood and hand-fitted upholstery. The polished wood, the soft well-tailored surfaces and the elaborate metallic embellishments exude class and elegance. The GLE provides 4 different driving modes such as comfort, sport, sport + and individual, a customizable setting.

For more information on the new GLE Coupe visit one of our Park Place Motorcars Dealerships. We have locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine and Arlington. Or visit us online at parkplace.com. Click here to view our GLE inventory.

2017 Porsche Panamera Unveiled

On Tuesday, June 28th, Porsche celebrated the world premiere of the new 2017 Panamera in Berlin accompanied by a spectacular display of lights, music and choreography. Over 300 international media representatives – as well as guests from business, sports and the entertainment industry – were able to view the second generation of the sports sedan for the first time. The new 2017 Porsche Panamera, which has been redeveloped from the ground up, combines two contrasting characteristics better than ever before: it offers both the performance of a sports car and the comfort of a luxury sedan

“We have tapped into the segment of luxury sport sedans with the Panamera. Since it launched in 2009, over 150,000 units of the Panamera have been sold. The new model represents a completely redeveloped automobile – with new engines, a new design and new technologies. Furthermore, we are now manufacturing the second generation of the vehicle entirely at our Leipzig production site. To this end, we have invested a sum of 500 million Euros – which includes a completely new body manufacturing facility,” Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, emphasized.

The design language of the new Panamera creates a link to the Porsche 911 through its even more dynamic flyline and by using specific design elements of the iconic sports car. “An observer will immediately recognize the coupé-like roof line, but it is much ‘faster’, even more dynamic and includes a new side window look that emphasizes the coupe-like side view even more,” said Michael Mauer, Head of Style Porsche AG, who explained the design objectives that were set for the new model: “The new Panamera can be identified as a Panamera at first glance, but also as the new Panamera. Its strengths have been reinforced, its weaknesses have been eradicated and above all its distinctive character has been preserved.” The new twin-turbo engines of the Panamera are more powerful than before, and thanks to the new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK II) they are up to 16 percent more fuel-efficient according to the New European Driving Cycle. The Panamera will launch with two engines: the 550 hp Panamera Turbo and the 440 hp Panamera 4S. Both models will be equipped with all-wheel drive as standard.

To provide an even larger spread between supple ride comfort and agile handling, the Panamera now offers features such as the new three-chamber air suspension, rear axle steering and the new electronic 4D Chassis Control chassis management system. Many new assistance systems also enhance ride comfort as well as safety.

In the new Panamera, Porsche is also introducing a future-oriented display and control concept. The new Porsche Advanced Cockpit with its smartphone-like user interfaces and configurable LED screens impresses with its intuitive functionality. Furthermore, the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM 4.1) offers an entirely new range of connectivity by its intelligent digital functions and online services. In the new Panamera, Porsche Connect is being introduced in all models. It extends existing vehicle functions by adding digital services and apps such as those used to control certain vehicle functions remotely by smartphone – and others to make more efficient use of the driver’s time on the go.