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Bekim’s Sweet First Birthday at Porsche Grapevine

The Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase Mini-Macan Winners Receive Luxury Delivery Experience at Porsche Grapevine.

Guests of the 2nd Annual Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase had the opportunity to win a miniature battery-powered car all for themselves (or at least for their aficionados in the making).  Entering was simple (post a photo of the little ones enjoying the Kiddie Concours), and it was clear that guests were well aware of the stakes- snapping photos left and right for the opportunity to win hearts on social media and hopefully, a brand new Mini Porsche Macan.

That was at least the story for Xavier and Janet, and their almost one-year-old, Bekim, who has quite the head start in sharing in his parents’ love of exotic cars:

“We found out about the [Mini Macan] contest through the Park Place Instagram page. This seemed like a very unique and inclusive contest for our little one so, we decided to make it a point to visit, while at the showcase.”

When asked if the weather forecast almost deterred them from coming, Xavier and Janet shared that they just planned their day to arrive at the tail-end of the last round of forecasted showers so they could enjoy the outdoor experience, noting that “This is one of those events that you have to experience firsthand, vs trying to explain with pictures. Under the same weather circumstances, we would absolutely go again.”

By random drawing, Bekim’s entry (see below) in the Mercedes-Benz G Wagon won the ultimate prize just in time for his very first birthday. 

Given the special circumstances, our Porsche Grapevine team didn’t hesitate to invite Bekim, his older brother Elijah, and his parents, to the dealership for a luxury delivery experience sure to create lasting family memories.

Poised next to a couple other life-size Porsche’s ready to meet their owners, Denette Norlie, Service Director, set up the Mini Macan with a few extra surprises for the two boys.  After all, Park Place is their place too.

“Our experience at the Porsche dealership was absolutely wonderful! The amount of people that took the time out of their workday to help make this a special day for Bekim and to include his older brother, Elijah, is truly amazing! It really meant a lot to us all.” 

Not every one year old can say they receive a Porsche Macan for their 1st birthday, but we certainly hope the memories created last long after Bekim outgrows his first car.

“The Mini Macan might be a little tough to top for a 1st car. For Bekim’s 16th birthday, we aren’t quite sure what his first car will be. However, things will probably come full circle and his first actual car WILL be from Park Place.” – Xavier, Bekim’s Dad.
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The Transformed 2019 Lexus ES Now At Park Place Lexus

After nearly 30 years of success, Lexus has launched the seventh-generation ES to redefine its status among entry-level executive sedans.  Among other exciting design updates, Lexus is also introducing the first ES F Sport to the line-up, giving clients a brand new level of performance in this model family. The ES-F actually borrows its grille design from the flagship LS sedan. 

Last week, Park Place launched the all-new 2019 ES at Park Place Lexus Grapevine and Park Place Lexus Plano.

Key Design Enhancements

The key element to the updated design is the all-new Global Architecture-K (GA-K) platform. Because of this, the ES sedan is longer with a wider wheel base to provide sharpened performance, more spacious interior, and a quieter drive. The overall design and performance update to this 7th generation ES is perfectly in tune with Lexus previous releases of the UX and updated LS, to reach a new market of buyers.

Project Chief Designer, Yasuo Kajino, describes the look of the ES as “provocative elegance.” 

For this Generation, we have added daring design elements that challenge traditional expecatations of buyers.

Low lines and fluid shapes represent some of the major improvements to the ES; the slim headlights with a distinctive L shaped marker, the latest iteration of the brand’s iconic grille nodding to the performance of the LC, and a low hood line highlight the visual enhancements to the classic ES. 

Transformative Performance

Why simply improve on something that’s already good, when you can transform a sedan traditionally known for comfort and quietness into one that is capable of delivering dynamic handling. 

“We knew the ES had to feel responsive and easy to drive, no matter what kind of road it was on and that can only be achieved with a solid foundation.” – Lead Engineer, Yasuhiro Sakakibara.

The all-new GA-K chassis structure gave the engineering team the opportunity to address some concerns including noise and vibrations, at the source.  One key update includes the installation of performance dampeners typically seen on Ultra Luxury and F SPORT models to reduce vibrations. 

Power and Efficiency

All ES 350s are powered by 3.5 liter V6 engines that are designed to deliver effortless acceleration and impressive efficiency.  Now the ES can adapt to high or low power moments by transitioning from the traditional Otto cycle during sporty driving or the more efficient Atkinson cycle when power demand is low.

What’s Otto and Atkinson? Otto Cycle is a thermodynamic cycle found in most automotive engines. Atkinson Cycle is a modified Otto cycle, which differs in delivering efficiency and increased fuel efficiency. 

A More Comfortable Cabin For All

No detail was left untouched for the driver and the passengers. The steering wheel on the 2019 ES is set a more natural angle, the pedal positions revised, and 10-way power adjustable front seats lend itself to a comfortable and luxurious driving experience.

The cargo room has increased versus the previous generation,  boasting 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space and additional underfloor side pockets for smaller items.

Do you remember we mentioned a lower roofline? Well, if you were worried the sleek roofline would affect your guests’ accommodations, we are happy to report that the answer is not at all. Headroom has been increased slightly through the use of a lower hip point and a carefully configured headliner.

The Next Chapter ES

The 2019 Lexus ES ushers in a new era from one of the brand’s most popular models. In line with previous model releases, the ES sedan is meant to engage with a broader range of guests by delivering both the expected Lexus luxuries and unexpected performance that traditionally is not a character of the Lexus mark. 

More dynamic styling and performance, unique cabin materials assembled by the finest craftsmen and the latest technology add a chapter to the ES story that hasn’t been told, but that all changes now at Park Place Lexus Plano and Park Place Lexus Grapevine.
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New XC40 Named 2018 Compact Luxury SUV of Texas

Volvo’s new XC40 has been named Compact Luxury SUV of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at its annual Truck Rodeo. The organization also presented the XC40 with the award for Best Connectivity. 

The XC40’s wins in Dripping Springs build on Volvo Cars’ previous success at the TAWA Truck Rodeo, with Best SUV honors for the XC90 and XC60 in 2016 and 2017, respectively. Volvo Cars’ legacy at the rodeo dates back to 2002, when the first-generation XC90 was the first-ever SUV to take home the coveted Truck of Texas Award.

“Volvo Cars has a strong history with TAWA, and we are proud to receive this recognition for our newest crossover,” said Anders Gustafsson, Senior Vice President Americas and President & CEO, Volvo Car USA. “The XC40 has been a great success for us, critically and commercially, contributing to our strong growth in the U.S. and around the world.”

In September, Volvo Car USA reported 29.8 percent year-to-date sales growth versus 2017. The first car built on Volvo Cars’ new Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), the XC40 includes a range of ground-breaking technologies wrapped in a fresh, creative and distinctive package. Stay up-to-date on the XC40’s availability with our inventory on ParkPlace.com.

The 2018 Texas Truck Rodeo convened a total of 57 vehicles spanning SUVs, crossovers and commercial vehicles. Following two days of evaluation, 69 TAWA members cast their ballots to determine the event’s winners, judging vehicles against interior and exterior styling, performance, value and personal appeal. 

 

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ROLLS-ROYCE DEBUTS ‘SPIRIT OF ECSTASY’ FABERGÉ EGG

From Kings and Queens to entrepreneurs, many of the most prominent and wealthy collectors of the 20th and 21st century have been beguiled by the lure of a Fabergé Egg. With just 50 pre-1917 Imperial Eggs completed, these exceptionally precious creations are some of the most valuable and coveted objects ever to have been made.

Now, in a contemporary fashion, a new Fabergé Egg has been created. Two of the world’s most esteemed houses of luxury have joined forces to create one unique objet d’art, for one discerning patron. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and Fabergé proudly announce the ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Fabergé Egg.

For the first time in history, an iteration of the Spirit of Ecstasy, the enigmatic mascot that has adorned Rolls-Royce motor cars since 1911, is cocooned in an exquisite, contemporary, Fabergé Egg. The design, conceived by Rolls-Royce Designers Stefan Monro and Alex Innes and rendered by Fabergé Lead Designer Liisa Tallgren, has been brought to life by Fabergé workmaster Paul Jones, creating a contemporary interpretation of one of the world’s most fabled and prized possessions.

The commissioning of a Rolls-Royce motor car is often a seminal moment for the patron, so too is the commissioning of a Fabergé Egg. 

Indeed, this ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Fabergé Egg, the second to be commissioned in the ‘Imperial Class’ since 1917 – a category reserved only for Fabergé’s most illustrious creations – celebrates the history, heritage and legend for which both Rolls-Royce and Fabergé have been revered over more than a century. Both brands have navigated the vicissitudes of time and continue to produce the apogee of modern, highly sought after, true luxury items. The Egg is destined for the residence of a great collector of both brands.

The Egg connects the elements that lie at the very core of each marque – the Spirit of Ecstasy, the illustrious muse that has guided each Rolls-Royce motor car for over a century, and the form of a Fabergé Egg, the pinnacle of ornamental expression. The masterpiece resulting from this distinguished collaboration reflects the extraordinary attention to detail and the consummate craftsmanship for which both brands are renowned to this day.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “’The Spirit of Ecstasy’ Fabergé Egg was born from an intrinsic desire to further the realms of Bespoke personalisation. Responding to the continuing demands of patrons in search of unique and cherished possessions, a designer at the House of Rolls-Royce sketched an Egg, igniting a fascination that will undoubtedly become one of the most collectable items of modern times.”

A team of seven craftspeople from Fabergé undertook the challenge of fabricating the design using the finest materials married with their extraordinary skill as artist jewellers. At first glance, the Egg is unmistakable in its character. Design cues from Fabergé’s heritage are masterfully woven into the intricate design which stands at 160mm and weighs just 400g, with the Egg harnessing the ‘surprise and delight’ attributes for which Imperial Eggs are celebrated. 

The Egg rests on an engine-turned, hand-engraved, purple enamel guilloché base of 18 karat white gold. Arms of rose gold define the shape of the Egg, acting as a protective chamber for the Egg’s precious inhabitant. Upon operating the movement via a discreet lever at the base of the stand, a sense of theatre ensues as the boughs open to present the fine figurine of the Spirit of Ecstasy, hand-sculpted in frosted rock crystal, standing nobly in her opulent surrounds. The rose gold vanes, embellished with nearly 10 carats of round white diamonds, resolve into swathes of natural amethyst weighing over 390 carats, specially selected for its colour saturation and quality. The purple hue of the enamel and amethyst provide a playful nod to the use of colour found in Fabergé’s heritage.

The technical mastery of Fabergé prevails. The ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Fabergé Egg adopts a highly complex operating mechanism, conceived through computer aided design and animation, developed with micro engineering. The success of this mechanism, and in turn the piece as a whole, can be attributed to the goldsmiths’ art as craftspeople and their ability to meld this skill with technology, creating a work of art that could not be created by man alone. The piece embodies both the artistic design and engineering skill that one expects from a collaboration between Rolls-Royce and Fabergé, and has probably the most complicated opening of any Fabergé Egg to date.

Sean Gilbertson, Chief Executive Officer, Fabergé said, “A unique moment in both our companies’ history, the creation of the ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Egg represents the meeting of two masters of unrivalled quality and design, showcasing two globally recognised symbols – the Fabergé Egg and the Spirit of Ecstasy.”

Josina von dem Bussche-Kessell, Business Development and Global Sales Director, Fabergé added, “Two years in the making, we are very excited to unveil this special piece to our clients and partners across the globe together with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and are proud to continue making history by creating bespoke and unique pieces such as this. The ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Egg marks a demonstration of the reputation that Fabergé proudly carries today.”

Fifty Imperial Easter Eggs were created for the Russian Imperial family between 1885 and 1916. These creations are inextricably linked to the lives of the Romanov family. Ten Eggs were produced from 1885 to 1893 during the reign of Emperor Alexander III; a further 40 were created during the rule of his dutiful son, Nicholas II, two each year – one for his mother the dowager, the second for his wife. If we explore the great archives of Rolls-Royce, we find that Tsar Nicholas II was indeed also a patron of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

The ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ Fabergé Egg will be premiered at the House of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, England, to a host of distinguished guests and venerable patrons of the marque on 23 October, 2018. The Egg will then be on public display in Fabergé’s London window this Christmastime. 

For More Information, visit the Rolls-Royce Motors Press Club.

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Finest Materials From Around the World in the Bentley Continental GT

Straight from Bentley Motors, the Continental GT showcases Bentley’s unrivaled expertise in the authentic use of materials, from the highest-quality natural leathers, to rare, sustainable sourced veneers. We celebrate the Continental GT by highlighting some of the best materials sourced from around the world.

Wheels From Japan

The new 22” alloy wheel for the Continental GT is expertly forged and flow formed in Japan creating a lightweight wheel with an intricate 3D spoke design. The wheel is also hand polished in Japan to highlight accent areas of the wheel that traditional wheel manufacture cannot achieve.

Leather From Germany

Each Continental GT interior is crafted from nine bull hides sourced from the Bavarian region of Germany, stitched together with 2.8 km of thread to create the sumptuous interior cabin. Chosen carefully and crafted with precision and pride, leather hides contribute enormously to the sense of comfort and refinement in every Continental GT.

Koa Wood Veneer From Hawaii

Bentley’s wood experts go to great lengths to find the finest veneers in the world. A new, contemporary veneer has been introduced for the Continental GT: Koa. Noted for its elegant tones and straight grain, Koa has long been used in its native Hawaii in the construction of surfboards and guitars.

Alcantara From Italy

The Alcantara featured within the interior cabin of the Continental GT is also used in the fashion and furniture industries, sourced straight from Italy this textile creates an experience both aesthetic and tactile for the customer of the world’s definitive Grand Tourer.

Display Clock From Switzerland

The Continental GT display clock features Bentley’s signature diamond pattern and wings emblem, sourced from the home of the finest mechanical timepieces, Switzerland.

For more information on the materials or if you wish to inquire about commissioning your own bespoke Bentley, contact Bentley Dallas.

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Park Place Celebrates 21 Years at the Cattle Baron’s Ball with New Vehicle Donated to Raffle

Park Place Dealerships and the Cattle Baron’s Ball have a now 21-year relationship that has resulted in yet another successful event at Gilley’s Dallas, all for the pursuit of a cure for cancer.  The Cattle Baron’s Ball is one of the largest one night fundraisers, and Park Place is proud to provide support through what we know best- and that is luxury cars.

For our 21st year, Park Place donated the choice of a brand new 2018 Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, Porsche Macan, or Range Rover Velar, to the winner of the raffle.

As a core tenant of Park Place’s mission, giving back and community involvement is never overlooked but rather, constantly adapting and changing so that we can make a greater impact year after year.  As leaders in the automotive industry, Park Place has been honored with the opportunity to give to the Cattle Baron’s Ball to benefit the American Cancer society, leaders in cancer research, for 21 years now.

Since 1974, Cattle Baron’s Ball has raised over $77 million for cancer research- which they cite happens mostly here in DFW. True to “Everything’s Bigger in Texas” mantra, the Cattle Baron’s Ball has proven year after year, that they in partnership with the community, are the world’s largest sing-night fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Cattle Baron’s has provided more than 30,000 services to cancer patients in North Texas, rides to and from treatments, and wigs free of charge. The American Cancer Society is the beneficiary of the event whose mission is to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer.  

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The 2nd Annual Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase Shone Brightly Even in the Rain

Park Place Dealerships donates $55k Sprinter
to Salesmanship Club’s Momentous Institute

Rain or shine. Many outdoor events casually use the term, but few shine in the midst of challenges like the 2nd annual Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase did on October 13th at the Four Seasons Resort & Club Dallas at Las Colinas.

“It was an exciting day in a lot of ways,” said Ken Schnitzer, Park Place Dealerships founder and chairman. “The rain didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of guests and we were able to execute the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase for the nearly 3,000 people who attended. Many of the private collectors brought their rare and pristine cars out to display them in the Collector’s Concours. The Porsche Club – Maverick Region came together to create an amazing Heritage Display to celebrate Porsche’s 70th anniversary. And we were able to support a wonderful charitable partner in a big way.”

The event benefitted the Momentous Institute, owned and operated by the Salesmanship Club of Dallas since 1920. Each year, the organization serves more than 6,000 children and family members through its nationally acclaimed Momentous School and innovative Therapeutic Services. Schnitzer presented Patton Chapman, Salesmanship Club president, with the keys to a $55,000 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van to help the organization with its transportation needs for the kids.

Throughout the day, guests saw more than $100 million worth of rare and unique vehicles from manufacturers, collectors and car clubs, including the first public display of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the iconic marque’s first ever SUV. Guests also enjoyed live entertainment, incredible food and beverages, as well as a Highland Park Village fashion show produced by Jan Strimple.

Parents even watched their kids play in the rain, driving miniature electric versions of Porsche, McLaren, Volvo, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus vehicles on the pavestone path. Guests also had the opportunity to meet 16-year-old racecar driver Kinzie “Kiki” Wilson. Featured in her red, racing shirt on the right of her Corvette, the Mansfield Legacy High School Junior is also the Varsity Cheer Captain while maintaining a 3.95 GPA.

Dallas’ Mad Hatter Shane Walker helped judge the Haute Hat Contest. The Lady’s Haute Hat winner was Anna Neiman (below) with a stylish Rolls-Royce-inspired hat that included working lights.

             

As the day drew to a close, the top three award winners from the Collector’s Concours were presented with the “Spirit of Park Place,” a hand-crafted sculpture by Dallas artist Brad Oldham.

  • Best of Show went to Randy Johnson for his 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB 6C.
  • Chairman’s Choice Award – Fred Cornwall – 1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental, originally hand-built for Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton as an engagement gift for her fiancé Georgian Prince Alexis Mdivani.
  • Salesmanship Club Award – John Kobell – 1980 BMW M1.

Other award winners included:

American Classics

1st –  1959 Chevrolet Corvette – Rocky Rainbolt

2nd – 1932 REO Royale Rumble Seat Coupe – Rob Anderson

3rd – 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe – Rob Anderson

American Modern:

1st in Class – 2009 Dodge Viper – Alan Wilson

British Classic

1st – 1959 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud Limo – James Stewart

2nd – 1966 Jaguar E-Type OTS – Clark Kirby
3rd – 1960 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II – Michael Davis

British Modern

1st – 2012 McLaren MP4-12C – Warren Huddleston
2nd – 2012 McLaren 12C – Patrick Chiu
3rd – 2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith – Erick Johnson

Italian Classic

1st – 1964 Ferrari 330 GT 2 + 2 – Cory Richards

2nd – 1969 De Tomaso Mangusta – Jerry Quam
3rd – 1979 Maserati Merak SS – Betsy Crawford

Italian Modern

1st – 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C – William Hale

2nd – 2005 Ferrari 430 – Derrick Blanton
3rd – 2001 Qvale Mangusta – Anatoly Arutunoff

German Classic

1st – 1956 Mercedes-Benz 190SL Convertible – Whitney Stark

2nd – 1996 Porsche 993 Turbo – Raj Gill

German Modern:

1st in Class – 2015 Audi R8 – Brad Harslem

Supercar Classic:

1st in Class – 1993 Jaguar XJ220 – Barry Fromberg

Supercar Modern

1st – 2015 Porsche 918 Weissach Martini – John Savickas

2nd – 2013 Zagato Perana Z-One – Dave Copps

International:

1st in Class – 1972 Citroen SM – Gordon Sauer

Porsche GT:

1st – 2015 Porsche GT3 – Robert Caglia

2nd – 2016 Porsche GT3 RS – Michael Lee

 

Partners included the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, Allie Beth Allman & Associates – A Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate|Urban, Celebrity Cruises, Highland Park Village, Hill & Wilkinson, Irving CVB and Irving Chamber, Event Architecture, Bachendorf’s, Brad Oldham Sculpture, RideCentric, GL Seaman, Lockton, Hagerty Insurance, Perks & Provisions, Lilium Florals, Lisa R. Daniels, Digital 3 Printing, Fauxcades, Promo Resources, Sunnyland Outdoor Furniture, ExxonMobil, Cox Automotive, Dealer Industries, Garages of Texas, Ratcliff Financial Services, Maui Jims, Jack Black, The Vineyard at Florence, Steinway & Sons, D Magazine, and NBC 5.

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn. Today, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 2,000 people and operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Lotus, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com

 

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Mercedes-AMG Aspires to Put the HYPE in Hypercar

Not all supercars are hypercars, but all hypercars are supercars. After the Paris Auto Show Mercedes-Benz announced some big plans to put the hype in Hypercar with now named Mercedes- AMG Project ONE. The name reflects the mission to bring Formula One technology and capability, to the road, providing performance seekers with a completely performance driven, aerodynamic driving experience.

The Mercedes- AMG Project ONE is set to be the top-of-the-line model- another allusion that’s logically referenced by its official name. The new hypercar is highlighted by active aerodynamics, which is going through extensive wind-tunnel testing. This technology features a multi-part, two-stage extendable rear wing for maximum downforce in race mode, all to bring racing tech to a street-legal motor vehicle.

The car itself is exciting, but the client experience to spec a Mercedes-AMG Project ONE has elevated and evolved into an exclusive Mobile Showroom titled “The Future of Driving Performance”. It’s in this mobile showroom that potential clients have the opportunity to sit the cockpit of the most recent rendition of the Hypercar and experience a demonstration of the individual equipment options. Right now, it’s only available on the Grounds of the Munich Mercedes-Benz branch, but we’ll definitely be keeping our eye on the evolution Mercedes’ contribution the hypercar circle.  Read more information on Project ONE on Mercedes-Benz.com

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Update from Park Place Racing: Too Fast To Handle

BRASELTON, Ga. (Oct. 13, 2018) – Park Place Motorsports ends its 10-hour fight after three due to an undiagnosed gearbox issue at Road Atlanta.
 
Spencer Pumpelly made heads turn as he turned determined laps when disaster struck during the Motul Petit Le Mans. The No. 73 Park Place Porsche GT3 R slowed to a stop on track. Pumpelly maneuvered the No. 73 Porsche out of harm’s way before coming to a full stop, albeit a little too well. Pumpelly was stranded out on track for nearly 30 minutes as he waited for a yellow flag and a tow back to the paddock. 
 
The time between the No. 73 Porsche stopping on track and being delivered back to the paddock caused the team to fall over 30 laps down. While the issue was fixable, the race was determined not to be, and the team decided to retire.  
 
“To start the stint the car was fantastic,” Pumpelly said. “We put a lot of work into it over the course of the stint to make it faster, but I was really surprised when I got in on fresh tires how fast it was for the first few laps. It was a car that seemed to be good over every stage of the race. We started to lose grip as the tires wore but we still were running a lot faster than the people we were chasing.”
 
“Tim (Pappas) did a great job to keep us in the hunt and on the lead lap. Suddenly coming out Turn 5 the revs skyrocketed, and I lost control and forward drive. I knew right away something had broken and I tried to diagnose it hoping it got stuck in neutral. Unfortunately, it was terminal, so we safely came to a stop out of the way and that was our day. I can’t be happier to be back with Park Place Motorsports and work with these guys. It was a fun weekend, a fantastic car and great comradery.”


 
While running, Pumpelly ran a lap time of 1:20.536, the second fastest lap of the race behind points leader Madison Snow in the No. 48 Lamborghini. Before retiring from the race, Pumpelly propelled the No. 73 through the field to the lead lap and 10th place after being put a lap down during the pit stop Pumpelly jumped in to relieve Tim Pappas. Wolf Henzler did not get track time after the recon lap before the race.
 

Park Place Motorsports finishes its partial season having run six races in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. In three of those six races, the team finished the race as the highest finishing or as the fastest Porsche in the field. Park Place Motorsports has yet to announce its plans for the 2019 season, for updates through the offseason visit http://parkplacemotorsports.com.

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Woolworth Heiress Barbara Hutton’s 1933 Rolls-Royce To Be Featured at the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase

Oct 13th Luxury Lifestyle Event Benefits Momentous Institute

There’s a story behind each of the 150 unique cars in the Collectors Concours at the 2nd Annual Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase to be held 10 am – 4 pm Saturday, October 13 at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas. Perhaps none more romantic, or ultimately as tragic, than the story behind the 1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental built for Barbara Woolworth Hutton, one of the wealthiest women in the world at the time.

At age 12 Hutton had inherited the Woolworth 5 & 10 fortune from her grandfather and a large share of the E.F. Hutton brokerage firm from her father, one of the co-founders. Built during the Great Depression, the luxurious carriage was the most expensive car built at the time. She gave the car to her fiancé Prince Alexis Mdivani of Georgia (now Russia) as an engagement gift. Since the Prince was a pilot, Hutton had the instrument panel designed like an airplane cockpit, including the installation of an altimeter in the dashboard.

The happy newlyweds drove the car throughout Europe on their honeymoon in the summer of 1933. But apparently, the marriage wasn’t built on as strong a foundation as the car. Hutton divorced the Prince in May of 1935. Several months later, Prince Mdivani was driving the car at a very high rate of speed (reportedly over 80 mph) on a country road in France when he crashed and died. Although badly damaged, the car was returned to Rolls-Royce where it was completely restored. The current owner, Fred Cornwall of Dallas, is only the eighth owner of the historic car.

“The chance to see this magnificent car in person is truly a special opportunity,” said Liz Shafton, senior marketing manager at Park Place Dealerships and chair of the event. “I was fortunate to see this splendid jewel recently at the Crespi Estate in Dallas. She will take your breath away.”

A few other notable cars include a 1940 Lincoln which was given to Babe Ruth by the New York Yankees; the very first 1957 Chevy 150 (body #1 serial #2); a ’64 Aston DB5; a Porsche 959; several Ferraris (including a 2005 Enzo) and a 2018 Bugatti Chiron. In total, the show will feature more than $100 million worth of exceptional automobiles.

A panel of experienced judges will select the Best of Show, Chairman’s Choice, and a Salesmanship Club Choice winner. Each of the three top award winners will be presented with a hand-crafted sculpture, created by Dallas artist Brad Oldham, best known for his Traveling Man sculptures in Deep Ellum.

“Brad Oldham Sculpture and Park Place Dealerships have enjoyed a long relationship,” said Christy Coltrin, Brad Oldham’s business partner. “We both have a commitment to design, quality and artistry. The “Spirit of Park Place” award is meant to invoke iconic imagery of speed and flight.”

Tickets for the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase, which sold out in its inaugural year, range from $25 – $50 for general admission and $100 for VIP All Access, which includes complimentary tastings and beverages by area restaurants. Tickets are available online at LuxurySupercarShowcase.com.

“Area Car Clubs will display the best of their members’ vehicles in the Car Club Showcase,” continued Shafton. “They’ll bring some extraordinary Lamborghinis, Corvettes, Shelbys, Aston Martins and Rolls-Royces.”

Park Place will feature all of their luxury and exotic brands and even a few rarely seen new cars. Guests will be among the first in Texas to see the new Rolls-Royce Cullinan luxury SUV, as well as the new McLaren Senna, an ultra-luxury Mercedes-Maybach and the Lexus LFA, one of only 50 of the 500 hand-assembled vehicles with the Nürburgring package. 

Participating restaurants featured in the VIP lounge include LAW, OUTLAW Taproom, Dallas Chop House Burger, Dallas Fish Market, Wild Salsa, Oven and Cellar, Taverna, Bistro 31, K?i, Toulouse Café and Bar, Lombardi Family Concepts, Cool River Café, III Forks Restaurant, One Sixty One Bistro, Texas de Brazil, Mirador, Carlton Provisions, Frost 321 and Make Your Life Sweeter. There will also be a great lineup of food trucks including Ruthie’s Rolling Café; Bellatrino Pizzeria; Texas de Brazil; Fast Furious; and Pecos Pete’s Natural Tea + Soda.

The luxury lifestyle event benefits the Momentous Institute, owned and operated by the Salesmanship Club of Dallas since 1920, which is committed to building and repairing social and emotional health for children. Each year, the organization serves more than 6,000 children and family members through its nationally acclaimed Momentous School and innovative Therapeutic Services.

“The Luxury & Supercar Showcase is a celebration of fashion, food, music, and of course, amazing automobiles,” explained Shafton. “Highland Park Village will present a runway fashion show produced by Jan Strimple. There will be live entertainment throughout the day. And the Kids’ Zone will have a 60-foot downhill Hot Wheels track and a life-size McLaren 720S made entirely of LEGOs.”

Partners include the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, Allie Beth Allman & Associates – A Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate|Urban, Celebrity Cruises, Highland Park Village, AT&T, Hill & Wilkinson, Irving CVB and Irving Chamber, Event Architecture, Bachendorf’s, Brad Oldham Sculpture, RideCentric, GL Seaman, Lockton, Hagerty Insurance, Perks & Provisions, Lilium Florals, Lisa R. Daniels, Digital 3 Printing, Fauxcades, Promo Resources, Sunnyland Outdoor Furniture, ExxonMobil, Cox Automotive, Dealer Industries, Garages of Texas, Ratcliff Financial Services, TropicSport, Maui Jims, Jack Black, The Vineyard at Florence, Steinway & Sons, D Magazine, and NBC 5.

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn. Today, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 2,000 people and operates 18 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Lotus, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Bugatti, McLaren, and Maserati. For more info, visit parkplace.com