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Racing Jargon: Things to Know Before Watching Park Place Racing Compete

Park Place Motorsports (Park Place Racing) are gearing up for another race weekend in Florida come March: the Super Sebring.  As their sponsor (and might we suggest their number one fan too), we thought it appropriate to share some of their race lingo so that all Park Place members, especially those new to the racing circuit, can expertly cheer on their very own Motorsports team.

First Off, the Cars:

IMSA WeatherTech Championship GTD: The No. 73 in GTD is referred to as the No. 73 Park Place Motorsports Porsche for all races except the Sebring 12 Hour, the Watkins Six Hour and the Petit Le Mans in which it will be referred to as the No. 73 de Boulle Park Place Motorsports Porsche.

IMSA MICHELIN Pilot Challenge GS: The No. 7 is referred to as the No. 7 VOLT Lighting Porsche.

Track Terms:

Safety Car: Also known as a pace car, it is a car which limits the speed of competing cars on a racetrack in the case of a caution period such as an obstruction on the track or bad weather.

Pitlane: Pitlane is an access road for getting on and off the track usually parallel to the front straight. Teams are each granted a spot on the pitlane used to service the car during a pitstop.

Paddock: A large open area here the team sets up their workspace. The paddock houses everything from the sanctioning body trailers to hospitality areas.

Technical Inspection (Tech): Tech is located in the paddock and run by the sanctioning body. Each car mush go through this inspection in order to make sure

Pass Around: Always performed under a full course caution, a pass around is awarded to cars not on the lead lap. It allows them to drive around the field and the safety car, gaining back one single lap.

Pit Stop: When a car enters the pitlane to be serviced. This includes taking on fuel, changing the tires or changing the driver. Multiple pit stops will be performed throughout the race.

Debrief: Following a driver’s stint they will all with the engineer to discuss the car. This includes talking about how the car performs on track, track conditions, and possible changes they feel should be made.

Morning Warm-Up: A 20-minute practice the morning before a race. This allows the drivers and teams to test out any last-minute changes and to get acquainted to that days track conditions.

Qualifying: A 15-minute session in which drivers compete to see who can achieve the fastest. This determines where the drivers will start the race from.

Kinds of Flags (and What They Mean):

Green Flag: Signals the start of the race or a restart.

Full Course Yellow (FCY): Signals an incident on course. Cars must assume safety car speed and fall in line behind the safety car. Competitors may not race or pass for position under a FCY.

Local Yellow: Signals a minor incident or piece of debris on course. Cars must only reduce speed through the turn in which the flag is flown. Upon exiting the turn, they may resume full speed racing.

Rolled up Black Flag: Signals an issue related to you or your car. This represents a warning. If you do not correct the issue you will be issued a penalty.

Black Flag: Signals you are receiving a penalty and should head to the pits. This is issued in accordance following a rolled up black flag.

Red Flag: Signals for all cars to assume safety car speed and head into the pits. A red flag stops the race, but does not stop the running clock. Red flags are most often thrown for weather conditions or severe on-track incidents.

Checkered Flag: Signals the end of the race.

 

Hopefully this helps you prep for the Super Sebring races mid March. If we missed any terms or you have any questions, send them to social@10.2.54.33. We’ll get our experts (like Team Principal, Patrick Lindsey) to help us respond.

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Lexus Earns Top Brand in J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study

To no surprise, Lexus has once again come out on top with it’s Safety and Dependability. Announced earlier this month, the luxury car brand earned the top spot in the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study for the eight consecutive year.  The parent company’s namesake (Toyota) also took high honors, tying with Porsche for second place. 

This study is annually performed, to assess the dependability of some of the most common vehicles on the road. What you may not know is that this study evaluates vehicle’s that are three years old, so in reality, Lexus’ 2016 models  won this year’s accolade. 

That’s great news for all Lexus Lovers and consumers; as technology only improves every year, you can bet that if you’re sitting in a 2017, 2018, or 2019 model, you’re privy to its award winning dependability.  In individual categories, the ES model won compact premium car, while the GX won midsize premium SUV.

Learn more on our New, Certified, and Pre-Owned Lexus options on ParkPlace.com

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Park Place Volvo Wins 2018 Excellence Award

Your local leader in Scandinavian luxury vehicles, Park Place Volvo continues to strive together for a personal commitment to excellence. The Park Place Volvo team’s efforts were recognized as a winner of the 2018 Volvo Excellence Award.

Park Place Volvo General Manager Donny Lambrecht and his team members were one of only 12 Volvo retailers to receive the award.

What is the Volvo Excellence Award?

Winners of the Volvo Excellence Award are a driving force for leadership and growth. The exclusive group of retailers are also vital contributors to the brand, business, and customer experience pillars that support evolving the Volvo journey.

Areas of focus for a retailer to qualify for the Volvo Excellence Award include: new car retail sales must meet or exceed the previous year sales numbers, year-end sales SSI and service CSI must meet or exceed the year-end national averages, training must meet sales, service, parts, and technical requirements in all four quarters.

Volvo Cars Global Record Setting Year

Volvo set a new global sales record in 2018 and experienced 20.6% Y-O-Y growth from the 12 month period of January – December 2018. The Swedish brand’s remarkable sales growth was supported by the increasing demand of SUVs, most notably Volvo’s best-selling model, XC60.

Park Place Volvo is grateful to receive the Volvo Excellence Award that symbolizes each member’s focus to having a personal commitment to excellence, taking responsibility for their actions, and doing things right the first time. This is the first Volvo Excellence Award for Park Place Volvo since 2015.

Thank you to our Dallas-Fort Worth Community for choosing Park Place Volvo as Your Place to build your Volvo relationship for years to come.  To all of our team members in the service department – from the Valets and Car Washers, in the sales department – from the Sales Managers to the Porters: Without your efforts, we would not be able to provide an excellent client experience each and every day.  

Check out what’s new at Park Place Volvo by visiting ParkPlace.com. 

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A Storm’s Brewing at Maserati Dallas with the New 2019 Maserati Levante Trofeo VIP Edition

When Maserati CEO Tim Kuniskis described Trofeo – the first V8 powered Levante SUV – at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, he mentioned that the Trofeo was “proof that when you play with the elements you end up in a storm.”

The enhanced engineering and delightful designs create amazing expectations for the Maserati lineup that includes five customizable models available for delivery at Park Place Maserati Dallas. 

For those who love the Levante SUV lineup, the limited edition Trofeo is an exclusive model that promises a great date with the road.  The dominant SUV can also be customized to match your personal style and instill the memories Maserati makes. 

The exclusive and limited production VIP edition in Grigio Lava Matte is currently stealing the show at Maserati Dallas.

PERFORMANCE

The launch edition Levante Trofeo delivers a resilient ride for Maserati enthusiasts who enjoy the sport tuned experience at every dramatic turn of the wheel. A 3.8L Twin Turbo V8 engine supports the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive capabilities prepared for seasonal road conditions. With a 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds, the 590-hp SUV is in a VIP room of its own.

An all new driving mode also adds sporty steering stability to the current driving models of Normal, I.C.E., Sport, and Off Road. Corsa improves the exhaust valves, increase gear shifting, adjusts the air suspension height, and more. The Maserati Integrated Vehicle Control also makes its Levante SUV debut to create an overall dynamic exhibition for those concerned about safety and driving dynamics.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The Levante’s stout stance remains evident with the Trofeo VIP edition as either 21 or 22 inch wheels are available. Your choice of brake caliper color (red, blue, black, silver or yellow) hide behind glossy or dark colored Maserati rims. A sleek design can be coated in one of eight available colors, including the Grigio Lava paint with matte finish. The Trofeo is also sense engaging as striking front Full Matrix LED headlights illuminate the night and powerful rear exhausts pipes deliver aggressive V8 tones.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Upon entrance, a Trofeo driver will appreciate the supple leather comfort the owner and his passengers will appreciate. All natural leather seating offers supreme comfort complimented by the exclusive seat details for additional back support. Pristine stitching also provides a trail of contrasting enclosure to the interior from the dashboard to the side panels. The 1280-watt, 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium surround system presents a crisp round of sound for all occupants to enjoy any musical performance from the Maserati infotainment system.

Carbon fiber trim adds a layer of athletic aesthetics from the informative instrument cluster to responsive paddle shifters and filtering down to the sleek center console. The small details, which include the trademark Maserati “M” with the embedded Trofeo print, creates a large impact on this SUV.

Rain, sleet, or snow, the Levante Trofeo is ready to change the forecast for future SUV models. 

For more details on how you can customize a Levante Trofeo- or another Maserati model if the SUV isn’t your style,  visit Maserati Dallas.

The exclusive and limited production VIP edition in Grigio Lava Matte is currently stealing the show at Maserati Dallas.

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Garland Couple’s Leading Role Takes Them to Hollywood

Klembara’s “My Place” Story Earns Couple Trip to Academy Awards

In today’s rough-and-tumble world, it’s refreshing to meet a couple like Teresa and Gary Klembara of Garland. 

Married for 36 years, the magic between them remains palpable – twinkling eyes, gentle touches and warm banter speak to an enduring love story that rivals anything in the movies.

It’s easy to imagine the sparks flying when they first met at J.C. Penney – he as a senior manager and she a manager trainee. They dated off and on for seven years before they, as Teresa says, “came to our senses and got married.”

Gary transitioned into a successful career as an international IT businessman and, after opting to leave her own successful retail management career at JCP, Teresa joined him on the road whenever she could. She also kept busy with sports and civic activities – “Keeping the home fires burning,” she says brightly.

Teresa’s bubbly laughter comes easily and often, especially when her affectionate rescue pooch, Brody, jumps into her lap for yet another smooch and snuggle. Gary shakes his head indulgently and pats Brody. This is, indeed, one lovingly pampered pup who, not surprisingly, embodies the couple’s lifelong commitment to each other and others.

They have a long-standing date for dinner and a movie with friends. “There are several couples we’ve been friends with for the past 30 years,” explains Gary. “When we’re in town we get together for dinner and a movie every Saturday.” 

When asked about their favorite movie to win an Oscar this year, Gary favored “Bohemian Rhapsody” while Teresa leaned towards “A Star is Born.”

It’s not all butterflies and unicorns

Lest they sound entirely too Pollyanna-perfect, however, just watch Teresa at a Dallas Stars hockey game. (They’ve been season ticket holders for 24 years). Without going into too much detail, let’s just say that her otherwise ladylike demeanor gives way when the puck drops. “She’s hilarious to watch,” says Gary. 

Then there’s their latest shared musical obsession – the Chicago-based heavy metal band Disturbed. “Their version of ‘Sounds of Silence’ is haunting,” she says. 

“When they came to Dallas recently, we went to their concert,” adds Gary. “We probably looked a little out of place, but nobody seemed to mind.”

“See, we can be edgy, too!” Teresa quips. 

Edgy or staid, the secret to their relationship is commitment – the promise to put each other first. 

“We both tend to go with the flow,” says Gary. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to make the most of what it is or isn’t,” adds Teresa. They often complete each other’s thoughts.

Their latest opportunity – making the most of an out-of-the-blue invitation to attend the upcoming 91st Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 24th in Hollywood. 

It’s an unlikely tale that not even a Hollywood scriptwriter could fashion. 

A throne fit for a furry king

The story actually goes back nearly 25 years ago, when Gary – an admitted car guy – checked out Lexus and, admiring the brand’s comfort, beauty and sense of security, bought a GS300. 

Several weeks later, it was Teresa’s first rescue dog, Lacey, who really sealed the deal with their second Lexus, an ES300, in what developed into a lasting relationship with Dallas-based Park Place Dealerships.

“I know how this sounds ,” she chuckles, “but Lacey traveled with me all the time and the car’s armrest wasn’t big enough for her to sit by me, so I had to say no.”  

Undaunted, their sales rep, Carl Keith, went to his home garage and fashioned a custom, leather-clad doggy perch. He called Teresa and showed her the homemade accessory. She welled up and bought the car “in three minutes flat.”

“I was blown away,” says Gary. That show of dedication from the dealership led to a relationship that continues to this day. In fact, Gary has acquired an astonishingly unbroken line of 18 Lexus vehicles from Park Place. 

“We want our clients to think of Park Place as ‘My Place,” explains Dave Evans, Park Place Dealerships Chief Marketing Officer. “Park Place team members are committed every day to create an ownership experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Our clients have fabulous stories about Park Place members who have gone above and beyond to make their experience memorable and we are sharing some of those stories through the “My Place” campaign starting with the Klembaras.”

The campaign kicks off locally during the Academy Awards show on Sunday, February 24. 

“We thought it only fitting that our stars, Teresa and Gary Klembara, should go to Hollywood and enjoy the Academy Award experience,” said Evans. “This is our way to say ‘thank you’ for their commitment to Park Place.”

So the burning question – what designer will they wear?

“Probably jeans and cowboy boots,” Gary grins.

“Texas chic!” Teresa pipes up. “We’ll represent Texas in all its glory. What do you think, Brody?”

Hearing his name, the rescue pup’s ears perk up and he answers with a lively bark. 

Meanwhile, Carl Keith, the Park Place Lexus sales manager, is happy to play “best supporting” role in this story.

Tune into the Academy awards and @parkplacetexas to learn more about the “My Place” story this weekend.

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Park Place Jaguar Wins in 2018

Still known as one of the “newer kids” on the block, Park Place Jaguar Land Rover DFW’s General Manager Matt Woolsey, and all of his team members, have worked diligently to represent the true client-first philosophy from Park Place. Earlier this month, Jaguar recognized those efforts, with the store earning “Pride of Jaguar’ for the 2018/2019 year.

 

What is Pride of Jaguar?

Park Place’s previous location in Plano was no stranger to such accolades, which makes this win all the more exciting for the Grapevine based dealer. The Pride of Jaguar is awarded annually to 12 retailers, out of over 300 network dealers, who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence to the Jaguar brand.  The 12 dealers are chosen based off the merits of customer advocacy, sales, and after-sales success.

The Jaguar-Land Rover Dealer network managed a national increase in sales by 7% in 2018, and a 3.6% increase of Jaguar only.

Setting The PACE

Part of the success of the Jaguar brand included the release of the two PACE family models- the E-PACE and all-electric I-PACE. 

Park Place Jaguar DFW is honored to receive this award as a true testament to member dedication, grit in the midst of opening a new location, and to the people-first approach our team is continually striving to provide.

Thank you to our Grapevine Community for welcoming us, trusting us, and for choosing Jaguar Land Rover DFW as your place. Thank you to all of our team members, from Service Valets and Car Washers, to Sales Managers, and Assistant Service Directors etc., we couldn’t continue to improve our client experience without your continuous commitment to excellence.

Schedule your test drive or service appointment with our award winning team at www.ParkPlace.com.

 

 

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Bentley Begins 100 Year Celebration with Oldest Bentley In Existence

Classic Bentley Ready for Centenary Year

Bentley begins their centenary year with a list of upcoming celebrations around the globe.

In 1919 Walter Owen (W.O.) Bentley created a company with a simple objective: to build “a fast car, a good car, the best in its class”. This guiding principle has driven Bentley ever since, pushing the brand forward and making it a unquestionable leader in automotive luxury around the world today, and locally, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

To kick off the 100th year, Bentley has the oldest remaining and first racing model- the EXP 2- on display at the Retromobile, Paris. This display was just the start of the first global event, which ended on February 10, letting attendees explore the 100 year history of Bentley Motors, in an exclusive and personal setting. And the EXP 2, well, it’s nothing short of an extraordinary piece of history.

The Oldest Surviving & First Racing Bentley

The EXP (or Experimental) was one of W.O Bentley’s first three racing prototypes. The EXP 1 was constructed at the New Street Mews off Baker Street in October 1919. Later that same year (1919) the EXP 2 was built at a new workshop in Cricklewood, and eventually the EXP 3. This third prototype is better known as the “Cab” and W.O. Bentley’s personal car.

The EXP 2 is the oldest Bentley in existence, which was first debuted at the 1919 Olympia Motor Show. It is only fitting that the centenary celebration kicks off which such prominent homage to the infamous ‘Cricklewood era’ of Bentley Motors.

Fun Fact: the EXP 2 is powered by a 2.0 liter four cylinder engine and can reach a top speed of 80mph. For comparison, the 2018 Bentley Continental GT can reach top speeds of over 200mph (and that’s not even the GT3 track car).

A Global Calendar of Events

The next event will take place in Boca Raton, Florida on February 22-24, followed by W.O. Bonhams Exhibition on the 11th of Paris in London. The full calendar can be found online at BentleyMedia.com, but we encourage you to celebrate the centenary in your own back yard.

Share your story of Bentley passion, comment on why this luxury manufacturer made it to your automotive wish list, post a photo of your favorite Bentley memory, and, of course, stay tuned as we begin to honor the heritage of W.O. Bentley locally at Bentley Dallas. For all inquiries, visit us at 5300 Lemmon Avenue or schedule an appointment/view inventory by following this link:https://bit.ly/2GMUCgX

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What’s New at Park Place for 2019, Part 1

Last year was quite the year for product and new model launches, releasing a pretty stellar 2019 line-up from Lexus, Porsche, and McLaren. 

The purposes of this article is to give you short primer on what you can expect to see at Park Place- right now.  From SUVs , sedans, and supercars, there’s a bit of something for everyone. Maybe you’ll spot your future daily driver, weekend joy rider,  surprise gift for that special someone, or simply find your new dream car to pursue in the months and years to come.

If we have inventory or research materials, we’ll be sure to link resources and specific pages throughout the article. And if this is your first time purchasing or leasing a car, do not fret. Our team is trained and eager to assist you throughout the entire process because at Park Place, it’s our goal to make a car buying experience a memorable and proud  “yeah, Park Place is my place” moment. 

What’s On the Ground At Park Place

2019 Porsche Cayenne

The new 2019 Porsche Cayenne is already available at both Park Place Porsche Dallas and Porsche Grapevine. Learn more with this virtual test drive below featuring 335 hp in the base model and 434 horses available in the upgraded Cayenne S.  

Both the Cayenne and Cayenne S can reach 0-60 in less than 6 seconds, so if you’re looking to add some extra power while keeping a clean luxe exterior for seamless transitions from errand running, to work meetings, and date night , Porsche’s luxury SUV is the ticket. All current Cayenne inventory at Porsche Grapevine and Park Place Porsche Dallas can be viewed by clicking here.

2019 Lexus UX

The first ever Lexus Crossover is built for those with a love for adventure, without committing to a full-size SUV. Elegant, yet striking and crisp design includes a uniquely design tail lamp with an interior based on intuitive technology will not just meet but exceed the millennial seeking contemporary, youthful design, Lexus-level reliability, and seamless performance all in one.

The all-new Lexus Crossover is available, with the UX 300 starting an MSRP of 32,000 and the UX 250h at just above $34,000.  Park Place is offering a few models with upgraded accessory packages, like the UX Urban Lander Edition introduced at Park Place Lexus Plano.

Click to View all of our UX inventory at both Park Place Lexus Plano and Park Place Lexus Grapevine

McLaren 720s Spider

Revealed online earlier this month (and available to order immediately), the new 720s Spider combines the thrill of open-air driving with unparalleled Super Series dynamic performance and sophistication. The 2019 McLaren 720s is an exhilarating second generation McLaren, fitting for both the repeat collector and a first McLaren investor.

2019 Models are now available at McLaren Dallas and McLaren Houston. Click to View 2019 McLaren 720s Inventory

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

It’s already been called an entry-level game changer. The long-awaited Mercedes-Benz A Class will likely land a coveted spot on the modern millennial bucket list pretty quickly.  And with a MSRP of below $35,000, without concessions, on digital experience it’s pretty easy to see why.

The A-Class Sedan is equipped with a 2.0L inline-4 turbocharged engine, 188 hp and 221lb-ft of torque, and a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The interior and head lamp lighting capabilities add an additional special surprise for passengers.

The technology systems integrate the new MBUX user experience with voice recognition based on artificial intelligence. Demos have arrived at Park Place Motorcars and will be available in the showroom later this month.

Are you ready to set-up your test drive and explore leasing options? Visit ParkPlace.com for more information and contact one of the four Park Place Motorcars locations (Grapevine, Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington) with any questions or requests. Click to Explore Park Place Motorcars

Volvo S60

The new 2019 S60 (and all new ’60 models) are getting the upgrades from their 90 counterparts from amenities and styling. The S60 is also the first model built in the United States plan in South Carolina, sporting a slicker look and powerful engine. Car and Driver commented on the sedan as a “formidable competitor in a way that it wasn’t before.” It still represents classic Volvo design language perfectly with emphasis on intuitive technology, safety innovations, sustainable power updates, and now a “bold attitude” to match.

We highly encourage a test drive to experience the different in Volvo’s four-door ’60 sedan. Click To View Inventory

Park Place Select Premier Tier

Park Place Dealerships is expanding the successful subscription program, Park Place Select. This new fourth tier (called the Premier Tier) offers supercars to its subscribers.

The Premier tier includes the McLaren 570 Spider, Bentley Bentayga, Bentley Continental GT Convertible, Maserati Quattroporte and the Mercedes-Benz G63.

Learn more about this one-of-a-kind subscription-based ownership experience here.

View our current special lease offers at all Park Place locations

Stay tuned for Part 2, featuring what you can expect to either be released or hit our dealerships later this year (including the 2020 911 and Land Rover Evoque).

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The Mercedes-Benz A-Class: A Top Contender in the 2019 United States Luxury Market

Mercedes-Benz is introducing a new entry-level sedan to the US luxury segment that screams accessibility without compromising brand integrity. The new A-Class Sedan is an entirely new United States offering from the German manufacturer, with a starting MSRP of below $35,000. 

The only other four-door Mercedes-Benz with a starting MSRP of below 35k is the CLA, which was their first launch in the millennial market back in 2013. Now, 7 years later, the A-Class is ready to not just make its US debut, but cause quite the uproar among millennials wanting to enter the luxury segment on a budget.

In an October Forbes article Mark Aikman, general manager for marketing services for Mercedes-Benz USA commented “It’s our gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand and will be available alongside the CLA. It will be the new entry point for the Mercedes-Benz brand.”

A Lack of Luxury Features? Hardly.

With an entry level price tag, you might assume that the features would be lacking. That is quite the opposite; Mercedes-Benz wanted to not only introduce a luxury sedan the modern millennial could afford, “but also desire.”  

The A-Class Sedan is equipped with a 2.0L inine-4 turbocharged engine, 188 hp and 221lb-ft of torque, and a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. This new model is also available in a 4MATIC variant, which is All-Wheel Drive so all four tires does the same amount of work, which is great for Mercedes drivers who experience tough road conditions.

The technology systems integrate the new MBUX user experience with voice recognition based on artificial intelligence. This AI tech differs from the standard direct voice command because it incorporates natural language processing. The instrument panel and touchscreen multimedia screen come in a standard 7 inch display, with options to upgrade to a 10.25-inch versions.

“A-Class looks fantastic but the big story is really the technology inside of it. Mercedes-Benz is well known for launching latest and greatest technology inside S-Class or other higher-end models. But A-Class is the first vehicle in our lineup to get MBUX,” says Aikman in his interview with Forbes.

Other luxuries already included are dark tinted windows all-around and a large, panoramic glass roof.

Striking Self Confidence

The front exterior is highlighted by a deep panoramic grille tilted towards the front with vertical chrome inserts and the classic star in the center.  The headlamps actually provide another defining moment for the A-Class and the Mercedes-Benz brand. The grid structure on the inside of the headlamp ensures an easily recognizable look, with a special surprise.

The grid structure specials is coated with a UV paint that is exposed to ultra violet light. This makes the headlamps actually glow in different colors, depending on the light medium according the MBUSA press release.  For example, the daytime running lights are white.

The new lighting technology is mirrored in tail of the sedan. According the MBUSA, the new tail lamps were designed as “structural sculptures,” adding to the pleasing outer aesthetics of a road-worthy show car.

The New Millennial Bucket List

Ratings and reviews have been raving about the success of the A-Class Sedan, garnering an initial 4.5/5 rating on CarAndDriver.com and  cnet.com. But there’s an element of storytelling, or ‘doing it for the gram’ that adds to its affordable mystique.

Part of the success of the A-Class and subsequent campaign focuses on adding and checking-off “owning a Mercedes-Benz” to the Millennial Bucket list: “A lot of people think it’s not within reach for them today and they may be putting it off. That’s where we found an amazing correlation between a bucket list and putting that consideration of a Mercedes-Benz, and now an A-Class, on that list — and cross it off,” says Aikman.

Coming early this year, stay tuned to Park Place social media and communications for when the new A-Class officially arrives in our four Park Place Motorcars showrooms. To all Mercedes-Benz admirers the A-Class is ready to redefine the luxury sedan market, and Park Place could not be more excited to make your bucket-list dreams come true this year.

Share Your Story! Tag @parkplacetexas on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Use the tag #MyPlace for a chance to be featured.

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Race Recap: Park Place Takes Eighth After Daytona Ends Red

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 27, 2019) – Park Place Motorsports survived error and flood to finish eighth at the Rolex 24 At Daytona giving the team its highest finish in the twice-around-the-clock classic.

Park Place Motorsports overcame a flooded Daytona International Raceway after gaining back three laps lost to a runaway left rear tire. The No. 73 de Boulle Porsche 911 GT3 R led its way around the 3.56-mile track as the race neared its final two hours. In those hours Park Place Motorsports pitted in hopes to come out ahead and with the proper fuel to go the distance and for the win. However, before the pit sequence began a red flag was thrown due to inclement conditions on track. The 57th running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona finished under red.

Porsche Factory Driver Patrick Long and Porsche Young Professional Matt Campbell spent the majority of their time in the car searching for any sign of grip on the track in the final hours of the race. A combination of oil and water sent multiple competitors off track, into walls and each other. Long nearly escaped a multicar pileup, maneuvering the No. 73 through turns 10 and 11. Campbell steered clear of any on-track drama and made his way to the front of the field, leading until a pit stop and the final red flag shuffled him to eighth.

Endurance driver Nick Boulle and Team Principal Patrick Lindsey handled a majority of the driving Saturday and Saturday night. The race compiled 18 full-course cautions In total, nine of which Lindsey and Boulle endured over the course of their stint. Both drivers kept the No. 73 de Boulle Porsche clean and turning consistent lap times while fighting to earn laps back.

The No. 73 had been running in the lead after nightfall when Campbell lost a tire. He nursed the car back to pitlane where the crew quickly solved the issue and sent Campbell back out. He resumed the race three laps down. Lindsey and Boulle benefited from pass arounds during the many cautions featured throughout their runs. Steady laps by each driver as well as strategy from pit lane aided in Park Place Motorsports returning to the lead lap and then to the lead of the GT Daytona class.

Park Place Motorsports next race is at Sebring International Raceway for the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Advanced Auto Parts. The weekend is part of a Super Sebring weekend featuring the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship on the same weekend. Patrick Lindsey will race in both the traditional 12-hour race Saturday, March 16 with Park Place Motorsports and the FIA 1,000 miles of Sebring Friday, March 15 with Project 1 supported by Park Place Motorsports.

Mathew Campbell

“This race is all about timing and being in the right place at the right time,” Campbell said. “Some things didn’t go our way like the pit stop and the wheel problem, but we were able to make it back. We had really great car speed which really showed at the end of the race in the wet conditions.

“It was really unfortunate that we ended under red and weren’t able to push for a win but at the end of the day we still were able to finish the race and gain points for the team. Everything went well, we didn’t damage the car and stayed on track but it’s rough to think about what could have been.”

Patrick Long

“Timing is everything in motorsport and today it didn’t fall our way,” Long said. “The team executed a perfect race and in the end the stoppage of rain bit us, but we’re not the only ones who feel that way. We need to be happy that we got good points and had a good start to the season. I know from experience that you have to put consistent points on the board at the start of the year. I’m grateful to our partners who are here and cheering us on. We will push on to Sebring with our heads held high.”

Nick Boulle

“This race is so competitive from the moment you get in for your first stint,” Boulle said. “The first time I got in the car it was immediately a sprint. When I got back in for my second stint, I was faced with class traffic as well as trying to maintain the lead. The car had great pace and the crew did a clean job in the pits. We’ve got a really great foundation to build on moving forward. It obviously is heartbreaking to pit from the lead and lose out on winning the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona but it’s a big year and we just need to focus forward now. I’m looking forward to the 12 Hours of Sebring and seeing what we can do.”

Patrick Lindsey

“We could say what if, but you can’t predict everything so I’m really happy with how today went,” Lindsey said. “This was our best run at Daytona. The team executed really well, we had no penalties. All the drivers held there own out there. Pat, Matt and Nick all did really well. Everyone was on it. We’re entering the next race with good points and in the bigger picture that is what matters. I’m excited to see what this team builds.”