WHAT AN EXPERIENCE!
5.0…read more
Whether you're already a Porsche fanatic or simply looking for more hands-on experiences to help make that decision, PECLA is the place to be.
After visiting PECLA several times, I've surmised that the acronym should really be changed from Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles to:
Pushing Every Car to Its Limits...Always
PECLA offers an immersive introduction to the Porsche brand, along with a variety of Driver Development courses. Through their website, you can reserve an experience and choose the type of Porsche you'd like to drive. You can even select a model you already own, giving you the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how your own car handles in different environments and situations.
I've had several different experiences here at PECLA, and every one has been exceptional. On two occasions, I was invited to participate in an all-ladies event where we tackled specific circuits: autocross, wet skid pad, off-roading, kick plate, the track, and my personal favorite...the launch pad.
In the Turbo S, you'll rocket alongside the 405, going from 0-60 mph in less than 2.5 seconds. Tip: Be sure to place the back of your head firmly against the headrest before launching. Trust me on this one!
On another visit, we were treated to a private tour of the impressive workshop, visible from the showroom through a massive glass window. This is certainly not your typical service center. Here, they work on race cars and heritage vehicles, making the workshop a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into Porsche's racing and automotive history.
If you're into SIM racing, there's also an area where you can hop into a SIM rig and race against other drivers, or simply chase your own personal best (PB). It's a great way to practice the driving line, find the apex and work on braking points.
Then there's the dining experience at Restaurant 917, located upstairs with sweeping views of the pit area and track below. Reservations are a must and can be made through OpenTable™, as lunch fills up quickly. We've dined here twice for special evening events and twice for lunch. The food was wonderful! They even serve adorable little pats of butter molded into Porsche sports cars. The setting feels intimate, polished and wonderfully exclusive.
Probably one of the most incredible experiences we've had was partaking in a delivery experience of a new 911 Turbo S (992.1). We enjoyed an afternoon of circuit driving, then was escorted into a special delivery room and asked to sign a numbered placard that would be displayed on the wall. The placard was later mailed to us as a keepsake; a wonderful memento of a very special day.
Another unforgettable experience was having the opportunity to build a GT3 RS and send it through CXX in Germany. It's so much more than simply speccing a car; it's the ultimate automotive indulgence of choosing virtually every detail, including whatever exterior color and interior combination your heart desires. Amy at PECLA finalized everything for us, and the finished car turned out beautifully!
Lastly, the one experience we haven't yet managed to do is the Morning Shift, held every third Sunday of the month. Be sure to check their website for the current schedule. One day, we'd love to make the drive down to Southern California and partake in this awesome cars 'n coffee gathering.
We absolutely love the Porsche brand and would highly recommend PECLA to anyone who wants to experience what these cars can really do in a fun and controlled environment.
We can't wait to return!
