Sure, Porsche of Colorado Springs offers a vast selection of stunning new cars. Beautiful showroom, driving simulator, all of the snazzy gear.
Cool stuff.
But if new isn’t your style, look north. Shhhh… that’s where they keep the Classics.
Porsche Classic Program
Colorado Springs is one of just 13 Classic Partners in the United States. It’s an elite designation. Porsche dealers must demonstrate that they have appropriate staffing and facilities to even be considered. Colorado Springs employs three classic-certified technicians—more than anywhere else in the United States. And they expect that number to grow in the next few years.
That’s because classics don’t always arrive in perfect shape. Sometimes, they need a bit of TLC to return them to their former glory. These experts stand ready to restore and preserve. Justin Underwood, pre-owned/classic manager, understands exactly what they’re getting into when they acquire an older car. Twenty years ago, he started his career with Porsche as a mechanic.
“I turned wrenches for six years,” he said.
Underwood credits owner Don Hicks for his leadership in landing the Classic Partner designation in 2015.
“He’s a true car guy,” Underwood said. “Porsche is his brand.”
Aging Gracefully
At any given time, the Colorado Springs dealership has about 18 classic beauties on the lot.
“We always keep our eye open for everything,” Underwood said. “We have had all of the really crazy ones. … They seem to fall into our laps.”
Those include a 1965 911, a 1973 911RS and other rarities. But don’t expect every car on the lot to grace the website—you’ll need to stop by to see some of the cars and that’s on purpose. The local team prefers a local buyer for some cars because they'd love to see that jewel again.
“We don’t advertise everything,” Underwood said with a grin. He encouraged Pikes Peak region folks to simply pop in or call to see what they have in the showroom and on the lot. Irish green 1964 Porsche 356 SC, anyone? You never know what you'll find here. Plus, it’s fun to browse The Classic Corner for a quick Porsche history lesson and to explore the relationships between the brand values of tradition and innovation.
The mechanics in the Colorado Springs shop typically recondition newly acquired cars, making them safe to drive, then wait to hear the future owner’s preferences before making cosmetic changes.
“We kind of want the next owner to be part of that,” Underwood said.
Who Buys a Classic?
Underwood said their clients generally fall into three categories: DIYers, those who enjoy partnering with the service center to make the car their own and those who choose to buy a vehicle that already has been perfectly restored and is ready to drive off the lot.
They cater to all three.
Many classic buyers are existing new Porsche owners who recognize the beauty and nostalgia associated with the older vintages. Underwood and his associates walk each potential buyer through the pros and cons of a classic to make sure it’s more than a fleeting trip down memory lane.
“There are some people who love the idea, but they probably shouldn’t buy,” he said.
Classics require a bit more time and effort than new cars and Underwood’s job is to make sure every client is well informed and thrilled with the purchase. He asks potential buyers to think about what they want to use the car for and whether they have experience with classics. But sometimes, he said, “you’ve just got to get in it and drive it.” If a classic seems like a good fit, the experts can help narrow the choices down to the best vintages for that particular client’s lifestyle.
Porsche Club
Have a Porsche? Want to talk about and drive your favorite car with others who understand? The Alpine Mountain Region chapter of Porsche Club of America has been connecting owners and providing fun for nearly half a century.
This active group started in 1975, offers social events, rallies and tours, as well as autocross and track events. Many friendships have started here.
Website: porscheofcoloradosprings.com/
Facebook + Instagram: @PorscheColorado
Alpine Mountain Region Club: https://amrporsche.com/