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Tell me a little about yourself, what you do, and how you came to love cars.
My name is Morgan and work in healthcare. Work keeps me busy so I turn to my hobby in the downtime, cars. I've loved cars since day one. My father would take me to all of the local shows, events and meets he was involved with. He enjoyed 1950s/60s British cars (Austin Healeys specifically) so I learned to love them and their character. What really made me obsessed was my grandma (yes my grandma) putting me in contact with a family friend who owned a Ferrari 355 spyder. That was a ride I'll never forget. 3rd to 4th gear at 8,500 RPMs with a screamer of a 5 valve Ferrari V8 behind your head...ya you don't forget those days! So here I am, continuing the legacy and obsession!
Tell me about the F430 and Cayman R! What makes them so special, and what drew you to them in the first place?
The F430 was a dream car of mine. Pininfarina body, V8 that revs to 8,500 RPMs, handles beautifully, sounds incredible, hand-built feel, TDF Blue over tan interior, etc. Within 100 miles of ownership, I had a full Capristo exhaust system installed (headers back) and it took the sound from mild to wild. Ever since that drive in the 355, I was hooked and this car to me is an achievement, a goal fulfilled. I'm thankful to say that I have driven a handful of modern Ferraris and while they are incredible, they are more refined and daily drivable. The F430 is an experience full of character, violent at times, which makes it special and how a Ferrari should feel, alive.
The Cayman R is a hidden gem in the Porsche world. My buddy asked if I wanted to go to a Pittsburgh Cars and Coffee so I decided to join in. At the event I saw this Cayman R and started chatting with the owner. Long story short, I was bringing the car home the following weekend. I never knew I missed manual so much until drove it. Porsche just knows how to set up a car. The engine and trans are perfectly paired. Driving bliss. The Cayman R is before the time of nannies, rev match, electronic parking brakes, etc. It is simple yet that makes it perfect. From the GT3 inspired aluminum doors, cloth door pulls and light weight spyder wheels, the package is something special. The flat 6 howls but I increased the volume soon after with an FVD exhaust. In a world of 4 cylinders and EV, let it sing! It is one of the best driving experiences I have had. SAVE THE MANUALS!!!
How have these cars been a bonding experience for you and your wife Laurel?
I share some wonderful memories with my wife Laurel in these cars. Ever since we started dating, she knew what she was signing up for. I'd take her to events in my old Audi A4 and I'd ask her what her favorites were? To my surprise, she loved Lotus and metallic brown Porsches. A girl that even knew what a Lotus was? Sign me up! She gives credit to the videogame Need for Speed on PlayStation. We love going out in them, cruising with friends and participating in events. We have met so many friends in these cars and it is one of the best things about the car community. While driving the car, it is a time for my wife and I to reflect on how far we have come and to discuss our future short and long-term goals. Those moments happen every time we are driving together and always ground us to be thankful for these memories and opportunities. Laurel loves to drive the F430! She'll drop it to 4th on the highway to let it sing. I have loved sharing my hobby with my wife as we truly do have a blast. It is hilarious to watch men pull up to the F430 and scream, "It's a chick driving!!" LOL.
Best road-trip or driving journey in the cars?
I'd say our best road trip we have had is when we took the F430 down to Columbus for a Ferrari meet. We packed our suitcases, met with a few friends and hit the road. Doing an overnight trip in exotic cars is nontraditional but that makes it fun! We had a wonderful drive down and had a blast celebrating the night away. Laurel always drives a bit when we are out as I want her to be very comfortable with the car. I also like being passenger as it is a different experience. We have had so many good drives in the F430. Most recently, we chased a Ferrari 250 SWB through the hills for 2.5 hours, what a day! I can still hear that V12 scream. Another time, Laurel was on the highway coming home from an event and a Uhaul tier blew right in front of her. She safely avoided the huge chunks of tire by inches as she made the road her slalom course. Every time we are behind the wheel, we make great memories.
Other hobbies or interests outside of cars?
My wife and I have 2 dachshunds! They are a hoot and we love them being a part of our family. Laurel knew that cars were a big part of my life but my second hobby is snowmobiling! My great grandpa start snowmobiling and the whole family followed. Laurel also got hooked! To the point where she purchased herself a 165HP sled....that weights around 400lbs. Power to weight is strong on that one. We have made so many memories on sleds. Pouring snow in the middle of the woods at night, unforgettable experience.
A massive thank-you to Morgan & Laurel for spending an early morning with me and for the thoughtful responses to my questions!
You can follow their journeys on Instagram
Morgan - @doworkexotics
Laurel - @laurelmarie62
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